Haunted St Augustine – 19 Creepy Places You Need To See!
Are you looking for the most haunted places of Saint Augustine, Florida?
Nestled along Florida’s picturesque coastline, this charming city is reputedly one of the most haunted places in the United States, offering aspiring travel bloggers a unique opportunity to delve into spooky adventures while creating captivating content.
From eerie cemeteries to ghostly forts, St. Augustine’s haunted attractions are sure to inspire your readers and ignite their adventurous spirit. We’ll explore how to uncover the city’s spectral secrets, share personal anecdotes from my own ghostly encounters, and provide tips on how to turn these thrilling experiences into a successful travel blog.
Discovering Haunted St Augustine
Why Visit Haunted St Augustine?
Exploring haunted St. Augustine offers more than just a fright; it’s a chance to dive deep into the rich history of the oldest city in the United States. The blend of cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and a storied past creates a backdrop ripe for ghostly tales.
Venturing into sites like the St. Augustine Lighthouse or the Old Jail not only promises spine-tingling moments but also an educational glimpse into the city’s past. This mix of history and hauntings provides diverse content opportunities to captivate readers.
Moreover, haunted St. Augustine’s unique charm and mystery offer the perfect setting to inspire readers to explore beyond the usual tourist spots, igniting their sense of adventure and curiosity.
A Brief History of St Augustine
St. Augustine, founded in 1565 by Spanish explorers, holds the title of the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental United States. Its history is a tapestry of cultural influences, from Spanish and British colonial rule to its role in the Civil Rights Movement.
The city’s strategic coastal location made it a hub for trade and military defense, leading to the construction of iconic structures like the Castillo de San Marcos. This fortress, built to ward off pirates and invaders, now stands as a testament to the city’s tumultuous past.
Such a rich history inevitably gives rise to legends and ghost stories, making it a compelling destination for those intrigued by America’s past.
Preparing for Your Spooky Adventure
Before setting off on your haunted St. Augustine adventure, it’s wise to plan ahead for a seamless experience.
Start by researching the city’s most famous haunted sites—like the St. Augustine Lighthouse and the Old Jail—and decide which ones intrigue you the most. Each location offers different tours, often led by knowledgeable guides who share insights and eerie tales.
Dress comfortably, as you might be walking or standing for extended periods, especially during ghost tours that often take place in the evening. It’s also a good idea to bring a small flashlight, as some areas can be dimly lit.
Lastly, keep an open mind and take notes on your experiences to enrich your blog content. Embracing the unknown will not only make your visit more enjoyable but also help you create authentic and engaging stories for your readers.
Historic Landmarks
1. Castillo de San Marcos
The Castillo de San Marcos stands as a formidable symbol of St. Augustine’s enduring history and resilience. Constructed by the Spanish in the late 17th century, it served as a military stronghold designed to protect Florida and the Atlantic trade routes. Its unique coquina walls, made from compacted shells, proved surprisingly effective in absorbing cannon fire, a testament to ingenious colonial engineering.
Today, the fort is a National Monument, drawing visitors eager to explore its storied past. Walking through its bastions and casemates, visitors can imagine life as it was during various sieges and occupations.
One of the most famous ghost stories of the fort is of Osceola, Native American leader and member of the Seminole tribe. He avoided capture during the Second Seminole War, but in 1837, he was tricked with a false truce and was taken to the fort along with 200 of his men. The chief had been in poor health before his capture and was allowed medical treatment. Dr. Weedon was called to treat Osceola, and throughout the remaining years of Osceola’s life, the two became close.
Dr. Weedon showed his true colors after Osceola died. It was considered a trendy yet grotesque practice to keep the body parts of Native Americans.
Dr. Weedon took Osceola’s head and kept it in a jar of alcohol in his shop. This might explain why many have seen a headless shadow walking the grounds at night.
While the Castillo is part of a public park, there is a fee to actually enter the fort. The fort itself does not offer a tour, day or night, but many ghost tours pass by it as one of their locations. There are no tours that enter the fort at night due to safety, if you want to see inside the fort, you must go during the day.
