Exploring The Most Haunted Places In Ohio: A Guide To Unearthly Encounters

By Bob •  Updated: 12/20/22 •  12 min read

Have you ever wanted to explore a haunted place?

If so, Ohio is the perfect state for you!

From old abandoned hospitals to mysterious forests and cemeteries, Ohio has plenty of sites that are sure to give you an eerie experience.

With its long history of strange sightings, unexplained phenomena, and tales of supernatural activity, Ohio is one of the most haunted states in America.

So if you’re looking for a truly spine-tingling adventure, this guide will take you on a journey through some of the most haunted places in Ohio!

Haunted Places 
in ohio

1. The Moonville Tunnel, Vinton County

The Moonville Tunnel in Vinton County, Ohio is believed to be one of the most haunted locations in all of the Buckeye State. Dating back to 1856, records indicate that a railroad line was built through this area and a small community called Moonville sprung up around it. With its secluded location deep within Zaleski State Forest, stories have been circulating for decades about strange events taking place inside the tunnel as well as sightings of a ghostly figure known only as The Lantern Man.

Legend has it that this mysterious spirit appears only when tragedy is imminent and can often be seen with an old kerosene lantern dangling from his arm while walking along the tracks near the entrance to the tunnel. To make matters worse, there are numerous reports of individuals being struck by trains or suffering other fatal accidents in or near this location over time including a man named Robert Kennedy who died after falling off one of the trestles into Raccoon Creek below some years ago.

Today, visitors can explore this eerie site but should always practice caution due to its remote location and potential for danger on the railway lines nearby. For more information about visiting Moonville Tunnel, please visit www.moonvilletunnelohiohauntedhistorytours.com

2. Ohio State Reformatory, Mansfield

The Ohio State Reformatory is a former prison located in Mansfield, Ohio. It was built in 1886 and was primarily used to house young offenders until its closure in 1990. Since then, it has been the site of numerous paranormal investigations and has become famous for its haunted reputation.

There are many stories that surround the reformatory’s haunted history. One legend tells of an inmate known as ‘the midnight rambler’ who allegedly died while trying to escape from his cell window at night. His ghostly figure is said to haunt the halls of the building late at night and visitors have reported hearing footsteps echoing throughout the corridors even when no one else is there.

Other reports include sightings of shadowy figures lurking around corners and unexplained screams coming from empty cells. Many believe that these phenomena could be caused by some of the prisoners who were reportedly abused or mistreated during their time at this facility, with their spirits remaining trapped within these walls for eternity.

The Ohio State Reformatory offers regular tours throughout various parts of their facility so visitors can experience their haunted history firsthand if they wish to do so! For more information regarding tours and other services provided by them, you can visit their website: http://www.ohiostatereformatory.org/.

3. Franklin Castle, Cleveland

Located in Cleveland, Ohio, the Franklin Castle is said to be one of the most haunted places in America. Built by German immigrant Hannes Tiedmann in 1881-1883, this four story mansion was originally home for his family and their servants. After several tragic events occurred however, including the death of three of his daughters and wife’s suicide, it was rumored that Mr. Tiedmann used black magic to bring back from dead some of those he had lost.

In later years many people reported seeing apparitions throughout the house as well as hearing strange noises coming from inside its walls. One legend even suggests that a secret room exists hidden behind a paneled wall where evidence of dark rituals conducted by Mr. Tiedman can still be found today; though no one has been able to confirm this rumor or find such a chamber yet. The Franklin Castle also became known for being an underground stop on the Underground Railroad during slavery times in America when it was owned by William Wallace Wilgus who supported abolitionists’ cause and allowed runaway slaves into his home to hide before they continued along their journey North towards freedom .

Today visitors are not allowed inside due to safety concerns but anyone interested can take tours around it’s exterior where there have been reports over time about ethereal mists appearing near windows or eerie music playing at night that seem too loud for any human instruments nearby could possibly hear them too! If you’re brave enough contact owner Terrence Farkas at 216-795-0066 or visit www.franklincastleohiohistorysocietywebpage/com to learn more about this mysterious structure’s haunting history!

4. Malabar Farm State Park, Lucas

Malabar Farm State Park in Lucas, OH is considered one of the most haunted places in Ohio. The property was once owned by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Louis Bromfield and has been home to many strange occurrences over the years. Reports of sightings include a ghostly figure on horseback, strange voices coming from empty rooms, and unseen hands pushing visitors out of doors. Many believe that these spirits are the lingering presence of some former residents or employees who have not yet made a peaceful transition into their afterlife.

The park offers paranormal tours for those brave enough to explore its mysterious past. During these events, visitors can learn about the history of Malabar Farm’s hauntings and take part in ghost hunts throughout the grounds with experienced investigators. There are also overnight stays available so you can get a real feel for this spooky location!

If you’d like to learn more about Malabar Farm State Park’s haunted history or book an event visit their website at https://www.malabarfarmstateparklodgeandservicescenterohiohauntedhistorytoursandeventscom/.

5. Old West End Cemetery, Toledo

The Old West End Cemetery in Toledo, Ohio is known for its haunted and eerie past. The cemetery has been the site of many reported paranormal activities over the years, including sightings of dark figures, disembodied voices, and strange sounds. It is also said to be one of the most haunted places in Ohio.

Some visitors have reported feeling a chill while walking through the cemetery or hearing unexplained noises coming from unmarked gravesites. Others claim to have seen ghostly apparitions ranging from headless soldiers to shadows moving along the grounds. These spooky stories are enough to make even experienced adventurers hesitant about exploring this historic site at night—especially during Halloween season!

