20 Haunted Places in North America You Need to Visit!
If you’re like me and love a good ghost story, then you’ve probably already binge-watched every paranormal show, read all the spooky books, and maybe even tried your hand at a ghost-hunting app. But have you ever considered visiting the actual haunted places that have inspired those ghostly tales? These haunted places in North America are packed with not only rich history but some seriously spooky occurrences.
My love for paranormal investigations began years ago, when I stumbled upon Ghost Adventures on the Travel Channel. I would stay up for hours watching episode after episode, and absolutely scaring the crap out of myself. Since then, I’ve delved into amateur investigators that upload to YouTube, and to be honest they’ve become my obsession. There are so many channels, whether it’s Sam and Colby, Project Fear, Haunted Nights and many more, I swear my whole watch history is just ghost hunting!
This list covers 20 of the most haunted places in North America- both in the U.S. and Canada- that you can visit for a spine-tingling adventure. These spots are ideal for ghost hunters, thrill-seekers, or anyone who’s looking to get into the Halloween spirit. From haunted hotels and creepy castles to eerie battlefields and towns full of ghostly legends, there’s something here for every kind of paranormal enthusiast!
Haunted Places in North America
1. Eastern State Penitentiary- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
This former maximum-security prison is notorious for its eerie atmosphere. Built in 1829, the Eastern State Penitentiary held some of the most notorious criminals, including Al Capone. It’s famous for its harsh solitary confinement system, which many believe left lasting spiritual scars on the inmates. Visitors frequently report hearing eerie footsteps, ghostly whispers, and seeing shadowing figures in the cellblocks.
Today, the penitentiary is a museum offering ghost tours year-round. It’s especially popular during Halloween when they transform the grounds into a haunted attraction called “Terror Behind the Walls.”
Experience the terror yourself: Eastern State Penitentiary
2. Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel- Banff, Alberta, Canada
The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is not only a luxury hotel; it’s also one of the most haunted places in Canada! Known as the “Castle of the Rockies,” it’s home to several ghostly residents. The most famous is the “Ghost Bride,” who allegedly died on her wedding day after falling down the grand staircase. Guests often report seeing her in her white wedding dress, forever searching for her groom.
Then there’s the friendly ghost of a former bellman, Sam McCauley, who’s said to help guests even though he passed away decades ago. If you’re brave enough to stay, you might just get an extra hand with your luggage- no tip required!
Plan your haunted stay here: Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
3. Lizzie Borden House- Fall River, Massachusetts, USA
In 1892, Andrew and Abby Borden were found brutally murdered in their home. Their daughter, Lizzie Borden, was charged with the murders but later acquitted. Today, the Lizzie Borden House is a bed-and-breakfast where brave souls can spend the night in the actual rooms where the murders took place. Guests often report hearing disembodied voices, footsteps, and the occasional eerie laughter.
The house now offers regular tours and overnight stays, but beware- you might wake up to more than just breakfast!
Book your stay here: Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast
4. The Sallie House- Atchinson, Kansas, USA
If you’re looking for a haunted house with a terrifying reputation, the Sallie House in Atchinson, Kansas, is a must-visit. The story goes that a little girl named Sallie died here in the early 1900s during a botched emergency surgery, and ever since, the house has been a hotbed of paranormal activity. But it’s not just Sallie’s ghost haunting this place- some visitors believe there’s a darker presence lurking within the walls.
Paranormal investigators have reported everything from strange electrical disturbances to objects moving on their own, unexplained scratches, and terrifying apparitions. This house has even been featured on numerous paranormal TV shows, and it’s known to leave a lasting impression on anyone who dares to spend time inside.
The Sallie House is open for tours and overnight stays for those brave enough to face its haunted history. Just be warned: many who visit report leaving with more than a few ghost stories- and sometimes even scratches!
Learn more about visiting the Sallie House: Visit Atchinson
5. Myrtles Plantation- St. Francisville, Louisiana, US
The Myrtles Plantation has long been considered one of the most haunted houses in the U.S. Legend has it that a slave named Chloe poisoned the family who owned the plantation, and now her spirit, along with others, haunts the property. Visitors often report seeing the ghost of Chloe, along with the spirits of children who tragically died there.
If you’re in the mood for a scare, the plantation offers ghost tours, and you can even stay the night. Just be warned: many guests have left with more than a few ghost stories to tell.
