Haunted Hotels in Atlanta, Georgia You Can Stay In

Haunted History of Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta's official symbol is the Phoenix, a mythical bird that rises from its own ashes. This symbol is a literal representation of the city's history, as it was almost completely burned to the ground during General William T. Sherman's infamous March to the Sea during the Civil War. This single, cataclysmic event is the foundation of Atlanta's haunted legacy, leaving behind an army of Confederate and Union spirits who are said to still wander the old battlefields, historic buildings, and cemeteries.

The city's rapid rebirth and growth into a major metropolis created new layers of history, but the ghosts of the Old South and the Civil War remain its most prominent. The grounds of former makeshift hospitals echo with the cries of the wounded, and the city's oldest cemeteries hold the graves of thousands of unknown soldiers. The spirits of Atlanta are a constant, solemn reminder of the fire and conflict that forged the modern city.

Other Haunted Attractions in Atlanta, Georgia

• Oakland Cemetery: This beautiful historic garden cemetery is a true city of the dead, and one of Atlanta's most haunted locations. It is the final resting place of thousands, including 7,000 Confederate soldiers, many of whom are unknown. Visitors have reported hearing a ghostly bugle playing "Taps," seeing the apparitions of soldiers, and hearing a disembodied roll call echoing among the mausoleums. Official Website
• The Fox Theatre: This magnificent 1920s movie palace is as famous for its opulence as it is for its ghosts. The theater's most beloved spirit is "Mighty Mo," a former organist who is said to still watch over the theater from his favorite seat. A beautiful "southern belle" and the spirit of a Confederate soldier have also been seen within its lavish halls. Official Website
• The Kennesaw House (Marietta): Located just outside Atlanta, this historic building (now the Marietta History Center) served as a hospital and morgue during the Civil War's Atlanta Campaign. It is considered intensely haunted, with the spirits of soldiers and nurses frequently seen. The basement, which was used as a morgue, is a hotspot for paranormal activity, with reports of ghostly apparitions and disembodied voices. Official Website
• The Masquerade: A legendary Atlanta music venue, The Masquerade was long housed in a historic excelsior mill and is known for its numerous ghosts. Bouncers, musicians, and patrons have reported a host of paranormal activity over the years, from seeing a tall, dark man and hearing phantom footsteps on the stairs to having their names called out by an unseen voice in the club's three sections: Heaven, Purgatory, and Hell. Official Website

Travel Tips for Haunted Hotel Stays in Atlanta, Georgia

• Walk Through History at a Cemetery: To truly connect with Atlanta's Civil War past, a respectful walk through the historic Oakland Cemetery is a must. The sheer number of soldiers' graves is a powerful and sobering experience that sets the stage for a paranormal investigation.
• Take a Guided Ghost Tour: Atlanta's history is sprawling. A guided tour, especially one that focuses on the historic districts of Atlanta or nearby towns like Marietta and Roswell, is the best way to hear the chilling stories of the city's most famous spirits.
• Catch a Show with a Ghost: Experience the arts and the paranormal at the same time by seeing a performance at the stunning and famously haunted Fox Theatre. Keep an eye on the balconies; you might see more than what's happening on stage.
• Find the Old in the New: Atlanta is a bustling, modern metropolis, but its ghosts are tied to its oldest roots. Seek out the historic buildings, theaters, and cemeteries tucked within the urban landscape to find the most paranormally active spots.

FAQ about Haunted Hotels in Atlanta, Georgia

Are haunted hotels in Atlanta, Georgia safe to stay in? Yes, absolutely. They are reputable, often historic, hotels that offer safe and comfortable accommodations. Their spectral residents are a part of the city's incredible story of loss and rebirth.

What is the most haunted hotel in Atlanta, Georgia? Atlanta has several historic hotels with well-documented hauntings, particularly in the downtown and midtown areas. The stories often involve the spirits of Civil War soldiers, tragic figures from the early 20th century, and elegant guests who never checked out.

Do haunted hotels in Atlanta offer ghost tours? Atlanta has a great ghost tour scene, and companies like the Decatur Ghost Tour or tours in nearby historic towns often feature haunted inns and buildings. It is best to book a tour with a local company for the full, chilling experience.

Can kids stay in haunted hotels in Atlanta, Georgia? Most hotels are family-friendly. The city's ghost stories are deeply rooted in American history, which can be a fascinating and spooky adventure for older kids and teens interested in the Civil War era.

What time of year is best for haunted hotel stays in Atlanta, Georgia? Autumn is a perfect time to visit. The pleasant weather is ideal for walking ghost tours, and the crisp fall air adds to the spooky atmosphere as Halloween approaches.