Whether you believe in ghosts or not, there are so many paranormal stories in America.
From coast to coast, people have shared their uncanny experiences about things that go bump in the night. Legends about spirits have circulated for generations, sparking curiosity and fear among those who’ve listened to them over the years.
Sometimes a good fireside chat is not enough though: Venturing to supernatural destinations could take your Halloween festivities to the next level. In honor of spooky season, here are the most haunted places to visit in the U.S.
Winchester Mystery House
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Doorways to nowhere, windowless rooms, and bizarre staircases await in the Winchester Mystery House. Located in San Jose, California, this gorgeous residence was reportedly designed for supernatural visitors. Sarah Winchester is said to haunt the home as well after she passed away in the ’20s.
The Witch House
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The Salem Witch Trials rocked early America and this haunting period still shocks people today. The Witch House in Salem, Massachusetts is the only standing structure with ties to the trials and it’s super creepy. Spirits of those involved are said to roam the floors and Ghost Adventures had an interesting paranormal investigation there.
The Myrtles Plantation
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Deep in the South, the Myrtles Plantation looks like a gorgeous home surrounded by many trees. Here, the legend of a slave girl named Chloe remains strong years later. After a tragic incident on the property, workers said her ghost still haunts the home and likes to appear in photos.
Eastern State Penitentiary
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Eastern State Penitentiary is right in Philadelphia and the old prison looks like the stuff of nightmares. Walk through decaying halls and cells, where some of the nation’s most famous criminals, including Al Capone, stayed throughout the years. It’s rumored that some of the prisoners haven’t left and people have reported hearing eerie sounds when they visit the site.
The Stanley Hotel
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Remember the resort in The Shining? The Stanley Hotel, which is located four miles from Rocky Mountain National Park, reportedly inspired Stephen King’s terrifying story. Doors slamming shut, children laughing, and foggy apparitions, including that of a friendly cowboy and former housekeeper, have spooked many visitors.
Red Onion Saloon
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Bars and brothels back in the day were super fun and the Red Onion Saloon in Skagway, Alaska, is home to some visitors from beyond the grave. Lydia, a former lady of the establishment, has not left and likes to entertain her “guests.” People have reported seeing a woman on the second floor and smelling a strong perfume when no one would be around.
Bird Cage Theatre
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Go back in time to the Wild West at The Bird Cage Theatre, one of the most beautiful buildings in Tombstone, Arizona. Local legend says 26 people were killed there in the past and there are reportedly over 140 bullet holes in the theatre walls. Ghostly cowboys and prostitutes are said show up here too, since their party isn’t over yet.
Merchant’s House Museum
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The Merchant’s House Museum is said to be one of New York City’s most haunted spots. Many deaths have taken place on the property, since family members lived there for nearly a century. Gertrude Tredwell is the main presence felt here: She was one of the last people to live in the house before it was converted into a museum.
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