There’s a lot to love about Virginia City. Not only is it one of Montana’s oldest mining towns – and a living ghost town, at that – but it’s an absolutely delightful destination. Of course, a town with this much history is sure to have some rumors of paranormal activity… and as it turns out, quite a few Montanans have experienced the unexplainable at Virginia City ghost town, one of the most notorious haunted places in Montana.

The roots of Virginia City, Montana go all the way back to 1863.
Arthur T. LaBar / Flickr
That was the year Bill Fairweather and Henry Edgar discovered gold near Alder Creek, which led to the setup of the mining town.
Virginia City was initially a booming town, even serving some time as Montana's first state capital (Bannack was the first territorial capital).
Virginia City Chamber of Commerce Facebook
But by the 1870s, the local population had dwindled, and before long, it became yet another ghost town in Montana.
In the 1940s, Charles and Sue Bovey began buying the town and started renovating it. Eventually, it became the tourist destination it is today.
Virginia City Chamber of Commerce Facebook
Virginia City is now mostly owned by the state government and is a National Historic Landmark. For that we are thankful, because it's definitely a beloved treasure, offering a glimpse into our past.

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But is this tiny town haunted? Many Montanans say yes.
lasirenadolce / Flickr
Members of the Bozeman Paranormal Society, a historical ghost investigation group, say they have paranormal experiences every time they go. They've seen apparitions by the Hanging House and at the cemetery, and they've heard mysterious voices in the Opera House. One member was even locked inside a room by a playful spirit at the Fairweather Inn.
The Fairweather Inn definitely has its share of ghost stories, both from guests and employees... and it's not the only place in town.
Paolo G / Flickr
In fact, some of the spirits are said to roam the streets. People have spotted a bearded man wearing a Civil War-era uniform who looks angry... he crosses the street and then disappears. Several of the local buildings have been investigated by ghost hunters.
If you'd like to learn more about the city's restless spirits, you can go on a guided ghost walk during select times of the year. Self-guided walks are available, too.
Carl Grant / Flickr
The nightly tours start at the Bale of Hay Saloon, and you'll walk through the streets and alleys while listening to some spooky (and true) tales.
Of course, by day, Virginia City is a lively and thriving Montana ghost town.
Brenda / Flickr
It's definitely most popular during the summertime, but if these rumors are correct, it will get you in the mood for Halloween as well.

Check out this great YouTube video about Virginia City ghost town from user Montana’s Best:

Virginia City is a delightful place to visit in Big Sky Country, and it’s one of the best-preserved ghost towns in Montana. And while you’re in the area, spend some time at Bannack State Park, a delightfully historic (and yes, a bit spooky) day trip in Montana! Book a stay at a wonderful vacation home rental in Ennis, MT, which is just a few miles from Virginia City, Montana.

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Virginia City ghost town

Sarah M. | August 31, 2022

Is Virginia City the only ghost town in Montana?

Certainly not! Virginia City might be the state's most notorious ghost town, but it's by no means the only ghost town in Montana.

  • Nevada City is another haunting locale to visit; it's Montana's liveliest ghost town and a delight of a place to visit. Nevada City, Montana, was destined to become yet another casualty of the Gold Rush until an ambitious family restored it between 1945 and 1978. Today, the entire town of Nevada City is a living history museum, and it's a place that really comes alive during the summer months.
  • Montana City is the most vivacious and wholly alive ghost town in the country, and it's a must-visit for all curious history buffs. I highly recommend visiting.
  • For those looking for a real, live history lesson about the Gold Rush, check out Bannack State Park. This Montana ghost town is a National Historic Landmark and the site of the state's first major gold discovery on July 28, 1862. This event set off an epic gold rush that caused Bannack's population to boom to over 3,000 by 1863. But as the value of gold declined, so too did Bannack's burgeoning population. Today, over 50 buildings line Main Street; their historic log and frame structures reference Montana's formative years, giving visitors an authentic Old West experience.

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Virginia City, MT 59729, USA