Best Beginner Haunted Destinations in America: Book Your Ghost Tour!
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to rub elbows with the otherworldly but not delve into utter darkness on a 1 on 1 with the other side. I’ve handpicked the top haunted paranormal hotspots in the country that are perfect for beginners, from Georgia to California; I’ve curated a list of top spots for beginner-friendly haunted experiences across America for you to explore from coast to coast. Those brave souls who are ready to dip their toes into the paranormal pool without diving headfirst into the scary end. So, grab your EMF detector, if you’re brave enough to have one already, pack your sense of humor (and maybe a spare pair of undies), and let’s embark on hopefully your first ghostly adventure!
What Are the top beginner-friendly haunted destinations in America?
1. Eastern State Penitentiary – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
If you’re interested in seeing apparitions, this could be your chance!
Eastern State Penitentiary isn’t your average tourist attraction—it’s a paranormal playground.
It housed Al Capone for a short time, and during that time, he begged and yelled at someone or something in his cell.
You can get your tickets for their tour with Get Your Guide.
2. Alcatraz Island – San Francisco, California
Looking for a thrilling experience with a beautiful landscape and scenery?
Visit Alcatraz Island! Alcatraz is a famous destination for housing Al Capone during his last imprisonment years.
Buying a ticket with the Hop-On Hop-Off with the Ferry because you’ll check off the majority of the staples of San Francisco in two days.
The double-decker bus tour provides a convenient and stress-free way to explore the city, and the Official City Loop highlights on the double-decker bus include:
- The Palace of Fine Arts
- North Vista Point, where you can take photos of Golden Gate Bridge• Golden Gate Park, where you can enjoy the Japanese Tea Gardens•
- The Embarcadero•
- The Financial District and the Ferry Building
- Haight-Ashbury district•
- San Francisco Downtown,
- Chinatown•
- The Civic Center•
- Fisherman’s Wharf•
- Barbary Coast•
3. The Whaley House – San Diego, California
Despite the Whaley family’s tragic history, marked by the passing of several members within the house, whispers of haunting surrounded the property even before its construction began. This eerie legacy only deepened over time as the family endured further losses and reports of paranormal encounters multiplied.
Today, the chilling tales of the Whaley House continue to captivate visitors, including hearing the sounds of the youngest Whaley child giggling, footsteps, and paranormal activity in the lights. You can visit The Whaley House.
4. Savannah, Georgia Haunted Tours
Savannah, the South’s most haunted city, is a must-visit destination for history buffs and ghost enthusiasts alike.
With its six haunted businesses and dark past, including slavery and fearsome fires, the town is full of chilling tales that will send shivers down your spine.
Stroll through its historic streets and immerse yourself in its haunting atmosphere.
Join a guided ghost tour and learn about the town’s most infamous residents, or visit one of the haunted businesses and experience the paranormal for yourself.
Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, Savannah’s rich history and spooky reputation make it a unique and thrilling destination.
5. Stanley Hotel – Estes Park, Colorado
Welcome to the real-life Overlook Hotel!
This one might be for you if you’re a scary movie buff.
The Stanley Hotel, famously known as the inspiration for Stephen King’s “The Shining,” is the ultimate ghostly getaway.
Join a guided tour, channel your inner Jack Nicholson (minus the axe), and prepare to mingle with spirits from the beyond.
6. 1886 Crescent Hotel And SPA – Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Get ready for a thrilling experience at The Crescent Hotel, where luxury meets the supernatural!
Join a ghost tour or sip a spooky cocktail in this renowned “America’s Most Haunted Hotel.”
In 2019, an exciting discovery uncovered the hotel’s intriguing past as the domain of Norman Baker, a charismatic fraudster who once ran a fake “cancer-curing” hospital and uncovered jars of “medical specimens’.
Unearth the mysteries of this historic gem and uncover the truth behind Baker’s fascinating facade!
7. The Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum – Weston, West Virginia
The Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum is a National Historic Landmark in Historic Weston, West Virginia.
It was established in the mid-1800s as a refuge for the mentally ill.
The asylum has been in operation for over 160 years and has many fascinating stories, including Civil War raids, a gold robbery, and its architecture’s “curative” effects.
Many dedicated individuals have worked to improve the lives of the mentally ill through this institution.
You can visit this nationally recognized historic landmark and witness its lasting impact on local and national history.
8. Gettysburg Battlefield – Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
History buffs and ghost hunters unite at Gettysburg Battlefield, the site of one of the bloodiest battles in American history.
Take a guided tour; some even say they have heard the echoes of the past and muskets being shot. Keep your eyes peeled for spectral soldiers roaming the grounds.
9. The Queen Mary – Long Beach, California
Among the lingering spirits aboard the Queen Mary are said to be an engineer who met his fate in the ship’s engine room, a mysterious “lady in white,” and ghostly children scattered throughout, including the 1st Class Pool area.
Visitors can join the Haunted Encounters tour during the day, but the real ghostly fun begins when the sun sets! Dive into the Queen Mary’s legendary haunted history with a series of twilight tours and séances.
These immersive experiences delve deep into the ship’s paranormal activity, offering a spine-tingling adventure for those brave enough to explore the haunted decks after dark.
10. The Myrtles Plantation – St. Francisville, Louisiana
The Myrtles Plantation, located in the Southern part of America, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing paranormal activity.
This house is known for being one of the most haunted homes in America.
The plantation has a hotel and a restaurant if you want to extend your stay. So, if you’re looking for some Southern hospitality with a side of spookiness, The Myrtles Plantation is worth a visit.
Conclusion
And there you have it! Ten beginner-friendly haunted places in America. Whether you’re a skeptic or a true believer, exploring the paranormal is about embracing the unknown, facing your fears, and maybe even sharing a few laughs. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ghost-hunting gear, summon your courage, and prepare for the ghostly adventure of a lifetime! Just remember—ghosts may be scary, but they’re great party conversation starters.
