NC Haunted Places: Your Ultimate Guide to Spooky Sites

Delve into the eerie allure of NC haunted places with our comprehensive guide. From historic landmarks steeped in ghostly legends to lesser-known spots tinged with paranormal intrigue, North Carolina offers a tapestry of supernatural tales waiting to be explored.

Whether you’re drawn to the mysterious hauntings of old hospitals, spectral encounters in renowned hotels, or family-friendly ghost tours, discover the spine-chilling stories that define these haunted places. Join us as we uncover the history, visitor experiences, and tips for exploring these captivating and sometimes hair-raising destinations.

The Most Haunted Places in NC

North Carolina boasts a diverse array of haunted places, each with its own spine-chilling tales and ghostly sightings. Explore these NC haunted places where history and the supernatural converge.

Popular Haunted Places in NC to Visit

The Devil’s Tramping Ground: Chatham County

Local legends and strange occurrences: A mysterious barren circle in the woods where nothing grows, believed to be a gathering place for the devil.

How to visit and what to expect: Visitors report eerie sensations and objects mysteriously moving overnight.

The Omni Grove Park Inn: Asheville

The Pink Lady: A ghostly figure often seen wandering the halls, believed to be the spirit of a young woman who fell to her death.

Guest stories and hotel lore: Many guests have reported encounters with the Pink Lady, often accompanied by a faint floral scent.

Teach’s Hole: Ocracoke Island, NC

Blackbeard’s ghost: The legendary pirate Blackbeard is said to haunt these waters, seeking his lost treasure.

Historical background and ghostly encounters: Visitors have reported seeing a shadowy figure pacing the shores on stormy nights.

The Carolina Theatre: Greensboro

Notable ghost sightings: Witnesses have reported sightings of a spectral figure in the balcony.

Haunted history: Once a vaudeville house, now hosts cultural events and is said to be home to a ghostly lady in white.

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse: Outer Banks

Historical and Haunted Significance: Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, standing tall in Buxton, not only offers breathtaking views but also carries tales of paranormal activity. Built in 1870, its history is steeped in maritime legends and ghostly lore.

Visitor Experiences: Many visitors and staff have reported sightings and encounters with apparitions, often attributed to past keepers and shipwreck victims. The lighthouse’s remote location and dramatic history contribute to its reputation as a haunted landmark.

Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts: Wilmington, NC

Theatrical ghost stories: This historic theater is rumored to be haunted by actors and actresses from its past.

Audience and performer experiences: Sightings include orbs, disembodied voices, and ghostly figures on stage.

Haunted Historical Sites in NC

The Tarheel state’s history is steeped in tales of the supernatural, especially at these NC haunted historical sites.

Mordecai House: Raleigh, NC

Historical significance: Built in 1785, this plantation home is one of Raleigh’s oldest residences.

Ghost tours and paranormal activities: Visitors report encounters with the spirit of Mary Willis Mordecai Turk, who died tragically in the house.

Latta Plantation: Huntersville, NC

The plantation’s eerie past: Dating back to the early 1800s, this site has a history of paranormal activity.

Ghost stories and visitor experiences: Apparitions and unexplained sounds are frequently reported during tours of the estate.

Old Davis Hospital: Statesville, NC

Abandoned hospital lore: Once a functioning hospital, now known for its ghostly inhabitants and eerie atmosphere.

Paranormal investigations and findings: Ghost hunters often capture EVPs and witness unexplained phenomena within its dilapidated halls.

Dix Hill Asylum: Raleigh, NC

Haunted history: Originally known as the Dorothea Dix Hospital, this psychiatric facility has a haunting past.

Paranormal activity and stories: Former patients’ spirits are said to linger, with sightings of apparitions and strange sounds reported by visitors.

Zebulon Latimer House: Wilmington, NC

Historical significance: Built in 1852, this elegant mansion offers a glimpse into Wilmington’s Victorian-era history.

Reported hauntings and ghost tours: Guests have reported seeing apparitions and experiencing unexplained cold drafts during guided tours.

Haunted Inns and Hotels in NC

Experience the paranormal side of hospitality at these haunted inns and hotels across North Carolina.

The Proximity Hotel: Greensboro, NC

Historical context: A modern hotel with a haunted past, situated in the heart of Greensboro.

Reported hauntings and strange events: Guests and staff have encountered ghostly apparitions and unexplained noises in various parts of the hotel.

Tip: The Proximity Hotel is an awesome spot to stay in NC, whether your searching for haunted places or not! The hotel boasts its title as America’s greenest, its elevator system that generates electricity, and its top-notch guest experience!

