New York City, with its rich history spanning over four centuries, is not only a hub of culture and commerce but also a hotbed of paranormal activity. From centuries-old buildings to modern-day landmarks, the city that never sleeps is also home to restless spirits that continue to captivate the imagination of residents and visitors alike.
From colonial-era mansions to iconic landmarks, the spirits of New York’s past continue to make their presence known, reminding us that in this city of endless possibilities, the line between the living and the dead may be thinner than we think.
HAUNTED HOUSES
The Merchant’s House Museum Located in the East Village, the Merchant’s House Museum is considered one of the most haunted places in Manhattan. Built in 1832, this preserved 19th-century home is said to be haunted by the Tredwell family, who lived there for nearly 100 years. Visitors and staff have reported seeing apparitions, hearing unexplained Gertrude Tredwell, the last family member to live in the home, is believed to be the most active spirit, often seen in her favorite rocking chair or wandering the hallways.
The Morris-Jumel Mansion Standing as Manhattan’s oldest house, the Morris-Jumel Mansion in Washington Heights has a long history of supernatural occurrences. Built in 1765, it served as George Washington’s headquarters during the Revolutionary War. The mansion’s most famous ghost is said to be that of Eliza Jumel, the former mistress of the house. Staff and visitors have reported seeing her apparition in a purple dress, hearing strange noises, and witnessing objects move on their own. The mansion’s eerie atmosphere has made it a popular destination for ghost hunters and history buffs alike.
The House of Death Despite its quaint Greek Revival facade, 14 West 10th Street in Greenwich Village has earned the ominous nickname “The House of Death.” This brownstone is rumored to be haunted by 22 ghosts, including that of Mark Twain, who lived there briefly in 1900. Over the years, residents have reported numerous paranormal experiences, from apparitions to unexplained sounds and sensations.
The Dakota The iconic Upper West Side apartment building, famous as the home of John Lennon and the location of his tragic assassination, is also known for its supernatural residents. Built in the 1880s, The Dakota has been the site of numerous ghostly sightings over the years. Residents and staff have reported seeing the ghost of a young girl, a grown man dressed in 19th-century clothing, and even the spirit of John Lennon himself.
HAUNTED THEATER
The Belasco Theatre This midtown landmark is not only notable for the talent it draws, but for the ghosts that never leave. Allegedly, owner David Belasco once lived in an apartment above the theater with his right-hand lady (a.k.a. the Blue Lady). Belasco passed away in 1931, but his spirit (including the Blue Lady’s) remains. Both can be seen onstage during performances, sitting in the audience and traveling in the elevator.
HAUNTED CHURCHES
St. Mark’s Church in-the-Bowery This East Village church, the second-oldest in Manhattan, is said to be haunted by the ghost of Peter Stuyvesant, the last Dutch Director-General of New Netherland. Stuyvesant, whose remains are interred in a vault beneath the church, has been seen limping through the churchyard (he famously had a wooden leg) and heard peg-legging up and down the aisles during services.
The Cathedral of St. John the Divine This massive Gothic Revival cathedral in Morningside Heights is not only an architectural marvel but also a hotbed of paranormal activity. Visitors and staff have reported seeing shadowy figures moving through the vast nave, hearing unexplained choral music when the cathedral is empty, and feeling sudden cold spots throughout the building.
St. Paul’s Chapel As the oldest surviving church building in Manhattan, St. Paul’s Chapel has witnessed centuries of New York history. During the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, the chapel served as a rest and relief station for recovery workers. Since then, there have been reports of ghostly Revolutionary War-era soldiers seen in and around the chapel’s graveyard. Some visitors have also claimed to feel a comforting presence inside the church, attributed to the spirits of those who perished in the nearby World Trade Center attacks.
HAUNTED RESTAURANTS & BARS
One by Land, Two if by Sea Housed in a 1767 carriage house in Greenwich Village, this romantic restaurant is said to be haunted by none other than Aaron Burr and his daughter Theodosia. Staff and diners have reported seeing apparitions, feeling ghostly touches, and witnessing objects move on their own. The restaurant’s long history and connection to one of America’s most infamous political figures contribute to its eerie atmosphere.
Ear Inn This SoHo establishment, housed in a building dating back to 1817, is reportedly haunted by the ghost of a sailor named Mickey. Known for his mischievous antics, Mickey is said to play pranks on female patrons and staff, turn lights on and off, and move objects around the bar. The Ear Inn’s long history and preservation of its original structure make it a prime location for paranormal activity.
White Horse Tavern In addition to haunting the Hotel Chelsea the ghost of Dylan Thomas gets around and is also known to hang out at the White House Tavern, where the legendary Welsh poet allegedly drank 18 straight whiskies on the night of his death at the age of 39 in 1953. Thomas has been witnessed lounging around his favorite table and even stealing shots from the bar on occasion. A notable “bar for writers,” it was established in 1880 and has been recognized by the Academy of American Poets.