When most people think of Florida they think of theme parks, sunny beaches, vibrant night life and it being a top vacation spot (or place to retire, depending on your age). One thing most people don’t associate with the Sunshine State is it’s haunted past. Believe it or not, this state has quite the number of ghost stories and spooky places to visit. Click through below to see some of the most notable haunted places in Florida.
The St. Augustine Lighthouse, St. Augustine, Florida
The St. Augustine Lighthouse is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former keeper’s daughter, who tragically died in an accident while living at the lighthouse. The legend goes that the girl, named Katie, was playing near the lighthouse with her siblings when she accidentally fell to her death. Since then, many visitors and staff members at the lighthouse have reported strange occurrences, such as hearing the sound of a young girl laughing and crying, or seeing a ghostly figure of a young girl near the base of the lighthouse.
Some people claim to have seen Katie’s ghostly figure at the top of the lighthouse, looking out to sea as if searching for her lost siblings. Others say they have heard her voice whispering their name, or felt her presence standing next to them as they climb the lighthouse steps. Visitors to the lighthouse have also reported feeling a chill in the air, and feeling a sense of unease when visiting the top of the lighthouse.
The St. Augustine Lighthouse staff members believe that Katie’s ghost still roams the lighthouse, and they say that they often leave a light on in her honor. Visitors to the lighthouse are encouraged to say hello to Katie, and to leave her a small gift, such as a toy or a piece of candy, as a sign of respect. Some people say that Katie’s ghost will watch over those who visit the lighthouse, and protect them from harm.
The Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp, Cassadaga, Florida
The Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp, located near Deland, Florida, is known for being one of the most active spiritualist communities in the country and is said to be haunted by many spirits. The camp was founded in the late 19th century by a man named George Colby, who claimed to have been visited by the spirit of a Native American chief. The chief told Colby that the land was sacred and should be used to help people connect with the spirit world.
Since then, the camp has been home to many spiritualists and mediums who claim to be able to communicate with the dead. Visitors to the camp have reported strange occurrences, such as seeing ghostly figures, hearing strange noises and feeling a sense of unease. Many people believe that the camp is haunted by the spirits of the dead who were brought there by spiritualists in search of closure and healing.
There are stories that some of the spirits that are said to linger in the camp are from the Native American tribe that once inhabited the land, and they are said to be protective of it. Other spirits are said to be of people who died in the area and have not yet passed on, they are said to be looking for closure or guidance.
The Florida Theatre, Jacksonville, Florida
The Florida Theatre in Jacksonville is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former projectionist who died in the building. The legend goes that the projectionist, named Jake, was working late one night, preparing for a movie screening. Suddenly, he suffered a heart attack and died alone in the projection room. Since then, his ghost is said to have lingered in the theater, unable to move on.
Many employees and visitors to the theater have reported strange occurrences, such as hearing strange noises, feeling a cold spot in the projection room, and even seeing the ghostly figure of Jake. Some say that they have seen Jake’s ghostly figure wandering the theater, adjusting the lights and playing with the projection equipment. Others claim to have heard the sound of his footsteps in the projection room, even when the theater is closed.
Employees at the theater say that they often leave a light on in the projection room in honor of Jake, and they say that they feel his presence watching over them. Visitors to the theater are encouraged to say hello to Jake, and to leave him a small gift, such as a piece of candy or a movie ticket, as a sign of respect. Some people say that Jake’s ghost will watch over those who visit the theater, and protect them from harm.
The Biltmore Hotel, Coral Gables, Florida
The Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, Florida is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former owner’s wife who died in the hotel. The legend goes that the woman, named Isabella, was a socialite and an avid traveler. She and her husband, George, built the hotel in the 1920s as a luxurious getaway for the wealthy and famous. Isabella was known for her love of beauty and elegance, and she spent a great deal of time decorating and furnishing the hotel to perfection.
However, tragedy struck when Isabella died in the hotel under mysterious circumstances. Some say that she died of a broken heart, after her husband was unfaithful. Others say that she died of an illness, or even that she was murdered. Whatever the cause of her death, Isabella’s ghost is said to have lingered in the hotel, unable to move on.
Many guests and employees at the hotel have reported strange occurrences, such as seeing ghostly figures, hearing strange noises and feeling a sense of unease. Some say that they have seen Isabella’s ghostly figure wandering the hotel, adjusting flowers and checking on guests. Others claim to have heard the sound of her voice in the halls, even when the hotel is closed.
