Do you believe in the paranormal? Or, do you just roll your eyes any time the topic arises? Whether you’re a staunch believer or a skeptic, you’ll find plenty of haunted spots in Rhode Island where you can test your beliefs. But, when you’re longing for a relaxing evening with a glass of wine and the chance to mingle with ghosts, visit perhaps the haunted White Horse Tavern in Rhode Island.

Pull up a chair at White Horse Tavern, in Newport, the oldest tavern in Rhode Island, the oldest "continuously operating" tavern in the United States, and one of the oldest taverns in the world (coming in at number 10).

Since it first debuted in 1673, White Horse Tavern has seen its fair share of history, earning it status as a National Historic Landmark.

Originally built as the home of Francis Brinley in 1652, the two-story tavern was transformed into a tavern in 1673. For the next century, it served as the meeting place for City Council, the Colony’s General Assembly, and the Criminal Court.

With a history of nearly 350 years, it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that, in addition to a scrumptious menu, White Horse Tavern serves up several tales of the paranormal.

One of those tales tells of a man who, in the 1700s, died mysteriously in one of the tavern’s second floor rooms. No one knew the man’s name, where he came from, or how he died, although authorities feared it was smallpox that took his life.

Decades later, visitors of the historic bar would begin to tell stories of seeing a man, dressed in clothes from the Colonial period, hanging out by one of the fireplaces. He has also been seen in the men’s bathroom.

Some visitors have also claimed to see a woman wandering around the tavern, only to disappear by the fireplace.

And, don’t be too alarmed if you hear the crying of a young girl, even if there are no children in the tavern. Numerous visitors, especially when near the bathrooms, have told of hearing a little girl crying but seeing no one.

Of course, you might not see an apparition like the elderly man, but don’t be surprised if you feel a hand on your shoulder, only to turn around and see no one there.

While you’re at notoriously haunted White Horse Tavern, relax with a cold drink and a delicious meal, such as lobster mac and cheese, braised short rib, or roasted winter squashes. And, be sure to ask the server if he or she has heard the sound of footsteps from the second floor at the end of a long night after everyone has gone home.

Address: 26 Marlborough Street, Newport, RI, 02840

For more information, visit the official website for the official of White Horse Tavern. Or, check out the tavern's Facebook page.

What do you think? Do you think the White Horse Tavern is haunted? Join the conversation in the comments! And, if you’re still up for a few more tales of the paranormal, check into this haunted hotel in Rhode Island... if you dare.