Discover more about this haunted spot: Myrtles Plantation
6. Fort Garry Hotel- Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
The Fort Garry Hotel is one of Canada’s most haunted hotels, with guests and staff reporting strange occurrences for decades. Room 202 is infamous for its ghostly activities, including sightings of a woman in a cloak who sits at the end of the bed and strange knocking sounds that echo through the hallways.
Even former politicians have experienced the paranormal here, with one member of Parliament reporting seeing blood drip from the hotel walls! This elegant hotel may be beautiful, but its haunted history adds a spooky edge to any stay.
Plan your haunted visit here: Fort Garry Hotel
7. Queen Mary- Long Beach, California, USA
The Queen Mary is a retired ocean liner turned floating hotel, known for its luxurious accommodations and its eerie paranormal history. The ship is said to be haunted by several ghosts, including a sailor who died in the engine room and a woman in white who roams the ship’s hallways. Ghostly children’s laughter and splashing sounds have also been heard coming from the empty pool deck.
The Queen Mary offers regular ghost tours and even special paranormal events, making it a top destination for ghost hunters and thrill-seekers alike.
Learn more about its haunted history: Queen Mary
8. Plains of Abraham- Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
The Plains of Abraham is a historic battlefield where a pivotal battle between the British and French took place during the Seven Years’ War. Many soldiers lost their lives here, and it’s said that their spirits still wander the grounds. Visitors have reported seeing ghostly figures dressed in old military uniforms, hearing the sounds of cannon fire, and even encountering cold spots on warm days.
This hauntingly beautiful site offers ghost tours, particularly during the fall, which are perfect for those interested in both history and the paranormal.
Explore the Plains of Abraham: National Battlefields Commission
9. Stanley Hotel- Estes Park, Colorado, USA
The Stanley Hotel is famous not only for its stunning location in the Rocky Mountains but also for its connection to Stephen King’s The Shining. King reportedly stayed here and was so inspired by the hotel’s eerie atmosphere that he wrote one of the most iconic horror novels of all time. Guests have reported seeing ghostly children playing in the hallways, strange apparitions in the rooms, and hearing piano music coming from empty ballrooms.
If you’re a fan of haunted hotels, the Stanley is a must-visit destination. They even offer specialized ghost tours!
Find out more here: Stanley Hotel
10. Craigdarroch Castle- Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
Craigdarroch Castle is a Victorian-era mansion known for its grandeur- and its ghosts. Visitors have reported seeing figures in period clothing standing in the windows or wandering through the hallways. The Dunsmuir family, who originally owned the castle, are said to still keep an eye on the place in the afterlife.
This stunning castle is open for tours, and while you’re exploring the beautiful architecture, don’t be surprised if you encounter a ghost or two!
Plan your visit to this haunted castle: Craigdarroch Castle
11. Waverly Hills Sanatorium- Louisville, Kentucky, USA
Waverly Hills Sanatorium is considered one of the most haunted places in the U.S. It operates as a tuberculosis hospital in the early 20th century, and the death toll was staggering. Many of the spirits of former patients and staff are said to still roam the building, including a young boy named Timmy who likes to play with visitors. Shadowy figures, disembodied voices, and strange noises are commonly reported by those who dare to explore this terrifying spot.
Ghost tours and overnight stays are available, making it a popular destination for paranormal investigators.
Book your ghost tour at Waverly Hills Sanatorium
12. Old Montreal- Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Old Montreal is one of Canada’s most haunted areas, with ghost stories that date back hundreds of years. From the old jail to historic homes, ghostly figures are said to wander the cobblestone streets at night. Popular stops include the Pointe-à-Callière Museum and the Old Port, where mysterious sightings and eerie sounds are often reported.
Ghost tours are offered year-round, so you can discover the spooky side of Montreal for yourself!
Explore Old Montreal’s haunted history: Montreal Ghosts
13. Alcatraz Island- San Francisco, California, USA
Once home to some of America’s most dangerous criminals, Alcatraz Island is a chilling place even without its paranormal reputation. The prison is said to be haunted by former inmates who endured harsh conditions within its walls. Guards and visitors have reported hearing footsteps in empty cellblocks, seeing shadowy figures, and feeling an overwhelming sense of unease.
Alcatraz is now a popular tourist destination, offering both day and night tours for those brave enough to explore the dark history of this infamous prison.
Plan your Alcatraz adventure: Alcatraz Cruises
14. Lunenburg- Nova Scotia, Canada
Lunenburg may look like a charming seaside town, but it has a spooky side that’s perfect for ghost lovers. Several of the town’s historic homes and buildings are said to be haunted by spirits of the past. The most famous ghost story involves the Lunenburg Academy, where a ghostly woman in black is said to roam the hallways.
