The Atlas Obscura Guide to Halloween Travel
The article discusses a different type of Halloween tourism that focuses on real places with dark histories, rather than staged haunted houses. These places have documented records of the events that occurred there, making them more frightening than any ghost story. One such place is the former home of Ed and Lorraine Warren, which is now open for private overnight bookings and features a collection of haunted objects, including the Annabelle doll. The collection will also be temporarily displayed in Salem, Massachusetts, starting in late August. Other places mentioned include the Taunton State Hospital, which has a reputation for hauntings due to its dark past, and the Outagamie County Asylum Cemetery, where many former patients were buried without names. The article also highlights places where folklore and superstition have played a significant role, such as the Greenbrier Ghost marker in West Virginia and the Three Brujas in New Mexico. Additionally, the article mentions several cemeteries, including Highgate Cemetery in London and the Georgiana Cemetery in Florida, which have unusual and fascinating stories. The Lizzie Borden House in Massachusetts is also featured, where guests can stay in the actual house where the infamous murders took place. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of approaching dark tourism with respect and sensitivity, reading the history of a place before visiting, and not trespassing or disrespecting the sites. By doing so, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the places and their histories, and have a more meaningful and frightening experience. The article also touches on the idea that the truth behind these places is often more interesting and frightening than any ghost story or legend, and that the folklore and superstition surrounding them are a reflection of the real beliefs and fears of the people who lived there. Overall, the article provides a unique perspective on Halloween tourism, one that focuses on the real and often disturbing histories of the places being visited, rather than staged scares and special effects. The article encourages readers to approach these places with a sense of respect and curiosity, and to consider the complex and often dark histories that have shaped them.