View source for Most Haunted Cities in the United States

'''The 10 Most Haunted Cities in the United States''' highlights urban centers that have gained a reputation for ghostly encounters, haunted buildings, and chilling folklore. These cities attract visitors who are interested in the paranormal as well as those who want to explore their history, architecture, and cultural traditions.  

== Savannah, Georgia ==
Often called ''America's most haunted city,'' Savannah is known for its cobblestone streets, moss-draped oak trees, and centuries-old mansions. The city was built on Native American burial grounds and saw heavy casualties during the Civil War and yellow fever epidemics. Haunted sites include the Sorrel-Weed House, Colonial Park Cemetery, and the Pirates' House tavern.  

== New Orleans, Louisiana ==
New Orleans combines French, Spanish, and African traditions with a strong history of voodoo, creating a unique atmosphere for ghost stories. The French Quarter is home to tales of the LaLaurie Mansion, haunted hotels, and mysterious apparitions. The city's above-ground cemeteries, known as "Cities of the Dead," add to its haunted reputation.  

== Salem, Massachusetts ==
Salem is forever associated with the infamous 1692 witch trials. The city is said to be haunted by the spirits of those accused of witchcraft. Landmarks include the Old Burying Point Cemetery, the Witch House, and sites connected to colonial court proceedings. Salem’s haunted reputation makes it a popular October destination.  

== Gettysburg, Pennsylvania ==
Site of one of the bloodiest battles of the American Civil War, Gettysburg is considered one of the most haunted locations in the country. Visitors report sightings of soldiers on the battlefield, sounds of cannons, and ghostly reenactments. Devil’s Den and the Gettysburg National Military Park are especially known for paranormal activity.  

== St. Augustine, Florida ==
Founded in 1565, St. Augustine is the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the United States. Its long history includes pirate attacks, wars, and colonial struggles. Haunted locations include the St. Augustine Lighthouse, Castillo de San Marcos, and the Old Jail.  

== San Francisco, California ==
San Francisco is known for Alcatraz Island, once home to some of the most notorious criminals in U.S. history. Former inmates and guards are said to haunt its cells. Other haunted sites include the Golden Gate Park’s ghost stories and historic hotels like the Queen Anne Hotel.  

== Charleston, South Carolina ==
Charleston’s haunted history comes from its role as a colonial port city, a hub of the slave trade, and its devastation during wars and epidemics. Popular haunted sites include the Old City Jail, Exchange and Provost Dungeon, and numerous antebellum mansions with ghost stories.  

== Chicago, Illinois ==
Chicago is associated with famous hauntings such as Resurrection Mary, a phantom hitchhiker said to appear on Archer Avenue, and the ghostly remains of the Eastland disaster. The city also has haunted cemeteries like Bachelor's Grove, considered one of the most active paranormal sites in the United States.  

== Portland, Oregon ==
Portland is infamous for its Shanghai Tunnels, once used to kidnap sailors and force them into labor. These underground passages are said to be haunted by victims who suffered in the tunnels. Other haunted locations include old theaters and historic hotels in the downtown area.  

== Washington, D.C. ==
The nation’s capital has its share of ghost stories, particularly connected to the White House. Reports claim that past presidents, including Abraham Lincoln, still walk its halls. Other haunted sites include the U.S. Capitol Building, the Octagon House, and historic Georgetown.  

== See also ==
* [[Haunted places in the United States]]
* [[Ghosts in American folklore]]
* [[History of the United States]]
* [[Tourism in the United States]]

== Frequently asked questions ==
'''Which city is considered the most haunted in the United States?'''  
Savannah, Georgia, is often ranked as the most haunted city due to its historic cemeteries, ghost tours, and widespread paranormal reports.  

'''Are these haunted cities safe to visit?'''  
Yes. The haunted reputation adds to their cultural tourism, and many offer guided tours that are safe and family-friendly.  

'''Do ghost tours in these cities rely on real history?'''  
Most ghost tours combine verifiable historical events with folklore and local legend.  

== External links ==
* [https://www.nps.gov/gett/index.htm National Park Service – Gettysburg National Military Park]
* [https://www.nps.gov/casa/index.htm National Park Service – Castillo de San Marcos]
* [https://www.nps.gov/alca/index.htm National Park Service – Alcatraz Island]
* [https://www.nps.gov/saia/index.htm National Park Service – St. Augustine]  

[[Category:Haunted locations in the United States]]
[[Category:Cities in the United States]]
[[Category:American folklore]]