Whether you believe in ghosts or not, there is no doubt that there are plenty of places around the globe with a history that will make the hair stand up on the back of your neck. Here are three of the spookiest destinations across the United States.
The Stanley Hotel, Estes Park, Colorado
Stephen King got his inspiration for his famous novel The Shining after staying one night at this lavish hotel. This resort was founded in 1909 by F.O and Flora Stanley and according to legend, the couple never left the establishment. The staff and guests have reported hearing Mrs. Stanley playing the piano in the music room, as well as echoes of children’s laughter, lights turning on and off, bags being unpacked, and more.
Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia
The Eastern State PenitentiaryThe Eastern State Penitentiary opened its doors in 1829. It was the first prison in the U.S. to carry out solitary confinement as a rehabilitation practice. The penitentiary’s procedure was highly controversial as the inmates were kept in stone cells with almost no human interaction at all. The prison closed in 1971 and is believed to be haunted by the ghosts of its former inmates.
The LaLaurie Mansion, New Orleans, Louisiana
This luxurious New Orleans mansion was owned by the infamous French socialite Madame Marie Delphine LaLaurie. Unknown to the local community, the Madame enslaved people, and tortured and mutilated them in the attic of her home. Locals claimed to hear the screams of her victims during the night. When she was found out she fled to France. The original mansion burnt down in 1834, what we are left with today is a replica of the building.