Illinois is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, but it’s also home to some of the most haunted places in the country. From abandoned hospitals to eerie cemeteries, Illinois has a lot of paranormal activity that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Haunted places in Illinois have been the subject of many ghost stories and legends over the years. Some of these places have a long and dark history, while others have only recently gained notoriety for their supernatural occurrences. Regardless of their history, these haunted places in Illinois have become popular destinations for those seeking a thrill or hoping to catch a glimpse of the paranormal.
Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, there’s no denying that Illinois has some of the most haunted places in the United States. From ghostly apparitions to unexplained noises, these places are sure to give you a chill down your spine. So, if you’re feeling brave, grab a flashlight and explore some of the haunted places in Illinois.
The Paranormal Activity in Illinois
Illinois is known for its spooky and haunted places that have been attracting paranormal enthusiasts for years. The state has a rich history of apparitions, spirits, and spooky activity that is sure to send chills down your spine. From haunted hotels to abandoned hospitals, Illinois has it all.
One of the most haunted places in Illinois is the Peoria State Hospital in Bartonville. The hospital was once a mental institution where patients were subjected to inhumane treatments. It is said that the spirits of the patients still roam the halls, and visitors have reported hearing cries and screams coming from the abandoned buildings.
Another spooky location is the H.H. Holmes Murder Castle in Chicago. The castle was once owned by a notorious serial killer who is said to have murdered over 200 people. Visitors have reported seeing apparitions and feeling a cold presence in the building.
The Woodstock Opera House is another haunted location in Illinois. The building is said to be haunted by an actress who was turned down for a role in a play at the opera house. She committed suicide by jumping off the building and is said to still roam the halls, sitting in seats and dropping props.
Illinois also has some haunted cemeteries, including the Bachelor’s Grove Cemetery in Midlothian. The cemetery is said to be haunted by the spirits of a farmer and his wife who were brutally murdered in the nearby woods. Visitors have reported seeing apparitions and hearing strange noises in the cemetery.
Overall, Illinois is a state that is rich in paranormal activity and spooky locations. Whether you are a believer or a skeptic, a visit to one of these haunted places is sure to leave you with an eerie feeling that you won’t soon forget.
Famous Haunted Locations
Illinois is known for its haunted locations, and some of these places have gained fame for their paranormal activity. Here are some of the most famous haunted locations in the state:
Peoria State Hospital
Peoria State Hospital, also recognized as Bartonville State Hospital or Illinois Asylum for the Incurable Insane, operated from 1902 to 1973 in Bartonville, Illinois. The establishment’s roots trace back to 1895 when the Illinois General Assembly initiated the Illinois Asylum for the Incurable Insane. Governor John Altgeld appointed a commission, which included notable figures like John Finely and J.J. McAndrews, to select the site. Although the first building, resembling a feudal castle, was completed in 1897, it was never occupied due to structural issues from abandoned mine shafts. Instead, by 1902, a new design comprising 33 buildings was completed under Dr. George Zeller’s guidance.
The hospital’s grounds are steeped in ghostly tales. One of the most famous legends revolves around Manuel A. Bookbinder, affectionately known as “Old Book”. He was a patient who worked with the burial crew. Upon his death, many claim to have seen his apparition crying near an elm tree during his funeral. This mysterious event led to the legend of the “Graveyard Elm”. Dr. Zeller, who served as the hospital’s superintendent, documented this and other eerie experiences in his book, “Befriending The Bereft”.
After its peak in the 1950s with 2,800 patients, the hospital’s population dwindled to 600 by 1972, leading to its eventual closure. Post-closure, many of the buildings were auctioned, and while some were demolished, others underwent renovation for commercial purposes. The Bowen building, a significant structure within the hospital, was sadly demolished in 2016.
