One-third of the Historic Triangle, Yorktown witnessed two of the most historically significant events in U.S. history: the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Its position as the locus of national turmoil compelled author Jeff Santos to write his book Ghosts of Yorktown, which serves as a guide to the area’s most haunted spots. “Any place that holds such history and emotion. … It’s stuff like this that leaves spirits behind,” Santos explains. “If not the most, it is one of the most haunted places in Virginia.”
Thomas Nelson House
Whether or not you are seeking a local haunt, the Nelson House is an iconic landmark of Yorktown. Built in the early 1700s, the home stood through the Revolution and served as a hospital in the Civil War. Hours are irregular, so visitors should contact the Yorktown National Park Service for more information. // 200-208 Nelson St., Yorktown
Yorktown Pub
Take a break from ghost hunting at the Yorktown Pub, a town favorite that boasts a variety of sandwiches and seafood dishes paired with a scenic view of the York River. The local charm is accentuated by live music on Fridays and Saturdays and open mic nights on Tuesdays. // 540 Water St., Yorktown
Great Valley Road
Right across from the Nelson House lies Great Valley Road, where slaves were led from the docks to auction in town. Stand along the footpath at night to hear the eerie effect of the wind passing through the bamboo trees lining the walkway. Santos states that its dark history makes it “a place for paranormal activity.”
Crawford Road
Located on the outskirts of Yorktown, Crawford Road is a site for a good spook. According to urban legend, a lovesick bride hung herself from the overpass on the winding road, and since then people have reported strange occurrences: from seeing a dark figure in their rear-view mirror, to hearing footfalls land on their car roof.
