Top Ghost Hunting Locations
& How to Conduct a Successful Investigation
About Pamela Goodyer Iconic Photographer
Pamela Goodyer’s Photography Travel
THE BEST GHOST HUNTING LOCATIONS
We ventured into the most haunted places for ghost hunting! Dare to uncover the chilling secrets we found.
OUR PROMISE – NO A.I.
PLACES FOR PARANORMAL INVESTIGATIONS
If you’re looking for a new hobby that combines your love of adventure with your passion for photography, ghost hunting might be the perfect activity for you! This article will explore the basics, from equipment to techniques, and click the images to see good locations.
PLACES FOR PARANORMAL INVESTIGATIONS
If you’re looking for a new hobby that combines your love of adventure with your passion for photography, ghost hunting might be the perfect activity for you! This article will cover the basics, from equipment to techniques, and provide links to good locations to explore.
HOW DO I FIND PLACES TO GHOST HUNT?
Our list serves as a great starting point, and we’ll guide you on how to discover other ghost hunting locations across the country.
WHERE DO YOU FIND THE MOST PARANORMAL ACTIVITY?
We have tips and tricks on how to locate areas with the most paranormal activity and how to connect with it.
WHAT EQUIPMENT DO I NEED?
We will explain the essentials for ghost hunting, focusing on the simplest gear rather than elaborate equipment.
CAN I GHOST HUNT WITH JUST MY CAMERA?
If your goal is to learn how to engage in genuine ghost hunting—not the performance often associated with it—focus on being present and aware.
IN THIS ARTICLE:
- 30+ Locations in the country to ghost hunt
- Links to Featured Ghost Hunting Articles with details on every location. Where to go, how to get there, where to eat and stay and more.
- Ghost hunting photography: how to section
- Paranormal Pam’s Tips and experience.
- Photography Gear for Ghost Hunting.
PARANORMAL ACTIVITY – FEATURED ARTICLES
We ventured into each of these haunted locations, delving into ghost hunts, creating eerie photographs, and combing through the sinister surroundings to gather all the chilling information you need for your thrilling journey.
MORE GHOST HUNTING SPOTS
Information on each location is below all the images
EASTERN STATE PENITENTIARY
2027 Fairmount Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19130
EAST POINT LIGHTHOUSE
10 Lighthouse Rd,
Heislerville, New Jersey
BATSTO VILLAGE, NEW JERSEY
31 Batsto Rd, Hammonton, NJ
Photo by Mike Ver Sprill
CAPE MAY LIGHTHOUSE
303 County Hwy 629
Cape May, New Jersey
EMLEN PHYSICK ESTATE
1048 Washington Street
Cape May, New Jersey
THE INN OF CAPE MAY
7 Ocean St, Cape May, New Jersey
CONGRESS HALL
200 Congress Place, Cape May, New Jersey
SOUTHERN MANSION
720 Washington St, Cape May, New Jersey
THE MACOMBER
727 Beach Avenue, Cape May
New Jersey
THE QUEEN VICTORIA
102 Ocean Street, Cape May, New Jersey
**Disclaimer:**
Pam is not responsible for any possessions, souls, or dignity lost during these excursions. Camera insurance doesn’t cover “paranormal damage.” Trust me, I’ve asked. 👻📸
EASTERN STATE PENITENTIARY
The Eastern State Penitentiary, its towering walls casting a foreboding shadow over the grounds, was known as one of the most haunted places in the country. Curious tourists are drawn to its doors despite its grim reputation to experience the paranormal activity that lurks within.
As we made our way through the dark corridors and crumbling cells on our tour, we couldn’t ignore the eerie feeling that someone or something was watching us. The air felt heavy with the weight of past suffering and despair, and every creak and whisper seemed like a message from the other side. This was not just an old jail but a place where spirits lingered, and ghosts roamed freely. We felt significant paranormal activity as we photographed the prison.
EAST POINT LIGHTHOUSE
The East Point Lighthouse loomed above us as we set up our camera equipment for a night of Milky Way photography. An eerie feeling settled over us as the stars twinkled in the dark sky. Suddenly, we felt strange whispers and saw shadowy figures moving within the lighthouse walls. Our new camera malfunctioned, its lens twisting unnaturally while several images on our memory card were wiped clean without explanation. Fear clenched at our hearts as we realized this was no ordinary paranormal activity, but something far more sinister could be at play in the abandoned lighthouse.
