If you like to pair the chill in the fall air with a chill down your spine, Illinois has a huge number of destinations dying to be explored. Steeped in history and horror, the two spooky day trips below, which we've branded the Sinister Southern and Nefarious Northern routes, and are guaranteed to put the scare in your season. Either of these eerie trips takes a single day, but true fear fanatics might want to combine them into a single, hair-raising weekend road trip. Just don’t blame us if it gives you nightmares.
Choose Your Own Spooky Adventure!
Illinois is a famously haunted state. These two day trips can only provide a sample of the scares the state has to offer, which is unnerving in its own right. Each of these trips has its own unique sights and spooks. For a truly frightful fall, put both on your bucket list, or spend a few days on the eerie eight-hour road trip through Illinois pictured above.
The Sinister Southern Route: Alton, Decatur, Springfield
1. Alton (Mineral Springs Mall)
The Sinister South Route starts in Alton, considered by many to be the most haunted town in the United States. The Mineral Springs Hotel, now converted into a mall open to tourists, has been the site of several grisly deaths, leading some to speak of a demonic haunting. Spend your morning getting breakfast in one of Alton's charming restaurants before heading out there to begin your trip-of-terror. Tours are available from the spring to the fall. The Mineral Springs Mall is located at 301 E Broadway, Alton, IL 62002.
2. Decatur (Greenwood Cemetery)
From Alton, head northeast to Decatur and tour the Greenwood Cemetery. The cemetery, primarily dedicated to fallen soldiers from the civil war, is said to be haunted by the restless spirits of the dead. Ghosts aren't necessary to make this historical site emotionally haunting. Greenwood Cemetery is located at 606 S Church St, Decatur, IL 62522.
3. Springfield (Dana-Thomas House)
Enjoy the changing autumn colors as you leave Decatur and head to Springfield for the last step of your tour. While many of Illinois' notorious haunted buildings are located in smaller cities and towns, Springfield is home to the famous Dana-Thomas House. Here, it is said the ghost of the original owner, who purportedly held popular seances in the house in the early 20th century, still stalks the hallways. Even if you don't see spirits, this Frank Lloyd Wright home has a singular architecture that creates a wonderfully spooky atmosphere. The Dana-Thomas house is located at 301 E Lawrence Ave, Springfield, IL 62703.
The Nefarious Northern Route: Joliet, Rockford, Galena
4. Joliet (Old Joliet Prison)
The Nefarious Northern route begins in Joliet at the infamous Old Joliet Prison. Take a guided tour of the massive, limestone complex. Here, the atmosphere of dread is palpable. Three buildings have burned down in the prison's history, leading many to believe it is haunted by the ghosts of former inmates. Old Joliet Prison is located at 1125 Collins St, Joliet, IL 60432.
5. Rockford (Greenwood Cemetery and Crematory)
From Joliet, head to Rockford, home to a second, lesser-known Greenwood Cemetery. Greenwood Cemetery and Chapel is distinguished by its famous crematorium. Registered as a National Historic Site, Greenwood Cemetery has a fascinating history as one of the first places where cremation was practiced in the state. The cemetery has also been relocated multiple times. This makes it a must for those seeking restless spirits. Greenwood Cemetery and Chapel is located at 1011 Auburn St, Rockford, IL 61103.
6. Galena (DeSoto House Hotel)
From Rockford, head to Galena for the final step of your journey. Galena rivals Alton for the most haunted destination in the state. Arriving at nightfall, take a "Sips and Spirits" ghost tour to steel your nerves before checking out the DeSoto House Hotel. This well-known haunt is said to be occupied by the ghost of a Lady in Black. Brave guests can stay the night, but those more faint of heart should at least check out the hotel's new dinner theater performances that explore the hotel's haunted history.
The DeSoto House Hotel is located at 230 S Main St, Galena, IL 61036.
The creepy locales of Illinois are as fascinating as they are frightening. A day trip only scratches the surface of notable locations to get freaked out this fall, but these two day trips provide a solid foundation in fright. Taken both? Let us know which one you preferred, or tell us your favorite ghastly experience. Locations we overlooked? Shoutout your favorite spots to get spooked. We want to hear your stories and see your photos, so get in touch!
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