25 Haunted Places in Massachusetts
Looking for the Most Haunted Places in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is a state rich in history and culture. From the famous Salem Witch Trials to the legendary Boston Tea Party, it is a place that has witnessed significant events throughout American history.
However, as we delve deeper into its past, one thing becomes increasingly apparent – Massachusetts is also a land of ghosts. These spectral figures have been said to wander the halls of some of its oldest and most iconic landmarks, leaving visitors and locals alike with goosebumps and haunting memories.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the most haunted places in Massachusetts, perfect for travelers seeking a spine-tingling adventure.
The Allure of Haunted Places in Massachusetts
Why are haunted places so fascinating? For one, they offer a glimpse into the past, allowing us to connect with history on a deeper level. Ghost hunting has become a popular activity, drawing people who are eager to experience the unknown.
Massachusetts, with its long and storied past, offers numerous locations where history and the supernatural intertwine. The thrill of possibly encountering a restless spirit or experiencing unexplained phenomena makes these places irresistible.
Top 23 Most Haunted Places in Massachusetts
Historic Homes
1. The Lizzie Borden House
230 Second St, Fall River
The Lizzie Borden House in Fall River is perhaps one of the most infamous haunted places in Massachusetts. On August 4, 1892, Andrew and Abby Borden were found brutally murdered in their home. Lizzie Borden, their daughter, was accused but later acquitted of the crime, leaving the case unsolved.
Visitors and staff have reported various ghostly activities, such as phantom footsteps, whispers, and even apparitions of Lizzie and her parents. The house maintains much of its original decor, adding to the eeriness.
The Lizzie Borden House is now a bed-and-breakfast and museum. Guided tours are available, offering a deeper insight into the tragic events that took place here. The house is a beautiful, yet ominous, Victorian-style home. Each room has its own chilling history, making it a must-visit for those interested in the macabre.
Book A Tour or Spend The Night Here!
2. Johnathan Corwin House – The Witch House
310 Essex Street, Salem
Located in Salem, the Witch House was built in the 1780s and is one of the oldest surviving structures in the city. The land was once owned by Johnathan Corwin, the High Sheriff during the Salem Witch Trials and this Georgian-style mansion stands as a stark reminder of Salem’s dark past. Its brick facade and classic design offer a hauntingly beautiful contrast to its grim history.
The house is said to be haunted by multiple spirits, including that of Sheriff Corwin. Guests have reported cold spots, disembodied voices, and even being touched by unseen hands.
Want more things to do in Salem?
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3. The Houghton Mansion
172 Church Street, North Adams
The Houghton Mansion, built in the late 1800s, was the home of Albert Charles Houghton, the first mayor of North Adams. This Gilded Age mansion boasts intricate woodwork and grand rooms, each with its own story to tell. The opulence of its design contrasts starkly with the sorrow that lingers within its walls.
Tragically, in 1914, several of Houghton’s family members were killed in a car accident. Shortly after, he committed suicide. Visitors have reported hearing disembodied voices and seeing apparitions.
Apparitions of the Houghton family have been seen wandering the halls. Visitors often report hearing unexplained noises and feeling an overwhelming sense of sadness.
4. SK Pierce Mansion
4 W Broadway, Gardner
Built in 1875, the SK Pierce Mansion was once the grand home of furniture magnate Sylvester K. Pierce. Over the years, the mansion has seen its share of tragedies, including mysterious deaths and suicides, which have contributed to its haunted reputation.
This Victorian mansion is a marvel of 19th-century design, featuring ornate woodwork, stained glass windows, and grand staircases. Its opulent yet eerie atmosphere makes it a favorite among ghost hunters and history buffs alike.
Visitors have reported seeing apparitions of former residents, hearing inexplicable footsteps, and feeling sudden drops in temperature. The mansion is also said to be home to a malevolent spirit known to push or scratch visitors.
The SK Pierce Mansion offers paranormal tours and overnight stays for the brave-hearted. Be sure to book in advance, as these experiences are popular and tend to fill up quickly.
5. Hammond Castle
80 Hesperus Avenue, Gloucester
Hammond Castle, built in the late 1920s by inventor John Hays Hammond Jr., is a blend of medieval and Gothic architectural styles. The castle was Hammond’s home and laboratory, where he conducted numerous experiments.
