Hey there, fellow thrill-seekers! Are you ready for a spine-chilling adventure that’s sure to get your heart racing? Look no further than the Mountain State! This state is home to some of the spookiest and most otherworldly places you’ll ever set foot in. From mysterious creaks and groans to full-blown apparitions, these places are said to be teeming with restless spirits just waiting to make their presence known. So, grab a flashlight and hold on tight, because we’re about to explore some of the most haunted houses in West Virginia.
While haunted houses are certainly a major draw for those seeking a good scare, West Virginia is home to other haunted places as well. From abandoned hospitals and asylums to eerie forests and cemeteries, this state boasts no shortage of creepy locations.
Whether you’re a longtime believer in the paranormal or simply looking for an adrenaline rush, exploring these haunted places is sure to leave a lasting impression. So, buckle up and get ready to dive into the world of West Virginia’s most haunted locations.
Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum
Ah, the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum. This place is the stuff of nightmares. Built in the mid-1800s and originally known as the Weston State Hospital, this National Historic Landmark is now considered one of the most haunted places in the country.
Over the years, this asylum housed thousands of patients, many of whom were subjected to horrific treatments in the name of “curing” mental illness. It’s no wonder that so many spirits are said to roam the halls of this place, still seeking justice for the atrocities they endured.
From ghostly apparitions to strange noises and voices, the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum is a must-visit for anyone brave enough to face its chilling past.
Visitors today can take guided tours of the asylum and even participate in overnight ghost hunts, but be warned: this place is not for the faint of heart. The ghostly activity reported here is so intense that even seasoned paranormal investigators have been known to leave feeling shaken. So, if you’re up for a good scare and don’t mind sleeping with one eye open, the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum might just be the haunted destination of your dreams (or nightmares).
However, if you’re looking for the ultimate spooky experience, visiting during the Halloween season is an absolute must. The asylum hosts a variety of events throughout the month of October, including haunted house tours, flashlight ghost tours, and even a zombie paintball ride. Plus, the entire town of Weston gets into the Halloween spirit with festivals, costume contests, and other spooky happenings.
Just keep in mind that if you do plan to visit during the Halloween season, tickets can sell out quickly and crowds can be intense. But for those who are willing to brave the crowds, the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum is sure to provide a hauntingly good time.
The Wells Inn
If you’re looking for a haunted destination that’s a little less intense than the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, the Wells Inn might be just what you’re looking for. Located in Sistersville, West Virginia, this historic hotel is said to be home to a variety of ghostly guests. Visitors have reported seeing the ghost of a woman in a long white dress, strange noises coming from empty rooms, and even the sudden appearance of unexplained figures in photographs taken within the hotel.
Despite its paranormal reputation, the Wells Inn is also known for its beautiful architecture and luxurious amenities. Originally built in the early 1900s, the hotel has undergone a number of renovations over the years and now boasts modern conveniences alongside its historic charm. Whether you’re looking to explore the paranormal or simply relax in style, the Wells Inn is a truly unique destination that’s worth checking out.
Lake Shawnee Amusement Park
Have you ever heard of the Lake Shawnee Amusement Park? This place is seriously creepy. It was built in the early 1900s on an old Native American burial ground, and things quickly went south. The park was plagued by tragedies, including the deaths of multiple children who were killed on the rides.
The park eventually closed down in the 1960s, but its dark past has left a lasting impression. Today, visitors report all sorts of ghostly activity, including the sound of children’s laughter, apparitions, and the feeling of being watched.
Even scarier, some have reported that the swings in the park move on their own as if being pushed by unseen hands. If you’re looking for a truly spine-tingling haunted destination, the Lake Shawnee Amusement Park is not to be missed.
Although the Lake Shawnee Amusement Park is now closed, visitors can still explore the abandoned grounds on guided tours. These tours offer a chance to learn about the park’s dark history and ghostly legends while exploring the dilapidated rides and attractions. And for those who are really brave, the park hosts overnight ghost hunts that give you the chance to investigate paranormal activity for yourself.
