Spooky season is officially here: Check out this ghostly travel guide to the Carolinas
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As the October days get cooler, we also get closer to the ultimate culmination of fall — Halloween. If you love all things spooky, chances are you don’t want the 31st to be your only chance to celebrate. So why not extend the fun, and explore all the haunted experiences the Carolinas have to offer.
From the eerie coastal towns of South Carolina to North Carolina’s mysterious forests, these unique spots will leave you with chills — and maybe a ghostly story or two to tell from your travels.
Conway, South Carolina: The City of Halloween
This charming community transforms into a Halloween mecca for the entire month of October — meaning, the town literally changes its name to “Halloween”. Conway’s streets are lined with decorations and local businesses fully embrace the tradition, making it a must-visit for Halloween enthusiasts.
With a month-long lineup of events, visitors can enjoy ghost tours, pumpkin festivals and haunted houses galore. The city has become a beloved destination for fall, attracting plenty of tourists during what is usually considered the off-season.
Must-Visit: The Halloween, SC festivities have something for everyone, from family-friendly activities to the downright terrifying attractions. Don’t miss the ghostly walking tours that delve deeper into Conway’s haunted history.
Charleston, South Carolina: The Holy City’s Dark History
Charleston’s history is filled with tales of spirits lingering in its grand homes, old jail cells and historic streets. Considered one of the most haunted cities in America, Charleston certainly has a rich ghostly past.
Explore the Old City Jail or the Provost Dungeon, where 19th-century pirates and criminals were once held. If those scares worked up an appetite, dine at Poogan’s Porch, where the ghosts of two sisters are said still walk the halls.
Where to Stay: For a truly haunted experience, book a night at the Battery Carriage House, located at 20 South Battery. In Room 8, you might come face-to-face with the “Headless Torso,” while staying in Room 10 is a chance for a more refined visit with the “Gentleman Ghost.”
Abbeville, South Carolina: A Haunting in the Opera House
This small town hides a few lingering spirits of its own. The well-known Abbeville Opera House is home to the ghost of a young actress who met a tragic end during a performance. Keep an eye on the lone chair in the balcony — it’s permanently reserved for her.
Where to Stay: At the nearby Belmont Inn you’ll find not one, but two ghosts — Abraham and a Scotsman. Their antics range from knocking on doors to breaking glasses, so be prepared for some supernatural surprises during your stay.
Georgetown, South Carolina: Maritime Ghosts and Lovelorn Spirits
Known for its haunted harbor, Georgetown is a town steeped in ghostly lore. Legend has it that the “Gray Man” of Pawleys Island appears before hurricanes, warning residents of impending danger. Meanwhile, the ghost of Alice Flagg haunts the Hermitage, mourning her lost love.
Where to Stay: The Pelican Inn on Pawleys Island is a beautiful beachfront retreat — plus, there’s always the possibility of encountering two canine ghosts who once roamed the property.
Roanoke Island, North Carolina: An Unsolved Mystery Awaits
Home to the infamous “Lost Colony” of 1587, the name Roanoke Island itself has always been steeped in mystery. The colonists vanished without a trace, leaving behind only the word “CROATOAN” carved into a tree. Today, visitors can explore the eerie Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and join ghost tours that bring this chilling history to life.
Where to Stay: Stay nearby at The Tranquil House Inn in Manteo, a quaint inn with views of Shallowbag Bay and a peaceful, yet spooky atmosphere.
Siler City, North Carolina: A Legend in the Woods
Near Siler City, NC you’ll find a haunted spot unlike any other on this list — The Devil’s Tramping Ground. This bizarre, barren circle in the woods has puzzled visitors for over a century, as absolutely no vegetation seems to grow there. Campers report strange noises, unexplained events and items mysteriously moving outside the circle.
Where to Stay: If you don’t want to camp, consider the close by Fearrington House Inn, with its cozy rooms and picturesque grounds — perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
This story was originally published October 17, 2024 at 4:20 PM.
