Even in its short history, the United States has amassed quite a few tales of the spooky and macabre. From the Salem Witch Trials and Lizzie Borden to wars and serial killers, many cities have stories that scare just about anyone. For those that love a little fright and some interesting history, check out some of these cities around the country.
New Orleans, Louisiana
It’s hard to ignore New Orleans’ diverse history as you walk around town. Above ground graves and mausoleums are obvious, and strong Caribbean influence (and movies) have you thinking about who might be a voodoo priest or a vampire. The city also has its fair share of ghosts, primarily in hotels such as Le Pavillon Hotel. Patrons report seeing a girl who was killed by a carriage over a hundred years ago. The Hotel Monteleon features a haunted elevator, which stops on whichever floor it chooses. These are just a few of the haunted areas in the city. If you love the mysterious, New Orleans is definitely one of the best places to live. You’ll never run out of places to explore.
Alton, Illinois
Located on the Mississippi River about 40 miles north of Saint Louis is Alton, Illinois. The city was once home to a variety of industries and a large port on the river, but it has slowly decayed. This has left several buildings that are extraordinarily creepy. The Mineral Springs Hotel still holds tours to showcase the paranormal activity of “The Jasmine Lady” who died at the hand of her husband in the hotel. Other scary places include the haunted Enos Sanitorium, which housed dying tuberculosis patients, and the Old Confederate Prison, where many Confederate soldiers met their demise through disease and torture.
Baltimore, Maryland
There’s a reason Edgar Allan Poe’s writing is so dreary, and one of those reasons is Baltimore. The city has seen its fair share of bloody battles, including the War of 1812, the Civil War, and the Revolutionary War; many died here. Fort McHenry, built in 1798, had thousands die on its grounds. It’s said that spectres walk the grounds at night, keeping guard over the fort. Also, check out the Westminster Catacombs, the final resting place of Poe, and one of the various places around the city he is said to haunt.
Estes Park, Colorado
Situated at the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park started as resort town for hikers, skiers, hunters, and adventurers. However, it is also home to the Stanley Hotel. Built in 1909, the hotel first housed many upper class citizens for their visits to the national park. However, starting in the 1970s, many people began to report hauntings in the hotel’s staterooms and ballrooms. Because of these tales and the aged look of the building, Stephen King got his idea for “The Shining,” which was filmed here in 1980.
These are just a few of the many places around the country that experience a huge amount of paranormal activity. Whether you just love the stories or you are an investigator of the occult, fear not; there’s enough fright to go around.