2. Flagler College
Flagler College, housed in the former Ponce de León Hotel, is a testament to St. Augustine’s Gilded Age grandeur. Built in 1888 by industrialist Henry Flagler, this architectural masterpiece showcases lavish Spanish Renaissance design, complete with intricate mosaics, stained glass by Louis Comfort Tiffany, and opulent rotundas.
Originally a luxury hotel, it attracted wealthy tourists and notable figures of the era. Today, it serves as a liberal arts college, seamlessly blending its historic roots with modern educational pursuits.
Flagler College is thought to be haunted by several spirits. One can guess that Henry Flagler himself would have haunted his prosperous hotel, but the reason why is not as obvious.
Flagler was a superstitious man and wanted all doors and windows of his buildings to be left open during his funeral. The request was fulfilled except a janitor at the hotel had closed some windows. Did his own superstition get his spirit trapped?
Another wandering soul is that of Ida Alice, Flagler’s second wife. She was already an anxious woman, many claiming to be mentally ill.
Despite being married, Flagler was not an honest man and took many mistresses, which did not help Ida Alice’s mental health. Whether it was her deteriorating mind, or he no longer wanted her around, he had his second wife committed and was able to divorce her. She stayed at a facility until she died at the age of 82 and it was claimed her spirit could not move on due to the Flagler’s unfair treatment.
Another spirit might be one of Flagler’s mistresses, an actress. During one of their rendezvous, she had to hide as Flagler’s wife was trying to find him.
He hid his mistress on the 4th-floor in a room that was completely covered in mirrors. The room was a psychomanteum, a room designed to also contact the dead, as Flagler dabbled in seances. Something must have happened that night as she hung herself from a chandelier.
Students have reported lights turn on and off and hear footsteps at night. There is also an apparition that is referred to as the “Woman in Black” which many believe to be Ida Alice.
The college offers tours, but it is a historical tour and does not speak of the ghosts. Many ghost tours will pass by the college to discuss its darker history.
3. Old City Gates
The Old City Gates of St. Augustine serve as a poignant reminder of the city’s long-standing history and its enduring spirit. Constructed in 1808, these coquina gates marked the northern boundary of the Spanish colonial era city. Erected for defense, they once stood as part of a larger wall that protected the settlement from invasions and raids.
Today, the gates are a popular historical landmark, greeting visitors at the entrance to the historic district.
The story goes a young girl named Elizabeth was another victim of the yellow fever epidemic of 1821. Her body was found at the columns, and she went unclaimed. Like many before her, she was among the hundreds buried in unmarked graves at Huguenot Cemetery.
At the time, if you or a family member were believed to have yellow fever, your home and belongings were burnt to the ground in order to keep the disease from spreading. There is a chance Elizabeth was abandoned by her family after she died so no one in their family would be accused of having the illness. Or she might have been an orphan. Regardless, her fate was the same.
Cemeteries
4. Tolomato Cemetery
Tolomato Cemetery, nestled in St. Augustine, is one of Florida’s oldest burial grounds, offering a serene yet haunting glimpse into the past. Established in the 18th century, this cemetery is the final resting place for many of the city’s early settlers, including notable figures from different cultural backgrounds.
The cemetery’s history is intertwined with that of the Catholic Church, having originally served as a burial site for the Christian Indian community. The gravesites, marked by weathered headstones and ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss, evoke a poignant sense of history and mystery.
Tolomato is the oldest planned, Catholic cemetery in Florida. This might explain why the spirits of two men dressed like priests have been seen here.
Many believe them to be the ghosts of Father Varela and Bishop Verot, even though the two men are no longer buried in this cemetery. Maybe their spirits don’t appreciate their eternal sleep being disturbed?
There is another story of a spectral bride who overwhelms those who see her so much they begin to cry.