Employees at the hotel say that they often leave a light on in Isabella’s old room in honor of her, and they say that they feel her presence watching over them. Visitors to the hotel are encouraged to say hello to Isabella, and to leave her a small gift, such as a flower or a piece of candy, as a sign of respect. Some people say that Isabella’s ghost will watch over those who visit the hotel, and protect them from harm.
Fort Jefferson, Monroe County, Florida
Fort Jefferson in Monroe County, Florida is said to be haunted by the spirits of soldiers and prisoners who were housed there during the 19th century. The Fort, located in the Dry Tortugas, was built in the 1850s as a military defense against ship pirates and foreign invaders. It was also used as a prison during the Civil War, where many soldiers and prisoners were held, some of them died due to disease, starvation and harsh conditions.
The legend goes that the spirits of these soldiers and prisoners are said to have lingered in the fort, unable to move on. Visitors to the fort have reported strange occurrences, such as hearing strange noises, feeling a cold spot in the prison cells, and even seeing ghostly figures of soldiers and prisoners. Some say that they have seen the ghostly figures of soldiers wandering the fort, standing guard or marching in formation. Others claim to have heard the sound of prisoners’ moans and cries in the prison cells, even when the fort is closed.
Many employees and visitors to the fort say that they feel a sense of unease and discomfort, as if they are being watched by unseen eyes. Some say that they have seen ghostly figures of soldiers and prisoners in the fort’s parade ground, and in the prison cells.
The Don CeSar Hotel, St. Pete Beach, Florida
The Don CeSar Hotel in St. Pete Beach, Florida is said to be haunted by the ghost of Thomas Rowe, the hotel’s developer who died in the building. The legend goes that Rowe, a wealthy businessman and developer, built the hotel in the 1920s as a grand and opulent getaway for the wealthy and famous. He was said to be deeply devoted to the hotel, and spent a great deal of time overseeing its construction and design.
However, tragedy struck when Rowe died suddenly in the hotel under mysterious circumstances. Some say that he died of a broken heart, after his wife left him. Others say that he died of an illness, or even that he was murdered. Whatever the cause of his death, Rowe’s ghost is said to have lingered in the hotel, unable to move on.
Many guests and employees at the hotel have reported strange occurrences, such as seeing ghostly figures, hearing strange noises and feeling a sense of unease. Some say that they have seen Rowe’s ghostly figure wandering the hotel, overseeing the staff and checking on guests. Others claim to have heard the sound of his voice in the halls, even when the hotel is closed.
Employees at the hotel say that they often leave a light on in Rowe’s old suite in honor of him, and they say that they feel his presence watching over them. Visitors to the hotel are encouraged to say hello to Rowe, and to leave him a small gift, such as a piece of candy or a note, as a sign of respect. Some people say that Rowe’s ghost will watch over those who visit the hotel, and protect them from harm.
The Stranahan House, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
The Stranahan House, located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida is said to be haunted by the ghost of Frank Stranahan, the original owner. The legend goes that Frank Stranahan built the house in 1901, and it served as a trading post and home for him and his family. He was a successful businessman and community leader, but he also had a tragic personal life. His wife, Ivy, died in childbirth and his daughter, Francina, died of typhoid fever at a young age.
It’s said that Frank was never able to fully recover from the loss of his loved ones and his spirit is said to have lingered in the house, unable to move on. Visitors to the house have reported strange occurrences, such as hearing strange noises, feeling a cold spot in the rooms and even seeing ghostly figures. Some say that they have seen Frank’s ghostly figure wandering the house, sitting in his rocking chair or standing at the window. Others claim to have heard the sound of his footsteps in the halls, even when the house is closed.
Employees at the house say that they often leave a light on in Frank’s old room in honor of him, and they say that they feel his presence watching over them. Visitors to the house are encouraged to say hello to Frank, and to leave him a small gift, such as a flower or a note, as a sign of respect. Some people say that Frank’s ghost will watch over those who visit the house, and protect them from harm.
The Belleview Biltmore Hotel, Belleair, Florida
The Belleview Biltmore Hotel, located in Belleair, Florida is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former guest who died in the hotel. The legend goes that the guest, named Mary, was a wealthy widow who traveled to the hotel to escape the cold winter weather of the North. She was said to be a kind and generous woman, and she quickly made friends with the hotel staff and guests.
However, tragedy struck when Mary died suddenly in her room, under mysterious circumstances. Some say that she died of a broken heart, after her only son passed away. Others say that she died of an illness, or even that she was murdered. Whatever the cause of her death, Mary’s ghost is said to have lingered in the hotel, unable to move on.
Many guests and employees at the hotel have reported strange occurrences, such as seeing ghostly figures, hearing strange noises and feeling a sense of unease. Some say that they have seen Mary’s ghostly figure wandering the hotel, visiting the guests and checking on the staff. Others claim to have heard the sound of her voice in the halls, even when the hotel is closed.
