Beyond the Usual Haunts

Unique Haunted Places to Explore This Halloween
AUTHOR
Nicole Martinez
Chief Design Officer

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

Move over Salem, New Orleans is where the real witches at. St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is the oldest and most famous cemetery in NOLA, and it’s the final resting place of the legendary Voodoo queen Marie Laveau. As you wander among the above-ground tombs, you’ll feel a palpable energy that’s downright otherworldly. Halloween in New Orleans is also packed with witchy vibes, masquerades, and spooky street parties that’ll give you an experience you’ll never forget. Learn More

2. Winchester Mystery House – San Jose, California

If you’re into mind-bending architecture with a side of spookiness, the Winchester Mystery House is your spot. This sprawling mansion is filled with staircases that lead to nowhere, doors that open into walls, and other bizarre architectural features, all allegedly designed to confuse the spirits of those killed by Winchester rifles. During Halloween, they host special flashlight tours, letting you explore this paranormal labyrinth in the dark. Learn More

3. Eastern State Penitentiary – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

For those who love dark history with a dash of the paranormal, this decaying, historic prison is an unforgettable (and terrifying) Halloween experience. Abandoned since 1971, Eastern State Penitentiary is rumored to be haunted by former inmates. Its eerie, crumbling halls are perfect for photos that blend urban decay with supernatural vibes. During Halloween, they host "Terror Behind the Walls," a massive haunted house experience inside the prison. Learn More

4. McMenamins Edgefield – Troutdale, Oregon

If you like your ghosts with a side of craft beer, McMenamins Edgefield is a quirky destination with a haunted past. Originally a poor farm in the early 1900s, this 74-acre property has been transformed into a funky hotel, brewery, and spa—but many believe some of the original inhabitants never left. Ghost sightings and strange occurrences are common, especially in its old hospital-turned-hotel rooms. Learn More

7. Winchester Mystery House – San Jose, California

If you’re into mind-bending architecture with a side of spookiness, the Winchester Mystery House is your spot. This sprawling mansion is filled with staircases that lead to nowhere, doors that open into walls, and other bizarre architectural features, all allegedly designed to confuse the spirits of those killed by Winchester rifles. During Halloween, they host special flashlight tours, letting you explore this paranormal labyrinth in the dark. Learn More

5. The Stanley Hotel – Estes Park, Colorado

If you’re a fan of The Shining, this one’s for you. The Stanley Hotel served as the inspiration for Stephen King’s iconic novel, and it’s known for its own paranormal activity. While you may not run into Jack Torrance, guests and staff have reported hearing mysterious piano music and seeing ghostly apparitions in the halls. You can take a ghost tour, or even stay the night if you’re brave enough. Learn More

6. The Queen Mary – Long Beach, California

Once a luxury ocean liner, The Queen Mary is now permanently docked in Long Beach and has a reputation for being one of the most haunted places in the world. With a history of mysterious deaths and sightings of ghostly passengers, this ship has been transformed into a floating paranormal hotspot. Every Halloween, The Queen Mary hosts a haunted attraction, complete with mazes and immersive scare zones. Learn More

7. Whaley House – San Diego, California

The Whaley House is one of the oldest and most haunted houses in the United States, sitting in the heart of San Diego’s Old Town. Built on a former execution site, the house has witnessed everything from hangings to mysterious deaths, making it a prime location for ghost sightings. Ghost hunters and skeptics alike have reported everything from eerie footsteps to shadowy figures. It's like stepping into a true-life horror movie. Learn More

8. The Mütter Museum – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

This one’s for the lovers of the macabre and the medically curious. The Mütter Museum is filled with medical oddities, anatomical specimens, and historical curiosities. You’ll find everything from a wall of skulls to preserved organs and antique medical equipment. While it’s not haunted in the traditional sense, the unsettling atmosphere is perfect for an eerie, offbeat Halloween adventure. Learn More

9. Helltown – Boston Township, Ohio

For the thrill-seekers who love urban legends, Helltown is a creepy, abandoned area with a history of ghost stories and conspiracy theories. Once a bustling town, it was abruptly abandoned in the 1970s when the government purchased the land, sparking rumors of mutant creatures, haunted houses, and government cover-ups. Exploring this deserted town gives off major "stranger things" vibes. Learn More

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