Then there is the story of a young boy who can frequently be found playing on a tree branch toward the ground’s entrance. This spirit might be reliving its last moments, as it’s said the boy died by falling from the tree.
5. Huguenot Cemetery
Huguenot Cemetery, located just outside the gates of St. Augustine’s historic district, is a site steeped in history and legend. Established in 1821, this cemetery was created during a yellow fever epidemic to accommodate Protestant burials at a time when the city’s Catholic cemeteries were not available to them.
The cemetery is known for its picturesque setting, featuring aged headstones surrounded by lush greenery and ancient trees. It’s also reputed to be one of the most haunted spots in St. Augustine, with tales of ghostly apparitions and mysterious occurrences.
In 1882, Judge John B. Stickney died during a yellow fever epidemic and was buried in the mostly protestant graveyard. It was intended that his body was to be exhumed at a later date so that his family could rebury him.
Upon unearthing the casket, they discovered several valuables, including the judge’s gold teeth, had been stolen. This might explain why many have seen the figure of a man looking for something.
Hotels
6. Casa Monica Resort & Spa
Casa Monica Resort & Spa is an iconic hotel that embodies the luxurious spirit of St. Augustine’s illustrious history. Originally opened in 1888, this opulent destination is part of the Historic Hotels of America. Its architecture showcases Moorish Revival style, with lavish interiors that reflect a bygone era of elegance and grandeur.
Located in the heart of the historic district, Casa Monica offers guests a unique blend of modern luxury and historical charm. The hotel features exquisite dining, a full-service spa, and elegantly appointed rooms and suites, making it a perfect retreat for travelers seeking comfort and style.
The hotel has a rich and mysterious past, which has sparked various ghost stories. Guests and staff have reported strange occurrences, such as unexplained noises, footsteps, and apparitions. Some claim to have seen the spirits of former guests or employees wandering the halls. The hotel’s long history and its location in one of the oldest cities in the U.S. contribute to the belief that it may be haunted, adding to its allure for visitors interested in the paranormal.
Museums
7. Lightner Museum
The Lightner Museum, housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, is a treasure trove of Gilded Age artifacts and art nestled in the heart of St. Augustine. Built by railway magnate Henry Flagler in 1888, the museum’s Spanish Renaissance Revival architecture alone is worth the visit.
Inside, it boasts an eclectic collection ranging from fine art and Victorian-era furnishings to Tiffany glass and curiosities from the 19th century. The museum’s exhibits are spread across four floors, offering a rich exploration of decorative arts and historical objects.
When the Great Depression hit, the hotel closed and stood empty for more than a decade. It was Otto Lightner, the owner and publisher of Hobbies, an antiques and collectibles magazine, who eventually purchased the building and converted it to a museum.
Just like any other building with history, many people believe the building is haunted, either by hotel guests who still roam the building or by spirits attached to the various antiques and collectibles which make up the museum’s collection.
The indoor pool, which now houses Cafe Alcazar, is thought to especially be a hot spot of activity as guests and employees have reported hearing the murmurs of disembodied voices echoing throughout or the sound of splashing water.
8. Ripley’s Believe It or Not
Ripley’s Believe It or Not in St. Augustine offers a quirky and fascinating exploration of the odd and unusual. Housed in the historic Warden Castle, this museum features a vast array of exhibits showcasing bizarre artifacts, unusual art, and strange stories from around the world.
From shrunken heads and optical illusions to interactive displays, Ripley’s promises an entertaining adventure for visitors of all ages. The building itself, with its castle-like architecture, adds to the allure, making it a unique attraction within the city.
Many come here looking for a unique tour, not realizing it’s one of the most haunted places in Saint Augustine!
The Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum is located in the Warden Castle. Built in 1887 by William G. Warden, he was a partner of Henry Flagler. In 1941, Norton Baskin purchased the home and converted it into a hotel. Three years later, on Sunday, April 23, 1944, a fire erupted leaving behind two casualties.
