By Evelyn Evans 
Looking for a vacation with a thrill? Instead of the usual sunny beaches or peaceful cabins, why not take a trip to somewhere a little… haunted?
Across the U.S., there are countless places with chilling histories, ghost sightings, and paranormal legends. From abandoned hospitals to haunted hotels, these spooky spots are perfect for thrill-seekers, ghost hunters, or anyone who loves a good scare with their sightseeing.
Here are some of the most haunted places in the U.S. for your next spine-tingling getaway.
1. Savannah, Georgia
Why go: Southern charm meets ghostly legends
Savannah is often called the most haunted city in America—and for good reason. Its historic district is full of moss-covered oaks, cobblestone streets, and centuries-old buildings, many of which have stories of restless spirits.
Don’t miss:
- The Sorrel-Weed House, said to be haunted by the family’s former slaves and tragic mistress.
- Bonaventure Cemetery, beautiful by day, eerie by twilight.
- Take a ghost tour by trolley or join a walking tour through haunted mansions.
Tip: Stay at The Marshall House, a historic hotel once used as a Civil War hospital—guests have reported unexplained noises and ghostly figures.
2. New Orleans, Louisiana
Why go: Voodoo, vampires, and ghostly history
New Orleans is full of mystery—from its voodoo roots to its stories of haunted pirates and ghosts wandering the French Quarter. It’s also home to some of the most famous haunted buildings in the country.
Spooky stops:
- LaLaurie Mansion, once home to a woman known for horrific cruelty—locals swear her victims still haunt the site.
- St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, where voodoo queen Marie Laveau is buried.
- Hotel Monteleone, a beautiful spot with reports of haunted floors and moving furniture.
Bonus: Take a haunted pub crawl or a voodoo tour for an unforgettable night.
3. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
Why go: One of the bloodiest battles in U.S. history
The town of Gettysburg is peaceful today, but during the Civil War, it was the site of a brutal three-day battle with over 50,000 casualties. Many believe the spirits of fallen soldiers still roam the fields and buildings.
Must-do spooky experiences:
- Visit Devil’s Den and The Wheatfield, known for frequent ghost sightings.
- Tour the Jennie Wade House, home of the battle’s only civilian casualty.
- Join a battlefield ghost tour at night and hear true tales from local historians.
Chilling fact: Some visitors have captured ghostly figures in photos taken near the battlefield.
4. The Stanley Hotel – Estes Park, Colorado
Why go: Inspiration for The Shining
This elegant hotel nestled in the Rocky Mountains looks peaceful—but it’s world-famous for its ghostly activity. Author Stephen King stayed here in 1974 and was so spooked, it inspired The Shining.
Paranormal highlights:
- Guests report hearing children running and laughing in the halls—when no kids are checked in.
- Room 217 is particularly famous, where King had his terrifying dream.
- The hotel offers ghost tours and even has a “spirited” night tour for brave visitors.
Stay if you dare: The hotel is beautiful and luxurious—but you may not get much sleep.
5. Salem, Massachusetts
Why go: Witch trial history and eerie atmosphere
Salem is best known for the 1692 witch trials, where 20 people were executed and hundreds accused of witchcraft. Today, the town embraces its haunted history with museums, tours, and spooky events all year round—especially in October.
Haunted highlights:
- The Witch House, home of trial judge Jonathan Corwin.
- The Burying Point Cemetery, resting place of trial figures.
- The Hawthorne Hotel, where lights flicker, faucets turn on by themselves, and guests feel unseen presences.
Best time to visit: Halloween season—Salem transforms into a full-on spooky festival.
6. St. Augustine, Florida
Why go: America’s oldest city with centuries of hauntings
Founded in 1565, St. Augustine is full of ghost stories, from Spanish soldiers to pirates and tragic love tales. The old streets, historic forts, and graveyards make the perfect backdrop for a haunted trip.
Don’t miss:
- The St. Augustine Lighthouse, where guests hear footsteps and see figures in the tower.
- Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fortress with ghostly sightings.
- Join a ghost tour in a black hearse for extra creepy vibes.
Fun & spooky: History lovers will enjoy the deep heritage, while thrill seekers chase ghosts.
7. Eastern State Penitentiary – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Why go: Haunted prison with a terrifying past
This massive former prison once housed notorious criminals like Al Capone. It’s now a museum by day—and a haunted attraction by night.
Why it’s spooky:
- Solitary confinement was common, and many inmates reportedly went mad.
- Visitors hear voices, footsteps, and cell doors slamming shut.
- The Halloween “Terror Behind the Walls” experience is one of the scariest haunted houses in the country.
Note: Even in daylight, the crumbling halls and cold air give you chills.
8. Winchester Mystery House – San Jose, California
Why go: A haunted mansion built to confuse ghosts
This bizarre, sprawling home was built by Sarah Winchester, the widow of the rifle magnate. She believed the ghosts of those killed by Winchester rifles haunted her—and she built the house to appease or confuse them.
Eerie features:
- Staircases that lead to ceilings.
- Doors that open into walls.
- Rooms added for no reason.
Take a tour: Daytime tours focus on history, while nighttime flashlight tours turn up the creep factor.
If you love history, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural, these haunted U.S. destinations offer the perfect mix of thrill and travel. Whether you’re planning a spooky weekend getaway or a Halloween road trip, there’s something spine-tingling waiting for you around every corner.
Are you brave enough to visit these haunted spots? Grab your flashlight, pack your courage, and plan your paranormal adventure today.