Whether you believe in ghosts or not, there are definitely some spooky vibes at some of Virginia’s oldest buildings. With the state’s long history and all of the historic battle locations around the area, there are sure to be a few ghosts still roaming around. Here are seven haunted sites across Virginia to visit for a true fright.
Editor’s note: This article was updated on October 26, 2021.
Arlington National Cemetery
Near the burial ground of more than 14,000 soldiers and the former home of confederate commander Robert E. Lee, the Old Post Chapel of Arlington National Cemetery is rumored to be haunted. Those who have visited the chapel have reported hearing voices and footsteps, organ music at odd hours, and opened doors and cabinets that were supposedly locked–possibly the actions of Lee’s wife, Mary Custis Lee. 1 Memorial Ave., Arlington
Bacon’s Castle
As one of the oldest brick homes in North America and the home to Bacon’s Rebellion, there have been plenty of ghostly sightings at Bacon’s Castle. Paranormal researchers and visitors have claimed encounters with spectral fireballs, disembodied voices, and floating heads around the property. See for yourself at Preservation Virginia’s “Historic Haunt Nights.” 465 Bacons Castle Trail, Surry
Cold Harbor National Battlefield
Cold Harbor is the site of an 1864 Civil War battle between then-Lieutenant General Ulysses S. Grant and General Robert E. Lee. After almost two weeks of fighting, the two sides suffered over 15,000 losses combined. Stories from visitors say that the ghosts of those soldiers appear at night, with some purportedly photographs of the anomalies. 5515 Anderson Wright Dr., Mechanicsville
Colonial Williamsburg
The story goes that Lady Ann(e) Skipwith broke the heel of one of her shoes after a conflict with her husband. As she stormed upstairs, she angrily stomped her remaining heel. Reports vary on how she died, but visitors say you can still hear her walking up the stairs of the George Wythe House in her good shoe. 101 Palace Green St., Williamsburg
Gadsby’s Tavern
Dating back to the 18th century, Gadsby’s Tavern has played a big role in the city’s haunted history. According to Visit ALX, in 1816 a mysterious couple checked into Gadsby’s after the woman fell ill. After three weeks, the female stranger succumbed to her illness in Room 8. The identity of the couple was never revealed. Some guests and staff still see the female stranger roaming the halls, in Room 8, and at parties in the ballroom. 134 N. Royal St., Alexandria
The Rosewell Ruins
Cross the York River to find the ruins of the Rosewell Plantation in Gloucester County. For over 100 years, the Page family, one of the first families of Virginia, owned and operated the plantation. Then, in 1916, the mansion was engulfed with flames, leaving only four chimneys, the east wall, the wine cellar, and a few remaining pillars. Those who visit the old plantation have noticed temperature drops, heard voices, and have seen female ghosts wandering the property. 5113 Old Rosewell Plantation Rd., Gloucester
Weems-Botts Museum
Paranormal fans claim the former home of Reverend Mason Locke Weems and office of attorney Benjamin Botts hosts a ghost. Visitors and researchers have recounted contact with these spirits, including a female spirit looking to harm the living. Every October the museum even holds a lock-in to give visitors the chance to spot a spirit during their stay. 3944 Cameron St., Dumfries
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