If you’re visiting Nova Scotia, a stop at Lunenburg is a must- not just for the beauty but for the eerie experiences as well!
Learn more about Lunenburg’s haunted history: Visit Lunenburg
15. Gettysburg Battlefield- Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, USA
The Gettysburg Battlefield was the site of one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War, and many believe that the souls of fallen soldiers still wander the fields. Visitors have reported hearing cannon fire, seeing ghostly soldiers, and even capturing eerie photos of strange figures.
If you’re a history buff with a love of ghost stories, Gettysburg offers the perfect combination of the two. Ghost tours are a popular way to explore the haunted side of the historic site.
Explore the haunted battlefield: Gettysburg Ghost Tours
16. Madison Seminary- Madison, Ohio, USA
The Madison Seminary in Ohio might look like just another historic building, but don’t be fooled- this place is brimming with paranormal activity. Built in 1847, it has served many purposes over the years, including a home for Civil War widows, a mental institution, and a women’s correctional facility. With such a rich and sometimes dark history, it’s no surprise that spirits still linger here.
Visitors and paranormal investigators have reported a wide range of ghostly encounters, from shadowy figures roaming the halls to eerie voices echoing through the rooms. One of the most famous spirits is that of Elizabeth Stiles, a Civil War spy who is said to still wander the grounds. People also report hearing disembodied footsteps, seeing doors slam on their own, and experiencing cold spots throughout the building.
Today, the Madison Seminary is a hotspot for ghost hunters and thrill-seekers alike, offering public tours and overnight investigations. Whether you’re interested in the history or the hauntings, this spooky spot is bound to leave you with a story to tell!
Plan your ghost-hunting adventure at Madison Seminary: Madison Seminary
17. Haunted Hospital on College Hill- Williamson, West Virginia, USA
The Haunted Hospital on College Hill (formerly Williamson Memorial Hospital) is one of the creepiest haunted places in North America. Built in 1928, this abandoned hospital once served the local coal mining community, but now it’s known for its eerie ghostly encounters. Paranormal investigators flock to this site, drawn by reports of shadowy figures, disembodied voices and cold spots that seem to appear out of nowhere.
Visitors have witnessed unsettling phenomena, including full-body apparitions of former patients and staff, still wandering the halls as if they never left. With overnight stays and guided investigations available, it’s a must-visit for anyone brave enough to explore one of the most haunted places in North America.
Find out more about tours and investigations: Haunted Hospital on College Hill
18. Villisca Axe Murder House- Villisca, Iowa, USA
The Villisca Axe Murder House is not just a tragic crime scene; it’s also considered one of the most notorious haunted places in North America. In 1912, eight people- six members of the Moore family and two guests- were brutally murdered in this small Iowa home. The case remains unsolved to this day, and many believe the spirits of the victims still linger, trapped by the violent event.
Visitors and paranormal investigators alike have reported chilling experiences, including disembodied voices, children’s laughter, and even doors opening and closing on their own. Some have witnessed shadow figures and experienced feelings of dread in certain areas of the house. The home now offers overnight stays and ghost tours for those brave enough to explore its dark history and paranormal activity.
Book your ghost tour or overnight stay here: Villisca Axe Murder House
19. The Conjuring House- Harrisville, Rhode Island, USA
The Conjuring House, located in Harrisville, Rhode Island, has become one of the most famous haunted places in North America thanks to its portrayal in the 2013 horror movie The Conjuring. The house’s dark history dates back to the 18th century, and it was once home to the Perron family, who experienced terrifying paranormal events during their time living there in the 1970s. These events caught the attention of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, who claimed that the home was haunted by a malevolent spirit tied to a witch named Bathsheba.
However, the house has been surrounded by controversy for years. While the Perron family and the Warrens maintain that the house is genuinely haunted, other skeptics have questioned the truth of these claims. Despite the debate, the current owners of the home have opened it for paranormal investigations, and many visitors report experiencing eerie occurrences like shadow figures, unexplained noises, and objects moving on their own.
Whether you believe the haunting or not, there’s no denying that The Conjuring House is one of the most talked-about haunted places in North America. It continues to draw ghost hunters and paranormal enthusiasts, eager to explore the site that inspired one of the scariest movies of all time.
Find out more about visiting The Conjuring House: The Conjuring House
20. Sweet Springs Sanitarium- Sweet Springs, West Virginia, USA
The Sweet Springs Sanitarium, nestled in the hills of West Virginia, is one of the creepiest and most intriguing haunted places in North America. Originally built in the late 1700s as a luxury resort, the property later became a Civil War hospital, a tuberculosis sanatorium, and eventually a nursing home. With such a long and tragic history, it’s no surprise that the building is said to be haunted by the many souls who passed through those doors.