During the Halloween season, the Lake Shawnee Amusement Park goes all out with spooky events and activities that are sure to give you chills. They offer a “Dark Carnival” experience that includes carnival games, haunted mazes, and live entertainment. They also host a “Nightmare in the Park” event that gives visitors a chance to explore the park after dark, accompanied by guides who will share the park’s history and ghost stories.
While visiting the Lake Shawnee Amusement Park may not be for the faint of heart, it’s a truly unique and thrilling destination for anyone interested in the paranormal or just looking for a good scare. Just be sure to bring your courage (and maybe a flashlight) if you plan to visit at night!
Harpers Ferry
Have you ever been to Harper’s Ferry? It’s a beautiful historic town situated where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet. But did you know that Harper’s Ferry also has a haunted side?
The town has a dark history, including its role in the Civil War and the John Brown raid. Visitors have reported seeing apparitions of soldiers and hearing the sounds of battle echoing through the hills. The town is also said to be home to several ghosts, including a woman in white who is known to haunt the old St. Peter’s Church. And if you visit the old armory building, you might just catch a glimpse of the ghostly figure of Thomas Jefferson Jackson, who was executed there during the Civil War.
If you’re interested in history and the paranormal, Harper’s Ferry is definitely worth a visit. Just be prepared for the possibility of encountering some ghostly residents!
There are several ghost tours available that will take you to some of the town’s most haunted locations.
One popular tour is the “Ghost Tour of Harper’s Ferry” walking tour, which takes visitors on a spooky journey through the town’s historic streets and landmarks. You’ll hear about the ghosts of soldiers and civilians who are said to linger in the town, and even have the chance to explore the inside of the haunted St. Peter’s Church.
Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the ghost tours of Harper’s Ferry offer a fun and fascinating way to learn about the town’s history and ghostly legends. Just be sure to bring comfortable shoes and a sense of adventure!
Flatwoods Monster
Have you ever heard of the Flatwoods Monster? It’s a creature that’s said to have appeared in the small town of Flatwoods, West Virginia in 1952. According to reports, a group of locals encountered a strange object in the sky and went to investigate. When they arrived at the site, they saw a tall creature with glowing eyes and a spade-shaped head. The creature emitted a hissing sound and began to chase them before disappearing into the woods.
The incident became a sensation across the country and even caught the attention of the US Air Force, who investigated it as part of their Project Blue Book program. While many experts believe that the sightings could be explained by natural phenomena, believers in the Flatwoods Monster continue to share stories and legends about the creature to this day.
In fact, the town of Flatwoods now hosts an annual festival to celebrate the monster’s legacy. The festival includes live music, craft vendors, and even a hayride tour that takes visitors to the spot where the creature was first sighted. Whether you’re a believer in the Flatwoods Monster or just interested in unique roadside attractions, the festival is a fun and quirky way to experience a piece of West Virginia’s history.
West Virginia Penitentiary
The West Virginia Penitentiary, also known as Moundsville Prison, is a gothic-style prison located in Moundsville, West Virginia. This prison was active from 1876 to 1995 and housed some of the most dangerous criminals in the state’s history. The prison has a dark and haunted past, with reports of hundreds of deaths and violent incidents during its time of operation.
Today, the West Virginia Penitentiary is open for public tours and known for its paranormal activity. Ghost hunters and enthusiasts flock to this location for the chance to experience the prison’s eerie atmosphere and possibly encounter the spirits that are said to still linger there. Several ghost tour companies offer guided tours of the penitentiary, taking visitors to the creepiest spots in the prison, including death row and the execution chamber. Or check out the Dungeon of Horrors tour… can you stick with your group or will you be left behind?
On these tours, visitors have reported seeing apparitions, hearing unexplained noises, and feeling a chilling presence throughout the prison. Some of the most famous ghosts include the “Shadow Man,” a figure that has been seen lurking in the halls, and the ghost of a former prison guard who is said to haunt the administration building.
