Ohio’s rich history and eerie landscapes make it a hotspot for paranormal activity. From abandoned hospitals to haunted theaters, the Buckeye State has no shortage of ghost stories that send chills down your spine. Whether you’re a skeptic or a true believer, these top 10 haunted places in Ohio promise a thrill you won’t forget.
1. The Ohio State Reformatory – Mansfield
Perhaps Ohio’s most infamous haunted site, the Ohio State Reformatory (also known as Mansfield Reformatory) has been featured on Ghost Adventures and The Shawshank Redemption. Visitors report disembodied voices, cold spots, and shadowy figures roaming the decaying cell blocks.
Why it’s haunted: Inmates faced brutal punishments and isolation, leaving behind restless spirits.
2. The Ridges (Former Athens Lunatic Asylum) – Athens
This historic asylum, operational from 1874 to 1993, is surrounded by legends. Many claim to see ghostly patients wandering its halls or appearing in windows of the old tuberculosis ward.
Haunting highlight: The stain of a former patient’s body, permanently etched into the floor where she died unnoticed, remains visible today.
3. Franklin Castle – Cleveland
Built in the 1880s by Hannes Tiedemann, Franklin Castle is a Victorian mansion shrouded in tragedy. Mysterious deaths, secret passageways, and ghostly whispers make it a staple of Cleveland’s haunted lore.
Ghostly encounters: Visitors have heard children crying and doors slamming without cause.
4. Moonville Tunnel – McArthur
Deep in the Zaleski State Forest lies the Moonville Tunnel, the remnant of a ghost town long forgotten. The spirit of a railway worker, killed by an oncoming train, is said to haunt the tunnel—often seen waving a lantern in the dark.
Pro tip: Visit during the day unless you enjoy heart-pounding hikes through pitch-black woods.
5. The Buxton Inn – Granville
Operating since 1812, The Buxton Inn is one of Ohio’s oldest continuously running inns—and one of its most haunted. Guests often encounter The Lady in Blue, a ghostly figure believed to be a former innkeeper.
Bonus: You can still stay overnight in her old room—if you dare.
6. Cincinnati Music Hall – Cincinnati
This grand performance venue was built over a pauper’s cemetery, and some say the original inhabitants never left. Ghosts have been seen in the balconies, and cold drafts sweep through the rehearsal rooms.
Spooky fact: Even musicians have reported instruments playing by themselves during rehearsals.
7. Hotel Lafayette – Marietta
This riverside hotel, built in 1918, has long been a hub for ghost hunters. Room 314 is said to host the spirit of a former guest, and the basement ballroom echoes with phantom music late at night.
Guests report: Elevator doors opening on their own and ghostly footsteps pacing the halls.
8. Licking County Historic Jail – Newark
This former jail is known for its violent history and chilling atmosphere. Many who tour the site report cold spots, shadow figures, and the feeling of being watched.
Haunting claim: The spirit of a wrongfully accused inmate still lingers, seeking justice.
9. Loveland Castle – Loveland
Also called Château Laroche, this hand-built medieval-style castle was constructed by one man, Harry Andrews. After his death, visitors began reporting apparitions and strange lights flickering through the turrets.
Fun fact: Despite its eerie tales, Loveland Castle remains open for picnics and tours.
10. Prospect Place Mansion – Trinway
Once a stop on the Underground Railroad, Prospect Place Mansion is said to host both benevolent and vengeful spirits. Paranormal investigators have captured EVPs (electronic voice phenomena) and strange thermal readings here.
Haunting legend: The ghost of a bounty hunter who died in the barn is said to still lurk nearby.
Final Thoughts
Ohio’s haunted history is as diverse as its landscape—filled with echoes of sorrow, mystery, and intrigue. Whether you’re planning a spooky road trip or just love a good ghost story, these haunted locations offer a perfect mix of history and horror.
Which sites would you explore?
Mindful Explorer 