The spring is one of the best seasons to get out, and travel. The weather is warmer and, hopefully, there is less snow than there was in winter. With the exception of spring break, most travel destinations are slow and still gearing up for the summer time crowds. Those who like spooks and thrills can still get out and explore new creepy places. Who knows? You may even run into a few actual ghosts. So get those cameras ready! Here’s our list of some of the best haunted places to visit during spring.
1. The Winchester Mystery House – San Jose, CA
After the death of her husband in 1886, Sarah Winchester left their home in New Haven, Connecticut. She moved San Jose, California and purchased a small eight-room farmhouse. Her lengthy renovation lasted thirty-six years and tolled $5.5 million (at the time), only stopping after she passed away in 1922.
Tours are offered on the grounds and throughout the house. Explore the odd rooms and random windows and staircases that the house is known for. The grounds also hold sprawling Victorian gardens that are sure to be basking in the sunny California sun this spring. You can purchase tickets and book tours here.
2. The Octagon House Museum -Washington D.C.
Spring in D.C. is most famous for the Cherry Blossom Festival. However, it is also home to much of our nations history. The Octagon House which stands at 1799 New York Avenue NW is said to be one of the most haunted places in the District of Columbia. Built in 1801 by Colonel John Tayloe III, the house became an important part of the city.
There have been many reports of supernatural presences within the historic building. Staff and members of the public have witnessed these strange occurrences. It is said to be haunted by the ghosts of Colonel Tayloe daughters. Legend states that both of them haunt the second and third floors of the house. It’s free to visit and tour the museum at your own pace. You can find out more details here.
3. Fort East Martello- Key West, FL
When you think of spring in Florida, killer dolls and abandoned military Forts are the least likely to come to mind. However, you can find both at the Fort East Martello, located in Key West, FL. Did you know that the Chucky from Child’s Play is based around this doll named Robert? Well you can currently see him, on display at the Fort. The doll, which is encased in glass, has been said to move on his own. Read the full story of Robert the Doll, and his history here.
The Fort, which is now a museum, began construction in 1862 for the Civil War. It was eventually abandoned and left unfinished when the war ended. Volunteers restored the Fort in the 1950s, and it has been a historical landmark ever since. You can find more information to plan your visit here.
4. New Orleans Pharmacy Museum – New Orleans, LA
After the Mardi Gras crowd leave, New Orleans gears up for beautiful weather and the Jazz Festival. Take advantage of the wonderful weather and take a walking tour through the historic St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. But also be sure to check out some of the other curios that New Orleans has to offer.
Located at the site of the first licensed apothecary shop, the Pharmacy Museum includes cures for anything that ails you including voodoo potions. Housed in a circa-1823 apothecary, the museum features an interesting history of superstitious medicines. It’s said to be haunted by a former owner and pharmacist that inhabited the shop from 1855-1867. According to local legend, this pharmacist “imposed shocking experiments on pregnant slaves,” and others have stated that he performed voodoo on the property. Now you can visit the still standing shop that houses the museum. Find information about the museum on their website.
5. Jerome Grand Hotel – Jerome, AZ
Before the summer hits the desert enjoy a trip to this historic and haunted town of Jerome, Arizona. There are many things that go bump in the night in this town, that was nearly a ghost town after the local mine closed. The Jerome Grand Hotel is thought to be one of the most haunted places in Arizona.
As any famously haunted place, the hotel has a creepy back story. It’s believed that nearly 9,000 people died here, while the building was a hospital from 1926-1950. Hotel guests and employees, alike, have come into contact with some restless spirits. You can find info and make reservations here. However, there are more than a few spooky things to explore in Jerome and you can find them here.
Alright, now that you have our list, get out there and explore some new creepy places! Let us know in the comments your favorite spooky places to visit. Be sure to follow ScaryNerd for more!