Bette Richeson, who stayed in Room 17, the Theatre Room today, and Ruth Pickering, a friend of the hotel owners, was staying in the upstairs penthouse apartment which is used as an attic now. They were the victims of the fire, or were they?
When the women were found, their bodies were in dry bathtubs with towels around their necks. It is also reported that the women did not know each other, but a mysterious apparition known as “Mr.X” seems to have known them both.
Rumor has it the fire was just a cover up for the murders and according to EMF readings, the women are still afraid of this shadow figure today.
9. Ximenez-Fatio House Museum
The Ximenez-Fatio House Museum is a well-preserved piece of Florida’s early history, offering insight into 19th-century life in St. Augustine. Built in 1798 by Spanish merchant Andres Ximenez, the house later became a boarding house run by women, providing a unique perspective on the role of women in the early tourism industry.
Today, it stands as one of the best-preserved examples of Second Spanish Period architecture. Visitors can explore authentically furnished rooms and learn about the lives of those who lived and worked there.
In the 1800s, it was common for doctors to recommend those who suffered from tuberculosis in northern states to head south. It was believed a warm climate would promote better health and ease their ailments.
One of the rooms in the house is referred to as a “Frail Lady Room”. Like a fainting room, such an area was used to allow someone who was not feeling well or short of breath some privacy. It was recorded at least one death accord in this room.
After learning of a few deaths that took place inside the home, Archivist Taryn Rodriguez-Boette dug deeper into the Ximenez-Fatio property. In total, there were thirteen.
Between the numerous deaths, and all of those who owned the home, whoever roams the halls has night has not been completely identified. Between tales of a ghostly shade in a mirror, an original item to the house, to the spirit of a little girl named Miss Madison, it could be just about any of them who still have a story to tell.
10. Old Jail Museum
The Old Jail Museum in St. Augustine offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the harsh realities of early 20th-century incarceration. Built in 1891, the jail was designed to blend with the city’s Spanish Renaissance Revival architecture, disguising its true purpose.
Now a museum, it provides insight into the lives of its notorious inmates and the conditions they endured. The guided tours, often led by costumed actors, bring history to life with stories of daring escapes and infamous criminals.
Henry Flagler, a prominent figure in St. Augustine history, wanted to ensure a safe and pleasant environment for his hotel patrons. That is why when he could see the original jailhouse from his hotel, he offered $10,000 to the city to rebuild the jail in another location.
Since St. Augustine was growing as a tourist destination, it was important to Flagler that the exterior appearance wouldn’t disrupt the ma atmosphere. It was almost unrecognizable as a jail apart from the barred windows. But what happened inside, was a completely different story.
The jail served the city of St. Augustine from 1891 to 1953. While it held some of the most violent criminals, many were given what could be seen as life sentences for simply being poor and unwanted. We say life sentences because many died during their stay due to the harsh treatment and conditions.
Prisoners were crammed into cells and performed hard labor on the prison grounds. The men worked the fields, women would work in the kitchens and clean. The abuse between inmates and the guards were astounding.
Many claim they can still hear the barking of prison dogs at night, having their arms or legs grabbed at, or banging on the cell walls. Do you dare to sit in The Solitary Cell, where many claimed to have seen a crawling shadowed apparition come at them?
👻➡️Check out their night time tour, the only one that gets you inside the jail! Click here!
11. Saint Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum
The Saint Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum stands as a beacon of maritime history and intrigue. Towering 165 feet above Anastasia Island, the lighthouse offers breathtaking views of Florida’s coastline and a compelling glimpse into the region’s seafaring past.
The museum preserves artifacts and stories from the area’s maritime heritage, including shipwreck discoveries and tales of lighthouse keepers who braved storms and isolation. Visitors can climb the lighthouse’s 219 steps to enjoy panoramic views and explore exhibits that delve into the science of nautical navigation and the daily lives of lighthouse keepers.
