Texas is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful landscapes. However, the state is also home to some of the most haunted places in the country. From historic mansions to abandoned hospitals, these haunted locations have been the subject of countless ghost stories and paranormal investigations.
One of the most famous haunted places in Texas is the Baker Hotel in Mineral Wells. The hotel, which opened in 1929, was once a popular destination for wealthy guests, but it closed its doors in 1972. Since then, there have been numerous reports of strange occurrences and ghostly sightings on the hotel’s seventh floor, including the apparition of a nude woman covered in blood.
Another haunted location in Texas is the Menger Hotel in San Antonio. Built in 1859, the hotel has a rich history and has hosted many famous guests over the years, including Theodore Roosevelt and Robert E. Lee. However, it is also believed to be haunted by several ghosts, including a woman in a blue dress and a man in a top hat. Visitors have reported seeing apparitions and strange occurrences in the hotel’s hallways and rooms.
Haunted Houses in Texas
Texas is home to many haunted places, and its major cities have their fair share of spooky spots. Here are some of the most haunted places in Houston, San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, and El Paso.
The Myrtles Plantation
The Myrtles Plantation in Hempstead is steeped in history and mystery. Built in 1796 by General David Bradford, this antebellum home has witnessed centuries of Southern life. Its grandeur hides tales of love, betrayal, and death.
Whispers of ghostly apparitions have long surrounded the plantation. The most famous spirit is Chloe, a former slave. Legend says she poisoned a cake, unintentionally killing two of the owner’s daughters. Visitors often report seeing her phantom, along with the giggles of ghostly children.
The aftermath of these tales has turned the plantation into a hotspot for paranormal enthusiasts. Many come hoping to catch a glimpse of Chloe or hear the children’s laughter. While some leave skeptical, others depart convinced that the spirits of the past still roam the halls of The Myrtles Plantation.
White Sanitarium
The White Sanitarium in Wichita Falls stands as a testament to the early 20th-century approach to mental health. Opened in 1926 by Dr. Frank S. White, this facility aimed to provide a more humane treatment for the mentally ill. Its unique architecture, with large windows and balconies, was designed to offer patients sunlight and fresh air.
However, as with many institutions of its time, dark rumors swirled. Patients were said to have died under mysterious circumstances, and their restless spirits are believed to linger. Shadows move past windows, disembodied voices echo, and the figure of a man, thought to be Dr. White himself, has been seen wandering the halls.
Today, after being repurposed as apartments, residents and visitors alike share tales of eerie encounters. The legacy of The White Sanitarium isn’t just its architectural beauty, but the whispered stories of those who, in death, never left its walls.
The Anderson House – San Antonio
Built in the late 1800s, The Anderson House in San Antonio was once the epitome of luxury and elegance. Owned by the wealthy Anderson family, it was a symbol of prosperity in a burgeoning city.
Yet, as time passed, tales of the supernatural began to overshadow its opulence. The most recounted story is of Lady Anderson, who is said to have died tragically within the house. Residents and visitors have reported seeing her ghostly figure, often accompanied by the melancholic sound of a piano playing in the dead of night.
Today, the house stands as a beacon for paranormal enthusiasts and historians alike. While some come to admire its architectural beauty, others hope to encounter the lingering spirit of Lady Anderson, forever tied to the home she once loved.
The Woodward House – Austin
Nestled in the heart of Austin, The Woodward House has been a landmark since the early 1900s. Constructed by the prominent Woodward family, it was a hub for social gatherings and political events, reflecting the city’s vibrant culture.
However, as decades rolled on, whispers of the paranormal began to emerge. The most chilling tale revolves around Miss Emily Woodward, who vanished without a trace one fateful night. To this day, visitors claim to see her apparition, often gazing out of the window, waiting for someone or something. Soft footsteps and hushed conversations are also frequently heard, echoing from empty rooms.
In the present day, The Woodward House attracts both history buffs and ghost hunters. While its walls hold tales of bygone eras, the enigmatic presence of Miss Emily serves as a haunting reminder of the mansion’s mysterious past.
