Virginia’s long history and storied landscapes make it a haven for the macabre and mysterious. If you’re drawn to the eerie, here are ten things you should see in Virginia—each guaranteed to send a chill down your spine:
1. Hollywood Cemetery (Richmond)
This sprawling, gothic cemetery is the final resting place of two U.S. presidents, Confederate leaders, and over 18,000 soldiers. It’s famous for ghost stories, including the “Richmond Vampire” said to lurk in the tomb of W.W. Poole, and a cast-iron dog statue guarding a child’s grave.
2. Colonial Williamsburg Ghost Tour (Williamsburg)
Walk the haunted streets of Colonial Williamsburg, where historic houses like the Peyton Randolph House are said to be haunted by former residents and tragic guests. Ghost tours recount tales of footsteps, apparitions, and restless spirits.
3. Ferry Plantation House (Virginia Beach)
Built on land with a history dating to 1642, this house is reportedly haunted by at least eleven spirits—including shipwreck victims, former slaves, and the famous “Lady in White.” Visitors report voices, apparitions, and a heavy, draining presence.
4. Princess Anne Country Club (Virginia Beach)
This exclusive club is said to be haunted by a 1920s bride (often accompanied by jazz music), as well as less-friendly male spirits who chase off visitors. Reports include ghostly clinking glasses and phantom footsteps.
5. Bacon’s Castle (Surry)
America’s oldest brick dwelling, dating to 1665, is home to stories of fireballs, mysterious faces, and objects moving on their own. It’s also the site of North America’s oldest English formal garden.
6. Bunny Man Bridge (Clifton)
A legendary site in Northern Virginia, this isolated railway bridge is infamous for tales of a hatchet-wielding figure in a bunny suit. The legend dates back to the 1970s and continues to draw thrill-seekers.
7. St. Albans Sanatorium (Radford)
This former psychiatric hospital is notorious for its eerie atmosphere and reported paranormal activity, including unexplained noises and apparitions. It’s a favorite spot for ghost hunters.
8. Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum (Virginia Beach)
Housed in a former life-saving station, this museum is said to be haunted by the Witch of Pungo, Grace Sherwood, and the spirits of shipwreck victims. Staff have reported laughter, footsteps, and other unexplained phenomena.
9. Grand Caverns (Grottoes)
This ancient cave system is not only geologically fascinating but also the subject of local legends and ghost stories. Some believe Virginia’s caves are all mysteriously connected.
10. Crawford Road (Yorktown)
Often cited as one of the most haunted roads in Virginia, Crawford Road is the site of numerous ghost sightings and local legends, making it a must-visit for those seeking a supernatural thrill.
These destinations blend history, legend, and the supernatural—perfect for anyone who enjoys the macabre side of Virginia’s past.
Sources:
- https://www.virginia.org/blog/post/virginias-haunted-sites/
- https://colonialghosts.com/top-ten-haunted-places-in-eastern-virginia/
- https://neptuneghosts.com/top-10-haunted-places-in-virginia-beach/
- https://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/blog/post/haunted-virginia-beach/