The Duke Mansion: Charlotte, NC

History and hauntings: A historic Southern estate turned into an elegant bed and breakfast, known for its ghostly residents.

Visitor experiences: Guests have reported encounters with spirits, including sightings of a lady in white wandering the grounds.

The Biltmore Hotel, Greensboro

Historical Context: The Biltmore Hotel in Greensboro features elegant architecture and harbors eerie tales of paranormal activity. Built in 1903, it has become a hotspot for ghost enthusiasts seeking encounters with spirits of the past.

Reported Hauntings: Guests and staff have reported sightings of apparitions and strange occurrences, adding to the hotel’s mystique and allure among paranormal investigators.

Biltmore Greensboro — Photo courtesy of VisitNC.com

The Country Squire Restaurant, Inn & Winery, Kenansville

Historical Context: The Country Squire in Kenansville stands as a historic landmark celebrated for its Southern charm and haunted reputation. Dating back to the 1960s, it offers a blend of dining, lodging, and eerie tales.

Haunted Experiences: Visitors have recounted encounters with apparitions and unexplained phenomena, making it a destination for those intrigued by the supernatural and local lore.

Lesser-Known Haunted Places in NC

Discover the hidden gems of North Carolina’s paranormal landscape at these lesser-known haunted locations.

Lula’s Pub: Wilmington

Located in Wilmington’s downtown district, Lula’s A is famous for its ghostly lore.

Nestled within historic surroundings, this pub has a reputation for paranormal activity and eerie occurrences.

Visitors and locals alike have reported sightings of apparitions and strange happenings, adding to the establishment’s mystique.

The Tar River: Tarboro

Ghostly sightings and local legends abound along the Tar River, where spectral figures and eerie phenomena have been reported.

Best times to visit: Evening hours are recommended for potential paranormal encounters along the riverbanks.

The Crybaby Bridge: Anderson Creek

The legend of the crying baby: Local folklore tells of a spectral infant heard crying near the bridge at night.

Directions and visitor tips: Visitors can experience this eerie phenomenon firsthand by visiting the bridge after sunset.

Overcash House: Concord

Haunted history and local lore weave chilling tales of paranormal activity at the Overcash House.

Visitor experiences and tips: Brave visitors have reported encounters with apparitions and unexplained sounds within the house.

Haunted Cemeteries in NC

Explore the eerie ambiance of North Carolina’s haunted cemeteries, where history and ghostly legends intertwine.

Tip: Charlotte’s Only Southern Charm Haunted/True Crime Golf Cart Tour takes you to two of the city’s most haunted cemeteries.

Elmwood Cemetery: Charlotte

Historical significance: Established in 1853, Elmwood Cemetery is a final resting place for many prominent Charlotteans.

Reported hauntings and ghostly encounters: Visitors have reported seeing apparitions and experiencing cold spots throughout the cemetery.

Old Settlers Cemetery: Charlotte

Historical background: Dating back to the early 1800s, Old Settlers Cemetery is one of Charlotte’s oldest burial grounds.

Paranormal sightings and visitor tips: Ghostly sightings and strange phenomena have been reported by those visiting this historic cemetery.

Haunted Trails and Outdoor Locations in NC

Venture into the heart of North Carolina’s wilderness to uncover these haunted trails and outdoor spots.

Paint Rock: Hot Springs

Historical and haunted significance: Paint Rock features ancient Native American petroglyphs and is rumored to be haunted.

Visitor experiences: Some hikers report eerie feelings and encounters with shadowy figures near the rock formations.

Brown Mountain Lights: Burke County

Mysterious lights and folklore: Brown Mountain is famous for unexplained lights that dance along the ridge line.

Viewing tips and best times to visit: Witness these mysterious phenomena from overlooks along the Blue Ridge Parkway, especially on clear nights.

NC Ghost Walks and Tours

Explore the darker side of North Carolina’s haunted history with these ghost tours and attractions. Keep in mind, however, some tours will focus more on adults’ interests. Please click the link to check the description for each prior to booking.

Top-Rated NC Haunted Tours and Ghost Walks

Pirate City Ghosts Tour (Outer Banks, NC)

Explore haunted beachfront locations where people have sighted notable apparitions from Outer Banks history.

Highlights: Discover tales of ghost ships, distraught apparitions, and the mystery of Sir Walter Raleigh and the Lost Colony of Roanoke.

Guide Expertise: Led by local experts, hear chilling stories steeped in local history and firsthand accounts of paranormal encounters.

