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The Most Haunted Houses in America by State

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Haunted houses in America carry a particular resonance, anchoring our deepest fears in tangible form, and challenging the boundary between the physical and ethereal realms. From Hollywood’s polished narratives to the gritty tales that thrive in the cultural underground, these eerie edifices have graced the pantheon of horror across various mediums, striking chords of terror and fascination within us.

These haunted abodes, adorned with their spectral legends and sinister histories, tap into our primal curiosity and trepidation. Is there an uncanny essence lurking behind the shuttered windows of that aged house in your neighborhood? Perhaps a brush with the paranormal is closer than you think.

Embrace this uniquely American fascination as we venture into a spectral journey across the nation. From the cold stone hallways of New England’s notorious mansions to the sun-bleached adobes of the Southwest, haunted houses in America boast an unparalleled diversity in their tales of terror. Journey with us, from A to Z, as we shine a lantern on the dark corners of America’s most haunted houses, unearthing their chilling narratives and the spectral inhabitants that dwell within.

Table of Contents

1. Alabama – The Drish House

The haunted Drish House in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
Drish House in Tuscaloosa, Alabama | Image credit: Brian Collins via Flickr

In Tuscaloosa, Alabama, there lurks a mansion of scary repute. The Drish House was once a beautiful home with ornate decorations inside and out. Today it stands deserted and uninviting. So, what exactly makes this the most haunted house in Alabama and one of the scariest haunted houses in America?

Like many haunted locations in the Southern United States, the Drish House was constructed on a large plantation – 450 acres to be exact. The year was 1837 and the owner was Dr. John R. Drish. Dr. Drish had a terrible gambling and drinking problem. The drinking was the catalyst to his death in 1867 when he drunkenly fell down the stairs inside the house. His wife Sarah Drish was mortified and spent a lot of time planning his elaborate funeral. Sarah kept the candles from his funeral to use in hers when she died. Then when she did die in 1884, her family sought out the candles but couldn’t find them. Apparently, this angered her spirit and she still haunts the house. She allegedly started a fire once in her anger.

Today, people have witnessed a fire on the third-story tower and agonizing screaming. Though there was actually no fire. Also, bright orbs are often seen piercing through the dark windows at night. No one can say for sure, but there is definitely something odd and most likely phantasmagoric occurring at this house. Some of these accounts have been published in the book 13 Alabama Ghosts and Jeffrey by folklorist Kathryn Tucker Windham.

Read more: 10 Best Things to Do in Alabama

2. Alaska – The White House Bed and Breakfast

Outside the White House Bed and Breakfast in Skagway, Alaska.
White House Bed and Breakfast in Skagway, Alaska

This quaint little house was built in 1902 and originally operated as a hospital. It went through a few phases including operating as a daycare and a hotel. Today, the White House operates as a bed and breakfast. The owners deny any hauntings going on, but guests have different opinions on the matter.

Guests speak of a woman standing at the foot of their beds during the late hours of the night. Her lips are said to move rapidly as if she’s scolding them, but no sounds is ever heard. Apparently, she only speaks to children. Children have told their parents that a mean old lady came to their beds the night before telling them how bad they were and how they were going to be punished. A lot of people think that she is the ghost of the former owner when it operated as a daycare, which burned down in a horrific fire in the 1980s. Of course, it has been restored since, but this ghost still thinks it operates as a daycare.

Read more: 6 Best Things to Do in Alaska

3. Arizona – The Rosson House

Outside of the haunted Rosson House at Heritage Square in downtown Phoenix, Arizona.
The Rosson House in Phoenix, Arizona | Image credit: Bryan Doty via Flickr

Arizona has an ancient history of hauntings. The majority of the spirits that haunt this state come from Native American legend and lore. This Victorian house, however, is haunted by a more recent resident. It was built in 1895 by a doctor and politician who was an important figure in Phoenix. Dr. Roland Rosson had all the most modern amenities and features added to the house – especially for the time. They included running water and electricity. Amidst the desert landscape, this Victorian house stood tall and odd. But he and no one in his family is believed to be involved in the hauntings here.

The ghost that makes the Rosson House one of the scariest haunted houses in America, is none other than an old caretaker who was murdered outside the house in the 1980s. Visitors and employees alike, claim to have witnessed a lot of paranormal activity. The phantasmal shenanigans include doors locking on their own, fireplaces giving off heat though there is no fire, and spectral sightings of energy appearing and disappearing during séances. Yes, you read that correctly. Séances are performed here throughout the year. But this isn’t a friendly spirit by any means. People claim that his presence makes them feel a deep consuming sense of dread. This continues long after they leave. Months later many have said they still dealt with depression.

Something is indeed off about this man’s ghost. The Victorian atmosphere makes for the perfect place for such spiritual activities. Perhaps one of these seances conjured up the caretaker’s ghost?

Read more: You Can Tour These 12 Haunted Places in Arizona With Scary Ghost Stories as Told by Its Visitors

4. Arkansas – The Allen House

The Allen House in Monticello, Arkansas is often argued to be one of the scariest haunted houses in America.
The Allen House in Monticello, Arkansas

The Allen House in Monticello, Arkansas is often argued to be one of the scariest haunted houses in America. And like most haunted houses in America, the haunters of this one come from the family that once lived there. In this case, it’s the daughter Ladell Allen who haunts this house’s walls.

Let’s go back in time to the Christmas of 1948. Ladell apparently consumed some cyanide and died 8 days later. No one knows for sure why she swallowed the cyanide and perhaps no one ever will – unless of course, you ask Ladell Allen yourself. Ladell’s mother was so dismayed at her loss that she sealed off her deceased daughter’s bedroom for nearly 40 years. When it was eventually pried open by new owners, they found a cyanide bottle set on the closet shelf. Later, when newer owners of the house investigated, they found 90 love letters addressed to Ladell. The letters told her to consume the cyanide along with some rum.

The Allen house was eventually converted into apartments. And that is when the ghosts were stirred up and awake. Many tenants have reported strange paranormal experiences. A lot of them claim to have seen a woman standing in the window of Ladell’s old room at various times of the day but especially during the odd hours of the night. It is said that her eyes appear as black holes, and on occasion some claim she bled from her eyeholes. One past tenant named Mark Spencer, wrote a book about his experiences when his family moved into the Allen House.

Many photos of a specter in the window have surfaced over the years like this one below. Do you see the ghost?

Image of an alleged ghost standing in the window of Ladell's old bedroom in the Allen House.
Image of an alleged ghost standing in the window of Ladell’s old bedroom in the Allen House

Read more: 20 Best Things to Do in Arkansas

5. California – The Whaley House

The Whaley House in San Diego, California.
The Whaley House in San Diego, California

According to the Travel Channel’s popular series, America’s Most Haunted, the Whaley House is the most haunted house in America. It sure gets a lot of attention. This is really saying something because even in California where there are many hauntings, this one stands out above them all. Let’s get into a little history first before exploring the hauntings.

A Brief History of the Whaley House

The Whaley House was built in the year 1857 in Old Town San Diego. What makes the house extra spooky before it was even constructed is that land on which it was built used to be a graveyard. The house belonged to the early San Diego resident Thomas Whaley, his wife, and their six children. They were happy to move to San Diego, but their happiness didn’t last long, as they were soon to meet with much misfortune.

Their young son Thomas Whately Jr. came down with and suffered from scarlet fever. He passed away at only 18 months old. The family moved away to San Francisco because to them, the Whaley House had already begun to be haunted. Eventually, business brought the family back to San Diego and back to the Whaley House. Years later, their daughter Violet married George T. Bertolacci, who turned out to be a two-timing con artist. Depression set in as she was shunned by society. Eventually, she committed suicide by shooting herself in the check. She was only 22 years old.

The family eventually left the house and it stayed vacant for many years. At one point it became a general store, a county courthouse, and then a theater. Today it is a museum dedicated to the Whaley family and Old Town San Diego. And today, it is haunted by its very dark past.

The Haunting of Whaley House

What makes the first documented haunted particularly interesting, is that it happened to the Whaley family themselves. “Yankee Jim” was the first documented ghost on the residence. In 1852, he was hanged for attempted grand larceny on the very spot the house was built. Shortly after the Whaley family moved in, they began hearing heavy footsteps moving throughout the house. These spectral footsteps continued to be heard by the family the entire duration they lived there and are still heard today. In 1962, a visitor claimed that Yankee Jim’s ghost’s footsteps continued to haunt them and their family for more than 60 years after they first heard them during this initial visit.

Yankee Jim isn’t alone though, Thomas Whaley is known to haunt the halls of the house as well. Many people have witnessed seeing his apparition usually upon the upper landing. Though one time a young girl of 6 years old waved to what she claimed to be a grinning man staring at her from the parlor. More children see Thomas Whaley’s ghost than adults.

Anna Whaley also seems to stick around the house. Normally she is seen downstairs dusting furniture or out working in the garden. Whenever anyone approaches her, they claim to hear sounds of weeping, then she fades away. Regis Philbin even claims to have had a frightening experience in the house. In 1964 he was investigating the house when suddenly he saw a floating apparition of a woman. Regis claimed, ” All of a sudden I noticed something on the wall,” Philbin reported. “There was something filmy white, it looked like an apparition of some kind, I got so excited I couldn’t restrain myself! I flipped on the flashlight and nothing was there but a portrait of Anna Whaley, the long-dead mistress of the house.”

Still, there are more ghosts. Apparitions of women are witnessed throughout the house. They are normally going about their business as if in echo of their past lives. There are also ghosts of young children playing and running around before disappearing into walls and thin air.

Because of all of these paranormal experiences, the Whaley House has become known as the most haunted house in California, and easily as one of the scariest haunted houses in America.

Read more: 15 of the Best Things to Do in California

6. Colorado – The Molly Brown House

The Molly Brown House in Denver Colorado.
The Molly Brown House in Denver Colorado | Image credit: Ken Lund via Flickr

The deceased owner of this house had people perform as her in Hollywood movies. She also was a prominent and influential advocate of worker’s and women’s rights in Denver. Her name as you may have guessed by now is none other than Molly Brown. Why was she portrayed in Hollywood movies? She was a survivor of the Titanic. Molly Brown escaped the clutches of death to become an important fixture in the Denver community.

The Molly Brown House was originally built for Issac and Mary Large, who owned silver mines. The house itself was completed in 1894 when the silver market crash occurred, causing them to sell it to James and Margaret (Molly) Brown. In 1898, James transferred ownership of the house over to Molly. She made a lot of changes to the house over the 38 years until her death in 1932. At one point it became a boarding house during the Great Depression. Because Molly spent so much time working on the house, and she lived there until her death, it seems as though her spirit doesn’t wish to leave. One could say that her spirit is somehow intertwined with the house. This is why she haunts it to this very day.

