41 Most Haunted Travel Destinations For Brave Adventurers

12. Eastern State Penitentiary, USA

Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Eastern State Penitentiary is a former prison renowned for its imposing Gothic architecture and infamous history. Opened in 1829, it pioneered the use of solitary confinement, a practice that left many inmates psychologically scarred. The prison closed in 1971, but its chilling past lingers in its decaying cells and crumbling walls. Paranormal enthusiasts flock to Eastern State for its numerous ghost sightings and eerie phenomena. Visitors report hearing disembodied voices, footsteps, and even the sound of cell doors clanging shut. Cellblock 12 is particularly notorious for shadowy figures, while Cellblock 4 is said to house mysterious whispers. The prison’s dark history includes stories of brutal punishments and desperate escape attempts, adding to its haunting atmosphere. Today, it operates as a museum and historic site, offering guided tours that highlight both its historical significance and ghostly reputation.