Something about fall and the month of October has everyone craving a ghost story or two. If you’re looking for a scare, we’ve compiled a list of the spookiest cities in the U.S. that are perfect for your next travel assignment or a weekend getaway! Venture on… if you dare.
1. St. Augustine, FL
St. Augustine is known as the oldest city in the U.S. and is claimed to be the most haunted, thanks to its history that goes back more than 400 years. Besides being a city of historical landmarks, this city has also experienced quite a bit of tragedy including yellow fever wiping out a majority of its population, war, and mysterious deaths. It may not be the most uplifting place to visit, but for those that dare, here are some of the most haunted places to visit:
2. Salem, MA
Embrace your inner witch by taking a trip to Salem! Take a walking tour and dive into its chilling past. Travel back in time by exploring historical architecture that goes back more than 300 years. Every October the Salem Witch Museum hosts Haunted Happenings, a festival that celebrates and remembers Salem’s early days and how it has grown into the city that it is today, making it the perfect fall trip! Here are some additional stops to add to your list:
- Jonathon Corwin/The Witch House
- Old Burying Point Cemetery
- House of Seven Gables (Turner House)
- Proctor’s Ledge
- Wicked Good Books
- Old Salem Jail
3. Gettysburg, PA
Gettysburg, the site of the infamous Battle of Gettysburg, was the largest, bloodiest battle that took place during the Civil War. It’s also the location where President Abraham Lincoln delivered his famous speech, the Gettysburg Address. This place is a must-see for all history buffs. Gettysburg boasts plenty of tours and museums, and you may even catch a glimpse of a ghost of a soldier. If you’re looking to send a chill down your spine, these are the spots you will want to visit:
4. New Orleans, LA
This city’s eerie history will be sure to keep you on your toes. New Orleans is known as the birthplace of voodoo in the U.S. and the home of the Voodoo Queen, Marie Laveau. Its hauntings are rooted back to the yellow fever pandemic, fires, pirates, and more. But, if you need a break from all the spookiness, take a stroll through the French Quarter or see what the buzz on Bourbon Street is about! If you’re looking for a scare, check out these haunted locations:
- LaLauerie Mansion
- Saint Louis Cemetery
- Bourbon Orleans Hotel
- Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop
- Old Absinthe House
- Pharmacy Museum
5. Savannah, GA
Just like the rest of the cities on this list, Savannah has a history that will be sure to bring some uneasiness during your stay. Besides being the site of beautiful mansions and being known as the first planned city, Savannah also has a devastating and violent past. Over the years, Savannah has experienced the bloodshed of the Civil War, yellow fever, fires, slavery, and more. If you’re feeling adventurous, these are the haunted sites that you’ll want to add to your list:
- Bonaventure Cemetery
- Olde Pink House Restaurant and Tavern
- Hampton Lillibridge House
- Marshall House
- Moon River Brewing Co.
- 17 Hundred 90 Inn and Restaurant
When you’re ready to unlock your inner ghost hunter, these cities will be waiting for you to investigate. Stay for an upcoming travel assignment if you dare. But if you can’t make it past the weekend, we don’t blame you. All of these cities rank high on our spookiness chart and have plenty of haunted spots to check out. Enjoy!
