The Most Haunted Places in Maine (And the Stories Behind Them)
In the quiet town of Kennebunkport, just a 30-minute drive south of Portland, the Marshall House stands as a storied relic of Maine’s past, steeped in ghostly lore. Built in 1816, this historic inn has been welcoming guests for over two centuries, and many who stay here report eerie experiences that have made it a favorite among paranormal enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the charming rooms and common areas that retain much of the building’s original character, with dark wooden beams and antique furnishings adding to the atmosphere. The upstairs rooms, particularly the “Ghost Room,” are often cited for strange noises, unexplained cold spots, and fleeting shadows. Best visited in the fall, when the early darkness and crisp air enhance the house’s spooky vibe, the Marshall House offers a unique blend of coastal New England charm and supernatural intrigue.
Heading north to the capital city of Augusta, about halfway up the state, the Old Fort Western stands as a sentinel of Maine’s colonial past and paranormal reputation. This well-preserved wooden fort, dating back to 1754, is the oldest surviving fortified structure on the Kennebec River. Visitors can tour the fort’s thick palisades, powder magazine, and barracks, gaining insight into Maine’s early frontier days. But beyond history, many have reported ghostly apparitions and strange sounds in the dim candlelit rooms, especially near the basement and guardhouse. The fort’s riverside location offers a peaceful setting, yet the creaks and whispers seem to echo with stories of soldiers long gone. Early spring or late fall, when the fort is less crowded and the river mist often rolls in, provide atmospheric conditions to fully appreciate its haunted aura.
In the heart of Portland, about ten minutes from the Old Port district, the Victoria Mansion offers visitors a glimpse into opulent 19th-century life—and its shadows. This Italianate-style mansion is renowned for its lavish interiors, intricate woodwork, and original furnishings, telling the story of a wealthy merchant family. Guided tours reveal the elegant rooms, but the mansion’s haunted reputation adds an intriguing layer to the experience. Staff and visitors alike report sightings of a mysterious woman in period dress and unexplained footsteps on the grand staircase. The mansion’s beautifully preserved architecture, combined with its eerie tales, makes it a memorable stop for those interested in history with a hint of the paranormal. Visiting during the quieter winter months, when the mansion’s warm gaslight fixtures contrast with the cold outside, heightens the sense of stepping back into a haunted past.
Further up the coast near Bar Harbor, about three hours northeast of Portland, the historic Bar Harbor Inn holds a ghost story as dramatic as the rugged Atlantic shoreline. This elegant waterfront hotel has welcomed travelers since the late 1800s and is known for its stunning views of Frenchman Bay and Mount Desert Island. Guests sometimes report strange noises, apparitions, and unexplained movements in the older parts of the inn, especially on stormy nights when the crashing waves seem to whisper secrets. The best way to experience the inn’s haunted charm is to explore the nearby Shore Path at sunset, where the natural beauty contrasts with the eerie tales of old guests who never quite left. Visiting in the off-season allows for a quieter, more intimate setting to soak in both the coastal scenery and the lingering spirits.
In the lakeside town of Rangeley, about two hours northwest of Augusta, the Rangeley Inn invites visitors to immerse themselves in the quiet wilderness—and its ghostly legends. Known for its rustic charm and proximity to Rangeley Lake, the inn dates back to the mid-19th century and has hosted hunters, fishermen, and travelers for generations. Guests often recount hearing footsteps in the hallways or seeing fleeting figures near the fireplace in the old lounge. Outside, the Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway offers a peaceful drive through dense forests and sparkling waters, but the inn’s historic character, combined with local ghost stories, creates a special ambiance. Summer and early fall, when the foliage is vibrant and the lake is calm, provide perfect conditions for both exploration and contemplation of the inn’s mysterious past.
In the shadow of Mount Desert Island’s western hills, about 30 minutes from Bar Harbor, the Jordan Pond House is a place where visitors can savor both scenic beauty and whispered tales. Famous for its popovers and tea, this historic restaurant overlooks the crystal-clear Jordan Pond, with views of the iconic Bubbles Mountains. While the pond’s natural serenity is undeniable, some staff and locals tell stories of ghostly figures seen near the water’s edge on misty mornings. Hiking the Jordan Pond Path, a relatively easy 3.3-mile loop, visitors enjoy stunning vistas and peaceful woods, but the area’s long human history means the land holds echoes of those who came before. Early morning visits when the fog lingers create a mysterious atmosphere where nature’s beauty and the unexplained intertwine.
In the town of Bath, approximately 40 minutes northeast of Portland, the historic Maine Maritime Museum offers more than just tales of shipbuilding and seafaring. The museum’s collection of vessels and exhibits chronicles the region’s rich maritime heritage, but some visitors report a chilling presence aboard the exhibits, especially the Matthew Turner shipyard area. The museum’s setting along the Kennebec River, with its docks and warehouses, evokes the bustling port life of the 19th century. Guided tours highlight everything from shipbuilding techniques to legendary sea stories, but the occasional unexplained cold gust or shadowy figure adds an eerie twist. Visiting in the cooler months when the waterfront is quieter allows for a more reflective experience, blending history with a touch of mystery.
Finally, in the southern town of York, about 45 minutes south of Portland, the Old Gaol Museum sits on the site of Maine’s earliest jail, built in 1719. This small but fascinating museum preserves the prison’s granite cells and artifacts, offering a window into colonial justice and punishment. Visitors can walk through the dark stone corridors and imagine the lives of those once confined here. Many claim to have felt a heavy presence or heard moans and footsteps in the cold, narrow rooms. The Old Gaol’s stark, authentic atmosphere sets it apart from more polished historic sites, making it a compelling destination for those drawn to haunted history. The best time to visit is late afternoon, when shadows lengthen and the building’s silhouette becomes more dramatic, inviting visitors to ponder the echoes of its troubled past.