The Most Budget-Friendly Haunted Cities to Visit in the US

Many things have started to feel unattainably overpriced lately, especially travel. Thankfully, when it comes to traipsing around haunted locations, seeking out signs of the afterlife, travelers don’t have to rack up credit cards and pay unreasonable admission prices. Across the United States, ghostly activity doesn’t chase profits. It manifests where history unfolded and tragedy struck, in bustling cities known for their opulence and quaint towns that favor the cost-conscious. 

For a spectral experience that won’t frighten your wallet, these budget-friendly haunted cities have no trouble delivering roaming spirits, anguished apparitions, and eerie phantoms. From the moss-shaded streets of Savannah to the blood-soaked battlefields of Gettysburg, each of the following cities is as haunted as it is affordable.

Gettysburg, PA

The Welty House – Copyright US Ghost Adventures

As the site of the deadliest battle of the Civil War, Gettysburg is teeming with ghostly activity. A nearly 3.5-mile stretch features two of the city’s most haunted buildings, the Jennie Wade House and the Welty House, and a rock formation still patrolled by many Union and Confederate soldiers. One of these, the Welty House, is part of the Brickhouse Inn, where visitors can snag a haunted room for a reasonable nightly rate. For low-cost rooms without the accompanying spirits, though, 1863 Inn of Gettysburg and the Days Inn by Wyndham are among the cheapest in town.

Gettysburg is a fairly easy city to save money in, so long as you don’t mind the emphasis on military history. The Gettysburg Museum of History, Gettysburg National Military Park, and Eisenhower National Historic Site all offer free entry and discuss the city’s rich past. Cheap dining isn’t impossible to find, either, as eateries like The Gettysburger Company, Lincoln Diner, and Antica Napoli Pizza serve the community with well-crafted food without the high cost. 

While ghost tours that stop at locations like the Jennie Wade House and the old Gettysburg Orphanage make for a fun, affordable date or night out with friends, a ghost hunt of the Welty House is a surprisingly cheap and thrilling experience not everyone gets to have. 

Williamsburg, VA

Colonial Williamsburg – Copyright US Ghost Adventures

Built on ancient burial grounds, Williamsburg pulsates with spiritual energy that fuels the specters of its long and storied past. Echoes of the 19th-century Battles of Williamsburg and the residual haunts of the seemingly cursed Peyton Randolph House headline Williamsburg ghost tours that provide ample entertainment and fascinating history for a reasonable price. Of course, you can’t spend your whole time in The ‘Burg searching for specters, so consider free activities like walking through the 45,000-square-foot Williamsburg Antique Mall or enjoying the outdoors along the Greenway Interpretative Trail.

Williamsburg’s affordability also stretches to Merchant’s Square, where local purveyors and eateries cater to a range of budgets. For a good meal that leaves stomachs and wallets satisfied, there’s Shorty’s Diner, a favorite and the perfect place to fuel up for a ghost tour of the historic city. 

Visitors looking to stay in town and extend their hunt for the apparitions of the haunted George Wythe House or Bruton Parish Church can enjoy a comfortable (and low-cost) stay at The Colonies at Williamsburg. To be immersed in history day and night, the Historic Powhatan Resort features the Manor House, restored to its 18th-century grandeur, and palatable nightly rates.

Savannah, GA

A city like Savannah benefits from its haunting allure. Moss-covered Spanish oaks shadow cobblestone streets, creating an atmosphere that’s ripe for a ghostly encounter. To find the most haunted locations, it’s best to book a tour so you don’t miss out on an inexpensive way to hear the iconic tales of Savannah’s dark and storied past. Along the way, travelers will pass some of the city’s affordable accommodations, though nicer, budget-friendly boutique hotels may be few and far between. Expect branded spots like Comfort Inn, Best Western, and Econo Lodge for cheaper rates.

You’re likely not to spend a lot of time in your hotel, though, as Savannah is oozing with things to do, many of which don’t require your wallet. Marvel at the beauty of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist; relax on the green space of Forsyth Park; admire the charming Historic River Street; or browse the wares and artistry of the City Market that runs every Saturday. While you can visit the infamous Bonaventure Cemetery on your own for free, going with a ghost tour ensures you hear the sordid accounts of its many ethereal residents.

There are plenty of high-end eateries in the historic district, but you can save some money and still enjoy a quality meal at spots like Zunzi’s, Clary’s Café, Savannah Seafood Shack, or, for a savory bite before your Savannah ghost tour or a sweet treat after, The Little Crown by Pie Society.  

St. Augustine, FL

Castillo de San Marcos – Copyright US Ghost Adventures

When it comes to American cities, none surpasses St. Augustine as the oldest. With a history marked by conflict and death, it’s not shocking that Florida’s Ancient City is also among the nation’s most haunted. One of the best (and cheapest) evening activities to enjoy, particularly on a first date or as a family gathering, is a ghost tour that stops at the city’s most haunted hotspots like Tolomato Cemetery and Castillo de San Marcos. 

Discount hotels in St. Augustine also don’t mean you’ll be sacrificing quality for cost. The Ponce St. Augustine Hotel is a prime example of a revered hotel that comes with a low price tag. Similarly, Southern Oaks Inn offers centrally located lodging, while the Flagler Inn is a must after listening to the haunted history of Henry Flagler. 

Being a coastal city, spending a cost-free day at St. Augustine Beach should be high on the “to-do” list during spring, summer, and much of fall. On days when it’s not beach weather, consider admiring the historic architecture of the haunted Fort Matanzas National Monument or the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche at Mission Nombre De Dios. Cheap bites are abundant downtown at places like The Hyppo, or on the outskirts at local favorites like Back 40 Urban Cafe. 

Make sure to join a local St. Augustine ghost tour if you want to explore the haunted side of this ancient city!