Take A Haunted Road Trip To Visit Some Of The Spookiest Places In Washington
Scary movies are one thing, but nothing gets you into the spooky spirit like having a real life paranormal experience. And while there’s no way to guarantee that, your best bet for seeing a ghost is to embark on a haunted road trip. We’ve mapped out a weekend journey you can take to see the most haunted places in Washington. Enjoy (if you dare).
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Start your adventure with a late morning meal at one of Washington’s most notoriously haunted spots. One of the most terrifying Washington ghost stories occurred right within these walls. Built in 1900, the Oxford Saloon was once known as Blackman’s Dry Goods store before becoming a saloon and a bordello. There have been numerous ghost sightings here, including the spirit of a police officer who was murdered during a bar fight and that of a local businesswoman named Kathleen. The Washington State Ghost Society has performed several investigations here and gotten some strong EVPs (Electronic Voice Phenomena). Address: 913 1st Street, Snohomish, WA, 98290.
Drive down to Tacoma and cruise around Point Defiance Park, where you might be joined by the ghost of a girl who disappeared in the 1980s at the age of 12 while riding her bike at the park. Her body was discovered later, and the killer was never caught. Several people have said they’ve seen a girl riding her bike alone who vanishes when they get close to her. Point Defiance Park Address: 5400 North Pearl Street, Tacoma, WA, 98407.
This historic mansion is the oldest house in the city of Olympia. You might be surprised to learn that one of the spookiest ghosts in Washington resides here. Employees closing the museum at night have apparently seen the apparition of a distinguished gentleman who disappears when approached. They believe it is Daniel Bigelow himself, the pioneer lawyer and politician who lived in the home. Address: 918 Glass Avenue Northeast, Olympia, WA, 98506.
Head to Aberdeen and have dinner at Washington’s most haunted restaurant. It’s named after Billy Gohl, the old secretary of the sailor’s union. Billy used to befriend sailors and then brutally murder them. If you look behind the bar and catch a glimpse of a stern-faced man who seems to have disappeared when you look again, you’ve probably seen Billy himself. Address: 322 East Heron Street, Aberdeen, WA, 98520.
Drive to the coast and rent one of the older cabins at Lighthouse Oceanfront Resort for the night. There has been so much paranormal activity here that the cabins have journals for guests to write down their stories. Some people find furniture completely rearranged when they return from a day at the beach, some have TVs that turn on and off by themselves, empty rocking chairs rock, and words are whispered into guests’ ears when they’re sleeping. Address: 12417 Pacific Way, Long Beach, WA, 98631.
The next day, head to Centralia and check out the Olympic Club Hotel. Now owned by the McMenamins group, this historic hotel and saloon has a very grisly past. It was the scene of several murders, and guests and employees have spotted apparitions in almost every part of the place. Strange voices have also been heard in "empty" rooms. Address: 112 North Tower Avenue, Centralia, WA, 98531.
On your way back home, stop at the Black Diamond Cemetery. A phantom white horse and ghostly swinging lanterns have been spotted here, and some people swear they’ve heard the whistling of long-deceased coal miners. Address: Cemetery Road, Black Diamond, WA, 98010.
Would you take a visit to these real haunted places in Washington? If not, consider going on a historic drive to see some of Washington’s ghost towns.
What is the most famous ghost story from Washington?
Hotel Andra in Seattle is one of the most haunted places in Washington. The most famous ghost story involves the apparition of a young woman. She can often be seen wearing 1930s clothing and lingering in hallways and guest rooms. The ninth floor is especially haunted. Staff have reported hearing roaring jazz music booming from this part of the hotel. When they reach the floor, however, the music mysteriously shuts off. Guests have reported hearing arguing couples and breaking glass, even when no one is there.
What is the most haunted town in Washington?
Snohomish is one of the spookiest places in Washington. This area is home to two haunted watering holes: The Oxford Saloon and The Cabbage Patch. Guests often report seeing shadowy figures floating around the Oxford Saloon, and the spirit of a young girl lingers at The Cabbage Patch. As you explore the boundaries of this tiny town, you’re likely to encounter some paranormal activity.
What is the creepiest abandoned place in Washington?
There are several creepy abandoned ghost towns in Washington, but Govan is definitely the most terrifying. In the late 19th century, this town was a modest railway stop. After the railroad was constructed, the 76 residents relocated elsewhere. Today, you can still walk amongst the abandoned homes and dilapidated buildings. Many people have reported seeing ominous figures in the shadows. They’re believed to be the victims of the gruesome murders of 1902.
Jessica Wick is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves exploring new places, meeting new people and, of course, beautiful Big Sky Country and every part of Washington State.
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