5 East Coast Destinations to Visit – Legends of America
by Traci Magnus, Dunes Properties
For travelers with a penchant for the open road and a thirst for adventure, there’s an undeniable allure to packing up the car and setting off to explore new horizons. But for those who also revel in the thrill of scary movies and spooky ghost stories, an even more intriguing way to experience the East Coast awaits. Embark on a haunted road trip, where you’ll traverse the region’s most spine-chilling and notoriously haunted locales. While numerous haunted destinations boast unique histories, we’ve curated a list of some of the most popular areas to investigate.
Charleston, South Carolina: A City Steeped in History and Spectral Tales
If you’re contemplating a visit to Charleston, South Carolina, prepare to be surprised by its reputation as one of the most haunted cities in the United States. This charming Southern city boasts a rich and complex history, having played a significant role in both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. The devastating Great Fire of 1868, which raged for over 12 hours and consumed vast areas of the city, further contributes to its haunted aura. Believers in ghosts suggest that these major events, resulting in immense casualties, may be the reason why so many lost spirits continue to wander the cobblestone streets.
During your visit to Charleston, immerse yourself in the city’s spectral history by embarking on one of the many ghost tours available. These tours delve into the intriguing stories behind these events and recount some of the most famous ghost stories passed down by locals. For those seeking to explore the city’s most haunted spots independently, consider researching areas like Philadelphia Alley and the Unitarian Church’s graveyard. And don’t forget to stop by Poogan’s Porch for lunch or dinner, where you might just catch a glimpse or hear the legendary ghost dog Poogan, who is said to still linger around the building where he once lived.
Preston, Connecticut: Unearthing the Haunting Legacy of Norwich State Hospital
Despite being one of the smallest states in the country, Connecticut is home to a surprising number of creepy areas that are sure to delight ghost hunters. One of the most well-known haunted sites can be found in Preston: the Norwich State Hospital. Although the facility is no longer operational, it opened its doors in 1904 as the Norwich State Hospital for the Insane. As horror movie enthusiasts know, abandoned hospitals and insane asylums are often considered breeding grounds for tormented spirits unable to cross over to the other side.
The hospital’s history is rife with horrifying events and deaths that occurred over the years, and many people still visit the abandoned property in search of signs of paranormal activity. If you’re planning a haunted road trip through Connecticut, be sure to add other destinations to your itinerary, such as the Curtis House Inn in Woodbury and the Carousel Gardens in Seymour.
Savannah, Georgia: Unveiling the Spectral Charms of the South
Savannah, Georgia, often referred to as Charleston’s sister city, offers a wealth of thrilling locations to begin your ghost hunt. If you’re planning a visit to Charleston, South Carolina, a two-hour road trip to Savannah will reward you with even more opportunities for paranormal exploration. Similar to Charleston, Savannah played an important role in the Civil War, leading many to believe that the ghosts of soldiers, civilians, and enslaved people still roam the streets today.
Sign up for a ghost tour to discover the most haunted areas and hear chilling tales of murder at the Mercer House and bloody battles that once raged through the city. As you wander through Savannah’s historic streets, be prepared to encounter the spectral remnants of its past.
Tampa, Florida: Beyond the Sunshine, a City Shrouded in Mystery
While most people associate Florida with relaxing, sunny vacations spent lounging on the beach, the state also harbors a number of creepy areas that are perfect for a haunted road trip. Tampa, one of Florida’s largest cities, boasts a rich and intriguing past, and is home to some of the state’s most notorious haunted spots. One such location is the Cuban Club, a beautiful, historic building that now serves as a special events venue.
During the early 20th century, the Cuban Club served as a hub for Cuban immigrants to gather and connect. However, over the decades, a series of strange events and untimely deaths occurred within its walls, including the drowning of a young boy in the pool. Stories of the same boy being seen around the club are common among those who work there. Many claim to hear and see strange occurrences regularly, such as elevators moving on their own and doors opening and closing without any apparent cause.
New Orleans, Louisiana: Where Ghosts, Spirits, and Voodoo Lore Intertwine
The Big Easy is renowned for its stunning architecture, delectable cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. However, the city’s history and urban legends are also steeped in tales of ghosts, spirits, and paranormal activity. Perhaps one of the most recognizable figures in New Orleans history, Marie Laveau, stands at the heart of many of the city’s most spine-chilling tales.
Laveau was known as the Voodoo Queen of New Orleans due to her intense voodoo practices, which garnered a large following. While history suggests that Laveau used her voodoo practice to help people rather than for evil purposes, her gatherings were often shrouded in mystery, and tales of strange happenings continue to circulate. Beyond Laveau’s legacy, New Orleans is filled with stories of untimely deaths and spirits believed to linger in the streets and buildings to this day.
Embark on the Road Trip of a Lifetime
From exploring the historic streets of Charleston, South Carolina, to immersing yourself in the spectral mysteries of New Orleans, a haunted road trip promises a truly chilling and unforgettable experience. If you’re planning to make several haunted stops along the way, consider combining destinations like Savannah and Charleston, or exploring the various haunted sites throughout Connecticut.
No matter where you choose to go, be sure to allocate time to explore the other aspects of each location to enrich your trip. And don’t forget to pack your paranormal activity equipment!
Submitted by Traci Magnus, Dunes Properties, February 2020, updated December 2022.
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