If you’re drawn to the macabre and the creepy, Illinois offers an impressive array of haunted locations, eerie attractions, and spine-tingling experiences. Here are ten things you should see:
1. Resurrection Cemetery (Justice)
Home to the legendary ghost of “Resurrection Mary,” this cemetery is famous for sightings of a young woman in white who is said to hitchhike along Archer Avenue and vanish near the cemetery gates.
2. Old Joliet Prison (Joliet)
This abandoned prison, once housing notorious criminals, is a hotspot for paranormal activity. Visitors report disembodied voices, shadowy figures, and footsteps echoing through the empty halls.
3. McPike Mansion (Alton)
Considered one of the most haunted houses in the U.S., McPike Mansion is known for unexplained phenomena and is believed to be haunted by both a Native American spirit and a woman found dead in a bathtub.
4. Congress Plaza Hotel (Chicago)
Chicago’s historic Congress Plaza Hotel is infamous for its ghost stories, including a mysterious “Piano Man,” unexplained organ music, and a sealed-off room rumored to be so terrifying it was permanently closed.
5. Lincoln Park Zoo (Chicago)
Built atop a former cemetery, the zoo is rumored to be haunted by the spirits of thousands whose graves were disturbed. Paranormal events and ghost stories are common, especially after dark.
6. Manteno State Mental Hospital (Manteno)
This abandoned asylum is notorious for its tragic history and reported hauntings. Visitors describe feelings of dread, unexplained noises, and shadowy figures.
7. Bachelor’s Grove Cemetery (Midlothian)
One of the most haunted cemeteries in the Midwest, Bachelor’s Grove is known for ghostly figures, phantom vehicles, and the infamous “White Lady” appearing among the tombstones.
8. Mysterious Mineral Springs (Alton)
Once a hotel and now a museum, this site is known for ghostly encounters with former guests Lou Harwood and Pearl Sans. Guided tours share chilling tales of its haunted past.
9. Inez Clarke Monument (Chicago, Graceland Cemetery)
The life-sized glass-encased statue of young Inez Clarke is said to disappear and reappear overnight, according to security guards and tour bus drivers, adding a layer of mystery to this cemetery.
10. Massacre Haunted House (Montgomery)
One of the largest and scariest haunted houses in Illinois, Massacre Haunted House offers over 35,000 square feet of terror, multiple themed attractions, and an immersive, interactive horror experience.
These destinations are sure to satisfy anyone with a passion for the macabre and creepy, especially those who enjoy geography challenges and exploring unique places in Illinois.
Sources:
- https://windycityghosts.com/most-haunted-places-in-illinois/
- https://fearthemassacre.com/creepiest-haunted-places/
- https://www.illinoishauntedhouses.com/real-haunts/
- https://www.enjoyillinois.com/plan-your-trip/travel-inspiration/spooky-sights-and-scary-stays-in-illinois/