McPike Mansion
McPike Mansion, also known as Mount Lookout, stands tall in Alton, Illinois. Constructed in 1869 by Henry Guest McPike, a prominent figure in Alton’s history, the mansion sprawls over a vast 15-acre plot, making it one of the highest points in the city. McPike wasn’t just a homeowner; he was a renowned grape grower, with his Rulander and Diana grapes winning accolades. He also served as Alton’s mayor and was deeply involved in local businesses, from real estate to box making. His influence even extended to the Alton-Southern Illinois Horticultural Society, where he served as Librarian in the late 1880s. However, after his death in 1910, the mansion saw various owners and even faced threats of demolition.
The mansion isn’t just known for its rich history; it’s also infamous for its paranormal activity. Whispered tales suggest that the mansion is haunted by the spirits of a former owner and a domestic servant. These spectral tales have made the mansion a popular stop on many haunted tours in the area. Over the years, the mansion has caught the attention of various paranormal investigators, with shows like Ghost Adventures dedicating episodes to exploring its eerie hallways.
The aftermath of McPike Mansion’s storied past is a mix of decay and hope. For years, the mansion was left abandoned, becoming a target for vandals who stripped it of its furnishings, wooden banisters, and more. Plans to convert the land into a shopping center fell through, leaving the mansion in a state of neglect. However, in 1994, Sharyn and George Luedke purchased the mansion with dreams of transforming it into a hotel. Although they faced challenges in securing restoration funds, the couple has been diligently working on restoring the mansion, funded through donations and tours. Their efforts were recognized in 2017 when the Alton Historical Commission honored them for their preservation work on the mansion’s front porch and conservatory.
Congress Plaza Hotel
The Congress Plaza Hotel, situated on South Michigan Avenue across from Chicago’s Grant Park, boasts a rich history that dates back to its inception in 1893. Originally designed by architect Clinton J. Warren as an annex to the Auditorium Theater, the hotel was connected to the theater by an opulent underground passage named Peacock Alley. The hotel was expanded and renovated twice, first in 1902 and then in 1907, under the guidance of the architectural firm Holabird & Roche. Over the years, the hotel has witnessed various ownerships and has been the temporary home to many notable figures, including presidents and celebrities.
However, the grandeur of the Congress Plaza Hotel is not just limited to its architectural beauty and historical significance. The hotel is often whispered about in hushed tones as one of Chicago’s most haunted places. One particularly chilling tale revolves around room 1252, where it’s believed that a Czech-Jewish refugee named Adele Langer took the tragic step of throwing her two sons out of the window before taking her own life by leaping from the room.
The aftermath of these events has left an indelible mark on the hotel’s reputation. While it continues to operate as a prominent hotel in Chicago, the stories of its haunted past attract both skeptics and believers. Paranormal enthusiasts often flock to the hotel in hopes of encountering the spectral residents, making the Congress Plaza Hotel a unique blend of historical elegance and eerie mystery.
Old Slave House
The Crenshaw House, more commonly known as the Old Slave House, stands as a haunting reminder of a dark chapter in American history. Located in Equality Township, Gallatin County, Illinois, this historic residence was constructed in the 1830s and served as the main home for John Crenshaw and his family. John Crenshaw was not just any landowner; he was an illegal slave trader. Despite Illinois being a free state, Crenshaw exploited a legal loophole that allowed the use of slaves for labor-intensive salt extraction. As a result, he amassed significant wealth, owning thousands of acres of land and over 700 slaves. His mansion, built on Hickory Hill, was a testament to his affluence.
However, the mansion’s grandeur hides a sinister secret. The third floor of the Crenshaw House was believed to be a “station” on the Reverse Underground Railroad. Instead of being a sanctuary for escaped slaves, this “railroad” was a route used to kidnap free blacks and escaped slaves, forcing them back into servitude in the slave states. The attic of the house contained 12 rooms, which many believe served as a secret jail for these kidnapped individuals. John Crenshaw’s heinous activities were well-documented, with cases of him selling kidnapped individuals into slavery in states like Texas, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Arkansas.
The aftermath of these events has left the Crenshaw House with a chilling legacy. Over the years, tales of strange noises and apparitions have emerged, with many believing the spirits of the kidnapped still haunt the mansion. In 2004, the National Park Service recognized the house’s dark history, naming it as a “station” on the Reverse Underground Railroad. Today, while the house stands as a testament to a painful past, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering and acknowledging history, no matter how unsettling it might be.
