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Scariest Places: Do You Dare?
The Villisca Ax-Murder House in Iowa
Don't be fooled by the silly-looking sign, this Iowa home was the site of a notoriously gruesome murder. In 1912, the six-member household (two parents and their four young children), plus two house guests, were knifed to death in the middle of the night. The murderer was never found, and now, over 100 years later, paranormal investigators continue to provide proof that the ghosts of the murdered remain restless.
The Stanley Hotel in Colorado - Spooky Film Star
Built in 1909, you'll recognize The Stanley Hotel as The Overlook Hotel of Stanley Kubrick's 1980 horror masterpiece The Shining. Stephen King, author of the film's namesake, once stayed in the spooky hotel, moving him to write his tale of isolation, madness and murder. Flip to channel 42 in your guest room. The Shining plays on a continuous loop.
The Bone-Filled Catacombs of Paris
This macabre tomb-turned-tourist-attraction welcomes the public to walk through winding dark caverns and tunnels beneath France's "City of Light." Visitors to this historic ossuary will find the remains of nearly six million people in plain view, a site the living will find both awe-inspiring and haunting.
The Ghosts of England's Chillingham Castle
This 13th century English castle is marketed as the most haunted in Britain. Sign up for one of its ghost tours for a chance to see The Blue Boy, who appears with a blue halo of light, or Lady Mary, a tortured child that is also said to haunt the historic property. If you're not scared away, consider renting the castle for your wedding. Their websites boasts, "...the ultimate setting for your great day."
Frights at Sea on the RMS Queen Mary
This ocean liner sailed from 1936-1967 as one of the grandest sea vessels of its time. She's now permanently docked in Southern California, where's she's known for being a first-class hotel and all-around attraction. But she's got a dark side. Find out more by signing up to "dine with the spirits;" the ship offers a three-course dinner hosted by a paranormal specialist.
The Winchester Mystery House in California
Sarah Winchester, widow of gun magnate William Wirt Winchester, built this eccentric 160-room mansion under the direction of spirits after the death of her husband and daughter. The property is glorious in its dark details ("spider web" windows), and Sarah Winchester is said to haunt the house today.
Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary off the California Coast
This maximum-security prison operated from 1934-1963 and housed America's most savage criminals, a safe distance away from shore. Alcatraz is now one of San Francisco's most popular tourist attractions, but is also known for being our country's most haunted prison. Go on a night tour of the facility to hear the ghostly tales.
Witch City? Salem, Massachusetts
Site of the Salem witch trials of 1692, this Massachusetts town is brimming with ghostly lore. The truth is twenty innocent people were once accused of witchery and murdered in this now sleepy village. Take one of Salem's many tours to hear tales of apparitions spotted in period dress and other phenomena.
The Haunted New London Ledge Light in Connecticut
On the eve before this historic lighthouse was automated, the following was found written in the log: "Rock of slow torture. Ernie's domain. Hell on earth – may New London Ledge’s light shine on forever because I’m through. I will watch it from afar while drinking a brew." Ernie, an early keeper, was said to have jumped to his death. He's said to still haunt this lighthouse today.
Yellow Fever in Old Candler Hospital in Georgia
This hospital, the oldest in Georgia, is the historic site of untold suffering. A yellow fever epidemic in the 19th century wiped out 10% of Savannah's population. At one point, 276 people died during a 24 hour span. To hide the horrors, a secret tunnel was built to transport corpses below the city's healthier residents. Ghosts are said to constantly disturb, and locals report that even the police are afraid to investigate.