The lighthouse’s haunted history begins with the death of three young girls from 1873. Today, it is said you can still hear the sounds of giggling and footsteps. The tragedy that befell the children of Hezekiah H. Pittee, superintendent of lighthouse construction from 1871 to 74, was during the construction of the original tower.
The five children, Pittee’s four children: Mary, Eliza, Edward and Carrie, and another little girl who was possibly the daughter of one of the workers, were playing on a supply cart that ran on the tracks. The cart hit the gate and the children fell into nearby water. The two youngest children, Edward and Carrie Pittee survived, but the oldest, Eliza and Mary, and the unknown girl drowned.
Another reported death was of Light Keeper Joseph Andreu who died on Dec. 5, 1859. He was painting the tower when the scaffolding failed, and he fell about 60 feet.
Numerous ghost hunter groups have come to the light house to confirm its paranormal activity including the Syfy television series Ghost Hunters and featured on many paranormal series and documentaries. No wonder this is considered one of the most haunted places in Saint Augustine!
👻➡️The St. Augustine Lighthouse offers a variety of tours, including the Dark of the Moon Ghost Tour. Check out their site here!
12. Spanish Military Hospital
The Spanish Military Hospital Museum offers a captivating look into the medical practices of the Spanish colonial period in St. Augustine. Located on the original site of a military hospital from the Second Spanish Period, this museum provides a unique historical experience.
Visitors can explore the reconstructed hospital building, where they learn about the medical treatments and surgeries performed in the 18th century. Guided tours feature demonstrations of colonial medical techniques, offering insight into the challenges faced by doctors and patients alike.
Hospitals, whether old and abandoned or recently built, leave you with an overwhelming sensation. Many enter with an illness, and some do not leave.
The Spanish Military hospital is no different, other than being one of the oldest hospitals in Florida. Having such a history and coming from a time where many doctors lacked true medical knowledge, we can only imagine the pain and suffering of patients.
During repairs in 1821 is when the city had to replace the water lines that ran under the building, workers discovered human bones. It was discovered the remains belonged to the Timucuan natives and the hospital sat on a burial ground.
Many seem to have an overwhelming feeling when coming to the hospital. Do the moans and cries belong to the disturbed natives? Or to the many patients of the hospital?
🚎➡️Want a quick and easy way to navigate through the most haunted places of Saint Augustine? Try the hop on and off trolley!
Click here to purchase tickets!
Bed and Breakfasts
13. St. Francis Inn
The St. Francis Inn, nestled in the historic district of St. Augustine, offers a charming blend of history and hospitality. Dating back to 1791, this inn is one of the oldest in the city, exuding the charm of a bygone era with its coquina stone walls and period furnishings.
Guests are greeted with a warm atmosphere, complete with cozy rooms and modern amenities. The inn’s beautiful courtyard garden and inviting common areas provide perfect spots for relaxation. Known for its friendly service and homemade breakfast, the St. Francis Inn ensures a memorable stay.
The St. Francis Inn does not try to hide the tragic love story that took place here. Some believe that the ghost of a young house servant, Lily, haunts one of the bedrooms on the third floor hence it being named “Lily’s Room”.
Major William Hardee, who owned the Inn during the middle of the 19th century, had a nephew come visit him. The nephew met and fell in love with Lily.
When the uncle walked in on them, one of two things happened. He either killed Lily and his nephew jumped from the third story window out of grief and guilt, or the uncle simply made her leave, and out of depression, the nephew still killed himself.
Many guests and staff alike have seen a male and female apparition, usually seeing someone in a white dress. Moved belongings, or stranger, belongings filled with water have been found in other places.
Aside from Lily’s Room; Anna’s Room, Elizabeth’s Suite, or Garcia Suite also have activity. They even have a “Paranormal Paranoia Package” you can add onto your room to receive two books on haunted places in Saint Augustine, reservations for a ghost tour and t-shirts as well as making sure you get booked in one of their haunted rooms.
