Ready for a Boo or Two?

The Rice Hotel

Photo from: Downtown Houston

Located in downtown Houston, the historic Rice Hotel once hosted six U.S. Presidents, including John F. Kennedy on his last night before his tragic assassination. In JFK’s room, guests have reported chilling cold spots, the sound of doors rattling, and sightings of ghostly orbs of light. Before the hotel was converted into the Rice Lofts, people claimed to see ghostly dancers in the ballroom, and now residents of the lofts say spirits still dance on the rooftop. You’ll find this historic haunt at 909 Texas Ave.

Esperson Buildings

Photo from: Ghost Texas

Constructed by Mellie Esperson in honor of her husband Niels, the Esperson Buildings are iconic for their Italian Renaissance-inspired design. Mellie’s spirit is said to wander the halls, with elevator doors that mysteriously open on their own, and her apparition has been seen drifting through the building. For those drawn to a spine-tingling story, head over to 808 Travis St. in downtown Houston.

Glenwood Cemetery

Image from: Trip Advisor

Nestled near Buffalo Bayou, Glenwood Cemetery is the final resting place for many influential Houstonians, including aviation legend Howard Hughes. This serene cemetery is also said to be haunted, with reports of eerie EMF readings and strange energy. The owner, who was murdered under mysterious circumstances, is rumored to haunt the grounds. Visit Glenwood Cemetery at 2525 Washington Ave for a quiet stroll—if you dare.

Jefferson Davis Hospital

Image from: Houston Chronicle

This now-converted artists’ loft was built in 1924 on an old Confederate cemetery, and it’s no wonder eerie stories abound. Once a hospital and psychiatric ward, the building has seen its share of spooky encounters: visitors have heard strange howls, felt chills, and seen shadowy figures roaming. Residents believe the spirits of soldiers, nurses, and patients linger on, keeping their memories alive in the loft’s haunted halls at 1101 Elder St.

Julia Ideson Building

Image from: Fuld & Co.

In the heart of Houston, the Julia Ideson Building houses ghostly tales of its own. Jacob Frank Cramer, the building’s former caretaker, is said to haunt the halls, playing his violin accompanied by the soft tapping of his dog’s nails on the floors. If you hear violin strains echoing through the library on a dreary day, it might just be Jacob and his dog Petey saying hello. You can visit this historic library at 500 McKinney St.

La Carafe

Image from: Houstonia Magazine

This cozy, dimly lit wine bar in Houston’s historic district has been around since 1866. Regulars and staff alike share tales of Carl, a former bartender who still hangs around after hours. Footsteps, the sound of glass breaking, and an apparition in the window have all been reported. Drop by La Carafe at 813 Congress St. and see if you spot Carl’s ghostly figure.

Alley Theatre

Image from: Studio Red Architects

Alley Theatre’s halls are rumored to be haunted by former managing director Iris Siff, who was tragically murdered in her office in 1982. The building is said to carry her presence, with strange noises and mysterious happenings taking place. Catch a show at 615 Texas Ave. and keep an eye out for any unexpected visitors from beyond.

National Museum of Funeral History

Photo from: Visit Houston

For a hands-on look at death customs and artifacts from around the world, the National Museum of Funeral History holds one of the largest collections of funeral memorabilia in the U.S. From historic hearses to exhibits on Dia de los Muertos, it’s the perfect stop for those interested in the spiritual side of death. Check it out at 415 Barren Springs Drive.

Brewery Tap

Photo from: Flickr

Beers and ghosts all in one? Yes, please. Houston’s Brewery Tap, known for its selection of beers and ghostly patron “William,” welcomes guests to share a drink with spirits of the past. If you’re curious, the owners will gladly show you a photo of William captured sitting next to a customer. Drop in at 717 Franklin St. for a pint—and maybe a sighting.

Ashton Villa, Galveston

Photo from: Galveston

Back in Galveston, Ashton Villa is known for the ghost of Bettie Brown, the daughter of a wealthy businessman who built the home. Bettie’s spirit is said to linger among her cherished possessions in the Gold Room. Guests have reported seeing her, hearing footsteps, and noticing objects move on their own. Ashton Villa stands at 2328 Broadway St.

Hotel Galvez, Galveston

Photo from: Galveston

This luxurious hotel, built in 1911, is home to the spirit of a woman who, after hearing of her husband’s death, tragically took her life in room 505. Known as the “Lovelorn Lady,” she’s still believed to make a ruckus on the fifth floor, and the ladies’ restroom is notorious for strange disturbances. Experience the hauntings of the Hotel Galvez at 2024 Seawall Blvd.

Jean Lafitte and Galveston’s Ghostly Fleet

French pirate Jean Lafitte left a lasting mark on the Gulf Coast, and some say his ghostly ship can still be seen off the shores of Galveston. Fishermen and oil workers claim they’ve spotted his sails on the horizon, with sightings often seen as ominous warnings before hurricanes. If you’re along the coast, keep an eye out for Lafitte’s legendary ship sailing through the mist.

From haunted hotels to ghostly graveyards, Houston and Galveston’s historic haunts offer an unforgettable way to explore the region’s haunted history. Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, these places are sure to leave you with a chill—and maybe even a ghost story of your own to tell.

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