Haunted Massachusetts: Ghostly Sites to Visit this Halloween!
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
Massachusetts is one of the most historical and haunted states in the US. Historical 18th century homes, abandoned buildings, creepy dark forests, and old cemeteries lead way to numerous opportunities for ghost sightings. I’ve heard so many creepy legends since moving to the Fall River metro. After moving here, I quickly learned that the southeastern portion of the state is home to the mysterious Bridgewater Triangle (explained in detail later on), widely reported to be one of the most haunted areas in the world. If you thought the Bermuda Triangle was creepy, wait until you hear about the Bridgewater!
This state has a long history of reported paranormal activity. I am not surprised as there are a lot of old areas with unusual backstories. The area has been studied extensively by paranormal investigators. The scary thing is that the hauntings are so widespread. Numerous areas, whether it be cities, rural areas, parks, houses, cemeteries, etc., all share histories of paranormal sightings which date back decades. It doesn’t matter where you go, the chance of seeing or feeling paranormal presence in the air is not out of the ordinary. I have been spooked on more than one occasion in my 2+ years of living here thus far.
Below are a few of my favorite haunts. For anyone who loves Halloween, ghost hunting, or just listening to a spooky story, this guide is for you.
The Lizzie Borden House
Fall River is home to the Lizzie Borden house, site of the infamous axe murder case of the late 1800’s. In 1892, Lizzie was acquitted of murdering her step mother and father. The theory is that she took a hatchet and murdered her mother upstairs in the bedroom and her father on the couch.
Most notably, an anonymous writer made up a catchy rhyme during the case. It goes like this:
“Lizzie Borden took an axe. And gave her mother forty whacks. When she saw what she had done, she gave her father forty-one.”
In one of the most prominent cases of the century, the court found Lizzie not guilty of both murders. Over 100 years later, many still wonder if Lizzie really did murder her parents. The wounds (Mrs. Borden had a huge 5 inch hole inside her head) were so gruesome which leads us to wonder what led to such outrage? For more in depth info on the case, I recommend reading The Borden Murders, or better yet signing up for a tour of the house. I learned a lot during this tour, not being overly familiar with small details beforehand.
The house in Fall River is now open for daily tours. You can take a walk around each room in the house, including those where the murders took place. Our tour guided provided us with so much interesting background info and passed around pieces of graphic court evidence. This old house definitely has a creepy vibe. Ghost sightings do not surprise me in the slightest.
You also have the option of staying overnight in the inn (breakfast included). As we were told during our tour, many guests are unable to stay the night as they claim to hear or witness strange sights. This house creeps most people out even on daytime tours. Even paranormal investigators from shows like “Ghost Adventures” barely managed to stay overnight due to intense paranormal activity they experienced. If you watch the Lizzie Borden episode, it appears that Zak Bagans and crew get some feedback from Lizzie.
Allegedly, Lizzie still haunts the house today. During our tour, we saw a picture that someone took during a previous visit where Lizzie’s ghost is looking out of her 2nd floor bedroom. The choice is up to you to decide if what they saw really was a ghost!
You will see a Ouija board in the sitting room. According to staff, the board went missing for some time and was returned with a note from Lizzie stating “I’m back.”
Whether or not a ghost actually haunts this eerie house, one thing is for sure: you will definitely feel a creepy, somber vibe as you walk through each room. Something feels eerie or generally off. Perhaps it is due to the combination of vintage furniture and wallpaper, graphic photos, the quietness, and the gruesome history of the case.
Myles Standish State Forest
Myles Standish State Forest is one of my favorite places in the state. This is where I come to bike and hike. I have trained for several 5ks and half marathons here. This gorgeous recreational area is ideal for year-round exercise. The forest spans more than 12,000 acres and includes the towns of Plymouth and Carver. Although it is beautiful any time of the year, I love the fall season most. The cooler temperatures, bright foliage, and an overall eerie feeling just sets the mood for fall/Halloween season.
The desolateness of the area combined with typically overcast skies and tall pine trees, along with the haunted history of the forest make it a great place to take an October walk or bike ride. The forest just gives off an eerie dark vibe and the absence of any tourist traffic gives you that sense that you are alone (in terms of other people that is!). Honestly, I would not be surprised if a Sasquatch or ghost walked out of the forest at any moment.