On many occasions, people have claimed to witness a woman dressed in black with white glowing skin, who appears and disappears in doorways throughout the house. But it isn’t only Molly who haunts the hallways and bedrooms of this house. People have claimed to see a headless specter dressed as a servant walking up and down the stairs frantically.

Read more: 12 Best Things to Do in Colorado

7. Connecticut – Lockwood-Mathews Mansion

Lockwood-Mathews Mansion in Norwalk, Connecticut
Lockwood-Mathews Mansion in Norwalk, Connecticut | Caboose-Rodeo via Flickr

You might remember seeing this haunted house once or twice on film and television. It was the filming location for the 2004 remake of The Stepford Wives and was the location for the Dark Shadows movie House of Dark Shadows. Therefore, this house is probably the second-most recognizable of the scariest haunted houses in America on this list – when we get to the most recognizable, you’ll most likely agree with this assessment.

The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion was built between 1864 and 1868. It was one of the Gilded Age designs of the time that was to showcase luxury and wealth. The 44,000 square foot mansion features 26,402 square feet of living space. It was built for the railroad and banking magnate LeGrand Lockwood and served as his home until his death in 1872. It was then foreclosed on in 1874 due to the family’s reversal of fortune. By 1941, it was sold to the City of Norwalk. Today, it operates as a museum and every Halloween as a haunted house attraction and Christmas as a Victorian winter wonderland. But what about the real ghosts that dwell here?

The ghosts of Lockwood-Mathews Mansion go back to the time of its foundation. During the home’s construction, a worker was killed in an accident on the grounds. Due to all the events that occur on the premises, there have been many paranormal sightings – specifically during the Halloween season when ghost tourists seek out the unknown realm. Some of these ghost-seekers have held Ouija sessions attempting to contact the spirit of the worker who died on the grounds. Most blame the paranormal experiences reported by guests at the mansion on these sessions. Most of the experiences tell of a ghost of a man dressed as if he lived in the late 1800s walking outside on the grounds of the mansion and disappearing into the darkness of night. Some have felt breathing on their necks and their hair tugged which could not have been done by anyone around them.

Read more: 15 Best Things to Do in Connecticut

8. Delaware – Addy Sea

Addy Sea in Bethany Beach, Delaware.
Addy Sea in Bethany Beach, Delaware | Image credit: Hamilton Photography via Flickr

This lovely seaside Victorian bed and breakfast was constructed in 1902. It was named after the plumbing supplier and patriarch of the Addy family, John M. Addy. It has been speculated that at least 3 out of the 13 rooms of the bed and breakfast are haunted. In room #1, the copper bathroom is the location of one of the strange hauntings. Multiple guests have complained that the bathroom shook violently while they were in it, yet there was no trace of an earthquake or any other event that could explain the occurrence. Room #6 haunts passers-by who claim to have heard loud and haunting organ music coming from inside it. Room #11 is haunted by the ghost of one of the old employees named Paul Delaney who accidentally fell to his death, breaking his spine while cleaning a window on the top floor.

Read more: 15 Best Things to Do in Delaware

9. Florida – Deering Estate

The Deering Estate in Miami, Florida is one of the scariest haunted houses in America.
The Deering Estate in Miami, Florida | Image credit: Keith Anthony Ng via Flickr

It isn’t a stretch by any means to claim that the Deering Estate is one of the scariest haunted houses in America. Especially considering the estate was built on an ancient Indian burial mound dating back to at most 500 BC. The mound is 38 feet by 20 feet at the base and 5 feet high. The mound was disturbed numerous times but in the 1890s several skulls. This happened again in the early 1900s. Some of the bones have been returned for fear of supernatural retribution. The burial mound contains somewhere between 12 to 18 Native American bodies. These facts alone make it no wonder why this estate is haunted.

The house itself may be haunted, but the Richmond Cottage next to it on the 444 acres of land, is said to definitely be the haunted hot spot. Actually, the Richmond Cottage was constructed long before the Deering Estate. Charles Deering bought the cottage and the land in 1916 and officially moved there in 1922. He is one of the few spirits seen on the property.

Multiple people have claimed to witness the apparition of Charles Deering appear on video footage and still photographs. He’s often recorded in his old study as well as the outside patio on the second floor. The images of Charles Deering are hard to make out, but there is definitely something there.

Another famous apparition witnessed at the Deering Estate is a man being pushed in a wheelchair along the side of the roof. The odd location for someone to be in a wheelchair is frightening enough, but this man disappears from view as he passes by windows. When witnesses sought him out, they couldn’t see anyone.

There are more apparitions of course, including the often seen Native American man dressed as if in Inca clothing. He and other ghosts appear either in or around the Richmond Cottage. Usually, he appears as a dark misty shape in the yard. He too has been photographed. Though he never does anything. He just stands and stares, as if watching the world around him change. Perhaps he’s a guardian of the burial mound, haunting those who disturb it.

Another ghost is more of a prankster. It’s a little boy who moves around the furniture in the kitchen. Investigators were filming one night with an infrared camera. When reviewing the footage, they noticed a chair moving then disappearing from the shot. Later, they found the chair in a completely different room.

Lastly, we must discuss the woman in white. She has been captured in a photograph once outside the house. Late at night, someone was taking photographs outside the cottage at night. Later, when they developed their film, the woman in white appeared in the foreground of the photograph consuming most of it. Her period-gown was poofed out from her and she was floating above the ground.

Is it the ancient Native American burial grounds haunting the Deering Estate? I should say that’s the most likely answer considering it was disturbed many times and ultimately insulted when the Deering Estate – especially the Richmond Cottage – was built upon it.

Read more: 10 Best Things to Do in Florida

10. Georgia – The Wren’s Nest

The Wren's Nest in Atlanta, Georgia
The Wren’s Nest in Atlanta, Georgia | Image credit: Derek Jackson via Flickr

The Wren’s Nest was built in 1940 as a farmhouse and was the home of the famous author Joel Chandler Harris from 1881-1908. No one understands why this house is haunted. Nothing terrible had ever been reported happening there. Yet, it is considered one of the scariest haunted houses in all of America. So, what is it about the Wren’s Nest that makes it so scary?

Well, perhaps it’s the reports of loud ringing noises coming from dark voids from within one of the closets in the house. The ringing always seems to stop as soon as the lights are turned on. But what is this ringing? What does it mean? And where the hell does it come from? My guess is some cosmic void beyond our universe. But that’s just crazy talk… right?

The loud ringing isn’t all though. There have been sightings of a tall gaunt woman walking toward the same closet only to disappear inside as well as the visage of a man smiling devilishly in mirrors throughout the house. That’s not all, in 2008 a Wren’s Nest staff member recorded some horrifying audio of spirits whispering and growling on audiotape. Again, no one knows why this house is haunted. Perhaps the closet is a portal to another dimension or a crossroads between spiritual realms. Whatever the case, the Wren’s Nest is truly one of the scariest haunted houses in America.

Read more: 15 Best Things to Do in Georgia

11. Hawaii – The Kaimuki House

The Kaimuki House, Hawaii | Most Haunted Houses in America
The Kaimuki House, Hawaii | Image credit: Google Street View

If the early 2000s taught Americans anything, it definitely was that Japanese haunted houses are the scariest. Their folklore is full of horrifying ghosts and demons that terrorize whole villages. This is also true with Hawaii’s Kaimuki House.

The ghostly culprit in this house is said to be from Japanese folklore. It is a ghost known as a Kasha. This ghost is said to eat people. But as for all the cases at the Kaimuki House, the ghost just terrorizes the living. The Kasha is drawn to the bodies of the living as well as the dead. It will do anything to satiate its macabre cravings. There are multiple stories of this ghost attacking those who lived here. The first instance was with a young couple who were accosted by loud banging sounds. The police were called on them by concerned neighbors who though there was a domestic violence incident occurring. When the police arrived, the couple swore no such thing occurred. But they did claim that some unseen force was shoving them violently and had the bruises to prove it.

Another frightening instance was in 1942 when the police were called again, but this time by a woman screaming “She’s trying to kill my children!” When the police arrived, they witnessed three children being lifted into the air and levitating in one spot. Then they were slapped and thrown around the house, banging violently upon walls, and crying in agony. This story even appeared in the newspaper. One of the children claimed that he smelled the odor of a ghost, which launched the ghost into a horrific and violent frenzy.

Again and again, young children and adults alike report being violently attacked and thrown about by some invisible force. No one knows why this Kasha resides in the Kaimuki House, but whatever the reason, it’s suggested to stay away from this place for your own safety.

Read more: 12 Best Things to Do in Hawaii

12. Idaho – Stricker Ranch

Stricker Ranch, in Hansen, Idaho
Stricker Ranch, in Hansen, Idaho

Not much remains of Stricker Ranch, but what does is still haunted by the ranch’s horrifying past. The old Victorian mansion that used to reside on the grounds was the location where Lucy Stricker struck her husband at least 40 times with an ax before dragging his lifeless body down the cellar stairs. These stairs still remain intact to this very day.

Of course, there’s an old cemetery nearby the ranch. That just makes the whole area even more spooky without trying. And that cemetery may just be adding to the heavily reported events of paranormal activity on and around the premises.

Apparitions of Native Americans have been witnessed to walk through the grounds at late hours of the night. Ghostly lanterns swing between dark windows around 3 AM. Orbs fly around the porch once the sunsets. Werewolves appear on the property, which are argued to be skinwalkers (Native American shapeshifters most common with the Navajo). But the most documented case is the appearances of a big bloodstain on the staircase leading from the parlor to the upstairs bedrooms.

Something evil lurks here. It made Lucy ax her husband to death. And it attracts malevolent spirits across the whole grounds. Is it from the ghosts of the nearby cemetery? Is it Native American revenge? Perhaps it’s just a good paranormal hotspot where ghosts find it easier to travel from the great beyond.

Read more: 10 Best Things to Do in Idaho

13. Illinois – The McPike Mansion

The McPike Mansion, Illinois | Image credit: https://paranorms.com/

When anyone in Illinois pictures a haunted house, they’ll most likely conjure up a vision of the McPike Mansion. Again, we have theories that the land the mansion was built upon, was sacred Native American land. But they’re not alone, there is also the possibility that some of the haunters are spectral remnants of the underground railroad that had a stop here. Whatever the reasons for the hauntings are, the McPike Mansion is an easy choice to be featured on this list of the scariest haunted houses in America.