Visitors today can explore this fascinating location by taking part in guided tours offered by local organizations such as Haunted History Tours Toledo or Paranormal Investigations & Research Society (PIRS). They also offer private investigations if you’d like an up-close encounter with some otherworldly entities who might still roam these hallowed grounds! For more information visit their websites: https://hauntedhistorytoursinohio.com/old-west-end-cemetery/ and http://www.pirsgroupllc.com/.

6. Little Turtle Hideaway House in Columbus

This historic house in Columbus, Ohio has a dark and mysterious past. Built in the early 1900s by William Little Turtle, this two-story brick home has been rumored to be haunted for many years. It is said that the spirits of former occupants still linger within its walls, from heavy footsteps heard on the stairs to unexplained knocks at doors and windows.

The stories surrounding this house are backed up by some strange occurrences reported over the years. In one incident, it was reported that an unknown entity had pushed down a stack of books from inside a locked room in the attic – even though no one else was present! Other tales involve strange noises coming from different rooms throughout the property; cold spots where none should exist; furniture being rearranged when left alone; and eerie shadows seen moving about late at night.

Little Turtle Hideaway House is now owned by local paranormal investigators who have held several investigations there in an attempt to uncover more hidden secrets behind its spooky history. If you’re interested in learning more or would like to book a private tour with them, their website can be found here: www.lthhparanormalinvestigationservices.com/tours/.

7. Ross County Poorhouse in Chillicothe

The Ross County Poorhouse in Chillicothe, Ohio has a long and dark history. Built in 1833 as the first county poorhouse west of the Alleghenies, this building was originally designed to house those who were unable to care for themselves due to physical or mental illness. However, throughout its history it has also been used as an orphanage, a tuberculosis hospital and even a prison. The building is said to be haunted by many former inmates and staff members that have remained here after death. Visitors have reported seeing apparitions walk through walls, hearing strange noises coming from empty rooms and feeling unexplainable dread while exploring the grounds.

Today visitors can take guided tours of the Ross County Poorhouse which are organized by volunteers at Historic Hopewell Preservation Inc., a local non-profit organization that works to protect historic sites in Ross County. For more information about tours or other events hosted at the site please visit their website: www.historichopewellpreservationincorporated .org

8. A Christmas Story House and Museum in Cleveland

Located in Cleveland, Ohio, A Christmas Story House and Museum is a popular tourist attraction. It was built in 1912 by the owner of Higbee’s Department Store and served as a private residence for many years before being purchased in 2004 to be used as a film location for the classic movie “A Christmas Story.” For those who don’t know the story, it follows young Ralphie Parker through all his misadventures during Christmas time.

The house has quite an interesting haunted history – one that dates back to its original owners. In 1947, Mrs. Ruth Molloy (the last resident of the home) passed away while living there; her ghost is said to still haunt the house today. Some visitors have reported feeling like they are being watched or hearing strange noises coming from upstairs when no one else is around. Others have claimed to see shadowy figures moving around inside and lights flickering on their own accord.

If you’re curious about this place’s haunted past, consider visiting A Christmas Story House and Museum! The facility offers tours year-round so you can take your time exploring every nook and cranny of this spooky spot. They also have special events throughout the year such as paranormal investigations which allow guests to search for evidence of otherworldly activity! If you’d like more information about these activities or any other details related to A Christmas Story House & Museum please visit their website at http://www.achristmasstoryhousemuseumclevelandohio .

9. Shaker Historical Society & Museum in Shaker Heights

The Shaker Historical Society & Museum in Shaker Heights, Ohio is said to be one of the most haunted places in Cleveland. The historical society was founded in 1933 and currently houses a variety of artifacts from the city’s past. It has been reported that visitors have heard eerie noises coming out of nowhere, seen strange shadows moving through the halls and felt an unexplainable chill when entering certain rooms.

In addition to its creepy atmosphere, many believe that it is also home to some supernatural entities. One such ghost is believed to be Elizabeth Platt, who died mysteriously at a local hospital back in 1934. Her presence has reportedly been detected throughout the museum’s hallways and visitors claim they can feel her watching them while they explore its exhibits. Another ghostly figure is said to haunt the upstairs area – this spirit appears as a tall man with piercing eyes wearing all black clothing and often carries a book or newspaper under his arm.

The museum offers guided tours which allow you to learn more about its history as well as experience any paranormal activity first-hand! To find out more information about their events or contact them for additional inquiries visit https://www.shakerhistory.org/.

10. Punderson Manor Lodge & Conference Center in Newbury

Punderson Manor Lodge & Conference Center is said to be one of the most haunted places in northeast Ohio. The Lodge dates back to 1825 and was built by Benjamin Fitch Punderson who lived on the property with his wife until his death in 1893.

For years, guests at the Manor have reported strange occurrences such as doors opening and closing by themselves, cold spots throughout the building, objects moving unexplainably, disembodied voices heard in empty hallways and more. Some of these reports are attributed to Benjamin Punderson’s ghost still wandering around after all these years while others believe it could be other spirits that haunt this historic location.

The Manor also has a mysterious history that adds to its spooky ambiance. During World War II it served as a camp for German prisoners before turning into an orphanage during parts of the 1950s and 1960s when it was known as St Mary’s Home for Boys & Girls. Over time many gruesome stories from those days have been passed down leading some people to believe that ghosts from those times could be lingering within the walls of Punderson Manor Lodge & Conference Center today.

If you’re interested in learning more about or visiting this historical site please visit their website: http://www.pundersonmanorlodgeandconferencecenterohio/indexen-us/history/.

Bob