5 Destinations for a Haunted Summer Vacation - USA
Spring break is just around the corner but it is NEVER too early to start planning your haunted summer vacay. Need some inspiration or just a little nudge to choose a destination? Check out some of my faves below……then pack your bags, grab your favorite ghost-hunting gear, and prepare for a summer filled with chills and thrills!
Duff Green Mansion at night.
A beautiful morning on the verandah.
Haunted Duff Green Mansion - Vicksburg, MS
Nestled in the heart of Vicksburg, Mississippi, the Duff Green Mansion is not just a beautiful antebellum home; it's a portal to the past, where shadows dance across the walls and whispers of history linger in the air. Built in 1856, this grand estate served as a hospital during the Civil War, making it a hotbed of tragic tales and paranormal encounters.
Be sure to take a moment to appreciate the stunning architecture and historical charm. Enjoy a hearty Southern breakfast before heading out for a walking tour of historic Vicksburg. Don’t forget to join a guided ghost tour through the mansion, where you'll hear spine-tingling stories of the past and perhaps catch a glimpse of a spectral resident.
I stayed in the beautiful Camellia room.
If you leave hungry, its because you didn’t try.
Ghostly Encounters
Visitors and staff have reported a variety of eerie experiences at the mansion. The most notable spirits include Duff Green himself and the ghostly presence of Confederate soldiers. Guests often describe sudden drops in temperature, the sound of footsteps echoing in empty halls, and the feeling of being watched as they explore the mansion’s grand rooms.
One of the many rooms of Duff Green Mansion.
Hallway of Duff Green Mansion.
The activity doesn't stop at the front door. Many have claimed to see apparitions in period dress wandering the grounds, while others have felt cold hands on their shoulders in the midst of a ghost tour. One particularly eerie tale involves music emanating from the parlor, which seems to play spontaneously when no one is around.
The Duff Green Mansion offers not only a glimpse into the past but also a chance to connect with the otherworldly. Whether you’re a skeptic or a true believer, the history and hauntings of this historic site are sure to create a memorable experience for all who dare to visit. Embrace your adventurous spirit and step into the shadows at Duff Green—where history and the supernatural intertwine!
The Drury Plaza Broadview at night.
Kiddo in front of the Drury Plaza Broadview.
Haunted Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview - Wichita, KS
Nestled in the heart of Wichita, Kansas, the Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview stands not only as a beacon of modern hospitality but as a site steeped in history and the supernatural. Originally constructed in 1921 as a luxury hotel, it has undergone numerous transformations over the decades, but its past and the whispers of ghostly guests remain ever-present.
Paranormal Experiences
Common reports include cold spots, flickering lights, and the sensation of being watched. A few brave souls have shared tales of hearing footsteps when no one is around and disembodied voices echoing through the halls. Some claim to have seen an apparition of a woman in vintage clothing wandering the lobby, adding to the hotel’s mystique. In addition to ghostly sightings, staff members have recounted eerie experiences, like unexplained cold spots and items moving on their own. Some even claim to hear faint whispers echoing in the empty corridors, adding to the hotel's eerie yet intriguing atmosphere. If you're planning a stay at the Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview, particularly if you're part of a paranormal group or simply a thrill-seeking traveler, there are a few experiences to consider. Book one of the rooms that have gained a reputation for paranormal activity. Make sure to keep your camera ready; you never know when you might capture something otherworldly. Take a nighttime stroll through the hotel's corridors. The ambiance at night, combined with the weight of history, can make for a spine-tingling experience.
Haunted Read House Hotel - Chattanooga, TN
Tucked away in the heart of Chattanooga, the Read House Hotel is not just a sublime blend of Southern charm and modern luxury; it’s also a haven for the paranormal enthusiast. Opened in 1872, this historic hotel is steeped in tales of ghostly apparitions, making it a must-visit for anyone brave enough to explore its haunted halls. The Read House’s rich history includes hosting numerous notable guests, such as General William Tecumseh Sherman, Elvis Presley, Oprah Winfrey, Gary Cooper, Winston Churchill, Bing Crosby, and President Franklin D. Roosevelt. However, it’s the stories tied to these guests—and others—that have solidified its reputation as one of the most haunted hotels in America.