The mansion was built in 1869 for Henry Guest McPike and his family. He was a prominent philanthropist and politician in the area. It is believed that there are 11 ghosts here, two of which include Henry and his wife Eleanor. Other ghosts that have been reported were assumed to be a cook and some servants. However, the most horrifying instances of paranormal activity regard a bathtub on the second floor. It has been reported several times that the water turned red as if blood was mixing with it. The bleeding bathtub is attributed to a woman who committed suicide in the bathtub.

Read more: These 4 Haunted Places In Illinois Will Send Chills Down Your Spine

14. Indiana – James Allison Mansion

James Allison Mansion, Indiana
James Allison Mansion, Indiana | Image credit: Nyttend / WikiCommons

The James Allison Mansion in Indiana has a rich and, to some, chilling history that’s reputedly teeming with spectral activity. Known by locals as “The House of Blue Lights” due to the mysterious bluish lights often seen dancing around the property, this mansion has been a source of numerous stories and local legends since its construction in the early 20th century.

The mansion was built in 1911-1913 by James Allison, a successful entrepreneur, engineer, and one of the founders of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The house was a marvel of its time, boasting a grand style that showcased Allison’s wealth and influence. But it wasn’t long after Allison’s death in 1928 that rumors began to circulate about strange happenings in and around the mansion.

One of the most well-known tales speaks of Allison’s wife, who reportedly passed away under mysterious circumstances. It’s said that a heartbroken Allison preserved her room exactly as it was when she was alive, and it’s in this room that many claim to have seen the ghost of Mrs. Allison, haunting the halls and mourning her untimely death.

Visitors and staff have reported an array of paranormal phenomena over the years. Strange sounds, doors slamming shut of their own accord, and a chilling presence felt in certain rooms are among the common claims. The most famous manifestation, though, is the blue light – thought to be the spirit of Allison’s wife – seen flickering around the property, giving the mansion its haunting nickname.

As the mansion changed hands over the years, stories of hauntings only grew. Today, the mansion stands as an iconic piece of Indianapolis’ historical landscape and a must-see for those intrigued by the supernatural. Though not all believe in the spectral tales of the James Allison Mansion, the accounts and lore certainly add an extra layer of intrigue to this historic residence.

Read more: 15 Best Things to Do in Indiana

15. Iowa – Villisca Axe-Murder House

Villisca Axe-Murder House, Iowa
Villisca Axe-Murder House, Iowa | Image credit: https://www.kggo.com/

The Villisca Axe Murder House in Villisca, Iowa, has a tragic and ominous history. Today, it is one of the most well-known haunted houses in America, attracting visitors from all over who seek to experience its eerie atmosphere and investigate its chilling past.

The house’s macabre tale began on the night of June 9, 1912, when a grisly crime took place. The entire Moore family, consisting of Josiah and Sarah Moore, their four children, and two young guests who were spending the night, were all brutally murdered with an axe while they slept. The crime shocked the small town of Villisca and the entire nation, and the mystery surrounding the murderer’s identity has never been solved, adding an element of unresolved tension and terror to the house’s story.

After the murders, the house went through a series of owners and was virtually left uninhabited for many years due to its gruesome history and rumors of hauntings. The phenomena reported have ranged from strange sounds and voices to moving objects and apparitions. The most chilling stories recount experiences of children’s laughter echoing through empty rooms, ghostly shadows wandering through the halls, and an oppressive sense of dread that envelops visitors.

In 1994, Darwin Linn purchased the house and decided to restore it to its 1912 condition to honor the memory of the murdered family and to attract those interested in its supernatural reputation. The Villisca Axe Murder House is now a tourist destination, offering both daylight tours and overnight stays for the bravest of souls who dare to experience the eerie environment firsthand.

Read more: 15 Best Things to Do in Iowa

16. Kansas – The Sallie House

The Sallie House, Kansas
The Sallie House, Kansas | Image credit: Travelchannel.com

The Sallie House in Atchison, Kansas, named after the spectral resident who supposedly haunts its halls, has a long and unsettling history filled with reports of paranormal activity. This ordinary-looking, 19th-century house hides a complex past that has earned it a reputation as one of the most haunted places in the U.S.

The story of the Sallie House begins in the early 1900s with a tale of a young girl named Sallie. As the story goes, Sallie was brought to the house, which was then the residence of a local doctor, suffering from severe abdominal pain. Unfortunately, the doctor misdiagnosed her condition and began a procedure that resulted in her painful and untimely death. It is believed that the spirit of Sallie, angry and trapped in the torment of her final moments, continues to inhabit the house.

The house’s haunting reputation, however, really took off in the 1990s when the Pickman family moved in. They reported numerous eerie incidents, including objects moving on their own, strange noises, and physical attacks directed mostly at the male figure of the household, Mr. Pickman. The most chilling claim was that of apparitions, specifically of a little girl, believed to be Sallie herself, and another more menacing entity that some speculate may be responsible for the more aggressive encounters.

The Pickmans’ experiences were so terrifying that they decided to leave the house after less than two years of occupancy. Their stories were widely publicized, leading to increased interest in the Sallie House and its supposed paranormal phenomena.

Today, the Sallie House operates as a tourist attraction, drawing in both thrill-seekers and paranormal investigators eager to experience its supernatural reputation firsthand. Visitors often report a sense of unease, unexplained cold spots, and, on occasion, more intense encounters that mirror the Pickmans’ initial reports. Whether these occurrences can be chalked up to suggestion or something more sinister remains a point of contention, but there’s no doubt that the Sallie House continues to hold a haunting place in Kansas folklore.

Read more: 15 Best Things to Do in Kansas

17. Kentucky – Liberty Hall

Liberty Hall, Kentucky | Most Haunted Houses in America
Liberty Hall, Kentucky | Image credit: https://aminoapps.com/

Liberty Hall, located in Frankfort, Kentucky, is a historic mansion that stands as a symbol of early American life and politics. However, behind its grand facade, Liberty Hall also carries a reputation for being one of the most haunted places in the state, filled with tales of specters and unexplained occurrences.

The mansion was built in 1796 by one of Kentucky’s first senators, John Brown. Throughout the years, the Brown family and guests reported multiple instances of unusual activity. Among the recurring sightings is the famous “Lady in Gray.” This apparition, believed to be Margaret Varick, a relative of the family who visited in the summer of 1817 and died unexpectedly in the house, is often seen wandering the mansion and the surrounding gardens. She is typically described as a woman in her 30s or 40s, dressed in a gray silk dress that rustles as she moves.

Apart from the Lady in Gray, visitors and staff at Liberty Hall have reported other paranormal experiences. These include strange noises, the sound of soft music from an unknown source, doors that open and close seemingly of their own volition, and objects mysteriously moving or disappearing.

One of the most famous stories involves a centuries-old portrait of Margaret Varick that hangs in the mansion. The tale goes that a young boy once looked at the portrait and remarked that the lady in the painting was the one who had come to tuck him into bed the previous night. This spooky account only added to the lore surrounding Liberty Hall.

Today, Liberty Hall Historic Site serves as a museum and a testament to Kentucky’s rich history. Visitors can explore the beautiful mansion and grounds, learn about the influential Brown family, and maybe even encounter the famous Lady in Gray.

Read more: 15 Best Things to Do in Kentucky

18. Louisiana – The Beauregard–Keyes House

The Beauregard-Keyes House
The Beauregard-Keyes House | Image credit: Wikipedia

Nestled in the heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter, the Beauregard-Keyes House is a historic gem with an intriguing past and a reputation for the paranormal. Built in 1826 for wealthy auctioneer Joseph Le Carpentier, the house has had many notable occupants, two of whom lend their names to the house: Confederate General Pierre Gustave Toutant Beauregard and American author Frances Parkinson Keyes.

The hauntings of the Beauregard-Keyes House have several sources according to local folklore. One centers around General Beauregard himself. The general lived in the house from 1866 to 1868 and was reportedly deeply haunted by his experiences in the Civil War, particularly the bloody Battle of Shiloh, where thousands lost their lives. Over the years, many visitors have reported hearing the faint sounds of gunfire, men’s voices, and even the haunting strains of a military bugle playing a ghostly reveille. Some have interpreted these phenomena as a spectral replay of the battle, eternally remembered by the traumatized Beauregard.

Frances Parkinson Keyes, who resided in the house during the mid-20th century, adds another layer to the mansion’s haunted lore. Keyes, a renowned author, wrote several books in the house and was reportedly fascinated by its history and hauntings. Some believe her spirit remains attached to the house, continuing to find inspiration in the afterlife.

But perhaps the most chilling tales associated with the Beauregard-Keyes House are those of the mafia-related activity that supposedly took place there in the early 1900s when the house was rumored to be a site for organized crime meetings and illicit activities. The home’s garden is said to have been the site of several brutal murders, and some visitors claim to have witnessed apparitions or heard unexplained screams emanating from the area.

Today, the Beauregard-Keyes House operates as a museum, offering daily tours that explore its beautiful architecture, impressive collections, and colorful history. Those interested in the paranormal might be intrigued to visit, not just for the rich history, but for the chance to experience its spectral side firsthand.

Read more: The 7 Most Haunted Places in New Orleans

19. Maine – McLellan-Sweat Mansion

Mclellan-Sweat Mansion, Maine | Most Haunted Houses in the US
Mclellan-Sweat Mansion, Maine | Image credit: Google Street View

The McLellan-Sweat Mansion, also known as the McLellan House, is a stately Georgian mansion in Portland, Maine, with a rich history that dates back to the late 18th century. It’s not only known for its architectural beauty and historical significance but also for its reputation as one of the most haunted spots in the state.

The mansion was built in 1800 by shipping magnate Major Hugh McLellan and later sold to Lorenzo De Medici Sweat, a local lawyer, and congressman. Over the centuries, the mansion has been a home to several families, a temporary City Hall, and even served as a makeshift hospital during the Spanish flu pandemic.

As for its spectral residents, stories abound. The most frequently sighted apparition is that of a woman believed to be Margaret Jane Mussey Sweat, the wife of Lorenzo De Medici Sweat. Margaret was a well-known figure in Portland’s society, a writer, and a passionate world traveler. After her husband’s death, she continued to live in the mansion until her own passing in 1908. It’s said that Margaret loved the mansion so much that she decided to stay even after death. She’s often seen in her former bedroom on the second floor or wandering through the house’s corridors, always appearing very much at home.

Visitors and staff have also reported other unexplained phenomena. These include the sound of footsteps when no one else is around, strange knocking sounds, and doors that close by themselves. Some also claim to have felt a sudden drop in temperature or a strange sense of being watched.

In 1970, the McLellan-Sweat Mansion became part of the Portland Museum of Art and is now open to the public for tours.

