Are you ready to explore the ghostly side of Iowa? The state is filled with eerie and mysterious spots, from old schools to fancy old houses, where the spirits of the past are said to hang around. Get ready for a spooky adventure with our list of ten haunted places in Iowa!
The Cresco Theatre and Opera House
The Cresco Theatre and Opera House opened in 1915 and is still running today. Once, talented performers dreamed of becoming stars on this stage, including the Trocadero Vaudevilles, known for dancers, clowns, and even talented dogs. Locals say that the Vaudevilles performers have returned after death to keep performing.
People often feel cold air and hear faint voices. Visitors have reported strange things, like lights flickering and footsteps in empty hallways. It’s a place that’ll send chills down your spine.
The Independence Mental Health Institute
The Independence Mental Health Institute is believed to be haunted by former patients and staff. Opened in 1873, the hospital was known for its harsh treatments. Many patients underwent lobotomies and shock therapy, and sadly, many died there.
People have reported seeing a ghostly nurse and hearing screams in the empty hallways. Some have even seen the ghost of a patient who died while being held down.
Although the hospital closed in 1991 and is now abandoned, its dark past still attracts ghost hunters. It’s a spooky place to explore, if you dare.
The Villisca Axe Murder House
The Villisca Axe Murder House is the site of a terrible, unsolved crime. On June 10, 1912, eight people, including six children, were murdered in their beds with an axe. The killer was never found, leaving the town and the nation in shock.
Today, the house is open for tours, giving visitors a scary look into the past. You can see the bedrooms where the murders happened, and the axe is on display. People say the house is haunted by the victims, with reports of ghostly figures and strange noises. The sense of unease is palpable.
The Oakland Cemetery in Iowa City
Cemeteries are naturally creepy, but the Oakland Cemetery in Iowa City is said to be extra haunted. It’s believed that the spirits of former residents and Civil War soldiers are still there.
Established in 1843, it’s the final resting place for many of Iowa City’s early settlers and war veterans. People have reported seeing a Civil War soldier and hearing strange sounds. It’s a truly eerie place.
One of the most famous stories is that of the “Black Angel,” erected in 1913 to honor Theresa Feldevert. Some believe the statue is cursed and brings bad luck to anyone who looks at it.
Farrar Elementary School
The abandoned Farrar Elementary School is a spooky reminder of the past. Built in the 1920s, it closed in 2001 because the town had more dead residents than living ones. Even though it’s empty, many say they don’t feel alone.
Walking through the school, you can almost feel the former students and staff. Some claim to hear children’s laughter, while others have seen the ghost of a young girl who died there. The ghost of a former janitor is also said to roam the halls.
The school has a dark history. Many visitors feel a sense of dread and have experienced cold spots and unseen hands touching them.
The Maple Hill Mansion
The Maple Hill Mansion, or the Haunted Mansion of Jasper County, is a grand home haunted by former residents and servants. Built in the late 1800s, it once belonged to a wealthy businessman. It’s rumored to have been a stop on the Underground Railroad, with a hidden tunnel connecting the house to the barn.
Visitors have reported seeing ghostly figures, hearing strange noises, and even being touched by spirits. Some claim to see a former resident standing at the upstairs windows at night, while others hear doors slamming in empty rooms.
The Mars Hill Church
The Mars Hill Church is an abandoned church said to be haunted by former congregants and ministers. Built in the late 1800s, it was once a thriving place of worship. Over time, the congregation disappeared, and the church was abandoned.
Now empty, visitors claim to see ghostly figures and hear strange noises. Some have seen the ghost of a former minister preaching to an empty room, while others have heard ghostly hymns.
One of the most interesting stories is that of the “Phantom Bell Ringer.” Legend says that the bell is rung by the ghost of a former member who died before ringing it one last time. People claim to hear the bell ringing on its own.
Chuck and Edna’s Maid-Rite
![Ghost Caught on Camera at Maid Rite? (Cascade, IA) [KWWL]](https://rankedfacts.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FlFt63RyCbvQ%2F0.jpg)
Chuck and Edna’s Maid-Rite looks like a regular restaurant, where you’ll find a delicious Maid-Rite sandwich, an ice cream cone, and a ghost.
Locals say Maid-Rite is haunted. Since it opened, there have been strange events that can only be explained by ghosts. Camera footage shows strange figures, including a man at the dishwashing station who vanishes.
In one incident, a stack of cups fell off a shelf and hit an employee. The owners even called ghost hunters to investigate.
Geigel Woods
Geigel Woods, or “Little Africa,” is considered paranormally active and is said to be haunted by former residents and soldiers who died there. Located near a former military training ground, it has a dark history dating back to the Civil War.
Many soldiers who died during training were buried in the woods, and their spirits are said to remain. People have reported seeing ghosts among the trees and objects flying through the air. Many feel a sense of dread and being watched.
The Mason House Inn
The Mason House Inn is haunted by former owners and guests. Built in 1846, it has a long history of hosting travelers.
Three owners died on the grounds, and one guest was murdered. The inn also served as a hospital during the Civil War, leading to numerous deaths. These souls are said to haunt the inn.
Guests and staff have reported strange occurrences, like seeing ghosts and hearing noises. Some even claim their bags are unpacked by themselves. Ghost hunters often visit and host special paranormal events.
Iowa has many haunted places that will give you the chills. From ghostly theaters to murder houses, each spot has its spooky story. So, are you brave enough to visit these haunted locations? Don’t forget to share your experiences with us!
Leave your comment below and let us know which haunted spot you’d visit first!
