1. The Myrtles Plantation, Louisiana
The Myrtles Plantation, located in St. Francisville, Louisiana, is often referred to as one of the most haunted homes in America. The mansion was built in 1796, and legend has it that the spirit of a former owner, Chloe, still roams the halls. According to reports, Chloe was a slave who poisoned the family she worked for, and her ghost is said to appear wearing a green turban. Many visitors claim to have seen her wandering around the property, especially in the area known as the “ghost room.” The eerie atmosphere of the home has made it a popular spot for ghost tours, and countless people swear they’ve felt a chilling presence.
The house itself is a beautiful example of Southern architecture, with its grand columns and sprawling front porch. But it’s the stories of paranormal activity that keep people coming back. Guests have reported hearing disembodied voices and seeing mysterious figures in photographs. Whether you believe in the supernatural or not, there’s no denying the unsettling energy that surrounds The Myrtles Plantation.
2. The Whaley House, California
Located in San Diego’s Old Town, The Whaley House is another historic home that many believe is still occupied by its original owners. Built in 1857, the home served as both a residence and a courtroom. It’s said to be haunted by the spirits of the Whaley family, including Thomas Whaley, who built the house. The most commonly reported apparition is that of Thomas himself, who is often seen in the parlor. Visitors have also reported hearing footsteps and unexplained sounds, leading some to believe that the Whaley family never really left.
Despite the unsettling rumors, The Whaley House remains a popular tourist destination. Its eerie history is part of the charm, with exhibits detailing the family’s life and the house’s many uses throughout the years. Some visitors have even claimed to experience physical sensations, such as sudden cold chills, when walking through certain rooms. Whether it’s the spirit of Thomas Whaley or simply the house’s age, there’s an undeniable presence in this Southern California landmark.
3. The Bell Witch Cave, Tennessee
The Bell Witch Cave, located in Adams, Tennessee, is tied to one of the most famous ghost stories in American folklore. In the early 19th century, the Bell family experienced disturbing occurrences in their home, including strange noises and physical attacks. Many believe the spirit of Kate Batts, a neighbor who had a dispute with John Bell, still haunts the area. The Bell family eventually abandoned their home, but the haunting reportedly continued at the nearby cave. Some locals insist that Kate Batts’ spirit still resides in the cave, protecting the area and haunting those who dare to enter.
Today, the Bell Witch Cave is a popular tourist spot, attracting ghost hunters and history buffs alike. Visitors report hearing disembodied voices, the sound of chains dragging, and even the sensation of being touched by unseen hands. Whether you believe the stories or not, there’s no denying the eerie vibe that surrounds the cave and its unsettling history. The Bell Witch remains one of Tennessee’s most famous paranormal legends.
4. The Lemp Mansion, Missouri
Located in St. Louis, Missouri, The Lemp Mansion is another historic property that is rumored to be haunted by its original owners. The mansion was built in the 1860s by the Lemp family, who were wealthy brewers. Tragedy struck the family when several members committed suicide, and the house is said to be haunted by their spirits. The most famous ghost is that of William Lemp, who shot himself in the mansion after the brewery’s downfall. Visitors have reported strange occurrences, including doors opening and closing on their own, flickering lights, and the sound of footsteps echoing through the halls.
In addition to its haunted reputation, the Lemp Mansion also serves as a restaurant and bed-and-breakfast. The eerie atmosphere and dark history draw guests from all over, and many leave with stories of ghostly encounters. Whether you’re there for the food or the paranormal experience, The Lemp Mansion has a chilling energy that’s hard to ignore.
5. The Adams House, South Dakota
The Adams House, located in Deadwood, South Dakota, is another historic home with a lingering presence. Built in 1892, the house was the residence of mining magnate W.E. Adams and his family. The mansion has long been rumored to be haunted by the Adams family, particularly W.E. himself. Visitors have reported seeing a figure in the upstairs windows, and the sound of footsteps can often be heard in the hallways. Some even claim to have encountered W.E. Adams’ ghost in the rooms where he once lived.
The Adams House is now open to the public for tours, and its eerie reputation adds an air of mystery to the historical experience. The mansion’s Victorian architecture and period furnishings offer a glimpse into the past, but it’s the ghost stories that make it stand out. Whether the spirits of the Adams family still linger or if the house simply carries the weight of history, it remains a captivating site for those curious about the supernatural.
6. The Stanley Hotel, Colorado
Famous for inspiring Stephen King’s The Shining, The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado, is one of the most well-known haunted homes in America. The hotel was built in 1909 by inventor F.O. Stanley and his wife, Flora. Over the years, the couple’s spirits have been reported by numerous guests and staff members. People claim to hear Flora’s piano music playing in the ballroom and spot F.O. Stanley’s ghost in the hotel’s corridors. Some also believe the ghosts of the Stanley family’s dogs still wander the grounds.
Beyond the haunting, the Stanley Hotel is a beautiful, historic site, attracting visitors for both its paranormal reputation and stunning views of the Colorado Rockies. The hotel offers ghost tours for those brave enough to experience the supernatural side of the estate. With its rich history and spine-tingling stories, The Stanley Hotel has become a must-visit for thrill-seekers and history lovers alike.
7. The Old Slave Mart, South Carolina
The Old Slave Mart in Charleston, South Carolina, is a historic landmark with a haunting history. Built in 1859, the building was once a hub for the illegal slave trade. After the end of the Civil War, the structure was repurposed for various uses, but many believe that the souls of the enslaved individuals who were brought through the mart still linger in the area. Visitors often report hearing cries and whispers in the dimly lit rooms, as well as a feeling of being watched by unseen eyes.
Today, The Old Slave Mart serves as a museum, offering a sobering look at Charleston’s role in the slave trade. While the historical significance of the building is important, it’s the lingering spirits that make this site so captivating. Whether the stories are true or simply born from the tragic past, there’s no denying the palpable sense of history—and possibly something else—that fills the air at this site.
8. The Anne Rice House, Louisiana
The home of famed author Anne Rice, located in the Garden District of New Orleans, is another historic property with ties to the supernatural. Rice, best known for her Vampire Chronicles series, lived in the house for many years before her passing in 2021. The mansion itself is a grand, Victorian-style structure that’s been the subject of much speculation. Some say that Anne Rice’s spirit still inhabits the home, continuing to weave tales of the supernatural. Visitors and neighbors have reported seeing lights flicker on and off and feeling an unexplained presence in the vicinity.
In addition to its literary connection, the Anne Rice House is known for its striking architectural details, including intricate ironwork and beautiful stained-glass windows. It remains an important part of New Orleans’ rich cultural heritage, and though Rice is no longer with us, the stories she created—and possibly her spirit—still seem to linger in the home she loved.