Hammond Castle is a stunning structure, complete with drawbridges, towers, and hidden passageways. Its unique design and picturesque setting make it a popular destination for tourists and paranormal enthusiasts.
The castle is said to be haunted by Hammond himself, as well as other spirits. Visitors often report hearing voices, seeing apparitions, and experiencing sudden chills. Some claim that Hammond’s ghost can be seen wandering the halls, tinkering with his inventions.
Open to the public, Hammond Castle offers guided tours, special events, and paranormal investigations. It’s an ideal spot for those interested in history, architecture, and the supernatural.
6. The House of the Seven Gables, Salem
115 Derby Street, Salem
Built in 1668, The House of the Seven Gables is one of the oldest surviving 17th-century wooden mansions in New England. It gained fame through Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel of the same name, which was inspired by the house’s mysterious past.
The house features intricate woodwork, hidden staircases, and secret passageways, all of which contribute to its haunted allure. Perched on the waterfront in Salem, it offers stunning views as well as a sense of historical mystery.
Visitors and staff alike have reported strange occurrences, from phantom footsteps to ghostly figures appearing in the windows. The spirit of Susan Ingersoll, a relative of Nathaniel Hawthorne, is said to haunt the house, particularly the attic and secret rooms.
Local legends speak of a curse placed on the house, stemming from the witch trials that took place in Salem. Whether the curse is real or simply a story, the house’s eerie atmosphere makes it easy to believe something supernatural is at play.
The House of the Seven Gables is open for tours year-round. Special nighttime tours are available during the Halloween season, offering a spookier experience for those brave enough to explore its haunted halls.
7. The Mount, Lenox
2 Plunkett Street, Lenox
The Mount was the home of famed American author Edith Wharton. Built in 1902, the estate reflects Wharton’s design principles and is a National Historic Landmark.
The estate features stunning classical architecture, beautiful gardens, and breathtaking views of the Berkshires. Its serene setting makes the reported ghostly encounters even more jarring.
Visitors and staff have reported various paranormal activities, including sightings of ghostly figures, unexplained noises, and objects moving on their own. Some believe that Edith Wharton herself still roams the halls, keeping an eye on her beloved home.
Some think that The Mount is not just haunted by Edith Wharton but also by former servants and guests who had a strong connection to the estate. These spirits are said to appear during special events, perhaps drawn by the lively atmosphere.
The Mount is open to the public for tours, with special ghost tours available during the Halloween season. The estate also hosts various cultural events, offering a mix of history, art, and the supernatural.
8. The Wayside, Home of Authors
455 Lexington Rd, Concord
The Wayside in Concord has a rich literary history. It was home to several famous authors, including Louisa May Alcott, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Margaret Sidney. The house itself dates back to the early 18th century.
Reports of ghostly activity include sightings of shadowy figures, unexplained noises, and even the faint sound of a piano playing. The spirits of the former residents, especially Louisa May Alcott, are believed to still inhabit the house.
The house’s frequent changes in ownership is thought to have unsettled the spirits, leading to the reported paranormal activity. Whether or not you believe in ghosts, The Wayside’s storied past makes it a fascinating place to visit.
The Wayside is part of the Minute Man National Historical Park and is open to the public for tours. Special ghost tours are offered, providing a deeper look into its haunted history.
Battleships
9. The USS Salem
549 South Street, Pier 3, Quincy
The USS Salem, a heavy cruiser commissioned in 1949, now serves as a museum ship docked in Quincy. During its active years, it played a significant role in the Cold War and various humanitarian missions.
The USS Salem is a labyrinth of narrow passageways, steep ladders, and cavernous rooms. Its imposing steel structure and historical significance add to the sense of unease one feels when exploring its depths.
The ship is rumored to be haunted by the spirits of sailors and disaster victims. Visitors have reported hearing footsteps in empty corridors, seeing shadowy figures, and experiencing unexplained cold spots. Some even claim to have been touched by unseen hands.
The USS Salem offers ghost tours and paranormal investigations, making it a must-visit for those intrigued by naval history and the supernatural.