Woodstock Opera House
The Woodstock Opera House, located in Woodstock, Illinois, is a beacon of historical and cultural significance. Built in 1889, this architectural marvel was designed to serve multiple purposes, housing city administration offices, police and fire departments. The multi-use facility was the brainchild of architect Smith Hoag and was constructed by contractor Simon Brink at a cost of $25,000. Over the years, the Opera House has witnessed a myriad of performances, becoming McHenry County’s entertainment hub. It hosted vaudeville, minstrel shows, and dramatic companies. One of its most notable associations is with Orson Welles, who grew up in Woodstock and graced the venue’s stage during his early years. In 2013, the stage was dedicated to him, commemorating his contributions to the arts.
However, the Opera House is not just about performances and famous personalities. Whispered tales suggest that the venue might be haunted. Legends speak of a ghost named Elvira, believed to be the spirit of a young actress who took her own life in the 1940s after not getting a role she deeply desired. Over the years, many have reported seeing her apparition, especially in the balcony area. Some claim to have heard mysterious footsteps, while others have felt cold spots in certain sections of the theater.
Today, the Woodstock Opera House stands as a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage. While it continues to host a variety of events, from theatrical plays to concerts, the tales of its haunted past add an intriguing layer to its legacy. The Opera House remains a cherished landmark, blending historical elegance with the allure of the unknown.
DeSoto House Hotel
The DeSoto House Hotel, located in Galena, Illinois, is a testament to both historical grandeur and eerie tales. Established in the 1850s during Galena’s economic peak, the hotel was a symbol of the city’s prosperity, catering to the influx of people drawn to the area’s trade and mining opportunities. The hotel was the brainchild of the “Galena Hotel Company” and was named after the discoverer of the Mississippi River. With 225 guestrooms, parlors, reading rooms, and a 300-seat dining hall, it was a hub of social and political activities. Notably, President Abraham Lincoln and Senator Stephen A. Douglas delivered speeches from its balcony. The hotel also played a significant role in Ulysses S. Grant’s life, serving as his presidential campaign headquarters.
However, the DeSoto House Hotel’s history is not without its share of misfortunes. A fire in 1859 caused significant damage, destroying several rooms. A decade later, a steam boiler explosion in the hotel’s basement added to its woes. Despite these setbacks, the hotel underwent various renovations and transformations, with significant contributions in the 1980s to restore its former glory. Today, it boasts dining areas, conference rooms, a ballroom, and specialty shops, maintaining its status as a prominent establishment.
Yet, the hotel’s walls whisper tales of the supernatural. The most famous ghostly resident is the “Lady in Black”, believed to have been haunting the premises since the 1800s. Many claim to have seen her descending a staircase and walking into a wall. Intriguingly, a flood in 2011 revealed a hidden doorway right where she was said to disappear, suggesting she might be passing through a door she remembers from her time. Other paranormal experiences include phantom voices, unexplained footsteps, and ghostly apparitions, especially on the third floor. Despite its haunted reputation, the DeSoto House Hotel remains a popular destination, blending historical significance with tales of the unknown.
Manteno State Mental Hospital
The Manteno State Mental Hospital in Manteno is known for its dark history and paranormal activity. Visitors have reported seeing ghostly apparitions, hearing strange noises, and feeling a sense of unease throughout the hospital. Some believe that the hospital is haunted by the spirits of former patients and staff members.
Old Joliet Prison
The Old Joliet Prison stands as a testament to a bygone era of the American penal system. Established in 1858 in Joliet, Illinois, this imposing structure has witnessed countless tales of crime, punishment, and redemption. Over its operational years, the prison’s stone walls and iron bars have confined everyone from petty thieves to notorious criminals. Its architecture, reminiscent of a medieval castle, has made it an iconic landmark, but it’s the stories from within that have truly defined its legacy.
