Alton, Illinois Is Known As One Of The Spookiest Small Towns In America
Small town America is typically associated with charming shops, quaint inns, and friendly faces. In fact, many city-dwellers dream of spending vacation time in one of the country’s loveliest little communities to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. While small-town charm is certainly real, some of America’s less sizable areas are home to spooky legends and ample paranormal activity – if you believe, that is. If you’re a traveler seeking a non-traditional adventure, you’ll want to check out one Illinois town that recently made a Fodor’s Travel list of the most haunted small towns in the United States.
Alton, Illinois sits along the shores of the Mississippi River in Madison County. With a population of just under 30,000 residents, it technically qualifies as a city - but Alton offers a small-town vibe that’s undeniable to those who stop by for a visit. While many visit the area for its proximity to St. Louis or its lovely situation along the riverfront, there’s a more sinister side to Alton that has drawn in ghost-hunters and curious explorers alike throughout the years.
That’s right: many believe that this town is haunted. As the home of Illinois’ first penitentiary, the site of a smallpox cemetery, and ample Civil War history, it’s no surprise that Alton is home to a few lingering spirits.
At the heart of the town’s ghostly tales is the McPike Mansion, which sits at the top of Mt. Lookout and is known among paranormal enthusiasts as a haunted locale. The mansion, which now sits empty, was first constructed in 1869 and has all the fixings of a traditional haunted house, including plenty of stories about still-present spirits of servants, occupants, and workers.
Don’t just take our word for it, though: the McPike Mansion and Alton as a whole have been profiled on multiple ghost-hunting programs, including the ever-popular Ghost Adventures. If you’re searching for a Midwest getaway with a bone-chilling twist, book your tickets to Illinois.
Have you visited Alton or another supposedly haunted small town in the United States? Did you encounter any spirits or spooky happenings during your journey? We’re always interested in hearing a good ghost story, so drop us a line with your experiences in the comment section below.