If you’re interested in paranormal tours or just want to experience a piece of West Virginia’s history, the West Virginia Penitentiary is a must-visit destination. Just be prepared for a spine-tingling experience that you won’t soon forget!
Mystery Hole
Mystery Hole is a popular roadside attraction located in Ansted, West Virginia. Not quite a haunted attraction, rather this unique tourist spot is a gravity-defying experience that plays on the laws of physics and perspective. Visitors who enter the Mystery Hole will find themselves in a room that appears to be slanted, but when they walk around inside, they’re amazed to find that they’re actually standing at a completely level surface.
The Mystery Hole also has a variety of other oddities and illusions that will leave you scratching your head, including chairs that seem to defy gravity, water that flows uphill, and balls that roll uphill. The attraction originally opened in 1973 and has been drawing in curious visitors ever since. It’s a fun and family-friendly stop that offers a unique and interactive experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
In addition to the Mystery Hole itself, the attraction also features a gift shop selling a selection of souvenirs and snacks. And if you’re looking for a truly unique experience, you can even host a birthday party or group event in the Mystery Hole. Whether you’re a science geek or just looking for some quirky fun, the Mystery Hole is definitely worth a visit.
Hauntings at WVU
The West Virginia University (WVU) campus has a haunted reputation, with several ghost stories and legends surrounding its buildings and landmarks. One of the most famous ghost stories involves Elizabeth Moore, who was a WVU student in the early 1900s. According to legend, Elizabeth committed suicide in Martin Hall after being jilted by her fiancé. Since then, there have been reports of strange occurrences in Martin Hall, including doors opening and closing on their own and unexplained footsteps.
Another well-known ghost on the WVU campus is known as Sally. She is said to be the ghost of a little girl who lived in downtown Morgantown in the late 1800s. Legend has it that Sally was playing with her ball near Woodburn Hall when she was hit by a carriage and killed. Since then, there have been numerous reports of a little girl’s laughter and the sound of a bouncing ball coming from the empty halls of Woodburn Hall.
North Bend Trail
The North Bend Rail Trail is a 72-mile trail that runs through the hills of West Virginia. While it’s primarily known for its scenic views and outdoor activities, there have also been reports of ghostly activity on this haunted trail. One of the most famous ghost stories involves the ghost of a young girl who was killed by a train near the trail in the early 1900s. According to legend, her ghost can be seen walking along the trail at night, carrying a lantern and searching for her lost love.
One of the most haunted spots on the North Bend Rail Trail is Tunnel No. 19, which is located near Wolf Summit, West Virginia. According to legend, a train carrying Confederate soldiers derailed inside the tunnel during the Civil War, killing everyone on board. Since then, there have been reports of ghostly activity in and around the tunnel.
Visitors to Tunnel No. 19 have reported seeing apparitions of soldiers in Confederate uniforms and hearing unexplained noises that sound like ghostly whispers or footsteps. Some have even reported feeling a cold breeze or a chilling presence while inside the tunnel. The area around the tunnel is also said to be haunted, with reports of strange voices and eerie lights in the woods at night.
Despite the ghostly legends, Tunnel No. 19 is still a popular spot for hikers and bikers on the North Bend Rail Trail. But if you decide to check it out for yourself, be prepared for a spine-tingling experience that you won’t soon forget!
The Greenbrier Ghost
The Greenbrier Ghost is one of the most famous ghost stories in West Virginia’s history. The story involves a woman named Elva Zona Heaster, who was found dead in her home in Greenbrier County in 1897. Her husband, Edward Shue, was initially suspected of the murder but was released due to lack of evidence. However, after Elva’s mother had a dream in which her daughter’s ghost told her that Edward had killed her by breaking her neck, the case was reopened.
During the trial, Elva’s mother testified about the ghostly visitation and the dream she had, which ultimately led to Edward being found guilty of murder and sentenced to life in prison. This case marked the first time in US history that a ghost’s testimony was used to convict someone of a crime.