Experience: This walking tour offers insights into true hauntings and paranormal activity that unsettle locals.

Logistics: Duration includes walking between sites; no entry into private residences.

Carolina History and Haunts Charlotte Historical Ghost Walking Tour (Charlotte, NC)

Explore Charlotte’s Fourth Ward on a 1.5-hour guided walking tour of its most historic and haunted locations.

Highlights: Visit infamous landmarks where people have sighted ghosts for centuries. Learn about Charlotte’s ancient Indian trading path, revolutionary battles, and the secrets of uptown’s spooky mansions.

Guide Expertise: Led by experienced guides, the tour covers theatrical ghosts, medical ghosts, famous spirits, and unknown apparitions.

Experience: Enjoy an informative, friendly, and professional guided experience through Charlotte’s well-preserved historical neighborhood.

Charlotte’s Only Southern Charm Haunted/True Crime Golf Cart Tour (Charlotte, NC)

Experience a unique 90-minute open-air golf cart tour exploring Charlotte’s haunted sites and true crime history.

Tour Highlights: Hear authentic ghost stories and learn about the city’s true crime incidents, including stops at graveyards and historical landmarks.

Operated by Southern Charm Rides: Known for their 5-star historical tours, this tour covers a wide area, including a 77+ acre cemetery from the 1800s.

Experience getting off the cart at various locations to explore areas with reported paranormal sightings. Visit spots associated with true crime incidents and witness haunted sites where spirits are said to roam.

Charlotte Haunted Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour (Charlotte, NC)

Embark on a walking tour and pub crawl through Charlotte’s historic district, uncovering its sordid ghostly history.

Tour Highlights: Listen to spooky stories of Charlotte’s ghosts while visiting bars for drinks and landmarks like the Dunhill Hotel and Old Settlers Cemetery.

Experience: Discover Charlotte’s history in a fun and engaging way with a central meeting point, small group size for personalized attention, and flexible tour times.

Asheville Night-Time Walking Ghost Tour (Asheville, NC)

Explore downtown Asheville on a spooky stroll led by a local expert guide.

Tour Highlights: Visit haunted sites including the Omni Grove Park Inn and the Basilica of St. Lawrence, where chilling tales and dark histories unfold.

Experience: Learn about Asheville’s spooky past and hair-raising tales associated with historic buildings and landmarks.

Asheville Terrors: Ghosts of the Blue Ridge (Asheville, NC)

Join a small-group nighttime walking tour to uncover Asheville’s haunted locations and paranormal activity.

Tour Highlights: Hear chilling stories about local history and ghosts as you pass landmarks like the Basilica of St. Lawrence, Battery Park Hotel, and Pack’s Tavern.

Experience: Choose between two tour lengths to suit your interests, exploring Asheville’s haunted past with a knowledgeable guide.

Self-Guided/Smartphone Guided Ghost Walking Tour (Charlotte, NC)

Explore Charlotte’s Fourth Ward at your own pace with a professionally produced smartphone app tour.

Tour Features: Hear spooky stories with themed music and sound effects, setting the eerie mood as you visit haunted sites.

Flexibility: Stop anytime to enjoy local spots like Al Mike’s for a pint or linger in the cemetery for photos, then resume the tour with a simple press play.

Benefits: Enjoy the best deal in town for a guided ghost tour, listen at your own pace without the need to follow a large group, and revisit the tour anytime to catch missed details.

Carolina History & Haunts Winston-Salem Historical Ghost Tour

Explore Winston-Salem’s rich history and haunted tales on this family-friendly walking tour through the West End Historic District. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll uncover stories from the original settlement to Revolutionary War history, sprinkled with eerie ghostly encounters.

Tour Highlights:Discover more than 300 years of Winston-Salem’s historical landmarks and ghostly legends.

Stroll by candlelight through the charming West End Historic District, where history comes alive with intriguing tales.

Suitable for all ages, this tour offers a blend of history and mild spookiness, making it a captivating experience for families and history enthusiasts alike.

Asheville Ghost Tour: Experience an eerie adventure through Asheville’s Riverside Cemetery and historic Montford neighborhood on this unique walking tour.

Led by a local guide, delve into the city’s haunted history as you encounter tales of Zelda Fitzgerald, the legendary Pink Lady, and the spirits of German POWs.

Tour Highlights:Explore Asheville’s most haunted sites, including Riverside Cemetery, known for its spectral residents and historic significance.

Hear chilling stories of murderers, victims, and wandering spirits that haunt the Montford neighborhood and downtown Asheville.