Ghostly Encounters
As time went on, the Read House embraced a reputation that goes beyond its historical significance. The old adage “where there’s smoke, there’s fire” seems especially true when it comes to the tales of ghosts that roam its halls. The most notorious spirit associated with the hotel is that of a woman believed to have met a tragic end on the premises. Many have claimed to see her ghost wandering the hallways, dressed in a flowing white gown. Guests have reported mysterious occurrences, from flickering lights and soft whispers to the inexplicable sensation of being watched. Room 311 is often cited as a hotspot for ghostly encounters, serving as the backdrop for numerous paranormal investigations.
It was a quiet night when we stayed there but had a great time nonetheless. There are several ghost tours you can choose from when you stay in Chattanooga. If you need help with tours, please see this list for some great options:
Stay the Night… If You Dare
Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, spending a night at the Read House Hotel is an unforgettable experience. Its luxurious accommodations paired with the chance of encountering the supernatural offer a unique twist to your travels. Don’t forget to ask about the haunted rooms when you check in; you might just find yourself sharing your own ghost story by morning!
With its captivating blend of history, comfort, and ghostly tales, the Read House Hotel is a fantastic destination for anyone intrigued by the paranormal. So gather your bravest friends, pack your bags, and prepare for a journey filled with charm, culture, and perhaps a few unexpected encounters from beyond the grave!
Image by AnnBoulais from Pixabay
Haunted Brown Hotel - Louisville, KY
The Brown Hotel is not just a luxurious spot to rest your head in Louisville; it's also a playground for ghost hunters and paranormal enthusiasts! With a rich history packed with opulence and tales of the otherworldly, this iconic hotel has earned its reputation as one of America's most haunted establishments.
History & Hauntings:
Upon entering the Brown Hotel, guests are greeted by stunning architecture and elegant interiors, but behind this facade lies a history steeped in tragedy and mystery. The hotel was designed to cater to the wealthy, serving as a social hub for Louisville's high society. But it also witnessed its share of heartbreak. The Brown Hotel, located in Louisville, Kentucky, is a grand establishment steeped in history and a touch of the paranormal. Opened in 1923, this luxurious hotel was the brainchild of philanthropist and hotelier J. Graham Brown, who envisioned a sophisticated gathering place for the city’s elite. With its stunning Renaissance Revival architecture and opulent interiors, the Brown Hotel quickly became a cornerstone of Louisville’s social and cultural scene.
Famous for its role in developing the classic Kentucky dish, the Hot Brown—an open-faced sandwich of turkey and bacon, topped with Mornay sauce—the hotel still delights guests with this culinary legacy. The Brown Hotel has hosted a plethora of notable figures throughout the years, including presidents, celebrities, and dignitaries, making it a treasure trove of fascinating stories and lore.
One of the most well-known spirits haunting the Brown Hotel is that of Mr. Brown himself. Often seen on the third floor mezzanine, employees embrace the haunted history and alleged activity. You may also see Mr. Brown in the ballroom or silently wandering the halls of his beloved hotel.
Another ghostly resident is a woman in the elevator, frequently seen by employees and guests alike. This apparition is often felt before she is seen, as the elevator will move on its own, stopping on floors without any buttons pressed. Expect a gentle nudge from the supernatural if you dare to ride alone!
Ghost Tours & Experiences:
For those brave enough to explore the spiritual side of Louisville, guided ghost and history tours are available. If you need help with finding tour options, please see the list below:
Old Louisville Ghost Tour as Recommended by The New York Times @ 4th and Ormsby;
Whispers on Whiskey Row: Murder, Crime, & Ghost Tour w/Cocktail;
Historic Charm Tour: Tastes & Tales in the Victorian Highlands; and
3-Hour Private Food & History Guided Walking Tour in Louisville.
