Haunted Places in the USA You Need to Visit Once

 

The USA is brimming with eerie spots that whisper tales of restless spirits and chilling histories. From haunted prisons to ghostly mansions, these places offer a spine-tingling adventure for thrill-seekers. Perfect for a 2025 bucket-list trip, here are eight haunted locations you need to visit at least once—if you dare. Let’s get spooky!

1. Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

This gothic prison, built in 1829, was notorious for its brutal solitary confinement, leaving behind a legacy of tortured spirits. Visitors report disembodied laughter, shadowy figures, and pacing footsteps. Al Capone claimed to be haunted by a victim of his St. Valentine’s Day massacre here. Tickets for daytime tours start at $21, with Halloween events upping the scare factor.

Travel Tip: Book a night tour in October for a chilling experience.

2. The Myrtles Plantation, St. Francisville, Louisiana

Known as one of America’s most haunted houses, this 1796 plantation is home to at least 12 ghosts. The spirit of Chloe, a vengeful enslaved woman who poisoned her master’s family, is often spotted in a green turban. Rooms start at $175/night for brave B&B guests.

Travel Tip: Stay overnight to hear phantom piano keys or children’s voices.

3. The Stanley Hotel, Estes Park, Colorado

This 1909 hotel inspired Stephen King’s The Shining and is notorious for ghostly laughter and piano music. Guests report tugs on clothing and apparitions in Room 217, where King stayed. Rooms start at $200/night off-season.

Travel Tip: Book the ghost tour to visit the creepiest spots.

4. Winchester Mystery House, San Jose, California

Built by Sarah Winchester to appease spirits, this 160-room mansion has staircases to nowhere and ghostly sightings. The 65-minute Mansion Tour costs $41.99, while the scarier Explore More Tour ($74.99) hits dark corridors. Halloween candlelight tours add extra chills.

Travel Tip: Opt for the 2-hour Explore More Tour for secret passages.

5. The Whaley House, San Diego, California

Dubbed one of America’s most haunted, this 1857 house saw the suicide of Violet Whaley and the hanging of Yankee Jim Robinson. Visitors hear heavy footsteps and see apparitions of Thomas and Anna Whaley. Tickets start at $14.

Travel Tip: Visit at night for a higher chance of paranormal activity.

6. Moon River Brewing Company, Savannah, Georgia

This 1821 building, once a hotel, saw violence during the Civil War. Guests report seeing a lady in white on the stairs and spirits tampering with staff. Beers start at $5, making it a spooky yet budget-friendly stop.

Travel Tip: Grab a pint and linger on the staircase for ghostly vibes.

7. RMS Queen Mary, Long Beach, California

This 1936 ocean liner, now a hotel, had 49 deaths aboard, including a crew member crushed by Hatch Door #13. Guests report whistling, covers being pulled off, and lights flickering. Rooms start at $150/night.

Travel Tip: Book a paranormal tour to explore haunted hotspots.

8. St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, New Orleans, Louisiana

Opened in 1789, this “City of the Dead” is home to Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau’s ghost, seen walking among tombs. Visitors mark three X’s on her grave for wishes, leaving offerings like candles. Guided tours cost $25-$40.

Travel Tip: Join a guided tour for safety and spooky stories.

Why These Haunted Places Are a Must

These eerie spots blend history, mystery, and paranormal thrills, making them unmissable for adventure seekers. From New Orleans’ ghostly cemeteries to California’s creepy mansions, they promise a hauntingly good time. Dare to visit in 2025 for a trip you’ll never forget.

Plan Your Spooky USA Adventure

Ready to face the ghosts? These haunted places offer thrills, chills, and stories that linger long after you leave. Pack your courage and hit the road for a 2025 adventure that’s out of this world!