Haunted Hotels in Baltimore, Maryland You Can Stay In

Haunted History of Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore, with its gritty charm and deep maritime roots, is a city teeming with ghosts. Its history as a major American seaport has left behind a spectral population of sailors, privateers, and the unfortunate souls who were "shanghaied" or unwillingly pressed into service. The city's oldest neighborhood, Fells Point, is the epicenter of this activity, where the salty air and centuries-old cobblestone streets seem to hold the boisterous and often tragic echoes of the past.

Beyond the waterfront, Baltimore's haunted reputation is forever linked to its most famous and macabre resident, Edgar Allan Poe. The master of gothic horror lived, died under mysterious circumstances, and is buried here, forever connecting the city with the grim and the ghastly. Add to this the spirits of soldiers from the War of 1812 and the Civil War, and you have a city whose history is so rich and dark that its ghosts have become a fundamental part of its character.

Other Haunted Attractions in Baltimore, Maryland

• Fells Point: This entire historic maritime neighborhood is considered one of the most haunted places in Baltimore. Its centuries-old pubs, narrow streets, and historic homes are said to be roamed by the spirits of sailors, jilted lovers, and barmaids. The best way to experience its chilling history is on a guided ghost tour after dark. More Info
• Westminster Hall and Burying Ground: This atmospheric old graveyard is the final resting place of Edgar Allan Poe. The entire area is a gothic dream, with crumbling headstones and spooky catacombs beneath the church. Poe's spirit is said to haunt the grounds, along with a ghostly minister known as the "Skull of Cambridge." Official Website
• USS Constellation: A majestic Civil War-era warship permanently docked in the Inner Harbor, the USS Constellation is known for its phantom crew. The most famous spirit is that of Carl Rutledge, a sailor who was executed for abandoning his post. His apparition is often reported on the lower decks, along with disembodied voices and shadowy figures. Official Website
• Fort McHenry National Monument: Famous as the birthplace of "The Star-Spangled Banner," this star-shaped fort is also known for its paranormal activity. The spirits of the soldiers who defended Baltimore from the British in 1814 are said to still be on duty. Visitors and staff have reported seeing soldiers in period uniforms, hearing ghostly cannon fire, and feeling an inexplicable sense of dread in the old barracks. Official Website

Travel Tips for Haunted Hotel Stays in Baltimore, Maryland

• Take a Fells Point Ghost Tour: This is an essential Baltimore experience. A lantern-lit walk through the cobblestone streets is the absolute best way to immerse yourself in the city's dark maritime history and hear its most chilling tales.
• Pay Homage to Poe: For any fan of the macabre, a visit to Edgar Allan Poe's grave at Westminster Hall is a must. The wonderfully spooky atmosphere of the cemetery is the perfect tribute to the master of horror.
• Drink with the Ghosts: Pull up a stool at a historic Fells Point tavern like The Horse You Came In On Saloon (Poe's alleged last stop). You can soak in the history, enjoy a drink, and maybe even share the bar with a spectral sailor.
• Walk the Harbor at Night: The Inner Harbor, with its historic ships looming in the dark, and the nearby streets of Fells Point are incredibly atmospheric after sunset. The cool breeze off the water and the historic setting create the perfect backdrop for a ghostly encounter.

FAQ about Haunted Hotels in Baltimore, Maryland

Are haunted hotels in Baltimore, Maryland safe to stay in? Yes, completely. They are historic, reputable hotels that prioritize guest safety and comfort. Their ghostly residents are part of the city's unique history and are more a source of intrigue than fear.

What is the most haunted hotel in Baltimore, Maryland? Baltimore is home to several famously haunted hotels, each with its own unique collection of spirits. The stories are often tied to the city's long history, featuring tragic socialites from the Gilded Age, ghostly children, and other long-term spectral guests.

Do haunted hotels in Baltimore offer ghost tours? The city's haunted hotels are always the star attractions on local ghost tours. Companies like Baltimore Ghost Tours offer fantastic tours of Fells Point and other historic areas that delve into the chilling stories of these famous establishments.

Can kids stay in haunted hotels in Baltimore, Maryland? Most hotels are family-friendly. The ghost stories are often tied to significant moments in American history (the War of 1812, Edgar Allan Poe, etc.) and can be a thrilling and educational experience for older kids and teens.

What time of year is best for haunted hotel stays in Baltimore, Maryland? Autumn is the perfect time, with crisp weather that's ideal for walking tours and a spooky atmosphere leading up to Halloween. Poe's birthday in January also draws fans of the macabre for a uniquely chilling and literary-themed visit.