Read more: 15 Best Things to Do in Maine

20. Maryland – Jonathan Hager House Museum

Jonathan Hager House Museum, Maryland | Most Haunted Houses in America
Jonathan Hager House Museum, Maryland | Image credit: TripAdvisor

The Jonathan Hager House and Museum in Hagerstown, Maryland, is a striking stone edifice that’s known not only for its historical significance but also for its reputation of paranormal activity. Constructed in 1739 by German immigrant and founder of Hagerstown, Jonathan Hager, the house has since become a symbol of early American history and a purported residence for several ghostly figures.

Hager built the house over two freshwater springs, a practical decision that provided a steady supply of water but also resulted in unique folklore. Local legends suggest that the springs have created a sort of energy vortex, attracting spirits and resulting in the alleged hauntings.

One of the most frequently reported apparitions is the figure of a woman believed to be a member of the Hager family. Often seen near the fireplace or in the upstairs quarters, she’s thought to be either Hager’s wife or daughter. Both of Hager’s wives died in the house, adding weight to the stories of the female specter.

Visitors and staff have also reported other unexplained phenomena, such as the sound of children’s laughter and running footsteps, even when no children are present in the house. Other reports include feelings of unease or being watched, temperature fluctuations, and items being moved or disappearing only to reappear later in different locations.

The house’s history also involves a tragic gunpowder explosion in the 1780s that caused several deaths, and some paranormal investigators believe this event may also be tied to the hauntings.

Today, the Jonathan Hager House operates as a museum showcasing the lifestyle of the mid-18th century. Visitors can explore the historical exhibits and perhaps encounter a spectral resident or two.

Read more: 15 Best Things to Do in Maryland

21. Massachusetts – The Houghton Mansion

The Houghton Mansion, Massachusetts
The Houghton Mansion, Massachusetts | Image credit: Wikipedia

In the city of North Adams, Massachusetts, stands the grand Houghton Mansion, a building shrouded in history, mystery, and ghostly tales. Constructed in the early 1900s as a residence for A.C. Houghton, the first mayor of North Adams, the mansion is now famous as one of the most haunted locations in the state.

The mansion’s haunting history begins with a tragic accident in 1914. Mr. Houghton’s daughter Mary, and a family friend were killed in an automobile accident, while being driven by Houghton’s chauffeur, John Widders. The chauffeur, despite not being responsible for the incident, was overwhelmed with guilt and committed suicide shortly after in the mansion’s barn.

Following these tragic events, strange phenomena started to occur. Members of the Houghton family reported hearing unexplained footsteps, voices, and the sound of a car pulling up to the house, even when no one was there. They also claimed to see the apparition of John Widders around the property.

The hauntings continued after A.C. Houghton’s death in 1924 and the house’s subsequent sale to the Masonic Order in 1926. Many Masons and visitors have reported strange occurrences similar to those described by the Houghtons. Among the most frequent reports are sightings of a ghostly Mary Houghton in her favorite room and the phantom sounds of a phantom vehicle arriving at the mansion. 

Today, the Houghton Mansion serves as the home of the Masonic Lodge in North Adams but is also open to the public for tours and ghost hunts. The house’s macabre history and the numerous paranormal reports have attracted ghost hunters and curiosity-seekers from far and wide. Whether these occurrences are the result of the tragic past events or simply products of imaginative minds, the Houghton Mansion remains a fascinating symbol of Massachusetts’s haunted history.

Read more: 15 Best Things to Do in Massachusetts

22. Michigan – The Whitney

The Whitney Mansion, Michigan | Most Haunted Places in America
The Whitney Mansion, Michigan | Image credit: u/afterdroid/Reddit

The Whitney, an iconic landmark in Detroit, Michigan, is as renowned for its history and elegance as it is for its ghostly tales. Originally the opulent residence of lumber baron David Whitney Jr., this Romanesque Revival mansion, completed in 1894, is now a distinctive fine dining restaurant. But diners may find more than just exquisite cuisine here, as the mansion is reputedly haunted.

David Whitney Jr., one of Michigan’s wealthiest citizens in his time, and his wife, Sara, both passed away in the mansion. Since their deaths, staff and patrons alike have reported a number of unexplained phenomena. Sightings of apparitions dressed in period clothing, unaccounted shadows, objects moving on their own, and the inexplicable flickering of lights are just a few of the spectral occurrences reported over the years.

The most famous spirit is believed to be that of David Whitney Jr. himself, often seen in the area of his old second-floor office or looking out of a window on the staircase. Other reports speak of a ghostly woman’s figure, presumably Sarah Whitney, seen gliding up and down the main staircase.

The most peculiar of these tales may be the frequent reports of a spectral dinner party. Many staff members claim to have heard the distinct sounds of clinking silverware, laughter, and conversation coming from the third-floor ballroom, only to find the room empty upon investigation.

The paranormal reputation of The Whitney has been investigated by several paranormal research teams and has been featured on popular ghost-hunting TV shows. The restaurant itself embraces its spectral status, offering “Paranormal Dinners” which combine gourmet dining with a tour and ghost hunting session.

Read more: 15 Best Things to Do in Michigan

23. Minnesota – Griggs Mansion

The Griggs Mansion, Minnesota
The Griggs Mansion, Minnesota | Image credit: griggsmansion.com

Perched on Summit Avenue in St. Paul, Minnesota, the Griggs Mansion is a stately, haunted Victorian residence. Built in 1883 by businessman Chauncey W. Griggs, the mansion is a testament to Victorian splendor, but behind its elegant façade, it’s reputed to be one of the most haunted houses in the state.

Over the years, the mansion has changed hands numerous times and functioned as a private residence, a home for wayward boys, and an art school, and currently serves as a private dwelling again. The stories of its haunted happenings span these various incarnations, adding to its mystery and allure.

One of the most well-known apparitions is the house’s former housekeeper, who allegedly hanged herself in a third-floor bedroom in the early 20th century following a romantic disappointment. Occupants have reported seeing a woman in a maid’s outfit doing household chores, perhaps repeating tasks from her life. Unsettlingly, some have even reported hearing the disturbing sound of a woman sobbing on the third floor.

Other sightings include the specter of a Civil War veteran, a former resident, seen in the mansion’s study. There are also reports of an unknown man’s apparition in the basement and the spirit of a young boy. Unexplained phenomena range from phantom footsteps and cold spots to objects moving of their own accord and strange reflections seen in mirrors.

Even though the mansion has seen extensive renovations, the ghostly tales persist, making it a place of fascination for local ghost hunters and paranormal enthusiasts. While the mansion is currently a private residence and not open for public tours, its imposing structure and the ghostly lore surrounding it make it an intriguing part of Minnesota’s haunted history.

Read more: 20 Best Things to Do in Minnesota

24. Mississippi – McRaven

McRaven, Mississippi. One of the most haunted houses in America.
McRaven, Mississippi | Image credit: https://sethparker.net/

McRaven, located in Vicksburg, Mississippi, holds the title of “the most haunted house in Mississippi,” and with its rich and often grim history, it’s easy to understand why. Built in stages between 1797 and 1836, the house bears the architectural imprints of its time and the lingering spirits of its past.

McRaven’s hauntings are thought to stem from the numerous deaths that have occurred within its walls. It served as a field hospital during the Civil War, and many soldiers died on the premises. Moreover, several of the home’s previous owners also met their ends in the house.

One of the most frequently reported apparitions is the ghost of Mary Elizabeth Howard, a young woman who died in childbirth in the house in 1836. Visitors have claimed to see her figure wandering around her old room, sometimes accompanied by the sounds of a baby crying.

There are also reports of encountering the spirit of John Bobb, a former owner who was a highwayman and known for his violent temperament. Bobb was killed during a shootout in town, but many believe his spirit returned to the house. Visitors and staff have reported feeling a malicious presence, hearing aggressive voices, and even seeing a spectral figure that matches Bobb’s description.

But the ghostly phenomena don’t end there. Other experiences include the apparitions of Confederate soldiers, objects moving of their own accord, sudden cold spots, and even ghostly hands touching visitors. The haunted reputation of McRaven has attracted paranormal investigators from all over the country, and it has been featured on numerous television programs.

Today, McRaven operates as a historical and haunted tour site, offering both history tours and ghost hunts for those interested in its paranormal side.

Read more: 16 Best Things to Do in Mississippi

25. Missouri – Vaile Mansion

Vaile Mansion, Missouri
Vaile Mansion, Missouri | Image credit: Austrian Lancer/Flickr

The Vaile Mansion in Independence, Missouri, is a historic landmark known for its lavish Second Empire-style architecture, but it’s also renowned for its haunted reputation. Built in 1881 by local businessman and colonel Harvey Merrick Vaile, this 31-room mansion has a rich history, and, according to local lore, a host of spectral residents.

Colonel Vaile and his wife, Sophia, were the mansion’s first residents. The house was a testament to their wealth, complete with imported marble fireplaces, flushing toilets, and a 6,000-gallon wine cellar. However, their opulent lifestyle was shattered by scandal and tragedy. Vaile was tried for mail fraud in a high-profile case, and in 1883, Sophia died of a morphine overdose, widely suspected to be suicide.

Following Sophia’s death, guests and servants reported strange occurrences. Sophia, who was known for her love of the mansion, was said to roam the rooms in spectral form. Sightings of her ghost, often dressed in white, have been reported throughout the property, particularly in her old bedroom. It’s also said that her ghost can be heard weeping, presumably still grieving her untimely death.

The Vaile Mansion has passed through many hands since Vaile’s time, serving as an asylum, a nursing home, and a private residence. Through all these changes, the hauntings have persisted. Staff and visitors have reported unexplained sounds, like footsteps, doors closing by themselves, and an antique pump organ playing on its own. There are also accounts of objects moving mysteriously and the feeling of unseen presences.

Today, the Vaile Mansion is a museum open to the public. The mansion hosts various events throughout the year, and visitors can take guided tours to learn about its historical and architectural significance.

Read more: 12 Best Things to Do in Missouri

26. Montana – Daly Mansion

Daly Mansion, Montana
Daly Mansion, Montana | Image credit: TripAdvisor

The Daly Mansion, located in Hamilton, Montana, is an impressive testament to the grandeur of the late 1800s and early 1900s. But beyond its opulent facade and sprawling 50-acre grounds, the mansion is reputed to be a hotspot for paranormal activity.

Built by Copper King Marcus Daly for his wife, Margaret, the mansion is a symbol of the era’s wealth and prosperity. However, with the grandeur came tales of ghostly encounters and unexplained phenomena, which have persisted since the Dalys’ time.

One of the most frequently seen apparitions is believed to be Margaret Daly herself. She lived in the house for several years after her husband’s death and loved the mansion dearly. Many believe her spirit remains attached to the property. There have been numerous sightings of a woman, matching Margaret’s descriptions, roaming the mansion’s halls or seen standing by the windows.

