Haunted Hotels in North Carolina You Can Stay In
Discover the most haunted hotels in North Carolina with real ghost stories and paranormal activity
Cities in North Carolina with haunted hotels
17 Haunted Hotels Found in North Carolina
The Duke Mansion
400 Hermitage Road, Charlotte, NC 28207
The Duke Mansion is considered haunted largely due to the tragic love story surrounding a man named Jon Avery, who is said to have lived there in the 1920s with his ailing wife, Anastasia. Lonely and distressed over his wife's illness, Jon rented a room to a young writer, Maggie, with whom he developed a deep bond that became romantic. Realizing Jon would never abandon his sick wife, Maggie left, and they agreed to meet exactly one year later at midnight in the mansion gardens, 'dead or alive.' When Maggie returned, Jon appeared in spectral form, repeated their phrase, and walked through her—a chilling encounter confirmed only when Maggie learned he had died just days earlier from complications related to polio. This story has become the mansion's most persistent legend, featuring regularly in local lore and ghost sightings at the property. Guests and paranormal enthusiasts claim the Duke Mansion retains the restless spirit of Jon Avery, especially around the anniversary of the midnight rendezvous, drawing those curious about the supernatural to this elegant Charlotte landmark.
The Harvey
221 South Front Street, New Bern, NC 28560
The Harvey, originally built as Harvey Mansion in the 1790s, has long been associated with paranormal activity. Reports frequently describe sightings of a woman dressed in period clothing, often specified as Victorian attire, who is seen lingering and walking on the second and third floors. Notable anecdotes include an encounter by a professor who saw her glide past his table during dinner. Staff and guests have also reported other unexplained phenomena, such as silverware moving on its own, lights flickering without cause, and the distinct sound of footsteps echoing in empty hallways.
Carolina Inn
211 Pittsboro St, Chapel Hill, NC 27516, United States of America
Primarily haunted by Dr. William Jacocks, who lived in Room 252 for 17 years until his death in 1965. Guests report being locked out, moved items (bathmats), opened curtains, cold spots, and smell of flowers. Renovations split Room 252, but phenomena continue in/around Room 256.
Cousin Martha's Bed & Breakfast
305 Ann St, Beaufort, NC 28516
Located in historic Beaufort, known for pirate history (Blackbeard frequented the area), Cousin Martha's B&B fits into local ghost lore. While specific documented events are scarce, it's generally accepted within local ghost tours as having 'activity'. Stories revolve around a benevolent female presence, presumably 'Cousin Martha' herself or a previous owner, who watches over the house. Activity reported includes doors opening or closing gently, items slightly moved, and a comforting presence felt by some guests. No malevolent encounters reported, more like a protective house spirit.
The Graylyn Estate
1900 Reynolda Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27106
The Graylyn Estate, former home of Bowman and Nathalie Gray (of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co.), carries stories of benevolent spectral presences, possibly members of the original family. Staff and guests have reported encounters, especially in the main manor house. Common tales include Nathalie Gray's spirit being felt or seen, particularly in areas she frequented, ensuring guests are comfortable. Other accounts mention faint laughter or music from empty rooms, locked doors found open, and the scent of roses (Nathalie's favorite) where none are present. The atmosphere is generally considered peaceful rather than frightening.
Blind Tiger Asheville
173 E Chestnut St, Asheville, NC 28801, United States
No specific well-documented hauntings found, primarily known for historic ambiance.
Dunhill Hotel
237 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202
The Dunhill Hotel is said to be haunted, most notably by a spirit referred to as 'Dusty'. Legend suggests this ghost dates back to the Great Depression era, a time of desperation. Guests and staff have reported unusual occurrences such as unexplained noises, items moving on their own, and cold spots, particularly concentrated around the ninth floor. Dusty is generally considered a harmless or even benign presence.
The Lodge on Lake Lure
361 Charlotte Dr, Lake Lure, NC 28746
Originally built by NC State Troopers, the Lodge on Lake Lure is rumored to be haunted by the spirit of Trooper George Penn, who was tragically killed by escaped convicts in 1937. His apparition is reportedly seen around the lodge, particularly associated with Room 4. Guests and staff have reported strange occurrences, such as items being moved (notably toilet paper from Room 2), feelings of cold spots, and doors opening or closing on their own. Some stories connect his protective nature over the property.