Employees at the hotel say that they often leave a light on in Mary’s old room in honor of her, and they say that they feel her presence watching over them. Visitors to the hotel are encouraged to say hello to Mary, and to leave her a small gift, such as a flower or a note, as a sign of respect. Some people say that Mary’s ghost will watch over those who visit the hotel, and protect them from harm.
The Deering Estate, Miami, Florida
The Deering Estate, located in Miami, Florida is said to be haunted by the ghost of Charles Deering, the original owner. The legend goes that Charles Deering was a wealthy industrialist and philanthropist, who built the estate in the early 20th century as a winter retreat. He was said to be deeply devoted to the estate, and spent a great deal of time overseeing its construction and development.
However, tragedy struck when Charles died suddenly in the estate under mysterious circumstances. Some say that he died of a broken heart, after his wife passed away. Others say that he died of an illness, or even that he was murdered. Whatever the cause of his death, Charles’ ghost is said to have lingered in the estate, unable to move on.
Many visitors to the estate have reported strange occurrences, such as seeing ghostly figures, hearing strange noises and feeling a sense of unease. Some say that they have seen Charles’ ghostly figure wandering the estate, overseeing the staff and checking on the guests. Others claim to have heard the sound of his voice in the halls, even when the estate is closed.
Employees at the estate say that they often leave a light on in Charles’ old room in honor of him, and they say that they feel his presence watching over them. Visitors to the estate are encouraged to say hello to Charles, and to leave him a small gift, such as a flower or a note, as a sign of respect. Some people say that Charles’ ghost will watch over those who visit the estate, and protect them from harm.
The Grove Park Inn, Lake Whales, Florida
The Grove Park Inn, located in Lake Wales, Florida is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former guest who died in the hotel. The legend goes that the guest, named Elizabeth, was a wealthy woman who traveled to the hotel to escape the cold winter weather of the North. She was said to be a kind and generous woman, and she quickly made friends with the hotel staff and guests.
However, tragedy struck when Elizabeth died suddenly in her room, under mysterious circumstances. Some say that she died of a broken heart, after her husband passed away. Others say that she died of an illness, or even that she was murdered. Whatever the cause of her death, Elizabeth’s ghost is said to have lingered in the hotel, unable to move on.
Many guests and employees at the hotel have reported strange occurrences, such as seeing ghostly figures, hearing strange noises and feeling a sense of unease. Some say that they have seen Elizabeth’s ghostly figure wandering the hotel, visiting the guests and checking on the staff. Others claim to have heard the sound of her voice in the halls, even when the hotel is closed.
Employees at the hotel say that they often leave a light on in Elizabeth’s old room in honor of her, and they say that they feel her presence watching over them. Visitors to the hotel are encouraged to say hello to Elizabeth, and to leave her a small gift, such as a flower or a note, as a sign of respect. Some people say that Elizabeth’s ghost will watch over those who visit the hotel, and protect them from harm.
The Riverside Memorial Park, Jacksonville, Florida
The Riverside Memorial Park, located in Jacksonville, Florida is considered haunted by many, due to the numerous accounts of strange occurrences and ghostly sightings reported by visitors and staff members. The park is home to many graves, including those of soldiers who fought in the Civil War, as well as numerous other individuals who have passed away.
One of the most commonly reported sightings is that of a ghostly figure said to be the spirit of a Civil War soldier. Visitors to the park have reported seeing the soldier’s ghostly figure wandering the grounds, dressed in full military attire, often seen carrying a rifle. Some say that the soldier is still on guard, protecting the graves of his fallen comrades.
Another ghostly figure that is said to haunt the park is that of a young girl, often seen playing near the graves of children. Visitors have reported seeing her ghostly figure running and laughing, as if she is enjoying herself, however, she disappears as soon as someone approaches her.
Many people have reported feeling a sense of unease or discomfort while visiting the park, and some have even claimed to have had strange experiences such as feeling someone touch them or hearing strange noises.
The Fort King Street, Ocala, Florida
The Fort King Street, located in Ocala, Florida is considered haunted by many due to the numerous accounts of strange occurrences and ghostly sightings reported by visitors and staff members. The fort was built in 1827 during the second Seminole War, and it served as a military post and a home for soldiers and their families. Many soldiers died there, due to disease, starvation and harsh conditions.
One of the most commonly reported sightings is that of a ghostly figure said to be the spirit of a soldier who died in the fort. Visitors to the fort have reported seeing the soldier’s ghostly figure wandering the grounds, dressed in full military attire, often seen carrying a rifle. Some say that the soldier is still on guard, protecting the fort from invaders.