The Hollow House – El Paso
In the sun-drenched city of El Paso, The Hollow House stands as a shadowy contrast to its surroundings. Erected in the late 19th century, it was once the residence of the influential Hollow family, known for their contributions to local commerce and culture.
Yet, behind its grand facade, unsettling stories began to emerge. The most notorious tale is that of Lillian Hollow, who, according to local lore, was locked away in the attic by her own family. Her mournful cries and soft lullabies are said to permeate the night air, and her silhouette is often spotted behind the attic window, gazing longingly at the world outside.
Today, The Hollow House is a magnet for those intrigued by the paranormal. While its architecture speaks of a bygone era of elegance, the lingering spirit of Lillian serves as a poignant testament to the house’s darker history.
Haunted Hotels in Texas
Texas is renowned for its rich history and diverse culture, and within its borders lie some of the most haunted hotels that offer a spine-chilling glimpse into the past. The historic Menger Hotel in San Antonio stands as a prime example, with its opulent 19th-century ambiance hiding tales of spectral sightings, including the apparition of a former U.S. President.
Over in Galveston, the Hotel Galvez exudes elegance, yet its hallways are rumored to be walked by ghostly figures from the aftermath of the 1900 hurricane. Meanwhile, the historic Emily Morgan Hotel in San Antonio, once a medical facility, is believed to harbor restless spirits from its past. As brave souls check-in to these hotels seeking both luxury and a brush with the supernatural, Texas offers a unique blend of hospitality and haunting that continues to captivate and intrigue visitors from all walks of life.
The Driskill Hotel – Austin
In the heart of Austin, the iconic Driskill Hotel stands as a testament to luxury and history. Established in 1886 by cattle baron Jesse Driskill, it quickly became a symbol of Texan opulence and pride.
But with grandeur often comes tales of the unknown. Guests and staff alike have reported paranormal experiences, from the playful laughter of children in empty halls to the ghostly figure of a bride, believed to be Samantha Houston, who tragically died in the hotel. Her spirit is said to wander, forever searching for her lost love.
Today, the Driskill Hotel is not just a destination for travelers but also for those seeking a brush with the supernatural. While its majestic architecture and rich history draw many, the whispered tales of spirits ensure its place in Austin’s lore.
The Emily Morgan Hotel
Situated near the historic Alamo in San Antonio, The Emily Morgan Hotel is a blend of Gothic architecture and modern luxury. Named after Emily D. West, also known as “The Yellow Rose of Texas”, the building originally served as a medical facility before its transformation into a hotel.
However, its medical past seems to have left an indelible mark. Guests often recount eerie experiences, from unexplained cold spots to the sounds of medical equipment in the dead of night. The most haunting tale is of a nurse, believed to be from the building’s days as a hospital, seen roaming the corridors, forever tending to patients long gone.
Today, The Emily Morgan Hotel is a favorite among both history enthusiasts and ghost hunters. Its storied past and luxurious present make it a unique destination, where the lines between the living and the departed often blur.
The Magnolia Hotel – Seguin
In the quaint town of Seguin lies The Magnolia Hotel, a structure that seamlessly blends history with the supernatural. Established in the 1840s, it has seen Texas evolve from a young republic to a bustling state. Over the years, it has served as a frontier hotel, a stagecoach station, and even a haven for Texas Rangers.
Its storied past, however, is not without its shadows. Guests and staff have reported a myriad of paranormal occurrences. From the playful laughter of a child named Emma to the more sinister presence of a disfigured cowboy, the hotel seems to be a nexus of spectral activity. The most chilling account is of a spirit named Ida, a former guest, who is often seen gazing out of a window, lost in eternal contemplation.
Today, The Magnolia Hotel stands as a beacon for both history lovers and paranormal enthusiasts. Its walls, rich with tales of yesteryears, beckon to those eager to experience a brush with the otherworldly.
The Menger Hotel – San Antonio
Nestled adjacent to the Alamo, The Menger Hotel in San Antonio boasts a legacy as rich as Texas itself. Since its establishment in 1859, it has played host to a myriad of guests, from weary travelers to influential figures, including the likes of Theodore Roosevelt.