Tunnels
10. The Hoosac Tunnel
175 W Shaft Rd, North Adams
Known as the “Bloody Pit,” the Hoosac Tunnel is a 4.75-mile railroad tunnel that was made in the 19th century. The tunnel is a dark, foreboding structure that stretches through the Berkshire Mountains. Its damp, cold interior adds to its eerie atmosphere.
The tunnel is notorious for its ghostly sightings after claiming the lives of nearly 200 workers during its construction. Disembodied voices and the sound of explosions have also been reported. Many believe that the spirits of the workers who died during the tunnel’s construction haunt the site, forever reliving the tragedies that claimed their lives.
While the tunnel is still active and not open to the public, nearby hiking trails offer a glimpse into its haunted history.
Hospitals
11. Danvers State Hospital, Danvers
1101 Kirkbride Drive, Danvers
Danvers State Hospital, originally known as the State Lunatic Hospital at Danvers, opened its doors in 1878. This Gothic Revival-style hospital was designed to treat the mentally ill but quickly became overcrowded and notorious for its harsh treatments, including electroshock therapy and lobotomies.
The hospital’s architecture is a sight to behold, featuring towering spires, intricate brickwork, and a maze-like layout. Despite its current state of disrepair, the building’s Gothic elements continue to evoke a sense of foreboding and mystery.
Many claim that the spirits of former patients still wander the halls. Ghostly apparitions, disembodied voices, and unexplained shadows are frequently reported. Paranormal investigators have captured EVPs (Electronic Voice Phenomena) that suggest restless souls are still trapped within the decaying walls.
Though much of the original hospital has been demolished, parts of the site remain accessible to the public. If you’re keen on exploring, remember to respect the property and any local regulations. Guided tours are occasionally offered, providing an in-depth look at the hospital’s dark history.
Forts
12. Fort Warren
191W Atlantic Avenue, Boston
Fort Warren, located on Georges Island in Boston Harbor, was completed in 1861 and served as a strategic defense point during the Civil War. The fort also held Confederate prisoners, adding to its storied past.
Fort Warren is a prime example of 19th-century military architecture, featuring massive granite walls, underground tunnels, and scenic views of the harbor. Its remote location and historical significance make it a fascinating yet eerie destination.
Legend has it that the ghost of a Confederate prisoner’s wife, known as “The Lady in Black,” roams the fort. Visitors have reported sightings of a woman in black clothing, as well as hearing her mournful cries echoing through the corridors.
Accessible by ferry, Fort Warren offers guided tours and educational programs. It’s a great spot for history buffs and those looking to experience a bit of paranormal activity.
Forests
13. Bridgewater Triangle
The Bridgewater Triangle is a roughly 200-square-mile area in southeastern Massachusetts that has long been associated with paranormal activity. The area includes swamps, forests, and small towns, each with its own eerie tales.
The Bridgewater Triangle is a hotbed of paranormal phenomena, including UFO sightings, Bigfoot encounters, and ghostly apparitions. The Hockomock Swamp, in particular, is known for its eerie atmosphere and reports of strange creatures.
Exploring the Bridgewater Triangle requires a bit of planning, as it spans multiple towns and natural areas. Guided tours are available for those who want to experience the area’s paranormal offerings with expert guidance.
14. The Freetown-Fall River State Forest
The Freetown-Fall River State Forest is not just your average forest. Located in the southeastern part of Massachusetts, this 5,000-acre expanse has a dark and mysterious history. It has been the site of various criminal activities, cult gatherings, and even alleged UFO sightings, making it a hotspot for those interested in the paranormal.
Visitors to the forest have reported numerous strange occurrences, from disembodied voices to shadowy figures lurking among the trees. Some even claim to have seen ghostly apparitions of people who supposedly met their untimely end in the forest. The forest is also known for its “Pukwudgies,” small, troll-like creatures from Native American folklore that are said to haunt the area.
The forest is dense and sprawling, with narrow paths winding through thick underbrush and towering trees. It’s easy to get lost in this labyrinthine wilderness, adding to the sense of unease. If you plan on visiting, make sure to go during daylight hours and stick to the marked trails.
