Ghostly Getaways: Must-Visit Haunted Houses in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s illustrious history provides a great setting for spooky sights, ghost tours, and other haunted attractions. If unfamiliar sounds, sights, and eerie, dark rooms excite you, you’ll want to add these haunted attractions to your list of must-do Halloween activities. Here are the spookiest spots in the state.
Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia, PA
The first prisoner stepped foot in Eastern State Penitentiary in 1829. The penitentiary, which is now a National Historic Landmark, closed in 1971. It has been empty ever since, but many believe the prisoners’ spirits still remain. You can experience this haunted prison for yourself by going on a tour or attending one of the many year-round events.
Old Jail Museum, Jim Thorpe, PA
Back in 1877, one of the leaders of a famous union of coal miners, the Molly Maguires, was sentenced to death at Jim Thorpe’s Old Jail Museum. It's believed that, on the way to his execution, the leader smacked his hand against the wall, stating that he was innocent, and that his handprint would endure as proof. Today, the handprint can still be seen in cell 17. Sound intriguing? You can see it on one of the jail's ghost tours the first three Saturdays in October.
Farnsworth House Inn, Gettysburg, PA
While the battle of Gettysburg was raging, soldiers would hide and shoot from the windows inside the Farnsworth House attic. The soldiers’ ghosts (and those of their victims) refuse to rest in peace. For a spooky experience, Farnsworth House visitors can tour this haunted inn and may even encounter ghosts themselves. Check out the website for information on ghost tours and more.
Reaper's Revenge, Scranton, PA
Want to experience some of the eeriest entertainment in Northeastern Pennsylvania? If your answer’s yes, you’ll want to run right over to Reaper’s Revenge in Scranton. Featuring terrifying dark mazes, haunted hayrides, and more, Reaper’s Revenge will have you shaking in your boots.
Hundred Acres Manor, Bethel Park, PA
For folks seeking some serious excitement, Hundred Acres Manor is a popular destination. Featuring a haunted house, wagon rides, and escape rooms, Hundred Acres Manor has no shortage of entertaining attractions. Experience the extreme by being buried alive in the burial simulator, where you’re “placed on your back in a coffin and sealed into total darkness.”
Fright Factory, Philadelphia, PA
Located in South Philadelphia, the Fright Factory features 25,000 square-feet of haunted goodness. Take a terrifying trip through all three of this year’s attractions: Industrial Nightmare, Silent Screams Asylum, and Fright Factory Unearthed—all packed inside of a building that’s of 105 years-old.
Hotel Bethlehem, Bethlehem, PA
Having been open since 1741, it’s no wonder why so many tales of the supernatural float through the Hotel Bethlehem’s halls and rooms. Ghosts are thought to occupy the hotel—including those of staff from years and years ago. Visitors looking for an opportunity to meet one of the hotel’s extraordinary “guests” can book Room 932, which is also known as the “Room with a Boo.”
Mishler Theatre, Altoona, PA
According to the testimony of a young girl, it is said that the ghost of the theatre’s founder, Issac Mishler, haunts the theatre to this day. Throughout the years, actors, members of the crew, office staff, and even some visitors believe they’ve heard, felt, or seen Mishler. Visit the Mishler Theatre for an opportunity to hear, feel, or see him yourself.
Pennhurst Asylum, Spring City, PA
The Pennhurst Asylum is one of the most popular haunted attractions in the state. This walking, hospital-themed attraction uses a combination of actors, animatronics, digital sound, and more to terrify transients. Visitors will venture through the Asylum, Containment, the Morgue, and, finally, experience the Mayflower After Dark.
Jean Bonnet Tavern, Bedford, PA
Both tavern patrons and staff have disclosed paranormal activity at the Jean Bonnet Tavern. Whether it’s talk of doors opening and closing on their own or feelings of being touched when no one else is present, there’s always something spooky going on at the tavern. Come for the memorable dining experience and inviting atmosphere, stay for the scaries.
Key Insights at a Glance
- Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia is believed to be haunted by the spirits of former prisoners.
- Jim Thorpe's Old Jail Museum features the handprint of a condemned leader of the Molly Maguires.
- The Farnsworth House Inn in Gettysburg is said to be haunted by soldiers from the battle.
- Reaper's Revenge in Scranton offers terrifying mazes and haunted hayrides.
- Hundred Acres Manor in Bethel Park features a burial simulator for extreme thrills.
- The Fright Factory in Philadelphia offers three haunted attractions in a 105-year-old building.
- Hotel Bethlehem is rumored to be haunted by ghosts of past staff members.
- The Mishler Theatre in Altoona is said to be haunted by its founder, Issac Mishler.
- Pennhurst Asylum in Spring City is a popular haunted attraction with hospital-themed scares.
- The Jean Bonnet Tavern in Bedford is known for paranormal activity, including doors opening on their own.