BATSTO VILLAGE
The buildings stand like silent sentinels; their walls were cracked and weathered by time and neglect, but are now fully restored. Yet there is an eerie perfection to the feeling of old-time eeriness, as if the village is frozen in time, a haunting reminder of what was lost.
Batsto Village in Hammonton, New Jersey, is infamous for its spine-chilling apparitions and unexplained paranormal activity. Ghostly whispers echo through the abandoned buildings, and an eerie chill hangs in the air, sending shivers down visitors’ spines. Many have reported seeing shadowy figures roaming the streets at night; some have even claimed to feel a cold hand on their shoulder when no one else is around. The haunting energy of this place is palpable, leaving a lasting impression on all who dare to enter its gates.
Don’t tell the women in the office what you’re doing, even if you’re doing photography. There’s one horrible woman there who knows absolutely nothing about what she’s talking about and is very mean.
It’s possible that evil spirits have infiltrated her being and corrupted her mind. Beware of the most evil in the place: the arrogant, misinformed worker. And the photography there is quite dull. I would only go there to ghost hunt at night and sneak in. The park closes at dusk. Rangers patrol the general area. Maybe get dropped off at the location to ghost hunt, and don’t leave your car in the parking lot. If you get caught by the police, tell them it’s payback to the mean woman in the office. In all seriousness, it is illegal to trespass here at night, so be warned and also be very afraid. It’s terrifying here at night in the dark.
PHYSICAL ADDRESS: 31 Batsto Road, Egg Harbor City, New Jersey, 08215
CAPE MAY LIGHTHOUSE
Those who dare to venture up the towering lighthouse after dark may face the light keeper who still roams its halls. She appears in a long, tattered white gown, her eyes glowing with an otherworldly light. She clenches a rusted lantern in one hand and cradles her ghostly child in the other. Together, they haunt the winding staircase, their ethereal wails echoing through the night as they search for unsuspecting victims to join them in their never-ending vigil.
Pamela Goodyer, the renowned alien photographer, often wonders if her curious subjects will one day reach out to her. Were the aliens silently observing her every move, waiting for the perfect moment to make their presence known? Or were it the apparitions that roam the Cape May Lighthouse that she was sensing?
EMLEN PSYCHICK ESTATE
The estate was once a grand family home, but now it is a haunting reminder of the past. The walls are lined with portraits of long-dead ancestors. The current owners, the Mid-Atlantic Center For The Arts, have tried to maintain the property, but their efforts seem futile against the evil spirits that roam the halls. It is said that the ghostly apparitions of the former homeowners – Emlen’s mother and aunt – still linger within these walls, their presence felt by all who dare to enter. One is filled with unexplainable anger, while the other exudes a peaceful, unsettling calmness. And beware of the phantom barks and paws that can be heard throughout the building – remnants of the beloved family dogs that never left this place, even in death. Visitors to the MAC have reported feeling watched and followed as they explore this eerie abode, leaving many wondering if they, too, will become part of its tragic history.
THE INN OF CAPE MAY
Legends whisper of the restless spirits that haunt Room 88 and Room 92 at the Inn of Cape May. Visitors often hear the playful laughter of a boy and girl known as Annie echoing through the halls at night. But beware, these spirits do not simply observe from the shadows – they actively interact with guests. They delight in knocking on doors throughout the inn, even when no living children are present. Many have been startled by these mischievous spirits, mistaking them for real children until they learn the truth. Be warned, a stay in Rooms 88 and 92 may leave you with more than just memories – it may bring you face to face with the ghostly children who still roam within the inn’s walls.
CONGRESS HALL
The Congress Hall Hotel, a beloved fixture in Cape May, has gained quite a reputation for its otherworldly occupants. Whispers of ghostly giggles, flickering lights, and objects moving independently have spread like wildfire among guests and employees. And who can blame them? The hotel has become a hot spot for believers and skeptics, all seeking a thrilling brush with the unknown.
Despite the bustling crowds and bright sunshine, unease lingered as we entered Congress Hall. The constant hum of human activity drowned out any possibility of detecting paranormal energy. But deep down, we couldn’t shake the feeling that something supernatural lurked in the shadows, waiting for the right moment to reveal itself. Maybe it wasn’t wise to be there during such a busy time for ghost hunting, but I couldn’t resist the urge to explore this historic place.
