Paranormal Places, Scary Stories & Local Haunts
From historic hauntings to unexplained mysteries, find out why these North Carolina destinations will haunt you in the best way.
To Hear it is to Fear it
Listen to hair-raising true stories from Visit NC's First in Fright podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
Explore the Spookiest State
From restless spirits to mysterious lights and unexplained phenomena, the state’s haunted history lingers in the mountains, along the coast and everywhere in between. So whether you’re a true believer or just love a good scare, these North Carolina destinations will haunt you in the best way.
Scary-good trip ideas
Whether you are looking for a nearby haunt or a creeped-out cross-state trip, these are the paranormal destinations guaranteed to get your spine-tingling. But beware, you might leave with your own frightening first-hand tale to share.
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Creepy Coast Road Trip
Uncover pirate lore, ghostly cats and seriously spooky battleships along the way.
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Paranormal Piedmont Road Trip
Explore haunted inns, trace iconic urban legends and hike a cryptid-filled forest.
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Mountain Mysteries Road Trip
Discover unexplained lights, demonic creatures and one of America’s most haunted hotels.
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Haunted Hotels & Spooky Stays
Discover the real inns and hotels where guests can enjoy hospitality and eerie experiences.
Valle Crucis
Beware the Demon Dogs
St. John's Church in Valle Crucis is associated with the legend of the Demon Dogs. Visitors have reported seeing ghostly black dogs with glowing eyes, believed to be harbingers of doom. The chilling sightings add a supernatural element to this historic church. Learn more about these fearful creatures in First in Fright Carolina Cryptids episode.
Frightfully Fun Destinations
Whispers in historic halls, ghostly figures along moonlit shores and legends that refuse to fade — North Carolina’s most haunted places hold secrets waiting to be uncovered.
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
Legends of the Lighthouse
The tallest brick lighthouse in the US, Cape Hatteras Light Station is known for its ghostly sightings. Visitors often speak of seeing a shadowy gray man thought to be a phantom keeper and hearing mysterious sounds, especially on stormy nights. It is also home to a mysterious otherworldly cat who has greeted visitors for decades by rubbing against their leg only to then vanish into thin air.
More to Explore
Listicles
From Screen to Scream: Horror Film Sites and Haunts in North Carolina
Bring cinematic scares to life with North Carolina’s iconic movie sites and haunts inspired by your favorite scary films.
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