14. Casablanca Inn
Casablanca Inn, situated along the scenic Matanzas Bay, is a St. Augustine landmark known for its elegant charm and storied past. Built in 1914, this Mediterranean Revival-style inn offers guests a luxurious stay with its beautifully appointed rooms and sweeping views of the waterfront.
Each room is uniquely decorated, blending historic touches with modern comforts. The inn’s veranda and courtyard are perfect for enjoying a leisurely breakfast or evening cocktails, providing a tranquil retreat from the bustling city. Casablanca Inn is also known for its ghostly tales, with many guests reporting supernatural encounters, adding an air of mystery to its allure.
The Casablanca Inn used to be the “The Matanzas Hotel” and was constructed in 1914. The Casablanca Inn played a major role during the prohibition era of the 1920’s. The Inn’s original operator Ms. Bradshaw helped bootleggers smuggle alcohol into the bay.
On nights when ships were scheduled to bring in their illegal cargo, Ms. Bradshaw would take a lantern up to the second story window and wave it back and forth to notify the bootlegger’s ships that no government officials or law enforcement were in the area. It is said that she was greatly compensated for helping facilitate these imports.
15. Casa de Suenos
Casa de Suenos, translating to “House of Dreams,” is a delightful bed and breakfast nestled in the heart of St. Augustine. This charming inn combines the warmth of Southern hospitality with the allure of historic elegance. Each room is thoughtfully designed with comfort in mind, offering a cozy retreat for guests.
The inn’s inviting atmosphere is complemented by personalized service, a delicious homemade breakfast, and afternoon treats. Located just steps away from the city’s historic attractions, Casa de Suenos provides an ideal base for exploring St. Augustine’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Like many historic properties in the area, is rumored to have its own paranormal activity. St. Augustine, known as one of the oldest cities in the U.S., has a long history of ghost stories and hauntings. Guests staying at Casa de Suenos have occasionally reported unexplained occurrences, including strange noises, lights flickering, and the sense of a presence in the rooms.
16. Casa de Solana
Casa de Solana, established in the 18th century, is one of the oldest inns in St. Augustine and every bit as charming. Each of its rooms exudes a romantic ambiance, perfect for couples seeking a quaint getaway. The inn blends vintage decor and contemporary comfort seamlessly, making for a cozy and unique stay to its guests.
Equally mesmerising are the inn’s lush outdoor spaces, where patrons can relax amidst verdant greenery and beautiful flowers.
As one of the oldest properties in the city, dating back to the early 1700s, it has a long history that lends itself to ghostly legends. Guests and staff have reported a range of paranormal activities, including unexplained footsteps, strange noises, and sightings of apparitions, particularly in certain rooms like the “Sanchez Suite”.
One of the most commonly shared stories involves the spirit of a woman in period clothing, believed to be one of the house’s early residents, who is occasionally seen wandering the premises. The inn’s connection to St. Augustine’s deep history makes it a popular destination for those interested in the supernatural.
Restaurants and Bars
17. Stogies Cigar Bar and Listening Room
Stogies Cigar Bar and Listening Room in St. Augustine is a haven for cigar aficionados and music lovers alike. Located in a quaint, historic building, Stogies offers a cozy ambiance where patrons can unwind with a fine cigar and enjoy live music.
The bar boasts an extensive selection of cigars from around the world, paired with a diverse menu of craft beers, wines, and spirits. The warm, inviting interior, complete with comfortable seating and exposed brick walls, creates the perfect setting for relaxation and camaraderie.
18. O.C. White’s Restaurant
O.C. White’s Restaurant, located in a historic 1790s structure in St. Augustine, offers diners a delightful blend of history and culinary excellence. Known for its charming ambiance and Southern hospitality, the restaurant serves a diverse menu featuring fresh seafood, hearty steaks, and classic Southern dishes.
The outdoor patio, under a canopy of twinkling lights and lush greenery, provides a picturesque setting for a leisurely meal. Inside, the restaurant’s historic charm is enhanced by period furnishings and a cozy fireplace.