Today, the Greenbrier Ghost and the legend surrounding it are still popular topics of discussion and interest in West Virginia. Fans of the paranormal and true crime alike can find tours, books, and even a play based on the story. The Greenbrier Ghost remains a fascinating and chilling reminder of the state’s unique history.
Droop Mountain Battlefield
Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park is a historic site in West Virginia that played a crucial role in the Civil War. Today, it’s also known as a hotspot for ghostly activity. Visitors to the park have reported seeing apparitions of soldiers in Confederate and Union uniforms, as well as hearing the sounds of gunshots and cannons.
One of the most famous ghost stories associated with Droop Mountain Battlefield involves the ghost of a Confederate soldier who is said to haunt the park’s visitor center. Visitors have reported feeling a cold breeze and hearing strange noises while inside the building. Some have even claimed to have seen the ghostly figure of the soldier standing in front of them.
Despite the ghostly legends, Droop Mountain Battlefield remains a popular destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a museum dedicated to the history of the Civil War in West Virginia. Whether you’re interested in the paranormal or not, a visit to Droop Mountain Battlefield is sure to be a memorable experience.
Capitol Plaza Theatre
The Capitol Plaza Theatre in downtown Charleston, West Virginia, was once a grand and popular venue for live shows and performances. However, it’s also known for its haunted past. There have been reports of ghostly activity inside the theater for many years, from unexplained sounds to sightings of ghostly apparitions.
One of the most famous ghost stories associated with the Capitol Plaza Theatre involves the ghost of a young girl named Emily who is said to haunt the balcony. According to legend, Emily was watching a movie in the theater when she suddenly fell from the balcony and died. Since then, there have been numerous reports of strange occurrences in the balcony area, including the sound of a little girl’s laughter and the feeling of a cold breeze.
Other ghostly sightings at the Capitol Plaza Theatre include the ghost of a man in a suit who is said to wander the halls at night and the ghostly apparition of a woman who appears on the stage. Despite the spooky legends, the Capitol Plaza Theatre remains a popular destination for theater-goers and history buffs alike. Whether you’re interested in the paranormal or not, a visit to this historic theater is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Blume Haven Inn
The Blennerhassett Hotel in Parkersburg, West Virginia, is known for its luxurious accommodations and historic charm. However, just a few blocks away, another property has a very different reputation. The Blume Haven Inn, located on Juliana Street, is known as one of the most haunted buildings in the area.
According to legend, the Blume Haven Inn was once a brothel during the early 1900s, and several women who worked there were murdered by a former client. There have been reports of ghostly activity inside the building for many years, including sightings of apparitions, doors opening and closing on their own, and unexplained sounds.
Despite its haunted reputation, the Blume Haven Inn remains a popular spot for paranormal enthusiasts and ghost hunters. The owners of the property even offer ghost tours and overnight stays for those brave enough to spend the night. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, a visit to the Blume Haven Inn is sure to be a spine-tingling experience that you won’t soon forget!
Speaking of The Blennerhasset…
The Blennerhasset
The hotel was built in 1889 by William Chancellor and named after the infamous Blennerhassett Island. The hotel has hosted many famous guests including Presidents, movie stars, and musicians.
Despite its luxury reputation, the Blennerhassett is also known for its ghostly legends. According to legend, the ghost of Harman Blennerhassett himself haunts the hotel. It’s believed that he returns to the hotel to seek revenge against those who wronged him during his life. Visitors have reported seeing the ghostly figure of a man in 19th-century attire wandering the halls, as well as unexplained sounds and cold spots.
The Van Meter Farm
The Van Meter Farm is a historic property located in Boone County, West Virginia. It’s known for its beautiful scenery and rich history, but it’s also famous for its ghostly legends. According to legend, the property was once the site of a battle between miners and company men during the early 1900s. The battle ended in tragedy, with several miners losing their lives.
Since then, there have been reports of ghostly activity on the property, including sightings of apparitions and unexplained sounds. Some visitors to the farm have reported feeling a chilling presence while walking through the fields at night, while others claim to have seen ghostly figures moving about the property.