Yet, amidst its opulent halls and rooms, whispers of the supernatural persist. Guests have often reported sightings of a mysterious woman in a blue dress, believed to be Sallie White, a former chambermaid who met a tragic end. Her spirit is said to wander the hotel, forever tied to the place she once served. Even more intriguing is the rumored presence of President Roosevelt himself, often seen enjoying a drink at the bar, just as he did in life.
Today, The Menger Hotel stands not only as a testament to Texas’s rich history but also as a magnet for those intrigued by the paranormal. Its blend of historical significance and spectral tales ensures its place as one of San Antonio’s most captivating landmarks.
The Crockett Hotel – San Antonio
Just a stone’s throw away from the Alamo, The Crockett Hotel stands tall, its history intertwined with that of Texas’s most iconic battle. Named in honor of the legendary Davy Crockett, who bravely fought and perished at the Alamo, the hotel has been a staple of San Antonio since the 1900s.
However, the heroics of the past are not the only tales that echo through its corridors. Many guests have recounted eerie encounters with the spirit of a chambermaid, believed to be Isabella. She met her untimely demise within the hotel’s walls and is said to still carry out her duties in the afterlife, often seen straightening rooms and wandering the hallways with a soft, melancholic expression.
Today, The Crockett Hotel is a blend of historical reverence and spectral mystery. Visitors come for its proximity to the Alamo and stay for the whispered tales of Isabella, a gentle spirit forever bound to the hotel she once served.
The Jefferson Hotel – Jefferson
In the charming town of Jefferson, The Jefferson Hotel stands as a beacon of history and mystery. Established in the 1850s, this hotel has witnessed the ebb and flow of time, playing host to countless guests, from the famous to the infamous.
Yet, beyond its grandeur and elegance, the hotel is shrouded in tales of the supernatural. Among the many spirits said to roam its halls, the most poignant is that of a young bride, Lillian. Legend has it that she tragically died on her wedding day within the hotel. Her ethereal figure, clad in a wedding gown, is often seen wandering the corridors, her soft sobs echoing in the stillness of the night.
Today, The Jefferson Hotel is a destination for both history enthusiasts and ghost hunters. Its storied walls beckon to those eager to experience its rich past and perhaps, if they’re fortunate, a fleeting encounter with the spirits that call it home.
Haunted Roads & Bridges
Within the expansive landscapes of Texas, ghostly legends converge with winding roads and aging bridges, weaving a tapestry of eerie tales. The infamous “Bragg Road Ghost Light” near Saratoga draws curious visitors hoping to witness the mysterious dancing lights that appear along an old railroad track. This unexplainable phenomenon has sparked speculation for decades, with theories ranging from paranormal activity to natural gases.
Meanwhile, the “Donkey Lady Bridge” in San Antonio casts a macabre shadow, as locals recount a tragic tale of a disfigured woman haunting the area. Travelers report hearing eerie donkey-like noises and encountering a spectral figure, adding an unsettling aura to the already eerie atmosphere. These haunted roads and bridges stand as reminders of the enigmatic and haunted side of Texas, enticing those with a taste for the supernatural to embark on chilling journeys into the unknown.
Bragg Road Ghost Light – Saratoga
Deep within the dense woods of Saratoga lies Bragg Road, a seemingly ordinary dirt path. However, as night falls, this unassuming road transforms into the stage for one of Texas’s most enigmatic paranormal phenomena: the Bragg Road Ghost Light.
For decades, locals and visitors alike have reported seeing a mysterious orb of light floating along the road. Some believe it’s the spirit of a railroad worker, forever searching for his lost head after a tragic accident. Others think it’s the lantern of a ghostly conductor, still making his rounds long after the tracks were removed.
Today, Bragg Road attracts scores of curious souls, each hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive ghost light. While skeptics offer various scientific explanations, the true nature of the light remains a mystery, ensuring Bragg Road’s place in the annals of Texas folklore.
Old Alton Bridge (Goatman’s Bridge) – Denton
Spanning the serene waters near Denton, the Old Alton Bridge, more infamously known as Goatman’s Bridge, is a relic of history shrouded in dark legends. Constructed in 1884, this iron-truss bridge served as a vital link for the community, but as the years passed, eerie tales began to overshadow its architectural significance.