Hotels and Inns
15. The Colonial Inn
48 Monument Square, Concord
The Colonial Inn dates back to 1716 and has played numerous roles throughout American history. Originally used as a home and store, it later served as a hospital during the Revolutionary War. Over the years, it has hosted many famous guests, including Henry David Thoreau and Ralph Waldo Emerson.
Guests and staff have reported a variety of paranormal activities at the inn. Room 24, once a surgery room, is said to be particularly haunted. Visitors have experienced flickering lights, mysterious footsteps, and even ghostly apparitions of soldiers. The spirit of a woman named “Maddie” is also frequently seen wandering the halls.
Local legends suggest that the spirits of soldiers from the Revolutionary War still roam the grounds, possibly searching for peace or unfinished business. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the stories alone are enough to send shivers down your spine.
The inn is open to the public year-round. For those interested in the paranormal, staying in Room 24 is a must. The Colonial Inn also offers ghost tours that provide deeper insights into its haunted history.
16. The Red Lion Inn
30 Main Street, Stockbridge
The Red Lion Inn has been a fixture in Stockbridge since 1773. This historic inn has seen generations of guests and has been a central part of the town’s history. Its longevity and the sheer number of people who have passed through its doors contribute to its haunted reputation.
The inn exudes a classic New England charm with its Victorian architecture, complete with a wrap-around porch and elegant interiors. If you decide to visit, enjoy a meal at the inn’s restaurant, known for its hearty New England fare. Local tours often include the Red Lion Inn as a must-see stop for those interested in the paranormal.
Guests and staff have reported seeing apparitions, particularly on the fourth floor. One of the most frequently encountered spirits is that of a young girl who roams the hallways. There are also reports of a ghostly man in a top hat who appears in the dining room. These spirits are said to be friendly, but their presence is unmistakable.
17. The Salem Inn
7 Summer Street, Salem
Salem is infamous for its 1692 witch trials, and the Salem Inn is steeped in this dark history. Built in 1834, the inn comprises three historic homes that offer a glimpse into Salem’s past. The town itself is a hotspot for paranormal activity, making the Salem Inn a must-visit for those interested in the supernatural.
The Salem Inn’s architecture is a beautiful representation of early 19th-century design, featuring elegant staircases, antique furnishings, and cozy fireplaces. If you’re planning a visit, October is a great time to go, as the entire town of Salem embraces its haunted history with various events and tours.
Guests have reported a variety of paranormal activities, from ghostly apparitions to objects moving on their own. Room 17 in particular is said to be haunted by a woman in white, who appears at night and then vanishes without a trace. The inn also has reports of children laughing and playing in the hallways, even when no children are present.
There are plenty of haunted places to stay in Salem.
Check out our article here!
18. The Omni Parker House
60 School Street, Boston
Opened in 1855, the Omni Parker House is one of Boston’s oldest and most famous hotels. It has hosted numerous celebrities, politicians, and writers, including Charles Dickens and John F. Kennedy.
The hotel is renowned for its paranormal activity. Guests have reported sightings of the original owner, Harvey Parker, who is said to roam the hallways checking on guests. Elevators operate on their own, and unexplained cold spots are frequently felt.
Legend has it that the 10th floor is particularly haunted, with reports of ghostly figures and strange noises emanating from vacant rooms. Some believe the spirits of past guests have chosen to make the Omni Parker House their permanent home.
The hotel is open for bookings year-round. For those interested in its haunted history, the staff is more than willing to share ghost stories and historical tidbits about the famous guests who have stayed there.
19. Longfellow’s Wayside Inn
72 Wayside Inn Road, Sudbury
Longfellow’s Wayside Inn is one of the oldest operating inns in the United States, dating back to 1716. Located in Sudbury, this historic inn was made famous by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s “Tales of a Wayside Inn.” The inn has hosted numerous famous guests over the centuries, including George Washington and Henry Ford.
The inn’s architecture is quintessential New England, featuring rustic wooden beams, cozy fireplaces, and period furnishings. If you’re planning a visit, consider staying overnight to fully immerse yourself in its haunted ambiance. Be sure to check out the nearby Grist Mill and Chapel, which add to the historic charm of the area.
