Haunted DC

Haunted places in District of Columbia

The nation's capital has more than two centuries of political drama, and its grand homes are said to host presidents, first ladies and servants who never moved out.

The White House

Presidential residence Washington, DC

Home to every U.S. president since John Adams moved in in 1800, the White House has a long tradition of ghost stories. The most famous claim is that staff and guests have sensed or seen Abraham Lincoln near the Lincoln Bedroom.

Visiting: Public tours must be requested in advance through a member of Congress; check the official site for current rules.Official site →

The Octagon

Historic house museum Washington, DC

Completed around 1801, the Octagon served as a temporary home for President James Madison after the British burned the White House in 1814. Legends tell of footsteps on the oval staircase and ghostly bells, and the house is a fixture of local ghost tours.

Visiting: Historic house museum with limited public hours; check before visiting.

Ghost stories are shared as folklore. Hours, tours and access change — always check with the site before you go, and never enter private or closed property.

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