I learned while living in the region that Myles Standish is supposedly the site of several strange events. First off, legends state an old abandoned mental institution lurks somewhere deep within the woods. I’ve hiked the forest many times and seen no evidence to date. In addition, several murders took place here during the 1970’s. In 1977, Ruth Masters was brutally murdered in the forest. Strangely, the case remained unsolved until years later (2003).
This forest just has an incredibly spooky feel. Every time I visit I have an eerie feeling that someone is behind me. While riding my bike, I tend to constantly check over my shoulder. Hiking the trails feels like meandering through an endless maze of eerie pine trees. It feels as if you are somewhere else far away from civilization. A truly beautiful space, but creepy and desolate at the same time. I recommend hiking the Reservoir trail. This is a great fall hike coming in just under 3 miles. The views are great and it’s a workout, but not too intense.
With all the reported ghost sightings, strange background history, and overall eerie atmosphere, there has to be something lurking in this forest. I am not sure what it is, but this forest is one place where I wouldn’t want to get lost at night!
The Spooner House
The Spooner House in Plymouth is reportedly one of the most haunted places in New England. On a recent ghost tour, I learned that many Plymouth residents and tourists have reported seeing the ghost of 8 year old Abigail Townsend in front of the house. Built in 1749, this house still stands as one of the oldest houses in the city.
If you are into hearing spooky stores, I recommend booking tickets for this amazing ghost tour. You will walk past this house and many other haunted locales in town. We heard from our tour guide that Abigail often messes with the shutters after tourists walk by. The shutters can only be opened and closed from the inside, so any evidence that they have been changed is quite frightening. We did not see any evidence of tampering, but many tour groups did see evidence which really scares me!
Locals report seeing Abigail jumping rope in front of the house. People have claimed to have seen a ghost from the 3rd floor window, which was Abigail’s bedroom. Legend goes, Abigail died at age 8 from a tooth infection. Ironically, there is a dentist’s office right across the street!
Here is one of the more interesting ghost stories we heard on this tour. In 2005, construction workers were hired to do some repairs on the property. They were let into the house by a little girl dressed like she was from another time period. The owner came later and was shocked to hear that they were able to get into the house. When they went to find the little girl, she was no longer there. Pretty creepy story if you ask me!
Although we did not personally see any ghosts during our tour, nor any evidence of ghost activity, we did get an eerie feeling near the house, especially when we walked down the creepy alley. And our EMF meters showed some minor frequency changes. Unfortunately, it was too dark to take any decent photos!
Burial Hill in Plymouth
It is no surprise to me that Burial Hill is one of the most haunted places in Plymouth, being that it is one of the oldest cemeteries in the country. It was built back in 1620 and many of the headstones are so weathered and worn out that you can no longer make out the name. After taking a walk around this historic cemetery, you will definitely experience a feeling of unexplained eeriness. The pic below shows the oldest known grave in the cemetery – it dates back to 1681. Because so many are unmarked, we don’t know how far back some of them date.
During our ghost tour, we learned of many ghost apparitions reported in this cemetery, even on some recent tours. We also got the chance to test out some EMF equipment, a device which measures electromagnetic frequencies. Higher frequencies can signify paranormal activity. Not surprisingly, many people had their EMF meters going crazy once we walked through the cemetery.
A walk through Burial Hill at night is a unique experience. Although I would never recommend taking a stroll alone, going along with a tour group makes it feel much “safer.”
Old Town Hall in Salem
The Old Town Hall is one of the first buildings in the town of Salem. Built way back in the early 1800’s, it is no surprise that various people have reported hauntings over the years.
During the day, you can visit the museum, which covers the first floor of the building. Seasonal performances like “Cry Innocent” take place here throughout the year. In addition, various tour groups visit this historic site. Architect Charles Bulfinch designed the beautiful building. The prominent architect also designed Faneuil Hall and the Massachusetts State House, both located in downtown Boston.