Whispers of the supernatural have long echoed through the prison’s corridors. Guards and inmates alike have reported eerie occurrences that defy explanation. The solitary confinement cells, despite their isolation, seem to be a hub of paranormal activity. Unexplained noises, the sounds of chains rattling, and distant screams have been heard emanating from these empty chambers. The prison’s chapel, a place meant for solace, has its own tales. Visitors often speak of an overwhelming sense of sadness, and some have even reported seeing shadowy figures seated in the pews, disappearing when approached. Perhaps the most chilling tale is that of a former inmate, forever wandering the halls, possibly in search of justice or trapped in an eternal loop of his final days.
Today, the prison stands silent, no longer operational but still very much alive in the public’s imagination. Its gates may be closed to inmates, but they’ve opened for curious visitors and paranormal enthusiasts. Many come in search of the unexplained, armed with cameras and recording devices, hoping to capture a piece of the prison’s haunted history. While skeptics dismiss these tales as mere urban legends, the countless stories and experiences shared by those who’ve ventured inside the prison’s walls suggest that there might be more to the Old Joliet Prison than meets the eye.
Egyptian Theatre
The Egyptian Theatre in DeKalb, Illinois, is a remarkable example of Egyptian Revival architecture. Constructed between 1928 and 1929, this theatre was part of a nationwide fascination with Ancient Egypt, largely spurred by the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922. The theatre’s design, both inside and out, is adorned with Egyptian cultural symbols. Stained glass showcases designs of Ra, the Egyptian sun god, and the scarab, a revered Egyptian emblem. The theatre’s architect, Elmer F. Behrns, who had a keen interest in Egyptology, ensured that the theatre’s design was rich in Egyptian motifs and symbols.
While the theatre is a marvel of architecture and history, it’s also shrouded in tales of the supernatural. Rumors have persisted over the years about secret messages concealed within the architecture and ghostly occurrences. Although the theatre has clarified that there are no hidden messages in its design, stories of hauntings have endured. The theatre is believed to be home to two spirits. One is thought to be Irv Kummerfeldt, co-founder of the Preservation of the Egyptian Theatre (PET). Kummerfeldt tragically passed away in the theatre’s auditorium, and since then, there have been reports of his presence in that area. Another spirit, affectionately named “Bob” by theatre staff, is known to roam freely throughout the building. Reports include objects moving mysteriously, doors opening on their own, and the sensation of an unseen presence tapping one’s shoulder.
Today, the Egyptian Theatre stands as both a historical monument and a hub of cultural activity. It operates a 42-week season, hosting up to 125 events annually. Despite the tales of the supernatural, the theatre continues to be a beloved landmark in DeKalb County. Whether you’re there for a show or to possibly catch a glimpse of the paranormal, the Egyptian Theatre promises an experience like no other.
These are just a few of the many haunted locations in Illinois. Whether you believe in the paranormal or not, these places offer a glimpse into the state’s rich history and folklore.
Haunted Chicago
Chicago has a reputation for being one of the most haunted cities in the United States. From notorious gangsters to serial killers, Chicago’s history is filled with tales of the paranormal. Here are some of the most haunted places in Chicago, Illinois.
Al Capone’s Haunts
Al Capone, one of the most infamous gangsters in history, has left his mark on Chicago. The Lexington Hotel, where Capone lived and ran his operations, is said to be haunted by his ghost. Visitors have reported hearing footsteps, voices, and even seeing apparitions of Capone himself. Another one of Capone’s haunts is the Green Mill Cocktail Lounge, where he used to frequent. The lounge is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former employee who was killed by Capone’s men.
H.H. Holmes’ Murder Castle
In the late 19th century, Herman Webster Mudgett, better known as Dr. Henry Howard Holmes or H. H. Holmes, emerged as one of America’s most notorious criminals. Holmes was an American con artist and multiple murderer active between 1891 and 1894. His most infamous crimes occurred in Chicago, coinciding with the World’s Columbian Exposition in 1893. Holmes’ most chilling endeavor was the construction of a building that would later be dubbed the “Murder Castle.” This three-story edifice was said to contain hidden rooms, secret passages, and a basement that many believed was used for sinister purposes.