The inn is said to be haunted by several spirits. One of the most famous is Jerusha Howe, known as the “Belle of the Ball.” She is said to have died of a broken heart after her fiancé left her, and her spirit reportedly lingers in Room 9, where guests have reported hearing soft piano music and feeling cold drafts. The inn also has reports of mysterious footsteps and doors opening and closing on their own.
Museums
20. The Buckman Tavern
1 Bedford Street, Lexington
The Buckman Tavern, located in Lexington, holds a significant place in American history. Built in 1710, this colonial-era tavern served as a gathering spot for local militia during the early days of the American Revolution. It was here that the Lexington Minutemen awaited the arrival of British troops on the fateful morning of April 19, 1775, leading to the “shot heard ’round the world.”
Over the years, numerous visitors have reported ghostly encounters within the walls of Buckman Tavern. The spirits of Revolutionary War soldiers are said to linger here, their restless energy manifesting as cold spots, disembodied voices, and shadowy figures. Some have even claimed to hear the faint sound of musket fire and the echo of marching boots, transporting them back to that historic morning.
Buckman Tavern is open to the public as a museum, offering guided tours that provide in-depth historical context and recount the tales of its spectral inhabitants. Visitors are encouraged to bring cameras and recording devices to capture any potential paranormal activity.
Restaurants
21. The Sun Tavern
500 Congress Street, Duxbury
Nestled in Duxbury, The Sun Tavern dates back to the 1740s, when it served as a stagecoach stop and tavern. The building’s colonial architecture captures the essence of its storied past, where weary travelers once sought refuge and sustenance. Over the centuries, it has evolved into one of Massachusetts’ cherished dining establishments.
The Sun Tavern offers a menu that is as delightful as its history is rich. Among the top-rated entrees are the prime rib, slow-cooked to perfection, and the seafood risotto, a creamy dish brimming with fresh local catch.
Guests and staff at The Sun Tavern have reported numerous unexplained occurrences. From cold drafts in closed-off rooms to the inexplicable flickering of lights, the tavern’s ambiance is often tinged with mystery.
Some diners have claimed to see shadowy figures moving in the corners of their eyes, while others have heard disembodied voices whispering in the hallways. The ghost of a former tavern keeper is said to watch over the establishment, ensuring the guests are well taken care of.
The spirit of a young woman is rumored to have met a tragic fate and roams the tavern premises. Her soft sobs can sometimes be heard in the dead of night, especially near the fireplace where she once warmed herself during her final days.
22. Turner’s Seafood
43 Church Street, Salem
Turner’s Seafood in Salem, a city synonymous with witch trials and eerie tales, occupies the historical Lyceum Hall. Built in 1831, the building has served various purposes, from an educational institution to a popular dining spot. Its storied walls have witnessed countless events, making it a hotspot for paranormal activity.
The dining experience at Turner’s Seafood is as exceptional as its ghost stories. Signature dishes include the clam chowder, a creamy New England classic, and the baked haddock, which is fresh, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. The menu celebrates the bounty of the Atlantic, offering a true taste of coastal Massachusetts.
Turner’s Seafood is no stranger to ghostly encounters. Patrons have frequently reported seeing the apparition of Bridget Bishop, the first woman executed during the Salem witch trials, wandering through the restaurant. Poltergeist activities such as utensils moving on their own and sudden drops in temperature add to the restaurant’s haunted reputation. Some guests have even felt a spectral hand brushing against them as they dined.
23. Green Dragon Tavern
11 Marshall Street, Boston
The Green Dragon Tavern, located in Boston, is often referred to as “the headquarters of the revolution” due to its significant role in American history. Established in 1654, it was a secret meeting place for the Sons of Liberty, including Paul Revere and Samuel Adams. Its historical importance is only matched by its legendary hauntings.
At the Green Dragon Tavern, the food is as legendary as the spirits that haunt it. Popular dishes include the hearty shepherd’s pie, made with tender lamb and creamy mashed potatoes, and the fish and chips, featuring crispy beer-battered cod. The tavern also offers a range of craft beers, perfect for washing down a ghost story or two.