The spirit of a young girl, thought to be one of the Daly’s granddaughters who died at a young age, is also said to haunt the third floor of the mansion. Staff and visitors alike have reported hearing the sounds of a child’s laughter and footsteps in areas of the house where no living child is present.

Even the grounds surrounding the mansion are not free from spectral visits. Some claim to have seen the apparition of a man, presumed to be a former groundskeeper, tending to the gardens and walking along the mansion’s driveway.

Paranormal investigations have turned up evidence of ghostly activity, with phenomena including strange orbs appearing in photos, sudden cold spots, inexplicable sounds, and even objects moving on their own. The mansion’s staff have reported numerous encounters with these ghostly residents, adding to the lore of the Daly Mansion.

Today, the mansion is a museum offering guided tours that highlight its historical significance and architectural grandeur. Paranormal tours are also occasionally offered, giving visitors the chance to come face-to-face with the mansion’s spectral inhabitants.

Read more: 10 Best Things to Do in Montana

27. Nebraska – Mystery Mansion

Mystery Manor in Omaha, Nebraska.
Mystery Manor in Omaha, Nebraska

Mystery Mansion, more formally known as the Joslyn Castle in Omaha, Nebraska, is a striking example of Scottish Baronial architecture. Constructed at the dawn of the 20th century for George and Sarah Joslyn, this castle-like mansion has a fascinating history and an enduring reputation for paranormal activity.

George Joslyn made his fortune in the newspaper business, and his home reflected his wealth. But despite its grandeur, the mansion has been touched by tragedy. Sarah Joslyn, deeply affected by the death of their only son in 1918, built a music room in his memory. She herself passed away in the castle in 1940.

Since then, there have been numerous reports of ghostly sightings and unexplained phenomena. The most frequently seen apparition is believed to be Sarah Joslyn herself, often seen in the music room or library. Visitors and staff have reported catching sight of a woman in older dress, disappearing when approached. The ghostly strains of piano music, often attributed to Sarah, have also been heard emanating from the music room.

George Joslyn isn’t left out of the spectral mix, either. His presence is often felt in the castle’s study, where some have reported seeing a ghostly male figure or feeling a chill down their spines.

In addition to the Joslyns, a spectral maid is also said to haunt the castle, with reports of her presence often accompanied by the smell of fresh baked bread. And the mansion’s tower is said to be haunted by a worker who fell to his death during construction.

These ghostly tales have attracted paranormal investigators and curiosity seekers alike. Today, the Joslyn Castle Trust preserves the mansion, and it is open to the public for tours, events, and occasionally, ghost hunts.

Read more: 14 Best Things to do in Nebraska

28. Nevada – Mackay Mansion

Mackay Mansion, Nevada
Mackay Mansion, Nevada | Image credit: travelnevada.com

The Mackay Mansion, situated in the historic mining town of Virginia City, Nevada, is an emblem of the state’s prosperous past during the 19th-century silver rush. But its historical significance isn’t the only thing that makes this mansion notable. It also has a reputation for being haunted, adding a spectral layer to its already rich history.

Built in 1859 as the Gould & Curry Mining Company office, it later became the residence of Irish immigrant and ‘Comstock Lode’ millionaire John Mackay. Today, the mansion stands as a well-preserved artifact of the Victorian era, complete with original furnishings and decor. But according to local lore, some of the mansion’s previous inhabitants never left.

One of the most reported apparitions is that of a young girl, often seen playing with a doll on the second floor. Visitors and staff have also reported hearing the laughter and footsteps of an invisible child.

Another recurring spectral figure is believed to be that of John Mackay himself. His apparition, dressed in period clothing, has often been seen in the study and the dining room. Some visitors even claim to have engaged in conversations with the unaware spirit, who seems to carry on as if he were still living.

There’s also the ghost of a lady, thought to be Mrs. Mackay, seen in the master bedroom, and the figure of a former housekeeper haunting the kitchen. These sightings are often accompanied by unexplained sounds, like the rustling of dresses, the clattering of dishes, and doors opening and closing of their own accord.

Paranormal investigators have visited the Mackay Mansion numerous times, documenting cold spots, ghostly voices, and even capturing spectral figures in photographs. Today, the mansion offers tours that showcase its historic charm and ghostly tales, adding a spooky twist to Nevada’s silver mining past.

Read more: 10 Haunted Places in Nevada for the Aspiring Ghosthunter

29. New Hampshire – Kimball Castle

Kimball Castle on Locke's Hill in Gilford, New Hampshire
Kimball Castle on Locke’s Hill in Gilford, New Hampshire

Perched atop Locke’s Hill in Gilford, New Hampshire, the ruins of Kimball Castle tell a tale of past grandeur and enduring spectral presences. The castle was built in 1897 by railroad magnate Benjamin Ames Kimball, and it reflects his love for medieval architecture. Yet, despite its romantic construction, the castle is better known for its haunted reputation.

The most prominent spirit haunting the castle is believed to be that of Kimball himself. Visitors and paranormal investigators have reported seeing an apparition of a man in old-fashioned clothing, bearing a striking resemblance to Kimball, wandering the castle grounds or staring out from the ruined windows.

A female spirit, presumed to be Kimball’s wife, is also reported to haunt the castle. Visitors have recounted experiences of hearing a woman’s voice, feeling a sudden drop in temperature, or even seeing a spectral woman dressed in Victorian attire.

Even the ghost of the family’s pet dog is said to roam the grounds. Reports of phantom dog barks and even sightings of a spectral canine add to the haunted lore of Kimball Castle.

Unexplained lights, eerie whispers, and sudden feelings of unease are also commonly reported phenomena at the castle. These have attracted numerous paranormal investigators who have gathered a variety of evidence supporting the castle’s haunted reputation, from electronic voice phenomena (EVP) to ghostly apparitions caught on camera.

Despite being in a state of disrepair, Kimball Castle continues to be a site of intrigue for both history enthusiasts and paranormal investigators. As of now, the castle property is privately owned and not open to the general public, but the stories of its spectral inhabitants live on, solidifying its place in New Hampshire’s haunted history.

Read more: 8 Best Things to Do in New Hampshire

30. New Jersey – Proprietary House (spy house)

Proprietary House, New Jersey
Proprietary House, New Jersey | Image credit: patch.com

The Proprietary House in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, also known as the ‘Spy House’, is one of the state’s most historic and haunted locations. Built in the mid-18th century, the house has served many roles over the centuries – it’s been a royal governor’s mansion, a hotel, a boarding house, and during the Revolutionary War, it was rumored to have been used by British spies, hence the nickname ‘Spy House’.

Its long history seems to have resulted in an equally lengthy list of resident ghosts. Visitors and staff have reported encounters with more than 20 distinct entities. Among the spectral residents is a woman often seen wandering the grounds, believed to be the spirit of a former housekeeper.

One of the most famous ghostly residents is the figure of a British soldier from the Revolutionary War era. It is believed that he was a spy during the war, and his apparition has been seen gazing out over the Raritan Bay as if waiting for a ship.

There are also accounts of spectral children playing in the house and on the lawn, accompanied by the sounds of laughter and footsteps. Moreover, numerous reports exist of ghostly faces peering out from the windows, even when the house is empty.

Unexplained phenomena such as cold spots, doors opening and closing on their own, and the sudden scent of pipe tobacco or cooking food have been experienced. The Paranormal Museum even caught what appeared to be a ghostly figure on a security camera in 2004.

Today, the Proprietary House serves as a museum, offering historical tours that showcase its architectural and historical significance. And for those who are interested in its ghostly reputation, the museum also hosts occasional ghost tours and paranormal investigations.

Read more: 20 Best Things to Do in New Jersey

31. New Mexico – Bottger Mansion

Bottger Mansion, New Mexico
Bottger Mansion, New Mexico | Image credit: TripAdvisor

Located in Albuquerque’s historic Old Town, the Bottger Mansion of Old Town is a landmark of New Mexico’s history and a treasure trove of ghostly tales. The mansion was built in 1910 by Charles Bottger, a successful local businessman, and it stands today as a symbol of Albuquerque’s early 20th-century growth and prosperity. But behind its charming facade, the Bottger Mansion holds a reputation as one of New Mexico’s most haunted spots.

The most recurring apparition is believed to be Charles Bottger himself. Guests staying at the mansion, which now serves as a bed and breakfast, have reported seeing the specter of a man matching Bottger’s description, often in the dining room and the main hallway. There are also accounts of a spectral cat, believed to be a former pet of the Bottger family, appearing and disappearing at will.

Adding to the mansion’s ghostly lore is the spirit of a woman known as “the lady in black.” She is frequently seen in one of the upstairs bedrooms, often sitting in a rocking chair. Her presence is usually accompanied by the scent of roses, and she is known to interact with guests, with reports of her sitting on the bed or even tugging at the covers.

Guests and staff have reported other strange phenomena, such as lights turning on and off by themselves, footsteps echoing through empty hallways, and objects moving without explanation. Paranormal investigations have recorded unusual electromagnetic field (EMF) readings and unexplained sounds, adding to the evidence of the mansion’s haunted status.

Today, the Bottger Mansion continues to operate as a bed and breakfast, welcoming guests with its historic charm and potential ghostly encounters.

Read more: 15 Scariest Haunted Places in New Mexico for Ghost-Spotting

32. New York – The Amityville House

The Amityville House, New York. The famous murder house. Also, the most famous of all the haunted houses in America.
The Amityville House, New York | Image credit: nydailynews.com

One of the most infamous haunted houses in the United States, the Amityville House, sits ominously at 112 Ocean Avenue in the quiet suburban neighborhood of Amityville, Long Island, New York. Its history of horrific events and subsequent reports of supernatural happenings have catapulted it into the annals of American ghost lore.

The house gained its ghastly reputation in 1974 when Ronald DeFeo Jr. brutally murdered his entire family while they were sleeping. A year later, the Lutz family moved into the house, only to flee just 28 days later, claiming they had been tormented by a host of demonic entities.

The Lutzes reported a range of chilling occurrences, from swarms of flies appearing in the dead of winter, to objects moving on their own, and even full-bodied apparitions. The most frightening experiences were of a demonic creature with glowing red eyes that terrorized them nightly, and an unseen force that would knock on doors and windows of the house.

George Lutz also claimed to wake up at 3:15 every morning, the exact time the DeFeo murders had taken place. He experienced chilling visions of his family being murdered in a similar manner, and he was also said to have found a hidden “red room” in the basement, a room that was not on the house’s blueprints and was believed to be the epicenter of the demonic activity.