The legend of the “Murder Castle” is a mix of fact and fiction. While it’s true that Holmes commissioned the building, many of the tales about its design and purpose have been exaggerated. Stories of trapdoors, gas chambers, and a crematorium were largely sensationalized by the media of the time. However, it’s undeniable that Holmes committed heinous acts within its walls. He confessed to 27 murders, though he was only convicted for one – the killing of his business partner, Benjamin Pitezel. It’s believed Holmes also murdered three of Pitezel’s children, along with several others.
The aftermath of Holmes’ reign of terror left a lasting mark on American crime history. He was eventually captured, tried, and hanged in 1896. The “Murder Castle” itself faced its own grim fate. It was damaged by a fire in 1895 and was later torn down in 1938. Today, the site where it once stood serves as a reminder of the dark deeds that took place there, and the man who masterminded them.
Robinson Woods
Robinson Woods in Chicago, Illinois, is a location steeped in history and mystery. The woods are named after the Robinson family, particularly Alexander Robinson, who was the chief of several American Indian tribes. He played a significant role in saving American lives during the Fort Dearborn Massacre. A large memorial in the woods marks the burial ground where his wife and several kin are interred. Although it was promised that Robinson would also be buried there, the City broke its promise, and he was laid to rest elsewhere.
The woods have been a hotspot for reported paranormal activity. Visitors to the Robinson Family Monument, especially near its left side, have claimed to experience various hauntings. Reports include sightings of ghostly shadows, mysterious red or white orbs, and an ectoplasmic mist. Some have also claimed to hear strange sounds and even smell the scent of violet and lavender during the dead of winter. Many believe that these haunting events are the result of Alexander Robinson’s spirit, still present in the woods due to the broken promise of his burial.
Jane Addams Hull House
In the heart of Chicago, the Hull House stands as a testament to the dedication of Jane Addams and Ellen Gates Starr. Founded in 1889, this settlement house was established to serve the recently arrived European immigrants. Over the years, Hull House expanded its reach, offering a plethora of social, educational, and artistic programs. By 1920, it became a beacon for similar initiatives, with around 500 settlement houses sprouting across the nation.
The Hull House wasn’t just about education and social services. Whispers of the paranormal have long been associated with the building. Charles Hull, the original owner, lost his wife in the house in 1860, and she’s believed to be one of the resident ghosts. Another chilling tale from 1913 speaks of a devilish child, born after a man’s blasphemous claim. This child, with horns and a tail, was said to have been brought to Hull House. While Jane Addams tried to have the child baptized, legends say it was eventually locked in the attic. Over the years, many have reported sightings of apparitions, including a mysterious “woman in white” in one of the front bedrooms.
Despite its eerie reputation, the Hull House’s legacy is primarily one of social reform and community service. The original building now serves as a museum, preserving the rich history and the stories of those who walked its halls. Whether you’re drawn by its social impact or the allure of the supernatural, the Hull House remains an iconic piece of Chicago’s history.
Tonic Room
In the heart of Chicago, the building housing the Tonic Room has roots that stretch back to the Roaring Twenties. This establishment was not just a casual hangout; it was a favored spot for the city’s Irish mob and even operated as a notorious brothel. Over the decades, the walls of this place have absorbed tales of intrigue, crime, and passion.
The paranormal activity in the Tonic Room is as rich as its history. Numerous ghost sightings have been reported, especially in the bar area and the basement. The most spine-chilling discovery was made by the current building owners who found a painted pentagram on the basement floor and Egyptian symbols adorning the ceiling. These eerie symbols led to speculations that the Tonic Room was once a secret meeting place for the Golden Dawn, an organization deeply involved in the study of the occult. A woman even claimed to have witnessed a ritual murder during one of these clandestine meetings in the 1930s.
Chicago’s haunted places are just a small sample of the city’s rich history. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, these locations offer a glimpse into the darker side of Chicago’s past.
