Across America, some places go far beyond creepy—they’re terrifying. These locations are tied to dark history, strange events, and unexplained activity that keep people talking for generations. Some are abandoned, left to decay with an unsettling silence, while others still draw visitors who swear they’ve seen or felt something that can’t be explained.
From haunted asylums and cursed prisons to ghost towns where time stopped long ago, these sites hold stories that chill even the bravest. They remind us that not every landmark is meant for comfort or beauty—some exist to challenge our sense of safety and stir up fear.
Shanghai Tunnels, Portland, Oregon
The Shanghai Tunnels in Portland, Oregon, were built in the mid-19th century and were used to transport goods from the city’s port to its downtown area. However, they soon became a place of terror as kidnappings and forced labor took place within their walls. The tunnels were also known for being used to shanghai unsuspecting victims onto ships bound for Asia. Today, the tunnels are believed to be haunted by the spirits of those who perished there and are a popular destination for ghost hunters.
The Stanley Hotel, Estes Park, Colorado
The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado, is famous for being the inspiration behind Stephen King’s iconic novel, “The Shining.” The hotel was built in 1909 and has been the site of many ghostly encounters. Guests have reported flickering lights, footsteps when no one is around, and even seeing apparitions in their rooms. It is believed that the hotel’s original owners, F.O. and Flora Stanley, still roam the halls, along with other spirits.
The Myrtles Plantation, St. Francisville, Louisiana
The Myrtles Plantation in St. Francisville, Louisiana, is known as one of America’s most haunted homes. Built in 1796, the plantation has a long and tragic history that includes murder, suicide, and slavery. Today, guests have reported seeing ghostly apparitions and strange noises throughout the property. One of the most famous ghosts is Chloe, a former slave who was hanged for poisoning her owner’s family.
Lemp Mansion, St. Louis, Missouri
The Lemp Mansion in St. Louis, Missouri, has a tragic history that has led to its reputation as one of the most haunted places in America. The mansion was once home to the wealthy Lemp family, but it is said to be cursed after several devastating events, including deaths and financial ruin. Today, visitors can tour the mansion and hear stories of strange occurrences, like doors opening on their own and furniture moving by itself.
Bobby Mackeys Music World, Wilder, Kentucky
Bobby Mackeys Music World is a famous country music venue in Wilder, Kentucky. However, beneath the upbeat atmosphere lies a darker side. The building was once used as a slaughterhouse and later became a casino with ties to organized crime. Many believe this history has led to the building being haunted by vengeful spirits. Visitors have reported seeing apparitions and hearing disembodied voices; some even claim to have been physically attacked by unseen forces.
Winchester House, San Jose, California
The Winchester House in San Jose, California, is a sprawling mansion with a confusing layout and hundreds of rooms. Sarah Winchester, the widow of William Wirt Winchester, was the mastermind behind its construction. Legend has it that she believed the spirits of those killed by her husband’s rifles were haunting her, and she built the house to confuse them. Presently, the house has become a renowned tourist destination, captivating visitors with reported sightings of apparitions and eerie sounds.
The Whaley House, San Diego, California
The Whaley House in San Diego, California, is one of America’s most haunted houses. The house was built on a former gallows site and has a tragic history that includes deaths within the family. Visitors have reported seeing apparitions, hearing footsteps when no one is around, and feeling cold spots throughout the house. The Whaley House has been transformed into a captivating museum that beckons the courageous to embark on ghost tours through its haunted halls.
Clinton Road, West Milford, New Jersey
Clinton Road in West Milford, New Jersey, is a 10-mile stretch known for its eerie atmosphere and strange occurrences. Legend has it that the road is cursed and haunted by the spirits of deceased locals. Visitors have reported seeing ghostly figures, hearing phantom voices and footsteps, and even encountering a mysterious ghost boy who appears on the side of the road. The road has become a popular spot for ghost hunters and thrill-seekers.
Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, Weston, West Virginia
The Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum in Weston, West Virginia, was once home to thousands of mentally ill patients from the mid-1800s until its closure in 1994. The asylum’s history is filled with tales of mistreatment and abuse, and it is believed that the spirits of former patients still roam the halls. Visitors can take historical tours or participate in ghost hunts to experience this abandoned facility’s eerie atmosphere.
Moundsville Penitentiary, Moundsville, West Virginia
The Moundsville Penitentiary in Moundsville, West Virginia, operated as a prison from 1876 to 1995 and was known for its harsh conditions and violent inmates. It is believed that the spirits of former prisoners still haunt the prison, which has been featured on numerous ghost-hunting shows. Visitors can take guided tours of the prison and hear stories of its violent past. They can even spend the night on a ghost hunt to experience supernatural activity.