Their experiences were documented in Jay Anson’s 1977 book, “The Amityville Horror,” which spawned a popular series of horror films. Since then, the house has attracted ghost hunters and curiosity seekers from all over the world.

Skeptics argue that the haunting was an elaborate hoax designed for profit, but the Lutzes maintained until their deaths that their experiences were real. The house has had several owners since the Lutzes’ hasty departure, with some reporting strange occurrences, but none have experienced anything on the level of what the Lutzes claimed. Nevertheless, the Amityville House remains a chilling landmark and one of the most famous haunted houses in New York, if not the entire United States.

Read more: 5 Haunted Places in New York That Will Terrify You

33. North Carolina – The Biltmore Estate

The Biltmore Estate, North Carolina
The Biltmore Estate, North Carolina | Image credit: exploreasheville.com

Nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, lies the majestic Biltmore Estate. Built in 1895 by George Washington Vanderbilt II, this lavish mansion is the largest privately-owned home in the United States, boasting 250 rooms. But the grandeur of the Biltmore Estate isn’t its only claim to fame. Among the lavish parties and the genteel charm of the old south, there are whispers of spectral guests who never left.

The most common paranormal report at Biltmore involves sightings of George Vanderbilt himself, the original owner. He passed away unexpectedly from appendicitis in 1914, and it seems he has never left his beloved home. His spirit is often seen in the library, his favorite room, where he spent much of his time. Visitors and staff have reported seeing a figure matching Vanderbilt’s description, engrossed in reading or gazing out over his grand estate.

His wife, Edith Vanderbilt, is also believed to haunt the estate. Her soft, echoing voice has been heard calling out George’s name, just as she reportedly did in her grief after his untimely death.

Unexplained sounds are also a common phenomenon at Biltmore. Echoing footsteps, disembodied voices, and laughter have been reported in the expansive halls. The sounds of clinking glasses and murmured conversation, reminiscent of the grand parties that were once held at the estate, have been heard in the banquet hall late at night.

Despite these spooky occurrences, the ghosts of Biltmore are generally considered to be benign, even friendly. The staff often say that they feel watched over rather than haunted.

Today, the Biltmore Estate is open to the public as a museum and offers a variety of tours, where you can soak in the beauty, history, and perhaps even experience a brush with the supernatural. Its combination of architectural grandeur, historical significance, and haunted reputation make it an intriguing destination in North Carolina.

Read more: These 5 Haunted Places in North Carolina Will Give You Chills

34. North Dakota – The Lion House

The Lion House, North Dakota
The Lion House, North Dakota | Image credit: 965thefox.com

The Lion House, situated in the heart of Fargo, North Dakota, stands as a testament to the city’s rich history and is also home to some intriguing supernatural tales. Built in 1893 by entrepreneur Herbert L. Twichell, the house was later purchased by the Lions Club in 1952 and got its name. Today, its grand architecture and charming aesthetic serve as a backdrop for the paranormal activity reported within its walls.

One of the most frequently reported apparitions in the Lion House is that of a woman in a white dress. She is often seen drifting through the building’s upper levels and occasionally peering out of windows. Visitors and staff have reported sudden temperature drops and feelings of being watched when this spectral woman is around.

A second spirit that has been frequently sighted is a young boy who is often seen playing in the main hall or running up and down the stairs. His laughter and footsteps have been reported by multiple visitors, creating an unsettling yet playful atmosphere.

The Lion House also has a more chilling specter, a shadowy figure that lurks in the basement. It is often accompanied by an eerie sense of unease and dread. Some paranormal investigators believe that this might be the spirit of a former handyman who worked in the house.

There have been several reports of lights turning on and off by themselves, unexplained sounds, doors opening and closing on their own, and objects being moved around with no one else present. Several investigations have recorded electromagnetic field (EMF) spikes and caught unexplained figures in photos, adding to the belief that the Lion House is truly haunted.

Today, the Lion House serves as a meeting place for the Fargo Lions Club and is occasionally opened for public events.

Read more: 10 Best Things to Do in North Dakota

35. Ohio – Franklin Castle

The Franklin Castle, Ohio
The Franklin Castle, Ohio | Image credit: clevescene.com

Known as Ohio’s most haunted house, the Franklin Castle in Cleveland stands as a symbol of both grandeur and ghostly presences. This massive stone structure was built in 1881 by Hannes Tiedemann, a wealthy German immigrant, as a residence for his family. However, with its imposing gothic architecture and a history marred by tragedy, the mansion quickly earned a reputation for being haunted.

The castle’s dark history began with the death of Tiedemann’s 15-year-old daughter Emma, followed by his mother in 1891. In the subsequent three years, Tiedemann lost three more children, causing rumors to circulate about possible foul play, although no evidence was ever found.

After these tragedies, Tiedemann began extensive renovations on the mansion, adding turrets and gargoyles, and creating a network of hidden passageways. It was believed that he did this to distract his wife from their children’s deaths. After Tiedemann and his wife passed away, the house changed hands numerous times and was even used as a German cultural center during the 1960s.

Reports of ghostly activity have persisted over the years. Visitors and residents have claimed to hear the sounds of a child crying, organ music playing from an unseen source, and footsteps echoing through empty halls. The most prominent apparition is believed to be that of Tiedemann’s daughter Emma, seen wearing a white dress, often in the room where she reportedly died.

Another ghost, known as the “Woman in Black,” has been seen staring out of a turret window. She is believed to be the spirit of Tiedemann’s wife, grieving the loss of her children. There have also been reports of objects moving on their own, doors opening and closing by themselves, and an overall sense of unease.

Today, the Franklin Castle is a private residence once again, its owners working to restore it to its former glory.

Read more: 20 Best Things to Do in Ohio

36. Oklahoma – Stone Lion Inn Bed & Breakfast

Stone Lion Inn Bed & Breakfast, Oklahoma
Stone Lion Inn Bed & Breakfast, Oklahoma | Image credit: TripAdvisor

The Stone Lion Inn Bed & Breakfast, located in Guthrie, Oklahoma, has a reputation as one of the state’s most haunted locations. Constructed in 1907 by entrepreneur and pioneer F.E. Houghton, the mansion initially served as a residence for the Houghton family. However, following a series of personal tragedies and transformations in purpose, the home is now believed to be a hotbed of paranormal activity.

The most well-known spirit at the Stone Lion Inn is rumored to be Augusta Houghton, one of F.E. Houghton’s daughters. Augusta sadly passed away in the house at a young age due to whooping cough. It’s reported that a nurse accidentally administered a fatal dose of medicine, leading to the child’s untimely demise. Guests and staff have often reported hearing the laughter of a little girl echoing through the halls, and some have even seen a young girl in early 20th-century clothing playing in the upstairs areas.

Another spirit that is said to inhabit the Stone Lion Inn is that of a former maid. Guests have reported feeling someone tugging on their blankets and seeing a ghostly woman tidying up around the inn, especially in the early morning hours. Unexplained footsteps, doors opening and closing, and lights turning on and off have also been common occurrences.

In its later years, the mansion was transformed into a funeral home, which many believe has contributed to the heightened supernatural activity. Mysterious shadows, disembodied voices, and an overwhelming feeling of being watched have been reported by visitors.

Today, the Stone Lion Inn operates as a bed & breakfast and regularly hosts murder mystery dinners. For those interested in the paranormal, the owners offer overnight ghost hunts that invite guests to delve into the mansion’s haunted history.

Read more: 15 of the Best Things to Do in Oklahoma

37. Oregon – Pittock Mansion

Pittock Mansion, Oregon
Pittock Mansion, Oregon | Image credit: pittockmansion.org

Nestled high in the West Hills of Portland, Oregon, the grand Pittock Mansion overlooks the city with a blend of elegance and mystery. Built in 1914 for Henry Pittock, the owner of The Oregonian newspaper, and his wife, Georgiana, the mansion is not only a symbol of Portland’s transformation into a bustling metropolis but is also reputed to be one of Oregon’s most haunted locations.

Henry and Georgiana Pittock were pillars of the Portland community, but they got to live in their dream home for only a few years before passing away, Henry in 1919 and Georgiana in 1918. It’s believed that their strong attachment to their home and the city they helped build has caused their spirits to linger.

Guests and staff have reported numerous instances of paranormal activity believed to be the Pittocks. The scent of roses, Georgiana’s favorite flower, often fills rooms despite no roses being present. Portraits are said to be moved or turned by unseen hands. Most notably, many claim to have seen the apparitions of the couple, particularly in the early morning hours, gazing out over the city they loved.

Another frequently reported occurrence is the unexplained phenomenon involving a childhood picture of a family member. Despite being secured in its frame, the picture has been found out of its frame and standing upright several times. It’s believed this may be the work of the Pittocks’ grandchildren who also lived in the house.

In addition to these incidents, visitors have reported feeling cold spots, hearing the sounds of footsteps and soft music when no one else is present, and feeling an unseen presence.

Today, the Pittock Mansion is a museum, open to the public for tours. Guests can learn about Portland’s history, admire the beautiful architecture and design, and perhaps experience a brush with the paranormal.

Read more 20 Best Things To Do in Oregon

38. Pennsylvania – Alfred’s Victorian

Alfred's Victorian, Pennsylvania
Alfred’s Victorian, Pennsylvania | Image credit: Pinterest

Alfred’s Victorian, located in Middletown, Pennsylvania, is a captivating architectural gem with a rich history and a reputation for being haunted. Built in 1888 by Alfred Ramsey as a wedding gift for his bride, the mansion reflects the distinctive Italianate architectural style, featuring ornate detailing and grand interiors. The house was converted into a restaurant in the 1970s, and it’s said that not all of its guests are of the earthly variety.

One of the most frequently reported spirits at Alfred’s Victorian is believed to be Alfred Ramsey himself. Ramsey never got to live in the mansion as his wife sadly passed away before they could move in. He is often seen in the basement, dressed in period clothing, appearing to be lost in thought. Visitors have also reported seeing a melancholy figure gazing out of the second-story window, believed to be Ramsey mourning his wife.

The apparition of a woman, thought to be a former servant of the house, has also been reported. She is usually seen in the kitchen area, moving with a purpose as though tending to her duties. Many employees have reported feeling an unseen presence while working in the kitchen and the sound of utensils being moved when no one else is present.

There have also been reports of strange sounds echoing through the building, including footsteps, whispers, and the faint sound of a woman crying. Cold spots are felt throughout the restaurant, and objects have been known to move inexplicably.

Despite these ghostly occurrences, the ambiance at Alfred’s Victorian remains warm and inviting. Today, the restaurant is renowned for its excellent food, and beautiful surroundings.