We only stopped in for a minute and knew we needed to return during the evening hours when fewer humans were around. We like it that way anyway.
SOUTHERN MANSION
The grand mansion, once belonging to George Allen and his family, was eventually passed down to his niece, Ester Mercur and her husband. After Ester’s untimely passing, her husband, Ulysses, could not bear to stay in the home without her, so he sold the entire estate, including all of its lavish furnishings.
Legend has it that the spirit of Ester Mercur is joyful, and she’s ecstatic that her forever home has been restored. You can hear her disembodied laughter throughout the house and sometimes catch glimpses of her twirling and dancing in empty rooms. The sweet scent of her perfume lingers in every corner, and you may even hear the rustle of her dress as she passes by. But don’t be afraid because Ester and the other spirits who call this bed and breakfast their eternal abode are all friendly and welcoming. Unlike most ghosts, they’re far from grumpy or possessive – in fact, they love to play tricks on guests (nothing too scary or annoying, though). So come for a stay and see if you can spot any of these spectral roommates!
As we approached the towering mansion, eeriness permeated the air. We noticed strange orbs floating in the first photo we took, but there was no explanation for them.
We were greeted warmly at the mansion and decided to stroll around midday, snapping photos. Of course, this was not the ideal time to search for supernatural occurrences; we were sure they wouldn’t let us enter at midnight. However, as we walked through the halls, we couldn’t shake the feeling of a young child playing nearby. And then, in an instant, we felt a blur rush past us – a shadow presence that we couldn’t quite put into human words. But there was no denying the sound of laughter from this apparition. We felt the presence of a parental figure nearby, watching over us.
As soon as we arrived, it was clear that this place was extremely haunted. We could feel an eerie presence surrounding us when we stepped foot on the property.
THE MACOMBER
The Hotel Macomber is now a national historic monument. At its grand debut, it was the largest wooden structure on the east side of the Mississippi River. The family-owned hotel offers a great stay and otherworldly guests. The ethereal spirits have been known to play tricks on staff and visitors alike, making lights flicker and doors creak open or slam shut.
The Hotel Macomber, known as New Stockton Villa, had a tragic past. Its original owner, Sarah Davis, was plagued by immense grief after losing her daughter Cannel to encephalitis in the 1920s. Despite her love for the hotel business, Sarah’s sorrow led her to take her own life on the premises in 1934. Legend has it that she still roams the halls and likes to do things to make the guests’ experience more pleasant.
We traveled to the Maycomer to speak with the owners to inquire about ghost hunting, but it was in the summer, busy months, and they didn’t seem to have time to get back to us. It might be better because we can connect with intense emotions when ghost hunting. The extreme grief of the mother may be too much for us to bear.
QUEEN VICTORIA INN
In 1881, Douglas Gregory, who hailed from Cape May and worked as a Delaware River pilot, constructed this grand residence for his family. Over time, this building has changed hands numerous times, serving as a community service center for the Navy, a medical practice, and even a summer boarding house with converted rooms in 1943. However, it was ultimately restored and revitalized into what is now known as The Queen Victoria in 1981.
As we entered the Inn to enquire about a night’s stay, the atmosphere changed drastically. When we explained that we would conduct a paranormal investigation, a staff member recounted countless spine-tingling tales of hauntings and supernatural occurrences within these walls. She warned us that the spirits are most active in the winter months, taking advantage of the emptiness and isolation. We knew then that spending the night here would be a unique experience, but we were in midsummer, and no rooms were available. This is on our list of places to return to stay the night and communicate with the apparitions so they can tell us the story of the Inn.
102 Ocean Street, Cape May, New Jersey 08204 – 609-884-8702 – stay@queenvictoria.com
SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS
We had incredible results in Salem. There was paranormal activity all over the place in the town, especially in the evening. There are plenty of tours you can go on, and they will point out all the great places where there’s known apparition activity.
Famous for the Salem Witch Trials, this town in Massachusetts attracts hunters worldwide. It is also a haven for those seeking to conduct paranormal investigations and photograph, like we did.
READ THE FULL SALEM ARTICLE – CLICK HERE.
HOUSE OF THE SEVEN GABLES:
Constructed in 1668 for Captain John Turner, the House of Seven Gables is an impressive colonial estate in Salem, Massachusetts. The Turner family owned and resided in the house for three generations before it became famous as the setting for Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel bearing the same name. Originally called the Turner House, it was eventually renamed to reflect its literary significance.
