The country is home to expansive landscapes, architectural marvels, and, well, ghost towns—actual ones. So, those who have had their fill of staring at beachscapes and sipping tropical drinks and are in want of a unique (and spine-chilling) adventure can explore the top haunted destinations in the US, including Bonaventure Cemetery in Georgia to Honolulu International Airport in Hawaii. Be warned! The spirits are on the loose, there’s unfinished business, and the vibes are grim!
Bodie, California
Bodie wasn’t always an isolated town. It was once home to 10,000 people between the 1870s and ’80s when gold was discovered and aplenty in the hills surrounding Mono Lake. Eventually, mining ceased, and people stopped migrating here—or so they say. Today, visitors will find tables with place settings and eerie shops with supplies. Then there are reports of supernatural activity, making Bodie one of America’s scariest locations. Rumor has it that several visitors stole items and rocks from the site and remained cursed with bad luck until they returned them. Some even did. Today, visiting Bodie means turning up to no food shops, gas stations, or other commercial facilities. The California Department of Parks and Recreation says this is to “preserve the ghost town atmosphere.”
One if by Land, Two if by Sea, New York City
Gold chandeliers, candlelit tables, and extravagant dinner spreads are some highlights of New York City’s most romantic restaurant. Then come the 20 ghosts, who, according to guests, tilt picture frames, activate machinery, throw plates, and make the lights flicker. If that isn’t spooky enough, some staff members get shoved by ghosts every so often, and guests claim there’s a woman dressed in black who walks down the staircase and breaks her neck falling down the stairs. While many may take this off their must-visit list, those who want to visit this haunted place in the US can make reservations on the hotel’s website. And if there were flying plates, a warning was issued!
Bonaventure Cemetery, Savannah, Georgia
This cemetery features in the novel Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Like the book, the Bonaventure Garden has a Southern Gothic atmosphere with Spanish moss covering the monuments. While many notable figures are buried here, one in particular is Gracie Watson, who tragically passed away at just six years old. Visitors often leave toys at her grave; some even claim to have seen her ghost nearby. Although there is no way to verify these sightings, it is worth mentioning that there is a life-size marble statue of Gracie, with her hand resting on a tree stump marking her grave. Additionally, unexplained sounds, such as the cries of babies, the unsettling behavior of statues that seem to turn and face people as they approach, and dogs’ barking, might make some visitors think twice about taking a tour here.
Crescent Hotel, Eureka Springs, Arkansas
The Crescent Hotel, constructed in 1886, has served quite a few purposes, from being a luxury resort to a junior college. However, things took a dark turn in 1937 when Norman G. Baker, a millionaire inventor, purchased the hotel. Despite lacking formal training, he posed as a doctor and transformed the hotel into a hospital. Eventually, his misdeeds were out in the open, forcing him to leave town. Reports suggest that his spirit returned, bringing along some otherworldly company. Today, the Arkansas Mountaintop Spa Resort continues to operate, but it is still regarded as one of the most haunted hotels in the country. Legend has it that at least eight ghosts occupy the resort, including a young girl and a bearded man dressed in Victorian clothing. Those who love all things spooky should book Room 218—Michael’s Room, known for its high levels of paranormal activity. However, those who do manage to secure a reservation should travel with a friend for added safety.
Honolulu International Airport, Hawaii
Imagine waiting in a line at Honolulu International Airport—one that overlooks the off-limits area of the airport—and spotting a blonde woman in a white dress. According to legend, the woman was in love with a man who wanted to marry her but then abandoned her after he took an international flight. However, she remained hopeful. Rumor has it that her spirit still waits for him to return. Since travelers won’t have access to off-limit areas, they might not see her, but they can sense her presence in many places, like the washroom. Rumor has it that toilet paper unravels itself in some washrooms, and toilets even flush themselves. It’s no wonder why the airport is one of the scariest haunted locations in America.
Pine Barrens, New Jersey
Individuals can visit paranormal hotspots like the Pine Barrens in the United States; however, they should always remain in the vehicle or at least stay close to the roads or the campground, and for good reason.
This vast area, which spans 1 million acres across seven counties, thrived during the Colonial period. It was a hub for paper mills, sawmills, and other industries. After the discovery of coal west of Pennsylvania, people gradually moved away from the Pine Barrens.
However, they left behind more than just industrial equipment. According to rumor, in 1735, Deborah Leeds gave birth to her 13th child, who was said to be a paranormal entity with leathery wings, hooves, and a goat’s head. This creature became known as the Jersey Devil and is rumored to fly up chimneys and roam the Barrens, where it reportedly preys on livestock. Therefore, staying in the car or near the road or campsite is best to avoid becoming the Jersey Devil’s next meal.