You may also remember this house from the 1993 Halloween favorite “Hocus Pocus” as the scene of the adult’s Halloween dance party! I love when the Sanderson sisters sing “I Put a Spell on You.” Any “Hocus Pocus” fans out there (and what 80’s-90’s child isn’t?!) must check out Max & Dani’s house, Allison’s House, and The Sanderson Sisters cottage (Pioneer Village). Although not reported haunted, the houses sure are fun to check out around Halloween! Note: Max and Dani’s house is a private residence. Please view or take photos from your car only!
The Witch House
Also known as the John Corwin house, The Witch House in Salem frequently makes the list of haunted attractions. Being location to the infamous Witch Trials of 1692, not surprisingly, spirits of those executed continue to haunt the property. This was another fun lockdown which you can watch on Ghost Adventures (Season 4, Episode 19).
This creepy looking black house was once the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin. It is the only remaining structure in Salem with ties to the Witchcraft Trials. Perhaps the reasoning behind its’ hauntings?
Both self guided and guided tours take place during the spring, summer, and fall months.
Check out my full guide to Halloween activities in this spooky city.
The Bridgewater Triangle
The Bridgewater Triangle is long rumored to be one of the most haunted places in the world. The Triangle refers to a 200 square mile radius area in Southeastern Massachusetts known for numerous paranormal and strange sightings over the years. It is reportedly one of the most concentrated areas of strange occurrences in the world, right up there with the Bermuda Triangle. Since moving to this area, this legend has fascinated me. Naturally, I am attracted to anything to do with the supernatural and learning about so many strange occurrences right where I live makes it all the more intriguing.
In case you are not familiar, the following towns make up the Bridgewater Triangle: Bridgewater, East Bridgewater, Whitman, Brockton, Rehoboth, Middleboro, Taunton, Berkeley, Dighton, Freetown, Raynham, Seekonk, Lakeville, Norton, and Easton. I live in Fall River which is just on the edge, so I explore many preserves and historic sites in the surrounding towns which are part of the Triangle.
Ghost sightings, Bigfoot sightings, Thunderbird sightings, UFO sightings, mutilated animals and humans, you name it…everything has been reported in this area. I recently watched a special documentary highlighting the strange area (it was released in 2014). I highly recommend checking it out, especially if you live in the area! The film explores all the strange occurrences in detail. I also read a book called Ghosts of the Bridgewater Triangle by Christopher Balzano which included so many interesting tales. I really couldn’t put it down. If you like the show Disappeared, then you will likely love this book too.
A few more hauntings around the Triangle:
Dighton Rock, a 40 ton boulder originally found near the Taunton River, is most known today for its’ strange petroglyphs. The origin of these strange carvings remain a mystery. You can view the rock at the Dighton Rock Museum. Here you will be able to read many different theories as to who made the carvings and for what purpose. This place is so creepy you may turn right back to your car after you park (we did).
Hockomock Swamp, located in the center of the triangle, has been the location of various Bigfoot sightings. I have read lots of creepy stories originating from this area and let’s just say, I am not about to visit anytime soon.
Freetown State Forest, located in Freetown-Fall River is another area which has had its’ share of strange occurrences, including gruesome murders and satanic cult activity. I read lots of stories about this forest in the book I mentioned earlier. The rumor is that both these areas have an Indian curse over them, hence the variety of strange happenings. Something creeps me out about this forest. Despite being an avid hiker and living in the region for years, I never once thought to hike within this eerie forest. Just driving past the forest on the highway makes my skin crawl.
*Many have reported seeing a red headed hitchhiker ghost on Route 44 on Rehoboth. This is reportedly one of the most haunted roads in the area with numerous sightings going back many years.
*UFO’s sighted along Route 44.
*Thunderbirds of the Jurassic period with a wingspan of 8-12 feet reported in the Hockomock Swamp area. Imagine how creepy this would be to see?
Two places in the triangle that I get a strange feeling that cannot be explained include: Gertrude M. Boyden Wildlife Refuge (pictured below) in Taunton and Caratunk Wildlife Refuge in Seekonk. Both of these parks are dark, creepy, and desolate. I always felt like someone was behind me when hiking in these preserves. The tall dead trees of the winter combined with the dark icy river views & not a soul in sight gives these parks an eerie atmosphere during the barren months. Despite feeling creepy, I hike at both places often as they are near my house and pretty peaceful places to explore nature.