Haunted Cemeteries of Illinois
Illinois is home to several reportedly haunted cemeteries, where visitors have reported strange occurrences and paranormal activity. Here are some of the most haunted cemeteries in Illinois:
Greenwood Cemetery
Greenwood Cemetery in Decatur, Illinois, is a place steeped in history and shrouded in mystery. Established in the 1820s, the cemetery has been the final resting place for many, but it’s the tales of the supernatural that have made it infamous.
The cemetery is said to be haunted by several spirits. One of the most enduring legends is that of the Greenwood Bride, a spectral figure that has been reported for decades. Another haunting tale is that of the Barrackman staircase, where the apparition of a weeping young woman has been sighted. The old public mausoleum, which was torn down in 1967, was known as one of the most haunted spots in Greenwood. Before its demolition, there were rumors of unexplained screams and lights emanating from the mausoleum. Even after its destruction, paranormal activity seems to persist, especially around the area where unclaimed bodies from the mausoleum were buried in a common grave.
Another haunting phenomenon is the Greenwood Ghost Lights, which have been reported for decades on the southern edge of the cemetery. These lights are believed to be the spirits of lost souls whose bodies were washed away by a flood many years ago. The spirits are said to be searching for their final resting places. The Civil War section of the cemetery is also notorious for its paranormal activity. During the war, Decatur was a stop for prison trains carrying Confederate prisoners. Some of these prisoners, who had died from Yellow Fever, were buried in an unmarked grave in the cemetery. It’s believed that some of these soldiers might have been buried alive, and their restless spirits still roam the grounds.
Today, Greenwood Cemetery remains open to the public, drawing both those interested in its rich history and those seeking a paranormal experience. Whether you’re visiting to pay respects or to catch a glimpse of the unknown, Greenwood Cemetery promises an unforgettable experience.
Bachelor’s Grove Cemetery
Bachelor’s Grove Cemetery in Bremen Township, Cook County, Illinois, is a site that has long been associated with tales of the paranormal. Located in Chicago’s southwest suburbs, the cemetery has been known by various names, including Bachelor Grove, Batchelor Grove, Batchelder’s Grove, and Everden (or Everdon).
The history of the cemetery dates back to the 1820s when the land surrounding it was settled by English homesteaders. The first burial is believed to have been that of Eliza Scott in November 1844. Over the years, the cemetery has seen more than 200 burials, with the last known burial being that of Robert Shields in 1989. However, the cemetery’s notoriety doesn’t stem from its historical significance but from the numerous ghost stories and legends associated with it.
Aux Sable Cemetery
Aux Sable Cemetery in Minooka, Illinois, is a location that has captured the attention of paranormal enthusiasts for years. The cemetery’s history is intertwined with tales of ghostly encounters and unexplained phenomena.
One of the most notable incidents occurred on December 26th, 2013, when Saleen Graham, co-founder of Ghostly Activities, visited the cemetery with her sister, Jackie, to gather preliminary readings for an upcoming investigation. Their experience began with an inexplicable event involving their car. After turning off the vehicle, the windows mysteriously lowered on their own, even though the keys were in Saleen’s hand. This happened multiple times, even after they raised the windows. The car’s electrical system required the keys to be in the ignition for the windows to operate, making the event even more puzzling.
The cemetery is known for two primary paranormal phenomena. The first involves a playful spirit of a little girl who is known to pull pranks on visitors. This spirit seems particularly attracted to cars parked in the cemetery at night. The second phenomenon is the presence of a ghost portal. The cemetery’s proximity to flowing water sources, such as Collins Run and Aux Sable Creek, is believed to contribute to the formation of this portal. Flowing water near places of death can reportedly aid in the creation of ghost portals.
Today, Aux Sable Cemetery remains a popular destination for those seeking a brush with the supernatural. Whether it’s the playful pranks of the little girl spirit or the mysterious ghost portal, the cemetery promises an experience that is both eerie and unforgettable.
Ridge Cemetery
Ridge Cemetery is a haunting destination in the ghost town of Williamsburg, Illinois. The town’s history dates back to the 19th century when it was bustling with life. However, as fate would have it, the construction of a railroad to the east led to the town’s decline, with residents moving closer to the new transportation hub. The cemetery, perched atop an 810-foot mountain, remains as a testament to the town’s past.