Legend has it that a black goat farmer named Oscar Washburn was lynched from the bridge by Klansmen in the 1930s. Since that fateful night, many claim to have encountered the “Goatman”, a malevolent entity with glowing eyes and a thirst for revenge. Chilling sounds, shadowy figures, and the inexplicable scent of burning wood often plague those who dare to tread the bridge after dark.
Today, the Old Alton Bridge stands as a testament to both the triumphs and tragedies of the past. While many visit to appreciate its historical value, others are drawn by the allure of the supernatural, hoping to unravel the mysteries of the Goatman.
The Demon’s Road (Camino de Noche) – Houston
On the outskirts of Houston lies a stretch of road that has earned a chilling moniker: The Demon’s Road, or Camino de Noche. While by day it might seem like any other road, as darkness descends, tales of the supernatural come to life, making it one of the most feared places in Texas.
Stories abound of travelers encountering malevolent entities along this road. The most notorious tale is of a shadowy figure with glowing red eyes, believed to be a vengeful spirit from a forgotten era. Whispers of ghostly apparitions, unexplained cold spots, and vehicles mysteriously stalling have added to its eerie reputation.
Today, The Demon’s Road is both a source of intrigue and caution. While some brave souls venture there seeking paranormal experiences, many locals avoid it, especially after dark, respecting the legends and the spirits said to haunt this cursed path.
Haunted Jails in Texas
Haunted jails in Texas carry the echoes of their grim histories, where the suffering of inmates and the weight of past atrocities seem to linger. From the chilling confines of the Old Gonzales County Jail, where the anguished spirits of prisoners are said to still roam, to the Old Lavaca County Jail, which whispers stories of its tormented past to those who listen, these places evoke an eerie connection to the past. The Old Ellis County Jail’s walls seem to reverberate with the echoes of forgotten cries, while the Old Galveston County Jail stands as a spectral reminder of the souls once confined within. These haunted locations serve as poignant reminders of the injustices and hardships that once occurred behind their bars, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of Texas history.
Old Gonzales County Jail – Gonzales
In the heart of Gonzales, the Old Gonzales County Jail looms as a stark reminder of days gone by. Built in the late 1800s, this formidable structure has seen its share of notorious criminals, tense standoffs, and tragic endings during its operational years.
As with many places steeped in history, the jail is rife with tales of the supernatural. One of the most recounted stories is of Sheriff Matthews, who was tragically gunned down within the jail’s confines. It’s said that his spirit still patrols the corridors, ensuring law and order even in death. Additionally, the eerie sounds of chains rattling, disembodied voices, and cold drafts are common experiences for those who dare to explore.
Today, the Old Gonzales County Jail stands as a testament to both the justice system of yesteryears and the mysteries that linger within its walls. Visitors come for its historical significance, but many leave with tales of ghostly encounters that defy explanation.
Old Galveston County Jail – Galveston
In the coastal city of Galveston stands a formidable structure, the Old Galveston County Jail. Erected in the late 19th century, this jail has witnessed the darker side of humanity, housing criminals of all kinds until its closure in the 1980s.
Over its years of operation, tales of the supernatural began to seep from its stone walls. Former inmates and guards alike spoke of eerie occurrences. The most chilling account is of Anna Bell, a former inmate who met a tragic end within her cell. Her ghostly figure, often seen with tear-streaked cheeks, is said to wander the corridors, her mournful cries echoing in the stillness of the night.
Today, the Old Galveston County Jail stands as a haunting reminder of the past. While its history is steeped in tales of crime and punishment, the spectral stories of those who never left its confines ensure its place in Galveston’s paranormal lore.
Haunted Asylums or Hospitals in Texas
Texas is also home to several abandoned asylums that are believed to be haunted. These asylums were once used to house mentally ill patients but were closed down due to poor conditions and mistreatment of patients. Some of these asylums have been abandoned for decades and have become hotspots for paranormal activities.