OLD BURYING POINT:
The final burial place for those executed, according to some people. (You can see some of our pictures with the ghostly activity in our article.) Despite common belief, some say the graveyard does not contain any of the convicted Salem witches. As it was not permitted for convicted witches to have a Christian burial, their bodies were likely taken by their families and buried on private land. Though there is no concrete evidence, some family legends suggest this to be true.
THE WITCH HOUSE:
Where Judge Corwin, who was involved in the trials, resided. Despite its name, Salem’s Witch House was never inhabited by anyone accused of witchcraft. Its infamous connection to the trials stems from its previous owner, Jonathan Corwin, who served as a judge during the notorious Salem Witch Trials. Under his jurisdiction, 19 individuals were wrongly sentenced to death by hanging.
GALLOWS HILL:
Some believe this is the site of the witch-hangings. There have been reports of skeletal remains found on this site. The debate arises whether these bones belong to the victims of the notorious 1692 witch trials. According to the Peabody Essex Museum, bone fragments have indeed been discovered. However, it is impossible to determine precisely where they come from.
Tales of spirits and otherworldly happenings remain a prominent part of Salem’s fascination with the supernatural. Tim Maguire, proprietor of the Salem Night Tour, disclosed to author Sam Baltrusis that Gallows Hill holds a dark past beyond its connection to the infamous witch trials. According to Maguire, there have been reports of multiple suicides and unexplained incidents at this location.
SEE FULL ARTICLE LINK ABOVE
JEROME ARIZONA
Jerome is located among Arizona’s rugged red cliffs. It is a town steeped in history and shrouded in mystery. Some say it is the most haunted place they have ever found, while others argue it shares the title with Salem, Massachusetts, for ghost hunting. Regardless, one thing is certain—there is no shortage of paranormal activity in this quaint little town.
We love doing our investigations in Jerome. It is one of our top ten picks for these types of locations. SEE THE ARTICLE ON THE GOLD KING MINE.
During our paranormal investigation photography weekend in Jerome, AZ, we were surrounded by countless reports of eerie encounters and unexplained occurrences. From whispers heard in empty streets to sudden drops in temperature and strange orbs captured on film, the entire town seemed to be a hotbed for supernatural activity.
But perhaps the most notorious location for ghostly sightings is the Gold King Mine, where apparitions are said to loom even during broad daylight. Once a bustling hub for mining and industry, this now abandoned site holds onto its past through spectral residue.
As we ventured further into the heart of Jerome, we discovered that hauntings were not limited to just one spot. The Connor Hotel and Mile High Inn were two other notable locations known for their guests from beyond. Whether it’s the sound of phantom footsteps or the feeling of being watched by unseen eyes, these places are rich with histories.
As we left Jerome behind, it was clear that this town had earned its reputation as a haven for seekers of the supernatural. And while some may dismiss it as mere legend, those who have experienced its secrets firsthand will always carry a piece of Jerome.
GETTYSBURG PENNSYLVANIA
In the rolling hills of southern Pennsylvania lies the historic town of Gettysburg, a place rich with history and rumored to be haunted by the ghosts of soldiers who fought and died on its battlefields. The streets are lined with stately brick buildings, some dating back to the 1800s, and the air is heavy with a palpable sense of past tragedies. With its abundance of eerie cemeteries, abandoned buildings, and reported paranormal activity, Gettysburg is a prime destination for those seeking an adrenaline-fueled ghost hunting experience.
WILLIAMSBURG VIRGINIA
The town of Williamsburg is located in the state of Virginia. Despite its quaint appearance, this town is known as a haven for paranormal activity and has become a popular destination for ghost hunters and thrill-seekers alike. The streets are lined with historic buildings, each one holding its own secrets and stories of hauntings. From abandoned mansions to eerie cemeteries, Williamsburg offers multiple areas for investigation into the unknown. It’s a place where the veil between the living and the dead seems particularly thin, making it an ideal location for those seeking to connect with the supernatural world.
- The public hospital of Williamsburg.
- The Peyton Randolph House in Williamsburg.
- St Albans Senatorium in Ranford.