The Elk Garden Mine
The Elk Garden Mine, located in McDowell County, West Virginia, is one of the most haunted places in the state. The mine in Southern West Virginia was once a bustling coal-mining operation during the early 1900s, but it was abandoned in the 1950s. Since then, there have been reports of ghostly activity on the property, including sightings of apparitions and unexplained sounds.
One of the most famous ghost stories associated with the Elk Garden Mine involves a miner who was killed in a mining accident. According to legend, his ghost still haunts the mine, and visitors have reported hearing his footsteps and feeling a sudden chill in the air.
Berkeley Springs Castle
The Berkeley Springs Castle, located in Morgan County, West Virginia, is a stunning example of medieval-style architecture. Built in 1885 as a summer retreat for Colonel Samuel Taylor Suit, the castle is now open to the public and offers tours of its unique and intricate design.
Despite its grandeur, Berkeley Springs Castle is also known for its ghostly legends. According to legend, Colonel Suit’s wife Rosa died tragically in the castle’s tower shortly after they moved in. Ever since her death, there have been reports of ghostly activity on the property. Visitors have reported feeling cold spots and hearing strange noises coming from the tower, including the sound of footsteps and a woman’s voice.
The Castle is not open to the public.
Sweet Springs Sanitorium
The Sweet Springs Sanitorium, located in Monroe County, West Virginia, is a historic building that was once a popular destination for those seeking healing from the natural mineral springs on the property. The sanatorium opened in the mid-19th century and was known for its luxurious accommodations and beautiful gardens.
Despite its reputation as a place of healing, the Sweet Springs Sanitorium is also famous for its ghostly legends. According to legend, the sanatorium is haunted by several ghosts, including the ghost of a former patient who died during treatment. Visitors have reported seeing her ghostly figure wandering the halls and hearing strange noises coming from empty rooms.
Despite the spooky legends, the Sweet Springs Sanitorium remains a popular destination for those interested in history and the paranormal. The building is currently undergoing renovations, but visitors can still explore the grounds and learn about the history of this once-famous healing center. Whether you’re interested in the natural mineral springs or the ghostly legends, a visit to the Sweet Springs Sanitorium is sure to be an intriguing and memorable experience.
In addition to regular tours, the Sweet Springs Sanitorium offers special Halloween-themed tours and activities during the Halloween season. Visitors can explore the sanatorium at night, listen to ghostly tales, and participate in spooky activities. The haunted history of the building is brought to life with special effects and theatrical presentations, making for a thrilling and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a history buff, the Sweet Springs Sanitorium is sure to offer something unique and exciting during the Halloween season.
Fright Nights
Fright Nights, located in Nitro, West Virginia, is a popular Halloween attraction that offers visitors a chance to experience a variety of themed haunted rooms. The attraction features actors dressed in creepy costumes and makeup, elaborate sets and props, and special effects that create a truly immersive and frightening experience. Visitors will encounter scares around every corner, from clowns to zombies to a creepy castle. Fright Nights is known for its attention to detail and commitment to creating a terrifying atmosphere that will leave visitors with unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply looking for a fun way to celebrate Halloween, Fright Nights is sure to provide an entertaining and spooky experience.
West Virginia is home to many haunted houses and historic sites that offer visitors a chance to explore the state’s spooky and mysterious past. From the Berkeley Springs Castle to the Capitol Plaza Theatre to the North Bend Rail Trail, there are plenty of places to visit for those interested in the paranormal. Whether you’re looking for a ghostly encounter or simply interested in history and architecture, West Virginia offers a variety of haunted destinations that are sure to satisfy your curiosity and leave you with unforgettable memories. Planning to experience the haunted side of West Virginia during Halloween? This spooky season can provide a haunted experience for all to enjoy. From haunted hayrides to haunted corn mazes to one of the most haunted prisons, which will you choose first?
So gather your courage and explore the haunted houses of West Virginia – if you dare!
Explore more of West Virginia – What to See and What to Do in the Mountain State