Terrell State Hospital – Terrell
Situated in Terrell, the Terrell State Hospital has been a cornerstone of mental health care since its inception in the late 19th century. Originally established to provide compassionate care to those with mental illnesses, its sprawling campus has been witness to countless stories of hope, despair, and everything in between.
However, as is often the case with institutions of this nature, tales of the supernatural have emerged over the years. Former patients, whose lives were marked by both tragedy and resilience, are said to still roam the hospital grounds. The most poignant of these tales revolves around Eleanor, a young woman who, according to whispers, never left the confines of her room, even in death. Her soft humming is often heard, echoing through the now-silent corridors.
Today, the Terrell State Hospital stands as a symbol of the evolving understanding of mental health. While its primary legacy is one of medical advancement, the spectral tales that permeate its history add a layer of intrigue, drawing both the curious and the brave.
Abandoned Nazareth Hospital – Mineral Wells
Perched in Mineral Wells, the Abandoned Nazareth Hospital casts an imposing shadow over its surroundings. Once a bustling center of medical care and innovation, the hospital now stands silent, its once-busy corridors echoing with memories of the past.
As the years of neglect took their toll, stories began to emerge from the hospital’s decaying walls. Urban explorers and paranormal enthusiasts alike have reported unsettling encounters within its confines. One of the most chilling tales is of Nurse Agatha, who is believed to have taken her own life within the hospital. Her spirit, clad in a vintage nurse’s uniform, is often seen wandering the derelict wards, her footsteps echoing in the eerie silence.
Today, the Abandoned Nazareth Hospital serves as a haunting reminder of both the triumphs and tragedies of medical history. While its physical structure may be succumbing to the ravages of time, the spectral stories that it houses ensure its place in the annals of Mineral Wells’ lore.
In conclusion, Texas is home to several abandoned and haunted places that are sure to give you goosebumps. The Yorktown Memorial Hospital and abandoned asylums are just a few examples of such places. If you’re feeling brave enough, you can visit these places and experience the paranormal activities yourself. However, it’s important to remember to be respectful of these places and their history.
Haunted Historic Sites
Texas is home to several historic sites that have been the subject of ghost stories and paranormal activity. Among these sites are The Alamo and USS Lexington, both of which have a rich history and have been the site of many reported ghost sightings.
The Alamo
The Alamo, located in San Antonio, is one of the most famous historic sites in Texas. The site is known for its role in the Siege of 1836, during which a small group of Texan soldiers fought against the Mexican army. The battle ended in a Mexican victory, with all of the Texan defenders being killed.
Over the years, The Alamo has been the subject of numerous ghost stories. Visitors have reported seeing the ghosts of Confederate soldiers, as well as the spirits of the Texan defenders who died during the siege. Some have even claimed to have seen the ghost of John Wayne, who starred in a movie about The Alamo.
USS Lexington
The USS Lexington, located in Corpus Christi, is a decommissioned aircraft carrier that served in World War II. The ship has been turned into a museum, and visitors can explore its decks and learn about its history.
However, the ship is also known for its paranormal activity. Visitors have reported hearing strange noises and feeling cold spots on the ship. Some have even claimed to have seen the ghosts of sailors who died during World War II.
Despite the ghost stories, both The Alamo and USS Lexington remain popular tourist destinations in Texas. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, these historic sites offer a unique glimpse into Texas’s past.
Texas Ghost Stories and Legends
Texas is home to many ghost stories and legends that have been passed down through generations. Some of these stories are rooted in history, while others are more recent. Many of these tales are associated with death, murder, and suicide, making them all the more haunting.
One of the most famous ghost stories in Texas is that of the Littlefield House, located on the University of Texas at Austin campus. Legend has it that the wife of the house’s original owner died in the house and her ghost still haunts the premises. Visitors have reported hearing the sound of a woman playing the piano and seeing her ghostly figure in the windows.
Another popular ghost story in Texas is that of the AI Engineering Building at the University of Texas at Austin. It is said that a student committed suicide in the building and his ghost can still be seen wandering the halls. Some have reported seeing red eyes staring back at them from the windows of the building.
