10 Most Haunted Historical Locations in America

America’s landscape is dotted with historic sites that carry more than just historical significance—they harbor stories of lingering spirits and unexplained phenomena. From former prisons and asylums to elegant hotels and battlefields, these locations combine fascinating history with compelling accounts of paranormal activity. Here’s our carefully researched list of the most haunted historical locations across the United States.

1. Eastern State Penitentiary — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

This imposing Gothic-style prison operated from 1829 to 1971 and pioneered the controversial “separate system” of solitary confinement. Today, visitors and staff report shadow figures moving through cellblocks, disembodied laughter, footsteps, and overwhelming feelings of being watched. Cell Block 12 is particularly known for echoing voices, while Cell Block 6 houses numerous shadow figures. Even Al Capone, who was incarcerated here in 1929, reportedly was tormented by the ghost of one of his victims.

2. The Stanley Hotel — Estes Park, Colorado

Famous for inspiring Stephen King’s “The Shining,” this elegant hotel nestled in the Rocky Mountains has been a paranormal hotspot since its opening in 1909. Guests report hearing piano music when no one is playing, seeing ghostly children playing in hallways, and encountering the spirits of former owners F.O. Stanley and his wife Flora. Room 217, where King stayed, and the fourth floor are considered particularly active areas where staff and guests regularly report unexplained phenomena.

3. The Myrtles Plantation — St. Francisville, Louisiana

Known as “one of America’s most haunted homes,” this 1796 antebellum plantation reportedly houses at least 12 ghosts. The most famous is Chloe, a former slave who allegedly poisoned the family she served. Visitors report mysterious handprints appearing in mirrors, furniture moving on its own, and apparitions appearing in photographs. The plantation’s long history of tragic deaths has contributed to its reputation as a paranormal hotspot that attracts investigators from around the world.

4. Waverly Hills Sanatorium — Louisville, Kentucky

This former tuberculosis hospital saw thousands of deaths during the early 20th century tuberculosis epidemic. Paranormal investigators report shadow figures, unexplained voices, and the apparition of a nurse who allegedly committed suicide in Room 502. The “body chute,” a tunnel used to discreetly remove deceased patients, is considered particularly active with spirits. The five-story structure’s imposing Gothic architecture adds to its eerie atmosphere, making it a favorite destination for ghost hunters.

5. Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum — Weston, West Virginia

This massive Gothic asylum operated from 1864 to 1994, housing thousands of patients with mental illness in often inhumane conditions. The facility was built to hold 250 patients but at its peak housed over 2,400. Visitors report encounters with former patients and staff, including a girl named Lily who plays with visitors’ hair and rolls balls down hallways. Electronic voice phenomena (EVP) recordings here are some of the most compelling in paranormal research, with clear voices often responding directly to investigators’ questions.

6. RMS Queen Mary — Long Beach, California

This retired ocean liner docked in Long Beach reportedly had 49 deaths occur aboard during its years of service. Visitors to the floating hotel report cold spots, ghostly apparitions, and the sounds of splashing in the empty first-class swimming pool. The ship’s engine room is considered a paranormal hotspot, with the ghost of a young sailor who died in a tragic accident. Stateroom B340 is so notorious for activity that it was closed to guests for years before being reopened specifically for brave paranormal enthusiasts.

7. Gettysburg Battlefield — Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

The site of the Civil War’s bloodiest battle, where approximately 50,000 soldiers died during the three-day conflict in July 1863, Gettysburg is considered one of America’s most haunted outdoor locations. Visitors and park rangers report apparitions of soldiers, phantom cannon fire, disembodied screams, and the smell of gunpowder. The battlefield’s Devil’s Den area is particularly known for paranormal activity, with cameras often malfunctioning and batteries draining inexplicably when visitors attempted to document their experiences.

8. Winchester Mystery House — San Jose, California

This bizarre 160-room Victorian mansion was continuously built for 38 years by Sarah Winchester, heiress to the Winchester rifle fortune. The home features staircases leading nowhere, doors opening to walls, and other architectural oddities allegedly designed to confuse evil spirits. Visitors report cold spots, whispers, and shadowy figures throughout the property. The mansion’s labyrinthine design, with its secret passages and sealed rooms, creates an atmosphere where both the living and the dead can easily become disoriented.

9. Lizzie Borden House — Fall River, Massachusetts

This unassuming home was the site of the infamous 1892 axe murders of Andrew and Abby Borden. Though their daughter Lizzie was acquitted, the mystery remains unsolved. Now operating as a bed and breakfast, guests report footsteps, weeping sounds, doors opening and closing on their own, and apparitions in Victorian-era clothing wandering the halls. The most active room is reportedly the one where Abby Borden was murdered, with guests frequently reporting being awakened by an unseen presence sitting on their bed.

10. The LaLaurie Mansion — New Orleans, Louisiana

This French Quarter mansion was home to socialite Delphine LaLaurie, who was discovered in 1834 to have tortured and murdered numerous slaves. After a fire revealed her atrocities, she fled the city. Visitors report hearing screams and moaning coming from the property, as well as apparitions of chained figures and a feeling of overwhelming dread. Though the mansion is now privately owned and not open for tours, it remains one of the most notorious haunted locations in a city already famous for its paranormal activity.

Tips for Visiting Haunted Historical Sites

Research the history: Understanding the historical context enhances both the educational and paranormal aspects of your visit.
Respect the location: These are often sites of tragedy and suffering—maintain appropriate behavior and respect.
Consider guided tours: Many locations offer specialized ghost tours with historical context and accounts of paranormal experiences.
Visit during off-hours: For a less crowded experience that might increase your chances of paranormal encounters, visit during weekdays or non-peak seasons.
Document your experience: Bring cameras, audio recorders, and notebooks to document any unusual experiences.

Final Thoughts

These haunted historical locations offer a unique blend of American history and paranormal intrigue. Whether you’re a serious paranormal investigator or simply curious about the unexplained, these sites provide fascinating glimpses into both our nation’s past and the mysterious phenomena that continue to defy explanation. Each location tells important stories about American history while raising questions about what might exist beyond our understanding of the physical world.

Have you experienced something unexplainable at a historical site? Share your experiences in the comments below!