Read more: 20 of the Best Things to Do in Pennsylvania

39. Rhode Island – The Harrisville House

The Harrisville House, Rhode Island
The Harrisville House, Rhode Island | Image credit: bostonglobe.com

The Harrisville House, also known as the Old Arnold Estate, is a farmhouse in Harrisville, Rhode Island, with a haunted history that is so chilling, it inspired the hit movie “The Conjuring”. Built in 1736, the house was occupied by the Perron family in the 1970s, and it was their experiences that put this farmhouse on the map as one of the most haunted places in Rhode Island.

The Perrons reported numerous supernatural occurrences during the ten years they lived in the house. The most terrifying of these revolved around a spirit named Bathsheba. She was a former resident of the house in the 19th century and was rumored to be a Satanist who sacrificed her child to the devil. While these rumors were never substantiated, the Perrons believe Bathsheba was the cause of their torment, as she was jealous of the mother, Carolyn, and her relationship with her children.

One of the most common experiences in the house was the smell of rotting flesh, believed to be a calling card of Bathsheba’s presence. Carolyn reportedly felt a sharp pain in her leg one night, and when she looked down, she saw a large puncture wound that looked as though a large sewing needle had impaled her. It’s said that Bathsheba died of a mysterious paralysis, and her body was found with a sewing needle embedded in her stomach.

Other experiences include seeing objects move on their own, hearing disembodied voices and noises, feeling cold spots, and even witnessing full-bodied apparitions. The five Perron daughters also reported encounters with spirits, some friendly and others malevolent.

Today, the Harrisville House is privately owned and not open for regular tours, though the current owners have occasionally allowed paranormal investigators to explore the property.

Read more: 15 Best Things to Do in Rhode Island

40. South Carolina – Magnolia Plantation

Magnolia Plantation, South Carolina
Magnolia Plantation, South Carolina | Image credit: Wikipedia

Magnolia Plantation, located in Charleston, South Carolina, is known for its stunning gardens, rich history, and intriguing tales of the supernatural. Established in 1676 by the Drayton family, the plantation has seen centuries of history, from the early days of the American colonies through the Civil War and beyond. However, with such a long history comes an array of ghostly tales that make the Magnolia Plantation a haunted hotspot.

One of the most haunted spots on the property is the main house. Visitors have reported seeing the apparition of a woman in an antique dress wandering the halls. This spirit is believed to be a member of the Drayton family, still residing in her former home. The scent of her perfume has been reported in areas she frequents.

The grounds of the plantation, which served as a campground during the Civil War, also seem to be home to supernatural activity. Visitors have reported hearing the sounds of soldiers, gunshots, and horses in the middle of the night. Some have even seen apparitions of soldiers walking through the area, seemingly unaware of their surroundings.

However, perhaps the most chilling tales stem from the plantation’s slave cabins. In these cabins, visitors have reported hearing whispered voices, seeing shadows move, and feeling an overwhelming sense of sadness. The spirit of a former slave, identified as a “caretaker” spirit, is often seen here, continuing to look after the premises.

Today, the Magnolia Plantation is open to the public and offers a variety of tours, including a ghost tour which delves into the haunted history of the property.

Read more: 10 Best Things to Do in South Carolina

41. South Dakota – Easton Castle

Eason Castle, South Dakota
Eason Castle, South Dakota | Image credit: EastonCastle/Facebook

Easton’s Castle, also known as Easton’s Tower, stands as a magnificent testament to history and mystery in the city of Aberdeen, South Dakota. Built in 1889 by local settler Charles Easton, the property initially served as a private residence and then a series of apartments. Despite its somewhat nondescript history, the building is said to host a plethora of paranormal activity.

One of the most commonly reported hauntings involves the apparition of a little girl, believed to be Easton’s daughter. She is often seen playing in the garden or gazing out of the windows of the tower. Laughter and the sound of a bouncing ball have been heard, often when the girl’s apparition is sighted.

The spirit of Charles Easton himself is also believed to roam the halls of his former home. He is usually seen in the library or near the fireplace, dressed in clothing of the period. Strange lights, inexplicable cold spots, and objects moving without explanation have also been reported in areas associated with Easton’s apparition.

The castle’s third floor and the tower, in particular, have a reputation for being the most paranormally active. Visitors have reported feeling a sudden drop in temperature, seeing strange shadows, and hearing unexplained footsteps and whispers. The sensation of being watched or followed is a common experience among guests.

Today, Easton’s Castle remains a privately owned building. Although it is not regularly open for tours, its haunting reputation has earned it a prominent spot in local lore.

Read more: 12 Best Things to Do in South Dakota

42. Tennessee – The Bell Witch House

The last remaining structure of the Bell Farm in Adams, Tennessee.
The last remaining structure of the Bell Farm in Adams, Tennessee

The Bell Witch House, located in Adams, Tennessee, is shrouded in one of the most famous and chilling ghost stories in American history. Also known as the Bell Farm, it was the home of the Bell family in the early 19th century, and the site of a haunting so intense and well-documented that it even caught the attention of then-General Andrew Jackson.

The haunting began around 1817 when John Bell and his family started experiencing strange phenomena, including knocking sounds on the walls and doors, the sound of chains being dragged across the floor, and the sensation of being watched. But it wasn’t long before the events escalated. The family reported hearing whispering voices, and John’s daughter Betsy reported being physically attacked by an unseen entity.

The entity soon identified itself as a witch named Kate, who claimed to have been wronged by John Bell. She promised to torment him and his family, particularly Betsy, until John was dead. True to her word, the phenomena only grew more intense over time, with the spirit even reportedly speaking to the family and visitors, singing hymns, and making predictions about the future.

The haunting reached its peak when John Bell died in 1820. The family found a vial of strange black liquid in the house, and when a drop was given to the family cat, it died instantly. The spirit claimed to have given the poison to John, seemingly taking credit for his death.

Today, the original farm is gone, but a replica of the house and a nearby cave said to be a haunt of the Bell Witch are popular tourist attractions. Many visitors report strange experiences, such as unexplained sounds, sudden temperature changes, and a sense of unease.

Read more 13 Best Things to Do in Tennessee

43. Texas – Hill House

Hill House, Texas
Hill House, Texas | Image credit: wideopencountry.com

Situated in Mineral Wells, Texas, the historic Hill House holds a reputation as one of the most haunted locations in the state. Built in the late 19th century during the mineral water craze that gave the town its name, the house was first used as a boarding home for visitors seeking the healing properties of the local water. Over the years, however, the Hill House has become better known for its paranormal activity than its mineral water past.

One of the most frequently reported apparitions in the house is that of a young girl, believed to be the spirit of a former resident who fell down the stairs and died. She is often seen in the upstairs hallway, near where she took her fatal fall. Many visitors have reported hearing the laughter of a child and feeling an unseen presence when in this area of the house.

Another commonly reported haunting is that of a former tenant, known as “Shadow Man”. He is often seen lurking in the corners of rooms, particularly in the bedrooms, and has been described as a dark, foreboding presence.

Moreover, the house seems to exhibit a high level of poltergeist activity. Objects move of their own accord, doors slam shut, and disembodied voices echo through the house. Some visitors have even reported being touched or pushed by unseen forces.

Today, the Hill House is a popular destination for paranormal investigators and curious visitors. The owners offer regular ghost tours and even overnight stays for those brave enough to spend a night in the allegedly haunted home.

Read more: 14 of the Best Things to Do in Texas

44. Utah – Deveraux Mansion

Deveraux Mansion, Utah
Deveraux Mansion, Utah | Image credit: Wikipedia

Devereaux Mansion, located in Salt Lake City, Utah, is a stately historic house that boasts of grand architecture and an array of ghostly tales. Constructed in 1857 for William Staines, it was later sold to William Jennings in 1867, who transformed it into one of the most elegant residences in the area. It served as the Utah Governor’s residence for a while and later operated as a restaurant. Today, it stands as a historic event venue, complete with stories of its spectral inhabitants.

The mansion is said to be haunted by several spirits. The most frequently sighted apparition is of a young girl, believed to be Jennings’ daughter, who died on the property. She is often seen playing in the nursery or running up and down the grand staircase. Guests have reported hearing her laughter, seeing toys move on their own, and feeling a childlike presence in these areas.

Another ghost believed to inhabit the mansion is a woman seen in the ballroom. She is often witnessed dancing alone, appearing joyous and lost in her own world. The faint sounds of music from a bygone era sometimes accompany these sightings.

In the mansion’s basement, visitors have reported unsettling encounters. From feeling a sudden drop in temperature to hearing distant whispers and feeling unseen hands touch them, the basement has a reputation for being the most paranormally active area of the house.

Even in the mansion’s gardens, visitors and staff have reported strange experiences. Disembodied footsteps, inexplicable cold spots, and shadows moving without a source have all been reported.

Today, while Devereaux Mansion continues to serve as a beautiful venue for weddings and other events, its haunted history adds an extra layer of intrigue.

Read more: 15 Best Things to Do in Utah

45. Vermont – Jennings Music Building

Jennings Music Building, Vermont
Jennings Music Building, Vermont | Image credit: atlasobscura.com

The Jennings Music Building, located on the campus of the University of Vermont in Burlington, is steeped in history and mystery. The building, which was erected in 1894, houses the university’s music department and is named after Alanson Weeks Jennings, a prominent businessman and philanthropist who funded its construction. Despite its prestigious role in Vermont’s academic history, the Jennings Music Building is also well-known for its eerie tales of the paranormal.

One of the most common reports is of a spectral figure, known as the “Grey Lady.” This mysterious figure has often been seen wandering the halls of the building, particularly in the evening hours. She is typically described as a woman dressed in period clothing from the late 19th or early 20th century. The spirit is said to be benign, seemingly interested in the musical activities that take place in the building.

Another ghostly presence in the building is that of a former janitor, identified as Henry. He is known to haunt the basement and is believed to be responsible for the inexplicable sounds of cleaning equipment heard in the dead of night, long after the building has closed.

Also, many students and faculty members have reported hearing phantom music coming from the empty practice rooms. This music is often described as being beautiful and intricate as if played by unseen, skilled musicians.

While the Jennings Music Building may first and foremost be a hub for musical education, it also serves as a symbol of the University of Vermont’s rich history and connection to the unknown.

Read more: 17 Best Things to Do in Vermont

46. Virginia – Ferry Plantation House

Ferry Plantation House, Virginia
Ferry Plantation House, Virginia | Image credit: colonialghosts.com

Located in Virginia Beach, the Ferry Plantation House stands as a symbol of the rich history of the region, dating back to the colonial era, and a beacon for ghost enthusiasts. The current structure, built in 1830, was constructed on land that had been used for public ferry services, which is how the house got its name. This federal-style brick home served various purposes over the years, such as a school and a post office, but it is best known for the eleven spirits that are said to haunt it.