GHOST HUNTING PHOTOGRAPHY INFORMATION
Suppose you step back and go to our Main Ghost Hunting Photography Page. There, you will see an abundance of photography how-tos and some frightening information that can be very useful for your expeditions.
NO NEED FOR FANCY EQUIPMENT
We repeat — you DO NOT need all sorts of fancy equipment. A backpack full of gear is nice, but you can hunt, have fun, and successfully document the paranormal activity with a camera. We have a lot of equipment and often do not even need to use it. Our infrared camera broke, and we have not replaced it yet. Sometimes, the action is so prevalent that we start shooting. We are also psychics and mediums, so it may be a lot easier for us. Here are a few pointers on using your abilities rather than gear.
WE ALL HAVE A SIXTH SENSE
Some people are very close-minded; therefore, they will never acknowledge their abilities to do things outside the ordinary realm of human behavior. If you take a minute to open your mind and imagine that so many more things are possible than our human mind can even comprehend, we don’t have to start believing in sensationalized mumbo jumbo, but we can begin to understand that contacting the other side is possible and very real.
PARANORMAL PAM
Pam connects with the other dimensions; she has to be very calm and relaxed. We take her coffee away about an hour before entering a location. (This is not an easy task, and one staff member is assigned to distract her from noticing her missing coffee. Please don’t tell her we do this. REMINDER: This is supposed to be fun.) We keep her cheerful, which is not difficult to do. Upon arrival, she sometimes knows precisely where to go, and entities are drawn to her as if they know she can communicate with them. Some seem to have messages or issues and openly send the vibes about her.
MEDITATION BEFORE HUNTING
After you are calm, start to meditate. Practice meditation daily. The more practice you have, the easier it is to get to this place quickly. You can walk and meditate. You can walk and hum for your vibration. Do this in a low tone. Remember, our friends on the other side can hear you, and you don’t want to scare them. :) You may think they scare you, but we scare them.
Clear your mind. Allow the thoughts to pass through, but do not immediately attach to the feelings. A specific image, thought, or idea might appear much more powerful than the other passing thoughts. Pay a little more attention to this. After a while, you will decipher which thoughts are from apparitions in a different dimension trying to communicate. Please pay attention to these thoughts, and do not be afraid to go with them.
HOW TO PHOTOGRAPH APPARITIANS
If you’re interested in documenting your photography activity, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s possible to photograph apparitions. Here are some tips on how to do it:
First, make sure you have a good camera with a high-resolution sensor. This will help ensure that any images you capture are clear and sharp.
Second, use a tripod to keep your camera steady. This will reduce the chances of blurring or shaking the camera, which could ruin your photos.
Third, set the shutter speed to a faster setting. This will help freeze any movement, which is essential when photographing apparitions.
Finally, take lots of pictures! The more you take, the greater the chances you’ll capture something interesting.
PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR
DSLR Camera: We like DSLR cameras best, but investigations can be done with non-DSLR cameras. The best cameras allow you to change all the settings listed. Cameras cannot see in absolute darkness, so you must bring a light source for focusing.
DSLR Camera Lens: A wide-angle lens is ideal for investigating and taking pictures. It is also best to use a lens with an aperture such as 2.8 or below, so more light goes into the camera, since we will be in dark locations most of the time. High-quality images with high-end cameras are better, but lower-end lenses and cameras can also be used. We are here to document paranormal activity, so prioritizing quality may not be the priority.
Bring your tripod, infrared illuminating light, and shutter release. If the police question you, bring your driver’s license. Be prepared for that. Be sure there aren’t any NO TRESPASSING signs where you are—trespass at your own risk.
MORE GHOST-HUNTING PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATIONS
Many locations around the world are said to be haunted. You’ll want to check out some of these places if you’re interested in investigations. Here are a few of the most popular locations:
1. The Tower of London – This historic site is said to be home to the ghosts of Anne Boleyn and Lady Jane Grey.
2. The Ancient Ram Inn – This inn in England is said to be haunted by a monk who was murdered there.
3. The Bhangarh Fort – This fort in India is said to be cursed, and it’s said that anyone who spends the night there will never come out alive.
4. The Aokigahara Forest – This forest in Japan is known as the “Suicide Forest” because so many people have taken their own lives there. It’s also said to be haunted by the apparitions of those who have died there.
5. The Myrtles Plantation – This plantation in Louisiana is haunted by the spirits of slaves killed there.