When O.C. White’s was still the Worth Mansion, it was struck by a fire and the third floor was damaged. Margaret’s portrait was left untouched by the flames.
Many suggest that Margaret was protecting the remains of her residence. Customers and staff also claim that she roams the restaurant setting and unsetting tables.
There is also a man often spotted in the mirror of the men’s restroom wearing a bowling hat. Margaret left it to her son-in-law, Colonel John T. Sprague so her daughter could continue to live there. Many believe the man in the mirror to be him.
While you may want to sit out in the garden to enjoy the live music with your food, you might want to request a table inside if you want to catch a glimpse of the spirits. We recommend getting one of their unique cocktails and trying to grab a seat for Sunday Brunch.
19. Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille
Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille, situated in the heart of St. Augustine, is a culinary destination that brings the flavors of New Orleans to Florida’s coast. Located in a historic building with a charming courtyard, Harry’s offers a vibrant dining experience with its fusion of Southern, Cajun, and Creole cuisines.
The menu features flavorful dishes such as jambalaya, shrimp étouffée, and po’boys, alongside fresh seafood and house specialties. Guests can enjoy their meals in the cozy interior or the lush, atmospheric courtyard, which often hosts live music.
This private residence was once owned by Juana Navarro who later married and has nine children. One of them was named Catalina.
In 1764, just 11 years old, Catalina and her family were forced to evacuate to Cuba when Florida became an English Colony. When the British were forced out twenty years later, Catalina and her family returned to claim the estate that was once theirs.
On April 12th, 1887, a fire swept through St. Augustine and the building was one of many lost in the blaze. Bridget Barry, a maid, lost her life by running back into the servants’ quarters to retrieve what few belongings she had. This might be why her spirit is said to still haunt the building today.
With all the intense activity you will find inside this restaurant, it definitely makes our list of the most haunted places in Saint Augustine.
Recommend Ghost Tours
A Ghostly Encounter
Embarking on “A Ghostly Encounter” tour in St. Augustine offers an unforgettable dive into the city’s haunted history. Known for its spine-tingling tales and historic backdrops, this tour invites participants to explore some of the most haunted spots in the nation’s oldest city.
Guided by knowledgeable storytellers, the tour covers eerie locations such as the Old City Gates, cemeteries, and centuries-old streets where spirits are said to linger. Participants often report feeling chills or catching glimpses of apparitions during the night tours.
Telling Elegies Adults Walking Tour in Saint Augustine
The “Telling Elegies Adults Walking Tour” in St. Augustine offers a unique and immersive experience into the city’s darker history. Designed for mature audiences, this tour delves into tales of mystery, tragedy, and the supernatural that have shaped the city over centuries.
With stops at historic landmarks, hidden alleyways, and ancient cemeteries, participants are treated to a rich tapestry of stories that reveal the more somber aspects of St. Augustine’s past. The tour guides, with their captivating storytelling skills, bring to life tales of lost souls and historical figures whose spirits are said to roam the streets.
Ancient City Tarot Walk
The “Ancient City Tarot Walk” in St. Augustine blends the mystical art of tarot with the city’s rich and eerie history for a unique ghost tour experience. Participants embark on a journey through historic streets, where guides use tarot cards to unveil stories from the past and insights into the spiritual realm.
Each stop along the tour corresponds with a tarot card, connecting the card’s symbolism to the history and hauntings of the location. This interactive approach not only provides an engaging way to explore the city’s supernatural side but also invites participants to reflect on their personal connections to the stories.
Bones Under Us, Ghost Tour with Archeology
The “Bones Under Us, Ghost Tour with Archeology” offers a fascinating exploration into St. Augustine’s past, blending ghostly tales with archaeological insights. This tour takes participants on a journey beneath the city’s surface, uncovering the stories of those who once walked these historic streets.
Led by knowledgeable guides with backgrounds in archaeology, the tour provides a unique perspective on how the remnants of the past inform the present. Participants visit key sites where archaeological digs have revealed artifacts and bones, helping piece together the city’s haunted history.