Brookstown Inn
200 Brookstown Ave, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
The building, formerly Salem Manufacturing Company (built 1837), is believed to be haunted. One prominent spirit is "Sally," thought to be a mill worker murdered on the fourth floor. Guests report seeing a female apparition, hearing a woman screaming "mercy, mercy!", particularly near room 401 (believed to be Sally's former dormitory). She is described as having red hair and wearing a gray dress. Another story mentions a human skeleton found inside a brick wall during renovations when it was used as a storage facility, potentially giving rise to another spirit called "Eddie". Paranormal activity also includes orbs in photos and phantom footsteps.
Grove Park Inn Resort
290 Macon Avenue, Asheville, NC 28804
The most famous ghostly resident is the 'Pink Lady,' believed to be the spirit of a young woman who tragically fell to her death from a fifth-floor balcony onto the Palm Court floor below in the 1920s. Reports include unexplained phenomena, especially around the Palm Court and associated areas of the Main Inn. Her origins and story remain somewhat mysterious, adding to her legend.
Brunswick Inn
301 E Bay St, Southport, NC 28461-3911, United States
Said to be haunted by "Tony", believed to be Tony Caseletta, a harpist who played at the inn in 1882. He drowned during a sailing trip on the Cape Fear River. His "friendly spirit" reportedly hides small items, slams windows, and is sometimes heard playing the harp.
The Winds Resort Beach Club
310 E 1st St, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
While primarily a vacation resort, The Winds has local tales linking it to coastal spirits. Being close to an area historically known for shipwrecks and pirate activity, some suggest restless spirits from the sea occasionally make their presence known. Stories are less specific than older inns but include vague feelings of unease reported in certain rooms late at night, doors found ajar, and faint, unexplained sounds carried on the wind, particularly during storms. One account mentions a shadowy figure seen briefly near the dunes.
Biltmore Greensboro Hotel
111 W Washington St, Greensboro, NC 27401
The Biltmore Greensboro Hotel is reputed to be haunted by at least two distinct entities. The first is 'Philip', an accountant from the early 1900s found dead under mysterious circumstances—either suicide or murder linked to uncovering financial fraud. Guests report hearing unexplained footsteps and paper shuffling, particularly near room 332, and some claim to have seen his apparition. The second spirit is 'Lydia', believed to have been a resident during the building's time as apartments or a brothel, who was allegedly killed by a client in room 223. Her presence is associated with strange occurrences in room 223 (now painted pink, reportedly her favorite color), such as lights turning on, water running, TVs switching on by themselves, and guests finding pink items displaced. Some have also reported smelling perfume or seeing a red-headed figure.
1927 Lake Lure Inn & Spa
2771 Memorial Hwy, Lake Lure, NC 28746, United States
Reports focus on rooms 217/218 related to a bride allegedly murdered by her groom. Also, a boy's spirit in the basement and soldiers' ghosts from WWII. Staff experience annoyances like moved paintings and locked chains.
Country Squire Inn
748 NC-24 BUS, Warsaw, NC 28398
The Country Squire Inn, established in the 1960s but incorporating older structures/materials, is known locally for paranormal tales. The founder/original owner, Joe West, is said to still 'oversee' his establishment. Staff and guests report seeing an older gentleman matching his description, particularly near the restaurant, bar, and old office area. Objects are sometimes reported to move, especially in the 'Tartan' dining room, and there are tales of flickering lights and self-playing music. Some attribute activity to spirits tied to Civil War events in the region, given its proximity to historical sites.
Balsam Mountain Inn
68 Seven Springs Dr, Balsam, NC 28707, United States
Known as the "Stanley Hotel of the South," guests report sheets being pulled off beds, shadow figures, whispers, disembodied giggling, objects moving, and doors slamming. A spirit known as "The Sheriff," reportedly shot outside in 1928 and died in Room 205, is a prominent figure. Paranormal investigators frequent the inn.
Green Park Inn Hotel
9239 Valley Blvd, Blowing Rock, NC 28605, United States
Historically, the inn was considered haunted, most notably by Laura Green, daughter of an original owner, jilted at the altar, who supposedly lingered in Room 318. Other spirits of former guests were also reported.