Is it just a coincidence that the Bridgewater Triangle has had more than its’ share of abnormal occurrences compared to anywhere else in the world, or can this all be explained? Living in the area for a number of years, I can say that I do feel like something is off that cannot be explained. I get a sense that some spirits are unhappy about past occurrences.
Old Burying Point in Salem
Another haunted cemetery is Salem’s Old Burying Point, located right next to the Witch Memorials. The most notable gravestone belongs to Judge John Hawthorne. As you walk around, you will come across many ancient headstones which are no longer legible, similar to Burial Hill. Even during the day time with dozens of people around, there is still an eerie vibe in the air. I can’t imagine how creepy it would be during a night ghost tour!
Because of the supernatural nature of the cemetery, ghost tours now run nightly. The Salem Night Tour walks right through this historic cemetery. While it definitely has a creepy enough vibe during the day, visiting at night is a whole different story! I was limited in time on my last visit to Salem, but taking this tour is on my to-do list.
Ghost tour or not, how can you not get spooked walking around one of the oldest cemeteries in a town long associated with the supernatural?
Salem Witch Memorials
Right next to Old Burying Point Cemetery, you will find the Salem Witch Memorial. The spirits of those convicted of witchcraft in the 1692 case still remain here.
As you stroll pass, you will see the names of the 20 executed witches. The somber nature of the case combined with the creepy cemetery views next door make you believe that anything can be possible.
Other Top Haunts
Danvers Mental State Hospital – Update: This is now an apartment complex! How creepy would it be to reside in a former haunted mental hospital? No thanks! No matter how cheap the rent is (it’s actually quite pricey), you couldn’t convince me to rent here.
House of the Seven Gables – Salem (During October, you can enjoy several live performances, including Legacy of the Hanging Judge and Spirits of the Gables).
Houghton Mansion – North Adams (seasonal ghost tours offered). Update: ghost tours are no longer offered.
USS Salem – Quincy (seasonal ghost tours offered).
Have you visited any of the haunted locations listed above? What other areas have you explored yourself or heard reported paranormal sightings at? Share with us on our Facebook page!
Addresses & Additional Information
The Lizzie Borden House is located at: 230 2nd St in Fall River. Tours start at $25 per adult. Extended tours include a tour of the extra haunted basement. Room rates vary based on time of the year and number of rooms booked. Visit the website to view availability. A complimentary tour and a full breakfast is provided with your overnight stay.
Myles Standish State Forest is located at: 194 Cranberry Rd. in Carver. Parking is free. Visit The Friends of Myles Standish Meet Up page to view a lineup of guided hikes offered throughout the year.
Burial Hill is located on Leyden Street in Plymouth. A free parking lot is available. To reserve your ghost hunting adventure, visit the Plymouth Night Tour website.
Old Town Hall is located at: 32 Derby Square in Salem. I recommend booking your tickets to the annual production of Cry Innocent in advance.
The Witch House is located at: 310 Essex St. in Salem. Self guided tours are $10.25 per adult.
Dighton Rock State Park is located at: Bay View Avenue in Berkeley. The museum is open by appointment. Make reservations by calling the following number: 508 644-5522.
Gertrude M. Boyden Wildlife Refuge is located at: 1298 Cohannet Street in Taunton. Parking is free.
Caratunk Wildlife Refuge is located at: 301 Brown Ave. in Seekonk. Parking is free.
Old Burying Point and the Salem Witch Memorials are located on Charter Street in Salem. Free parking available on nearby side streets. Paid garage parking is also available.
The House of the Seven Gables is located at: 115 Derby Street in Salem. Do check their website for upcoming performances.
The Houghton Mansion is located at: 172 Church Street in North Adams. Ghost hunts are available for $50 per person. Read more about the haunted history.
The USS Salem is located at: 739 Washington St. in Quincy. Visit ship website to book your tickets.