Stay and Investigate:
The Brown Hotel in Louisville is a unique blend of luxury and the macabre, making it a must-visit for those drawn to the paranormal. If the spirit world calls to you, consider booking a stay in one of the hotel's historic rooms. Bring your ghost hunting gear and get ready to capture some evidence of the supernatural! Whether you're seeking a historic getaway or an encounter with the spirits of the past, the Brown's enchanting atmosphere is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories—both corporeal and otherwise!
The Gage Hotel at night.
Haunted Gage Hotel - Marathon, TX
Nestled in the charming town of Marathon, the Gage Hotel stands as a beacon for those intrigued by history, culture, and of course, the supernatural. This captivating destination dates back to the 1920s and is famous not just for its Southwestern charm, but also for its resident spirits!
Uncovering the History
The Gage Hotel in Marathon, Texas, holds a rich history that adds to its charm and allure. Built in 1927 by the Gage family, the hotel originally served as a railway stop and social hub in the remote landscape of West Texas. Designed in the Spanish Mission style, the hotel's structure includes adobe walls, wooden beams, and classic Southwestern architecture.
Initially, the Gage Hotel catered to travelers and ranchers seeking refuge from the rugged terrain of the Big Bend region. Its strategic location made it a popular resting point for those exploring the vast open spaces that surround it. Over the years, the hotel witnessed the ebb and flow of local industry, including ranching, mining, and even tourism related to the growing popularity of nearby Big Bend National Park.
Today, it stands as a testament to the history of Marathon, representing a blend of the old and the new, and it continues to draw visitors with its enchanting atmosphere and stories of past visitors — including a few ghostly encounters. Ghost hunters and paranormal enthusiasts are particularly intrigued by reports of unexplained phenomena such as strange noises, flickering lights, and the phantom presence of previous guests. Exploring the Gage Hotel is not just a journey through a beautifully restored building but a dive into a captivating tale of history, hospitality, and mystery in the heart of Texas.
For those seeking a unique getaway, experiencing the Gage Hotel can provide an exciting mix of adventure, history, and the thrill of the paranormal.
The Haunting Tales
Many guests have reported strange occurrences during their stay at the Gage Hotel. From whispers echoing through the halls to the feeling of being watched, the eerie atmosphere has led to countless ghost stories that add to its allure. The most notable apparition is said to be a woman in white who wanders the halls, perhaps searching for lost love or simply keeping watch over her favorite haunt. Sadly, Mr. Gage within a year of its opening. He is often observed silently moving about the quiet hallways and out wandering the grounds. Some believe Mr. Gage just can’t stay away from his beloved hotel. Other reports hearing a woman’s voice, the sudden scent of tobacco, the feeling of being watched, and feeling someone lightly tug on clothing.
While the Gage Hotel is a hotspot for hauntings, the surrounding area is rife with natural beauty and historic sites. Take a day to explore Big Bend National Park or delve into the local culture at nearby museums. If you visit Big Bend National Park, take your passport and run over to the village of Boquillas. They have a handful of shops and restaurants worth checking out!
Haunted Summer Vacation
Whether you gathered spine-chilling tales or felt the presence of a ghost, take time to journal your favorite moments and plan your next eerie escape. Consider a closing dinner at a restaurant with ghostly reviews, like The Olde Pink House in Savannah, to toast to a summer vacation filled with otherworldly encounters!
So there you have it! 5 great destinations that offer a lot of charm, history, and ghost stories! I have personally enjoyed stays at each of these hotels and I look forward to returning in the future. Now the ball is in your court! Time to pack your bags and prepare for a summer of spine-tingling thrills and unforgettable experiences!
Make this beautiful day count!
Annette