This Creepy Day Trip Through The Spookiest Places In Missouri Is Perfect For Fall
By Beth Price-Williams|Published September 27, 2020
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Do you ever wonder if all of those ghost stories you’ve heard are true? We can find a ton of haunted places in Missouri. When you embark on this day trip to some of the spookiest places in Missouri, you’ll find out whether all of those haunted tales are true. You might even get to experience the paranormal.
The day trip runs a bit long, if you decide to visit the final two stops in Jefferson City. However, if you’ve got some free time, check into the haunted Airbnb for an overnight and to see if you come face-to-face with the paranormal.
Here are the Google Map directions for the day trip, which you can customize to your needs and interests. Before you hit the road, however, contact each destination to confirm it is open and for current hours.
By all accounts, Mound Grove Cemetery is a peaceful spot in Independence. However, don't be surprised if you notice a woman, wearing a nightgown, following you. She's been known to follow visitors - but only as far as the cemetery's gates. If you get too spooked, just make a beeline for the gate. Visit the official Facebook of Mound Grove Cemetery.
Our next spot provides the perfect opportunity for a bit of wine tasting, and you just might experience the paranormal. (If you're really brave, stay the night. Some guests have been so spooked that they've checked out in the dead of night.) A senior home and an orphanage once sat on the site of the winery and inn. It is said spirits of those who once lived there remain. Don't be too surprised if you see young children running about, an old lady singing, or a gentleman wandering around. Doors that open and shut on their own are also common. Head over to the official website of Belvoir Winery & Inn.
Once the final resting place of notorious outlaw Jesse James, the Jesse James Farm & Museum is also where Jesse grew up. It's not uncommon for visitors to hear the sound of gunshots, horses galloping, and desperate cries. Lights tend to turn on and off on their own, too. Stop by the official website of Jesse James Farm & Museum.
Arguably one of the most haunted hotels in Missouri, The Elms Hotel and Spa burned down twice in its storied history. Fortunately, no one was killed, although spirits of those who experienced the fire are still said to linger in the hotel. You might also catch sight of a housekeeper, decked out in 1920s clothes. She's friendly, according to those who have seen her. If you stay overnight, go for a swim in the hotel pool. You just might see a gambler, well-known at the hotel in the 1920s, whose spirit remains. Visit the official website of The Elms Hotel and Spa.
Missouri State Penitentiary welcomes visitors for tours of the historic prison that opened in the 1830s. Inmates had few rights and were treated horribly. Today, many of their spirits are said to linger in the prison. Prisoners are often seen wandering the prison grounds. However, if you reach out to one of them, chances are he'll simply disappear. Head over to the official website of Missouri State Penitentiary.
If you've got a free night and really want to experience the paranormal, check into The Hobo Hill House, also in Jefferson City. Just be prepared for the unexpected - TVs turning on and off on their own, weird noises, and even visits from a man in a top hat. Check out the official Airbnb page of The Hobo Hill House.
What do you think are some of the spookiest places in Missouri? Join the conversation in the comments! For more terrifying fun, hike the haunted Rock Hollow Trail in Wildwood.
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