The tavern’s long history is steeped in ghostly lore. Staff and patrons alike have reported hearing murmured conversations in empty rooms, believed to be echoes of clandestine meetings from centuries past. Apparitions of colonial-era figures have been spotted enjoying a pint at the bar, seemingly unaware of the passage of time. The ghost of a British soldier, still guarding the tavern, has also been seen patrolling the premises.
One of the most intriguing tales involves the ghost of Dr. Joseph Warren, a revolutionary leader who died in the Battle of Bunker Hill. His spirit is said to visit the tavern, reliving the fervor of the revolutionary discussions that took place within its walls. Some say if you listen closely, you can still hear his impassioned speeches.
Cemeteries
24. King’s Chapel Burying Ground, Boston
40 Tremont Street, Boston
Established in 1630, King’s Chapel Burying Ground is one of Boston’s oldest cemeteries. It is the final resting place of many early colonists, including Mayflower passengers and prominent historical figures like John Winthrop.
The cemetery is located near King’s Chapel, a historic church built in 1754. The gravestones, many of which are crumbling and covered in moss, add to the cemetery’s haunted atmosphere. It’s a place where history and the supernatural seem to coexist.
Numerous visitors have reported feeling an eerie presence while walking through the cemetery. Ghostly apparitions, disembodied voices, and sudden drops in temperature are common occurrences. Some even claim to have seen figures dressed in 17th-century attire.
Local stories tell of a “Lady in Black” who is often seen mourning beside a particular grave. Legend has it that she was a young woman who lost her lover to a tragic accident and continues to seek him in the afterlife.
King’s Chapel Burying Ground is open to the public, and entry is free. Guided tours are available for those interested in learning more about its haunted history and the notable individuals buried there.
25. Spider Gates Cemetery
15 Earle Street, Leicester
Spider Gates Cemetery, officially known as Friends Cemetery, dates back to the 1700s and serves as the final resting place for members of the Quaker community. The cemetery gets its nickname from the wrought-iron gates at its entrance, which feature intricate spider web designs.
Spider Gates Cemetery is famous for its eerie reputation and numerous ghost stories. Visitors have reported hearing strange whispers, seeing ghostly figures, and experiencing sudden drops in temperature. The most chilling legend involves the eighth gate, an invisible portal that supposedly leads to another realm.
One of the most enduring tales is that of the ghost of Marmaduke Earle, a young boy who is said to haunt the cemetery. According to legend, visitors who sit at his grave and speak his name will feel a gust of cold wind and hear his ghostly laughter.
While the cemetery is technically closed to the public, it has become a popular spot for paranormal enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. Visitors should be respectful of the site’s historical significance and mindful of local regulations.
Haunted Places in Massachusetts FAQ
What is the Spookiest City in Massachusetts?
Salem is often considered the spookiest city in Massachusetts due to its infamous witch trials in the late 1600s. The city embraces its haunted reputation with various ghost tours, haunted houses, and Halloween events.
What is the Spooky Town near Boston?
Concord, located just outside of Boston, is known for its haunted locations like The Colonial Inn and The Wayside. It’s a great spot for history buffs and paranormal enthusiasts alike.
Are there any Ghost Towns in Massachusetts?
Yes, Dogtown near Gloucester is a well-known ghost town in Massachusetts. Abandoned in the early 19th century, it’s now a popular spot for hikers and those interested in its eerie history and legends of witches.
Which Massachusetts town is known for Halloween?
Salem is undoubtedly the town most synonymous with Halloween in Massachusetts. The city hosts a month-long celebration called “Haunted Happenings,” featuring parades, costume balls, and various spooky activities.
Conclusion: 25 Haunted Places in Massachusetts
Massachusetts is a treasure trove of haunted sites, each with its unique blend of history and paranormal activity. From the gruesome murders at the Lizzie Borden House to the spectral sailors on the USS Salem, the state offers a plethora of experiences for history enthusiasts and paranormal investigators alike.
Exploring these haunted places provides not just a thrill but also a deeper understanding of the rich history that shapes Massachusetts. Whether you’re seeking a spine-tingling adventure or a historical deep-dive, these locations are sure to offer an unforgettable experience.