There are also many stories of children laughing and playing in abandoned buildings throughout Texas. These tales are often associated with the tragic deaths of young children, and their spirits are said to remain in the places where they once played.
Halloween is a time when many of these ghost stories and legends are retold and celebrated throughout Texas. It is a time when the veil between the living and the dead is said to be at its thinnest, making it easier for spirits to communicate with the living.
Overall, Texas is a state rich in ghost stories and legends, each one with its own unique history and haunting details. Whether you believe in the supernatural or not, these tales are a fascinating part of Texas’ cultural heritage.
Conclusion
Texas is a state that is steeped in history and has its fair share of spooky stories. From the east to the west and north to south, there are many haunted places in Texas that are sure to send a chill down your spine.
Whether you are a Texan or a visitor to the Lone Star State, there are plenty of opportunities to explore some of the most haunted places in Texas. From the ghostly apparitions at the historic Bowers Mansion in Palestine to the persistent activity at the State Penitentiary in Huntsville, there is something for everyone.
Central Texas is home to some of the most haunted places in the state, including the Driskill Hotel in Austin and the Menger Hotel in San Antonio. These hotels have a rich history and have been the site of many unexplained events over the years.
North Texas also has its fair share of haunted places, including the Old Alton Bridge in Denton. This bridge is said to be home to the Goatman, a half-man, half-goat creature that terrorizes visitors to the area.
South Texas is home to La Carafe in Houston, a bar that is known for its ghost sightings. The bar has a unique charm that keeps customers coming back, but it is the ghostly apparitions that keep them on their toes.
West Texas is not without its haunted places, with the El Paso High School being one of the most haunted locations in the area. Visitors have reported seeing ghostly figures and hearing strange noises throughout the building.
Overall, Texas is a state that is rich in history and has many haunted places for visitors to explore. Whether you are a believer in the paranormal or not, these locations are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most haunted places in Texas?
Texas is known for its rich history and culture, and with that comes a number of haunted places. Some of the most haunted places in Texas include The Alamo in San Antonio, Baker Hotel in Mineral Wells, and The Driskill Hotel in Austin. Other notable haunted places include The Devil’s Backbone in Wimberley, The Jefferson Hotel in Jefferson, and The Magnolia Hotel in Seguin.
Can you share some ghost stories from haunted places in Texas?
There are numerous ghost stories associated with haunted places in Texas. For instance, The Alamo is said to be haunted by the spirits of soldiers who died during the Battle of the Alamo. The Baker Hotel is said to be haunted by the ghost of a woman who jumped to her death from the roof of the hotel. The Driskill Hotel is said to be haunted by the ghost of a young girl who fell to her death down the grand staircase.
Are there any well-known paranormal investigations conducted in Texas?
Yes, there have been several well-known paranormal investigations conducted in Texas. One of the most famous investigations was conducted by the Ghost Adventures crew at The Magnolia Hotel in Seguin. The investigation was featured on an episode of the popular TV show. Other notable investigations include those conducted at The Alamo and The Baker Hotel.
What is the history behind the haunted places in Texas?
The haunted places in Texas have a rich history that dates back several centuries. Many of these places were witness to significant events in Texas history, such as The Alamo, which was the site of a pivotal battle during the Texas Revolution. The Baker Hotel was once a popular destination for wealthy guests, but it closed down during the Great Depression and has been abandoned ever since. The Driskill Hotel, on the other hand, has a history of being haunted by the ghost of a young girl who died in the hotel.
How do these haunted places in Texas attract tourists?
Haunted places in Texas attract tourists by offering a unique and thrilling experience. Many of these places offer ghost tours and paranormal investigations, which allow visitors to learn about the history of the location while also experiencing the paranormal activity firsthand. Additionally, these places are often featured in books, movies, and TV shows, which increases their popularity among tourists.
What precautions should one take while visiting the haunted places in Texas?
While visiting haunted places in Texas, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety. Visitors should always be respectful of the location and its history, and should never vandalize or damage the property. Additionally, visitors should be aware of their surroundings and should never wander off alone. It is also recommended that visitors bring a flashlight and wear comfortable shoes, as many of these places are old and have uneven surfaces.