The Last Ride Private Ghost Tour
“The Last Ride Private Ghost Tour” offers an exclusive and intimate exploration of St. Augustine’s haunted sites, providing a personalized experience unlike any other. This tour takes place in a converted hearse, allowing participants to enjoy a unique perspective of the city as they journey through its dark and storied past.
With a focus on lesser-known ghostly tales and hidden locations, “The Last Ride” offers an insider’s view of St. Augustine’s spectral history. The private nature of the tour ensures a tailored experience, with guides sharing chilling stories and fascinating historical insights that cater to the interests of their guests.
Haunted St Augustine FAQ
What is the haunted story of St Augustine?
St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States, is replete with haunted stories rooted in its rich and tumultuous history. Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorers, the city has witnessed centuries of conflict, piracy, and cultural change, each leaving its spectral mark.
One of the most famous haunted tales is that of the St. Augustine Lighthouse, where the spirits of two young girls, daughters of a former keeper, are said to linger after a tragic accident. The Castillo de San Marcos, another iconic landmark, is rumored to be haunted by soldiers and prisoners who perished within its walls.
Ghostly apparitions, unexplained noises, and mysterious lights are frequently reported throughout the city, especially in its historic district. For those intrigued by the supernatural, St. Augustine offers a captivating blend of history and hauntings, where every cobblestone street and ancient building has a story waiting to be uncovered by the curious traveler.
Is there a ghost tour in St. Augustine?
Absolutely, St. Augustine offers a myriad of ghost tours that cater to both the curious and the brave. Known for its storied past and alleged hauntings, the city provides an ideal backdrop for exploring the supernatural. Tours vary, from walking tours that meander through the historic district to unique experiences like riding in a converted hearse.
Popular options include “A Ghostly Encounter,” “GhoST Augustine,” and the “Ancient City Tarot Walk,” each offering its own unique perspective on the city’s haunted history. These tours often include visits to notorious sites such as the St. Augustine Lighthouse, the Old Jail, and various cemeteries, where guides share chilling tales of ghostly apparitions and unexplained phenomena.
Is the lighthouse in St. Augustine haunted?
The St. Augustine Lighthouse is widely reputed to be one of the city’s most haunted locations, drawing both paranormal enthusiasts and curious visitors. The haunting stories surrounding the lighthouse mainly stem from tragic events in its history. One of the most famous tales involves the spirits of two young sisters, Eliza and Mary, who drowned during the construction of the lighthouse in the 19th century. Visitors and staff have reported hearing children’s laughter and seeing their apparitions playing on the grounds.
Additionally, there are accounts of a former lighthouse keeper who fell to his death, with some claiming to have seen his shadowy figure on the spiral staircase. The lighthouse’s eerie atmosphere is heightened during the nighttime ghost tours, where participants often experience chills and unexplained phenomena.
Can you go inside the fort in St Augustine?
Yes, visitors can explore the inside of the Castillo de San Marcos, the historic fort in St. Augustine. As a National Monument, the Castillo offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s colonial past and military history. Visitors are invited to wander through its well-preserved rooms and corridors, which once housed soldiers and prisoners.
The fort’s design, with its coquina stone walls and star-shaped structure, provides insight into the strategic military architecture of the 17th century. Inside, exhibits detail the fort’s history, its role in various conflicts, and the daily lives of those stationed there.
Additionally, park rangers and volunteers often conduct demonstrations, such as cannon firings, which bring the fort’s history to life. Beyond its historical significance, the Castillo is also known for its ghost stories, with some claiming to have witnessed or felt the presence of spirits.
Conclusion: Haunted St Augustine – 19 Creepy Places You Need To See!
With all there is to do in St. Augustine, you can sure you’ll be coming back again and again and not just for the chance to catch a ghost sighting! Whether your there to check out the beaches, experience the delicious local seafood and craft beer, or explore one of the oldest cities in the United States, there is just so much to do!
