Happy Halloween! If this is one of your favorite times of the year, and if doing a little spooky investigating sounds like a fun thing to do on vacation, check out five of the best places in America to explore haunted happenings – if you dare!
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania – In the battle of Gettysburg in 1863, Confederate and Union forces fought for three terrible days, resulting in over 50,000 dead or wounded. Today, the town of Gettysburg and the Gettysburg National Military Park are said to be among the most haunted places in America. Stories of eerie sightings throughout the area are countless, and there are multiple Ghost Tours that take visitors to many of the most famous locations. Even Gettysburg College has more than a few tales to tell, including one from two college administrators who thought they were taking the elevator in Penn Hall to the first floor of the building, but ended up in the basement instead, where the doors opened to reveal a blood-splattered Civil War operating room. (College students there have learned over the years where to go – and not to go – after dark…)
Salem, Massachusetts – Mention Salem, and most people are instantly familiar with the stories from the Salem Witch Trials when, in 1692 local hysteria led to accusations of witchcraft, resulting in the executions of 20 men and women. Many say that their wronged souls haunt the Salem community to this day. While you’re there, check out Salem’s House of Seven Gables, a seaside mansion that was built in 1668, where visitors report strange happenings like a rocking chair that rocks by itself.
Charleston, South Carolina – One of the loveliest cities in the southern U.S., Charleston is filled with beautiful architecture, delicious food, and a rich and colorful history – lots of history in fact. So much so, that it’s pretty hard to go anywhere in this city without hearing of a tale that involves this or that dead person coming back for a bit of haunting. Numerous ghost tours are available to provide details and highlights, which will likely include among others, The Old City Jail, several of the local cemeteries, and a former ammunition depot called the Powder Magazine.
The Stanley Hotel, Estes Park, Colorado – While The Stanley Hotel has a magnificent setting and beautiful rooms, this is also the hotel that inspired author Stephen King’s terrifying novel, The Shining, after he and his wife stayed there, and experienced horrifying nightmares during their visit. Brave visitors can take a Night Tour through the 100-year-old hotel, where they may find, among others, ghosts playing piano in the concert hall after dark.
Alcatraz Island, California – Home to some of America’s most diabolical criminals, this rocky island in San Francisco Bay allows visitors to tour the former prison at night for the chance to encounter some of the spirits that are still doing time there.
So, there you have it – great places in the U.S. where the brave can enjoy a fascinating vacation and potentially experience the paranormal in the process. Happy hauntings!
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