One of the most well-known ghosts in the Ferry Plantation House is that of Grace Sherwood, known as the “Witch of Pungo.” Accused of witchcraft in the 18th century, Grace was subjected to the infamous trial by water right near the house, and though she survived, she carries a legendary status in the local folklore. Her spirit is often seen wandering around the property, particularly near the old walnut tree and the waterfront.

Another notable apparition is the Lady in White, believed to be the spirit of a woman who died from a broken neck after falling down the main staircase. She is usually seen near the staircase or in the front hallway, often appearing distraught.

In addition, the spirit of a former slave named Sally is said to linger in the kitchen area, with numerous reports of sounds of cooking and a faint smell of baking bread. On the second floor, disembodied voices, sudden cold spots, and the sensation of unseen presences are often reported.

The Ferry Plantation House now operates as a historic house museum, offering tours that dive into both the historical and paranormal aspects of the property. The site’s commitment to preserving the past and its openness about its spectral inhabitants make the Ferry Plantation House a fascinating stop in Virginia.

Read more: These 7 Haunted Places in Virginia Will Send Chills Down Your Spine

47. Washington – The Walker-Ames House

The Walker-Ames House, Washington
The Walker-Ames House, Washington | Image credit: kissandthrill.com

In the heart of Port Gamble, Washington, the Walker-Ames House stands as a stunning example of Victorian architecture and a home to a multitude of ghostly sightings and paranormal phenomena. Constructed in 1889 by shipbuilder William Walker as a residence for his family, the house was later inhabited by Edwin Ames, who was the mill manager at the time. Today, the mansion is recognized as one of the most haunted sites in Washington State.

One of the frequently reported apparitions is of a little girl who appears on the staircase, in the halls, and in some of the upstairs rooms. Her laughter is often heard echoing in the house when no one else is present. Another specter often seen is a woman in a Victorian dress, thought to be the spirit of one of the original inhabitants.

Paranormal activity in the Walker-Ames House isn’t limited to these apparitions, though. There have been reports of unexplained footsteps, knocking sounds, and even the sensation of being touched by invisible hands. Certain areas of the house, such as the basement and the upper floors, seem to be hotspots for these occurrences.

Interestingly, some visitors have also reported experiencing time slips – brief moments when they feel as though they’ve been transported back to the house’s Victorian past. These instances often include auditory hallucinations of music, conversation, and the rustling of Victorian-era clothing.

Today, the Walker-Ames House offers guided tours to the public, both historical and paranormal, inviting visitors to explore its rich history and possibly encounter its spectral residents. The house’s captivating past, coupled with its reputation for the paranormal, ensures it remains a significant point of interest in the Pacific Northwest.

Read more: These 8 Haunted Places in Washington Will Send Chills Down Your Spine

48. West Virginia – The Ramsdell House

The Ramsdell House, West Virginia
The Ramsdell House, West Virginia | Image credit: Chuck and Alice Riecks/Flickr

Nestled in the small town of Ceredo, West Virginia, the Ramsdell House has stood as a symbol of the area’s Civil War history and a hotspot for supernatural activity. Built in 1858 by Massachusetts native Zopher D. Ramsdell, this house served as a station on the Underground Railroad, offering a safe haven for slaves seeking freedom. The house’s history of harboring those in desperate need seems to have left an indelible spiritual mark, leading to numerous accounts of paranormal activity.

One of the house’s most frequently reported apparitions is a man believed to be Zopher D. Ramsdell himself. This spectral figure, often seen in 19th-century attire, is usually encountered in the upstairs area, where he appears to be watching over the house. Additionally, the figure of a woman, presumably Ramsdell’s wife, has also been reported, primarily in the kitchen area.

More disconcerting are the accounts of ghostly slaves. Witnesses report seeing spectral figures darting through the house and grounds as if still seeking refuge. Disembodied voices, chains’ clanking sounds, and sorrowful moans have also been heard, adding to the house’s eerie atmosphere.

Other reported paranormal activities include the typical signs of a haunting such as unexplained cold spots, sudden shifts in energy, and objects moving of their own accord. Some visitors have even reported feeling an unseen hand gently touching them, as though a spirit is trying to make contact.

Now serving as a historical museum, the Ramsdell House allows visitors to step back in time and explore a critical era in American history. For those with a taste for the paranormal, it offers an added allure, promising an opportunity to encounter some of West Virginia’s most enduring spirits.

Read more: 14 Best Things to Do in West Virginia

49. Wisconsin – “Summerwind” Lamont Mansion

Lamont Mansion, Wisconsin
Lamont Mansion, Wisconsin | Image credit: coolinterestingstuff.com

Situated on the shores of West Bay Lake, Wisconsin, the Lamont Mansion, more popularly known as “Summerwind,” is a location steeped in chilling tales and a history that invites supernatural speculation. This 20th-century mansion was built in 1916 as a fishing lodge but was transformed into a grand estate by Robert Lamont, the U.S. Secretary of Commerce under President Herbert Hoover. After Lamont’s tenure, the mansion passed through several hands, each contributing to the eerie lore that surrounds it.

Lamont himself had a frightful experience that is now part of the mansion’s haunted history. One night during dinner, a ghost allegedly appeared in the kitchen, prompting Lamont to fire a pistol at it. This encounter supposedly prompted the Lamonts to abandon the property.

The house later came under the ownership of Arnold and Ginger Hinshaw in the 1970s. The Hinshaws’ stay was marked by numerous inexplicable occurrences, including apparitions, phantom music, unexplained voices, and even instances where the house seemed to change shape. The family’s encounters at Summerwind were so disturbing that they eventually moved out, leaving the house vacant.

The most frequently reported apparition at Summerwind is a spectral woman often seen looking out of the mansion’s windows. She is believed to be the spirit of an early 20th-century maid who reportedly died by suicide in the mansion. Unseen presences, fleeting shadows, and spectral faces in the windows are some of the other common reports by those brave enough to visit Summerwind.

Unfortunately, Summerwind Mansion is now in ruins due to a fire in 1988, but the land it sits on continues to draw curiosity seekers and paranormal investigators. Despite its derelict state, the mansion’s chilling tales live on, making it one of Wisconsin’s most notorious haunted sites.

Read more: 20 of the Best Things to Do in Wisconsin

50. Wyoming – Farris Mansion

Farris Mansion, Wyoming
Farris Mansion, Wyoming | Image credit: TripAdvisor

Located in the town of Rawlins, Wyoming, the Farris Mansion has a reputation as a hub of paranormal activity. Built in the early 20th century, this beautiful, three-story brick house once served as a luxurious bed and breakfast. Today, it’s known more for its supernatural residents than its hospitality.

The most prominent spirit said to haunt the Farris Mansion is a young girl named Isabelle. She’s often spotted on the third floor, where she is heard playing or seen looking out the window. She’s typically described as friendly and playful, causing mild mischief such as moving small objects around. The sound of her laughter is said to fill the air, creating an eerie yet poignant atmosphere.

There’s also the apparition of a woman in Victorian-era clothing, believed to be a previous owner or perhaps a long-term resident. She has been seen in the hallways and heard climbing the stairs late at night. Guests have reported a sense of unease and a feeling of being watched, particularly in the mansion’s upper levels.

A man in a top hat and coat is another spirit reportedly seen, primarily in the dining area and the main foyer. He is usually seen out of the corner of the eye and disappears when approached directly. Unexplained footsteps, sudden temperature changes, and even the occasional spectral touch are some of the other paranormal phenomena reported at Farris Mansion.

Today, the mansion is privately owned and not officially open for public tours. However, its reputation as one of Wyoming’s most haunted locations keeps it firmly in the spotlight. The tales of its ghostly residents continue to attract the interest of paranormal enthusiasts and add a sense of intrigue and mystery to the town of Rawlins.

Read more: 17 of the Best Things to Do in Wyoming 

Bonus: Washington DC – Old Stone House

The backside of the Old Stone House in Washington, DC.
Old Stone House in Washington, DC | Image credit: Mike Fitzpatrick via Flickr

In the heart of Georgetown, Washington, D.C., the Old Stone House stands as the oldest structure in the city still on its original foundation. Constructed in 1765, the house initially served as a dwelling and a shop for cabinetmaker Christopher Layman. Over the centuries, the property changed hands several times, serving various purposes. Today, it’s managed by the National Park Service, attracting visitors with its historical charm and stories of spectral residents.

One of the most famous ghost stories associated with the Old Stone House involves a young woman named Cassandra. She is said to have lived in the house during the late 18th century and tragically died in childbirth on the second floor. Many visitors and park rangers have reported seeing Cassandra’s apparition in the upstairs bedroom, often seen gazing mournfully out the window. Some have even heard the soft cries of a baby, thought to be her lost child.

Additionally, an apparition of an older man, thought to be a former owner or tenant, has been reported numerous times. He is typically seen in the kitchen area and has been known to interact with objects, particularly kitchen utensils. On several occasions, items have been found moved or missing, only to turn up later in unusual places.

Other paranormal occurrences include unexplained noises, such as footsteps and doors closing when no one else is present. Cold spots and an inexplicable feeling of unease have also been reported in certain areas of the house, particularly the upstairs bedroom and the kitchen.

Visitors to the Old Stone House can enjoy guided tours that offer a glimpse into the 18th-century life in Georgetown. For those interested in the paranormal, the possibility of encountering a ghost adds an extra layer of intrigue to this historic site.

Read more: 10 Best Things to Do in Washington D.C.

Unveiling the Shadows: A Reflection on Haunted Houses in America

As we conclude our journey through the haunted alphabet of America, it is not just the spine-tingling tales that linger. It is the rich tapestry of American history, the myriad stories told and untold, that we carry with us.

From the shadows of these storied mansions to the echoing hallways of the most haunted houses in America, we’ve unlocked doors and drawn back veils on the unseen. In the end, it’s clear that the real allure of these haunted homes isn’t just the prospect of a paranormal encounter. It’s the enduring thrill of the mystery, the persistent question that haunts us all: What lies beyond the veil of our mortal understanding?

As we retreat from these shadowed doorways and step back into the light, we carry with us a deeper understanding of America’s spectral heritage. And we’re left with the chilling reminder that the next eerie tale might just be a glance away, lurking behind the façade of that odd house in our very own neighborhood.

John Ghost is a professional writer and SEO director. He graduated from Arizona State University with a BA in English (Writing, Rhetorics, and Literacies). As he prepares for graduate school to become an English professor, he writes weird fiction, plays his guitars, and enjoys spending time with his wife and daughters. He lives in the Valley of the Sun.

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