Another ghostly figure that is said to haunt the fort is that of a young girl, often seen playing near the barracks. Visitors have reported seeing her ghostly figure running and laughing, as if she is enjoying herself, however, she disappears as soon as someone approaches her.
Many people have reported feeling a sense of unease or discomfort while visiting the fort, and some have even claimed to have had strange experiences such as feeling someone touch them or hearing strange noises.
The St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Pensacola, Florida
The St. Paul’s Catholic Church, located in Pensacola, Florida is considered haunted by many due to the numerous accounts of strange occurrences and ghostly sightings reported by visitors and staff members. The church was built in the late 1800s and has been a place of worship for the community ever since.
One of the most commonly reported sightings is that of a ghostly figure said to be the spirit of a nun who once served at the church. Visitors to the church have reported seeing the nun’s ghostly figure wandering the halls, dressed in her full habit, often seen carrying a rosary. Some say that the nun is still keeping watch over the church and its congregation.
Another ghostly figure that is said to haunt the church is that of a young boy, often seen playing near the altar. Visitors have reported seeing his ghostly figure running and laughing, as if he is enjoying himself, however, he disappears as soon as someone approaches him.
Many people have reported feeling a sense of unease or discomfort while visiting the church, and some have even claimed to have had strange experiences such as feeling someone touch them or hearing strange noises.
The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, Key West, Florida
The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, located in Key West, Florida is considered haunted by many due to the numerous accounts of strange occurrences and ghostly sightings reported by visitors and staff members. The home was built in 1851, and it served as the residence of Ernest Hemingway and his family from 1931 to 1939.
One of the most commonly reported sightings is that of a ghostly figure said to be the spirit of Ernest Hemingway himself. Visitors to the home have reported seeing Hemingway’s ghostly figure wandering the halls, dressed in his signature white linen suit, often seen carrying a book or a pen. Some say that Hemingway’s spirit still lingers in the home, as he was deeply attached to it and the island.
Another ghostly figure that is said to haunt the home is that of a cat, often seen wandering around the property. Visitors have reported seeing a ghostly figure of a cat running and playing, as if it is still alive. Hemingway was known for his love of cats and he kept many of them in his home, some even say that some of his cats were buried in the property.
Many people have reported feeling a sense of unease or discomfort while visiting the home, and some have even claimed to have had strange experiences such as feeling someone touch them or hearing strange noises.
The May-Stringer House, Brooksville, Florida
The May-Stringer House, located in Brooksville, Florida is considered haunted by many due to the numerous accounts of strange occurrences and ghostly sightings reported by visitors and staff members. The house was built in 1856 by John May, a prominent businessman and community leader, and it served as a family home for many years.
One of the most commonly reported sightings is that of a ghostly figure said to be the spirit of John May himself. Visitors to the house have reported seeing May’s ghostly figure wandering the halls, dressed in his period clothing, often seen carrying a ledger or a pen. Some say that May’s spirit still lingers in the house, as he was deeply attached to it and to his family.
Another ghostly figure that is said to haunt the house is that of a woman, often seen wandering around the property. Visitors have reported seeing a ghostly figure of a woman, dressed in period clothing, as if she is still alive, however, she disappears as soon as someone approaches her. Some say that this is the spirit of May’s wife, who passed away in the house.
Many people have reported feeling a sense of unease or discomfort while visiting the house, and some have even claimed to have had strange experiences such as feeling someone touch them or hearing strange noises.
The Silver Springs State Park, Ocala, Florida
The Silver Springs State Park, located in Ocala, Florida is considered haunted by many due to the numerous accounts of strange occurrences and ghostly sightings reported by visitors and staff members. The park was originally a popular tourist destination, known for its crystal clear springs and glass-bottom boat rides.
One of the most commonly reported sightings is that of a ghostly figure said to be the spirit of a woman who drowned in the springs. Visitors to the park have reported seeing the woman’s ghostly figure near the water, often seen staring into the depths of the springs. Some say that her spirit still lingers in the park, as she was unable to find peace after her tragic death.
Another ghostly figure that is said to haunt the park is that of a man, often seen wandering around the park’s nature trails. Visitors have reported seeing a ghostly figure of a man, dressed in period clothing, as if he is still alive, however, he disappears as soon as someone approaches him. Some say that this is the spirit of a park ranger who passed away while on duty.
Many people have reported feeling a sense of unease or discomfort while visiting the park, and some have even claimed to have had strange experiences such as feeling someone touch them or hearing strange noises.