Receive personalized tips and recommendations from your guide for further Asheville exploration, ensuring a memorable and spooky experience.

Family-Friendly Ghost Tours and Interactive Haunted Attractions

Delve into spooky fun suitable for all ages with these family-friendly ghost tours and interactive attractions across NC.

Interactive Haunted Attractions for All Ages

Ghost Train (Blowing Rock):

Enjoy a spooky ride through the Appalachian Mountains on the Ghost Train, featuring Halloween-themed attractions and activities suitable for families.

Ghost & Legends Tour (Beaufort):

Explore Beaufort’s haunted history with a family-friendly walking tour that highlights local legends and ghostly tales. Interactive elements engage visitors of all ages.

Historical Ghost Walks/Tours Suitable for Families

Wilmington Ghosts: Phantoms of Pirates and Patriots Tour

Embark on Wilmington’s top-rated ghost tour to uncover centuries of eerie history hidden beneath the city’s nostalgic architecture and southern charm.

Tour Highlights: Explore the diabolical origins that have made Wilmington a hotspot for unearthly activity, including tales of war, insurrections, and bizarre occurrences.

Experience: Join a thrilling, in-person guided walking tour to experience Wilmington’s haunted side, led by knowledgeable guides.

Note that the tour does not enter private homes or businesses. Also, it does lean more towards history, with a little thrill and spook added, making it a little more suitable for children.

Overnight Stays in Haunted Locations

For a truly immersive experience, spend a night at these famously haunted places.

The Carolina Inn (Chapel Hill):

Visitors can stay in one of North Carolina’s most haunted hotels, rumored to be frequented by the spirit of a young girl.

The Old Jail Inn (Warrenton):

Visitors can spend a night in this historic jail turned inn, known for its eerie ambiance and reported paranormal activity.

Dunhill Hotel (Charlotte):

Experience a night at the historic Dunhill Hotel, known for its elegant charm and rumored ghostly inhabitants. Guests have reported encounters with spirits, adding an eerie twist to your overnight stay.

Practical Tips for Visiting Haunted Places in NC

Prepare for your ghostly adventures with these practical tips to enhance your experience and ensure a safe visit at NC haunted places.

Safety and Respect

Respect the Environment: Treat haunted sites with reverence and respect for their historical and spiritual significance.

Stay Aware of Surroundings: Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in dimly lit areas or unfamiliar locations.

Best Times to Visit

Consider Nighttime Visits: Many haunted places exhibit more activity at night; plan your visit accordingly for a heightened paranormal experience.

Off-Peak Hours: Visit during quieter times to avoid crowds and enhance the atmosphere of your ghostly encounter.

These tips will help you make the most of your visit to NC haunted places, ensuring a memorable and respectful exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions About NC Haunted Places

Discover more about haunted places in North Carolina with answers to commonly asked questions.

What are the most haunted places in North Carolina?

North Carolina boasts several haunted locations renowned for paranormal activity. Some of the most famous include the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, known for its spectral sightings, and the Devil’s Tramping Ground in Chatham County, where eerie occurrences defy explanation.

Are there any family-friendly haunted places in NC?

Yes, North Carolina offers many family-friendly haunted attractions and ghost tours suitable for all ages. Places like the Ghost & Legends Tour in Beaufort and the Ghost Walk of Old Wilmington provide safe and entertaining experiences for families interested in ghostly tales and historical lore.

Can you visit these places year-round?

Many haunted places in North Carolina welcome visitors year-round, though tour availability and seasonal events may vary. Plan your visit based on specific attractions and their operating schedules to ensure the best experience.

Are there any haunted tours available?

Yes, there are numerous haunted tours available throughout North Carolina, ranging from historical ghost walks to immersive paranormal investigations. Whether you’re interested in family-friendly tours or spookier experiences for adults, there are options to suit every ghost enthusiast.

Takeaways

Exploring haunted places in North Carolina offers a captivating journey into the state’s rich history and supernatural lore. From the eerie corridors of the Biltmore Estate to the mysterious Devil’s Tramping Ground, each location weaves tales of ghostly encounters and unexplained phenomena. Whether you’re drawn to spine-chilling ghost tours, interactive attractions for families, or thrilling paranormal investigations, North Carolina’s haunted sites promise unforgettable experiences for all.

As you venture into these haunted realms, remember to embrace the mystery, respect the spirits, and immerse yourself in the stories that have shaped these legendary places. Share your own encounters, seek out new tales, and continue to explore the hidden corners where history and hauntings converge. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, North Carolina invites you to discover its haunted heritage and uncover the secrets that linger in the shadows.