You might be surprised to discover how many empty, abandoned towns in PA dot the valleys and hills of our precious home state. Rather than building new towns in these places, it seems as if we’ve just let the old ones sit like forgotten toys, left to history forever. Some we can visit, giving us a peek into the past. Here are seven ghost towns in PA that are sure to get your attention.

1. Centralia
Centralia, PA, USA
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By far the most well-known ghost town in the entire state, Centralia has been nearly abandoned since the underground mine fire that broke out there in 1962. The town drew visitors from all over the state, in fact, resulting in the unwelcome creation of Graffiti Alley. In March 2017, authorities began cracking down on trespassers who are spotted on this private property because the area is considered unsafe. You can read more about this eerie abandoned town in PA in previous coverage.
2. East Fork
East Fork, Pennsylvania
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Tucked in Potter County, East Fork was home to just 14 residents (as of the 2010 Census). By 2014, the district of East Fork was shut down and became part of Wharton Township. During the 2010 Census, it was discovered that five families lived in East Fork, with the median age coming in at 59 years.
3. Eckley
Eckley, Foster Township, PA 18224, USA
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Located near Hazleton, Eckley was originally a miner's town that has been operational as a giant museum. It was a popular site of the Molly Maguires back in the day, the famous Irish immigrants who were persecuted for their uprising against the unfair treatment of laborers in the coal mines. Visit the fascinating Eckley Miners' Village Museum to learn more!

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4. French Azilum
French Azilum, T458, Wyalusing, PA 18853, USA
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French Azilum was originally a settlement built for refugees who fled the French Revolution. The settlement boasted dozens of homes. Today, the land is managed by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. The site features more than 20 acres from the original settlement and a small museum, the latter of which offers guided tours. Visit the French Azilum Historic Site website to check out the tours!
5. Frick's Lock
Fricks Lock, East Coventry, PA 19465, USA
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Frick's Lock, more formally known as Frick's Lock Historical District, is an abandoned village along the similarly abandoned Schuylkill. The area was abandoned after the construction of the Limerick Nuclear Power Plant. It's private property, so if you attempt to visit, you'll be trespassing... be forewarned. However, you can join a guided tour. Check out the East Coventry website to learn more about the guided tours of the ghost town and plan yours!
6. Pithole
Pithole City, Cornplanter Township, PA 16341, USA
Wikimedia Commons
Pithole was a burgeoning center of commerce until one day all of its residents realized they were living in a place called Pithole and they left. Just kidding. The town is located only six miles from the site of the country's first commercial oil well. After activity at the well slowed down... well, the town cleared out.
7. Ricketts
Ricketts, PA 18656, USA
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Ricketts was built as a lumber town, though once the mills closed, everyone moved away. The last house in the town was torn down in 1930 and now the land remains... empty.

Have you ever visited one of those ghost towns in PA? Share your story in the comments below! If you’re a hiker, consider setting off on the Ghost Town Trail, which was named the top trail in the state in 2020.

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Ghost Towns in PA

Beth Price-Williams | May 21, 2020
  1. What is the most haunted place in Pennsylvania?

Finding haunted places in PA isn’t hard at all. However, if you want to visit the most haunted place in the state, head to Gettysburg. As the site of one of the most crucial battles during the Civil War (the Battle of Gettysburg), Gettysburg is brimming with haunted spots, including Gettysburg Battlefield itself. In fact, you may notice a fog roll over the battlefield. That fog’s usually accompanied by apparitions marching and on horses as lights flash on the battlefield.

However, that’s just the beginning. Gettysburg College, Gettysburg Hotel, and Sachs Covered Bridge are also said to be haunted.

 

2. Are there any haunted restaurants or bars in Pennsylvania?

The oldest bar in Pennsylvania, the Broad Axe Tavern is a definite must visit, especially if you like PA ghost stories. It is at this tavern, which dates back to 1681, that you just might experience the paranormal. Her name – the spirit, that is – is Rachel, and she likes to push the bartender or cause him to spill a tray full of drinks.

Dine with ghosts at Jean Bonnet Tavern in Bedford. Don’t worry, though, it’s nothing too scary. You might feel a tap on your shoulder, turn, and find no one there. You might also see shadowy figures and hear dishes breaking (when none have broken).

 

3. Are there any urban legends in Pennsylvania?

Have you heard of any urban legends in Pennsylvania? How about the Bus to Nowhere in Philadelphia? One of the many buses in Philadelphia has no number, no name, and no destination, but it’s often seen. The SEPTA bus never stops for passengers, yet it’s filled with sad souls. Urban legend says, in fact, that if you want to ride the bus, you must chase it down. The bus driver will slow down and allow you and your despair to board the Bus To Nowhere. When you’re ready to get off, pull the cord. You’ll remember nothing of your ride on the Wandering Bus.

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