Haunted History of North Carolina
From the misty Blue Ridge Mountains to the windswept shores of the Outer Banks, North Carolina is a state steeped in mystery and haunted lore. Its history holds some of America's oldest and most chilling tales, beginning with the Lost Colony of Roanoke, where over 100 settlers vanished without a trace in 1590, leaving behind only a single cryptic clue. This foundational mystery set the stage for a state rich with stories of spirits who cannot rest.
The coastline, known as the "Graveyard of the Atlantic," is haunted by the ghosts of shipwrecked sailors and infamous pirates. The headless specter of Blackbeard is said to still search for his skull in the waters around Ocracoke Inlet. Inland, the bloody battlefields of the Civil War have left an indelible spiritual scar, with the ghosts of Confederate and Union soldiers still seen marching through the fields where they fell. Add to this the eerie, unexplained phenomenon of the Brown Mountain Lights, and you have a state where the paranormal is a deeply ingrained part of its identity.
Other Haunted Attractions in North Carolina
- USS North Carolina Battleship: Moored in Wilmington, this decorated WWII battleship is a floating fortress of paranormal activity. The spirits of sailors who died in service are said to still walk its decks, with visitors and staff on the USS North Carolina reporting phantom footsteps, slamming hatches, disembodied voices, and even full-bodied apparitions in the ship's galleys and engine rooms.
- Biltmore Estate: America's largest private home, located in Asheville, is as grand in its hauntings as it is in its architecture. The spirits of its original owners, George and Edith Vanderbilt, are said to still enjoy their magnificent home. Staff and guests at the Biltmore Estate have heard ghostly celebrations in the dining hall, the sounds of splashing in the empty indoor pool, and seen George's apparition in his favorite room, the library.
- The Devil's Tramping Ground: Deep in the woods of Chatham County lies a mysterious, 40-foot barren circle where no vegetation will grow. Legend claims this is where the Devil himself comes to pace at night, plotting his evil deeds. Those who have dared to spend the night have reported seeing glowing red eyes and hearing terrifying, unearthly screams.
- Bodie Island Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse in the Outer Banks has guided countless ships, but some spirits have never left. The Bodie Island Lighthouse is said to be haunted by the ghost of a keeper who either fell or was pushed from the top, as well as the souls of sailors whose ships wrecked upon the treacherous shores. Visitors report hearing phantom footsteps climbing the 214-step spiral staircase.
Travel Tips for Haunted Hotel Stays in North Carolina
- Explore Both Ends of the State: North Carolina offers two distinct paranormal experiences. Head to the mountains for eerie Appalachian folklore and historic hotel hauntings, then travel to the coast for pirate ghosts and maritime mysteries.
- Take a Ferry: For a truly atmospheric adventure, take a ferry to Ocracoke Island in the Outer Banks. Its isolation and history as Blackbeard's favorite haunt make it an incredibly spooky destination.
- Pack for the Climate: The state has varied climates. Pack layers and hiking shoes for the mountains, and be prepared for heat, humidity, and mosquitos if you're ghost hunting on the coast during the summer.
- Visit a Battlefield: To connect with the state's Civil War past, visit a historic site like Bentonville Battlefield. Walking the grounds where so many lost their lives is a profoundly moving and often chilling experience.
FAQ about Haunted Hotels in North Carolina
Are haunted hotels in North Carolina safe to stay in? Yes, absolutely. Whether you're staying in a grand mountain resort or a quaint coastal inn, all hotels must meet modern safety and hospitality standards. The spirits are just part of the historic charm!
What is the most haunted hotel in North Carolina? The historic inns around Asheville and the Blue Ridge Parkway are legendary for their paranormal activity, as are the old bed and breakfasts in coastal towns like Wilmington. Browse our listings to find the ghost story that captures your imagination.
Do haunted hotels in North Carolina offer ghost tours? Many historic hotels and inns proudly share their haunted heritage and offer ghost tours or paranormal packages. The state also has a vibrant ghost tour scene in its most historic cities.
Can kids stay in haunted hotels? Most hotels are family-friendly, but North Carolina's ghost stories—involving pirates, war, and shipwrecks—can be quite intense. It's always a good idea to check with the hotel and consider if the tales are appropriate for your children.
What time of year is best for haunted hotel stays in North Carolina? Autumn is spectacular, especially in the mountains where the world-class fall foliage creates a perfect spooky backdrop. For coastal haunts, late spring and early fall offer pleasant weather without the peak summer crowds.