Florida is famous for a variety of attractions, from Disney World and alligators to its delicious oranges. However, what’s often overlooked is the state’s intriguing haunted history. While Florida may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of ghostly encounters, it certainly has its share of eerie sites worth exploring. If you have a penchant for the mysterious and the macabre, consider embarking on this road trip that highlights some of the spookiest locations in the state. Spanning approximately 15 hours of driving time, it’s a perfect opportunity to take a long weekend and perhaps stay at a few hotels along the way to fully enjoy the adventure.
1. Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine
No haunted road trip in Florida would be complete without a visit to St. Augustine. As the oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine is steeped in history and is renowned for its ghostly legends. One of its most iconic sites, the Castillo de San Marcos, is the last standing fortress from the 17th century in the nation. The storied past of this remarkable structure is marked by conflict and tragedy, giving rise to a plethora of ghost tales. Among these are the sightings of a Seminole man who is said to leap from the fortress walls in his desperate quest for freedom, as well as the apparition of a forlorn woman dressed in white, who is often seen roaming the grounds.
Address: 1 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084
2. Veterans Memorial Bridge on Orange Ave in Daytona Beach
Orange Avenue in Daytona Beach ranks among Florida’s most haunted roadways, and it’s just a short drive over the bridge, easily fitting into your travel plans. Be cautious if you spot a well-dressed young woman trying to hitch a ride across the bridge; numerous drivers have recounted encounters with her, only for her to vanish from their vehicles before they leave. Legend has it that she is the ghost of a girl who tragically lost her life in an accident while en route to a homecoming dance. Although the bridge has undergone renovations and is now known as the Tom Staed Veterans Memorial Bridge, tales of her haunting presence continue to circulate.
Address: Halifax River, Daytona Beach, FL 32114
3. Cassadaga, Florida
Cassadaga has earned the title of the “Psychic Capital of the World” due to its vibrant community of psychics. This unique town offers an intriguing glimpse into the world of spiritualism, making it a fascinating destination for visitors. While the subject of spirituality may not be daunting, Cassadaga’s eccentric charm and distinctive atmosphere will surely capture your interest during your visit.
Address: Cassadaga, FL
4. NASA’s Launch Complex 34 in Cape Canaveral
Complex 34 was originally designed to serve as a significant launch site for NASA. However, in 1967, a devastating cabin fire claimed the lives of three astronauts, leading to the complex’s closure. Since that fateful incident, numerous visitors have recounted experiences of eerie encounters at the site, including unsettling screams and an overwhelming sense of unease.
Address: Cape Canaveral, FL
5. Lake Okeechobee (Specifically Port Mayaca Cemetery)
As the second-largest freshwater lake in the United States, Lake Okeechobee has inspired a wealth of local legends and folklore. Beyond fanciful stories of dinosaurs and monstrous creatures, the lake is also said to be haunted by numerous spirits. One particularly intriguing site is the Port Mayaca Cemetery, which serves as a mass grave for thousands who lost their lives in a devastating hurricane in 1928. This cemetery is the second known mass grave associated with Lake Okeechobee, while the first remains shrouded in mystery: in the early 1900s, fishermen stumbled upon an extensive array of skeletons, leading to questions about their origins and the circumstances of their deaths.
Address: Lake Okeechobee, FL
6. New River Inn in Fort Lauderdale
This museum, which was formerly a hotel, has become known for its eerie history. Visitors frequently report sightings of mysterious apparitions: a young girl can be glimpsed watching from the windows, while a man is often seen wandering the corridors. Step inside if you have the courage to confront the unknown!
Address: 219 Southwest 2nd Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
7. The Rod and Gun Club in Everglades City
The Rod and Gun Club, established in 1864, is a renowned dining establishment nestled in the iconic Everglades. This historic restaurant has long been surrounded by tales of ghostly encounters. In 2011, it gained attention when it was the focus of a paranormal investigation aimed at uncovering the truth behind these spine-chilling stories.
Address: 200 W Broadway, Everglades City, FL 34139
8. Loews Don CeSar Hotel in St. Petersburg
The Loews Don CeSar Hotel is famously believed to be haunted by its original owner, Thomas Rowe, along with his wife. Guests and visitors have reported sightings of Rowe wandering the beautiful grounds, leisurely walking along the beach, or meandering around the iconic pink structure that defines the hotel.
Address: 3400 Gulf Blvd #200b, St Pete Beach, FL 33706
9. The May-Stringer House in Brooksville
Our final destination on this journey is arguably the most infamous spot we’ve encountered. This stunning Victorian mansion is widely recognized as the most haunted place in the state, said to be inhabited by the restless spirits of former occupants who met their end within its walls. Throughout the day, the house operates as a museum, showcasing a collection of antiques and artifacts from the late 1800s. As dusk falls, it transforms into a venue for ghostly tours, exclusively open to adult visitors seeking a thrill.
Address: 601 Museum Ct, Brooksville, FL 34601