Visitors and paranormal investigators report chilling encounters, including shadowy figures, ghostly whispers and unexplained cold spots. Some say they’ve seen apparitions of former patients wandering the halls, and others have experienced a strong feeling of being watched. The sanitarium, which was abandoned for years, is now open for guided tours and overnight investigations for those looking to experience its haunted past firsthand.
Learn more about Sweet Springs Sanitarium: Sweet Springs Sanitarium
Tips for Visiting Haunted Places in North America
If you’re planning to explore any of these haunted locations, there are a few things to keep in mind to make the most of your spooky adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or just curious about the paranormal, these tips will help ensure your visit is both thrilling and safe.
1. Do Your Research
Before heading to a haunted site, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the history of the location. Understanding the background of the hauntings can make your visit more meaningful- and it might even give you some clues about where paranormal activity is most likely to occur. Look into the stories of famous ghosts or events, and don’t hesitate to join a guided tour if available, as they often offer insider knowledge you won’t find online.
2. Respect the Location
Remember that many haunted places have deep historical significance or are still functioning businesses (hotels, restaurants, etc.) Treat the property with respect, follow all posted rules, and be mindful of other visitors. Avoid trespassing or trying to explore restricted areas, as some haunted spots may be unsafe or closed off for preservation reasons.
3. Bring the Right Equipment
If you’re planning to do some ghost hunting, consider bringing basic paranormal investigation tools. These could include a digital camera or smartphone to capture any unusual sights, an EMF (Electromagnetic Field) meter to detect energy fluctuations, and an audio recorder to capture EVP (Electronic Voice Phenomena). You don’t have to be a professional ghost hunter, but having these tools can enhance the experience.
4. Stay Calm and Open-Minded
It’s easy to let your imagination run wild when you’re visiting a place with a haunted reputation. If you hear strange noises or see something unexpected, try to stay calm and open-minded. Many ghost sightings can be explained by natural causes, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be on the lookout for something truly paranormal. Just remember to enjoy the experience and not let fear take over!
5. Go During Off-Peak Hours
If possible, try visiting haunted sites during off-peak hours or on weekdays. Fewer crowds mean you’ll have a quieter, more immersive experience. Many haunted places also offer night tours, which can heighten the spook factor. Just make sure to check whether the location is open at night, as some only allow daytime visits.
6. Dress Comfortably and Be Prepared
Some haunted locations- like old prisons, abandoned hospitals, or outdoor battlefields- can be cold, damp or physically challenging to explore. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and bring extra layers if you’re visiting at night or during colder months. A flashlight and some snacks or water can also be helpful if you plan to be there for an extended period of time.
7. Go With a Friend
While it can be tempting to explore haunted places alone for the full spooky effect, it’s safer and more fun to go with a friend or group. Not only will you have someone to share the experience with, but it also adds a layer of safety in case you stumble into an area that might be less safe or more challenging to navigate. Plus, you’ll have someone else to help confirm any paranormal experiences!
8. Be Ready to Capture the Moment
You never know when a ghost might decide to make an appearance! Keep your phone or camera handy and ready to snap a photo. A lot of people have captured unexplained phenomena- like mysterious figures or strange light anomalies- without even realizing it until they review their photos later.
9. Take Ghost Stories with a Grain of Salt
While it’s fun to hear about ghostly legends and spooky encounters, remember that many stories are passed down over time and may not entirely factual. Go in with an open mind, but don’t get discouraged if you don’t experience anything paranormal. Sometimes, the history and atmosphere of a place are spooky enough on their own.
10. Have Fun!
Above all, remember to enjoy the experience! Whether or not you encounter a ghost, visiting a haunted place is an opportunity to step back in time, learn about history, and explore some of the most fascinating locations in North America. Keep the mood light-hearted, share your experiences with friends, and have fun with the thrill of the unknown!
Whether you’re a full-blown ghost hunter or just looking to add a little extra thrill to your travels, these haunted places in North America are sure to deliver. From luxurious haunted hotels to eerie battlefields, there’s no shortage of paranormal experiences waiting to be discovered.
Have you visited any of these haunted spots? Or do you have your own ghost stories to share? Drop a comment below and send me your recommendations!
And if you’re looking for more fun activities to do this fall, check out my list of 50 Fun Fall Activities!
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