The cemetery is rife with tales of the supernatural. Reports of occult activities, decaying structures, and eerie paranormal events such as dark apparitions and mysterious lights have made it a hotspot for those seeking the unknown. One chilling account tells of a young girl who disappeared, only to be found later walking towards Ridge Cemetery. When questioned, she claimed that the inhabitants of the cemetery had invited her to stay with them. Another unsettling discovery was the carcass of a cow, found mutilated with its blood drained and reproductive organs removed.
Overall, these haunted cemeteries in Illinois continue to attract visitors who are fascinated by the paranormal. While some of the stories may be exaggerated or false, the eerie atmosphere and reported sightings make for a spooky experience.
Haunted Places in Southern Illinois
Southern Illinois is home to several haunted locations that are known for their paranormal activity. Some of the most famous haunted places in Southern Illinois include Hickory Hill, Lebanon Road, and Cairo’s Haunted Locations.
Lebanon Road
Lebanon Road is a stretch of road located in Collinsville, Illinois. The road is known for its paranormal activity, and many locals avoid it at night. Legend has it that a woman was killed on the road in the 1950s, and her ghost now haunts the area. Visitors to the road report hearing screams and seeing the ghostly figure of a woman in white.
Cairo’s Haunted Locations
Cairo, Illinois is home to several haunted locations, including the Cairo Custom House Museum and the Magnolia Manor Bed and Breakfast. The Cairo Custom House Museum was originally built in 1872 and served as a customs house for the city. Today, visitors to the museum report hearing strange noises and seeing apparitions of customs officers.
The Magnolia Manor Bed and Breakfast is a historic mansion that was built in 1874. The mansion is considered to be one of the most haunted places in Southern Illinois, and visitors report hearing strange noises and seeing apparitions of former residents.
Overall, Southern Illinois is home to several haunted locations that are worth visiting for those interested in the paranormal. However, visitors should exercise caution and respect when exploring these locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some famous haunted places in Illinois?
Illinois is home to several famous haunted places, including the Congress Plaza Hotel in Chicago, which is said to be haunted by several ghosts, including that of a woman who jumped to her death from the hotel’s 12th floor. Another famous haunted place is the Bachelor’s Grove Cemetery in Midlothian, which is known for its ghostly apparitions and unexplained phenomena.
Are there any ghost tours in Illinois?
Yes, there are several ghost tours in Illinois that take visitors to some of the state’s most haunted places. The Chicago Ghost Tour is one of the most popular, taking visitors to locations such as the Congress Plaza Hotel, the site of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre, and the former location of the Iroquois Theatre fire.
What are the most haunted cemeteries in Illinois?
Illinois is home to several haunted cemeteries, including the Resurrection Cemetery in Justice, which is said to be haunted by the ghost of a woman named Resurrection Mary. Another haunted cemetery is the Oak Ridge Cemetery in Springfield, which is the final resting place of Abraham Lincoln and is said to be haunted by his ghost.
What are some reported paranormal activities in Illinois?
Illinois is known for its reported paranormal activities, including ghostly apparitions, unexplained noises, and objects moving on their own. The McPike Mansion in Alton is known for its ghostly sightings, while the Mineral Springs Hotel in Alton is said to be haunted by several ghosts, including that of a little girl.
Are there any haunted hotels in Illinois?
Yes, there are several haunted hotels in Illinois, including the Congress Plaza Hotel in Chicago, which is said to be haunted by several ghosts, including that of a woman who jumped to her death from the hotel’s 12th floor. The Mineral Springs Hotel in Alton is also said to be haunted by several ghosts, including that of a little girl.
What are some lesser-known haunted places in Illinois?
Illinois is home to several lesser-known haunted places, including the Ridge Cemetery in Williamsburg Hill, which is said to be haunted by the ghost of a witch. The Chesterville Witch’s Grave in Arcola is also a lesser-known haunted place, said to be the final resting place of a witch who was burned at the stake.
