The Ghosts of Austin, TX
Austin, Texas, is not just a hub for live music and delicious BBQ—it’s also brimming with spine-tingling haunted spots that paranormal enthusiasts will love. Whether you’re a ghost hunter or just a curious traveler, these 20 haunted places mix chilling history with vibrant local culture.
1. The Driskill Hotel
Built in 1886, the Driskill Hotel is one of Austin’s most iconic landmarks and a living piece of Texas history. Founded by Jesse Driskill, a wealthy cattle baron, the hotel was designed to be the grandest southern hotel west of the Mississippi, catering to politicians, celebrities, and travelers passing through the capital city.
The Romanesque-style building, with its distinctive cream-and-red limestone exterior, originally boasted 60 rooms and state-of-the-art amenities for its time, including electric lights and water closets. The Driskill quickly became a centerpiece of Austin’s social and political life, hosting governors, presidents, and famous entertainers—legends like Willie Nelson and Lady Bird Johnson have all graced its halls.
Throughout its long history, the hotel has seen its share of dramatic events, including fires, renovations, and changes in ownership. During the Great Depression, it struggled but managed to survive, maintaining its status as a cultural hub.
Today, the Driskill is not just a luxurious place to stay—it's rumored to be one of the most haunted locations in Austin. Ghost stories swirl around its hallways and historic bar, adding a thrilling layer to its already rich past. For travelers who appreciate history mixed with a little paranormal spice, the Driskill Hotel offers a unique window into Austin’s vibrant heritage and its secrets.
Built in 1886, the Driskill Hotel is one of Austin’s most iconic landmarks and an epicenter of paranormal activity. Legend has it that the hotel is haunted by the spirit of Colonel Jesse Driskill, its original owner, who died shortly after the hotel opened. Guests and staff have reported ghostly footsteps, mysterious voices, and even apparitions appearing in the hallways. The hotel’s rich history of political gatherings and events adds to its eerie ambiance.
Step into the hauntingly elegant Driskill Hotel, located in the heart of Austin, Texas—a place where history and mystery intertwine like the shadows in its grand halls. Opened in 1886, this iconic hotel has played host to presidents, celebrities, and countless travelers, but it’s its ghostly residents that draw paranormal enthusiasts from all over.
Visitors report eerie encounters: footsteps echoing in empty corridors, cold spots that chill to the bone, and the soft sounds of piano music drifting from the age-old bar long after closing. The spirit of Colonel Jesse Driskill, the hotel’s original owner, is said to linger, watching over his masterpiece with a spectral presence that blends charm with a little chill. Rooms such as 525 and 405 are notorious for unexplained phenomena—lights flickering, doors closing on their own, and shadowy figures glimpsed from the corner of the eye.
The Driskill isn’t just a haunted hotel; it’s a portal to Austin’s rich history wrapped in a gothic embrace. Whether you’re a first-time ghost hunter or a seasoned paranormal traveler looking to connect with the past, the Driskill offers a perfect blend of luxurious hospitality and spine-tingling stories. Stay overnight if you dare, and you might just become part of its spectral legend.
2. The Driskill Bar
The Driskill Hotel Bar in Austin, Texas, is a historic gem that carries over a century of stories within its elegant walls. Opened in 1886 by cattle baron Jesse Driskill, the hotel was designed to be a lavish gathering place for the city's elite and traveling dignitaries. The bar itself quickly became the heart of the hotel's social scene, celebrated for its rich mahogany fixtures, stained glass, and ornate tile work that evoke a sense of old-world charm.
Over the decades, the Driskill Bar has witnessed countless tales—from political power plays and literary meetings to ghostly legends that add a mysterious allure. It's rumored that Jesse Driskill himself still haunts the premises, especially near the bar where he held court in his heyday. Today, the Driskill Hotel Bar remains a beloved Austin landmark, where locals and visitors alike sip classic cocktails and soak in a deep slice of Texas history, all while enjoying a vibrant atmosphere blending past and present. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone chasing paranormal vibes and cultural richness on your Austin adventure.
Within the Driskill Hotel, the bar itself carries tales of hauntings. Patrons have experienced glasses moving on their own and strange cold breezes. The bar’s long history as a gathering place for politicians and locals makes it a rich location for ghost stories and historical intrigue.
Exploring these haunted places provides a perfect blend of Austin’s vibrant history with spine-tingling paranormal experiences—ideal for travelers who crave a little mystery with their adventure.
3. The Texas State Capitol
The Texas State Capitol, located in Austin, is an iconic symbol of Texas pride and history. Completed in 1888, it stands as the largest state capitol building in the United States by square footage, even larger than the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. The building was designed by architect Elijah E. Myers in the Renaissance Revival style, using distinctive sunset red granite quarried from Marble Falls, Texas.
The idea for the current capitol came after Texas outgrew its original capitol building, which was destroyed by fire in 1881. Construction began in 1882 and took six years to complete, reflecting the ambition and grandeur Texans wanted to project as their state continued to grow rapidly. At 306 feet tall, the building’s dome is topped by the Goddess of Liberty statue, symbolizing freedom and the pioneering spirit.
Inside, the Capitol houses the chambers for the Texas Legislature and the Office of the Governor. The interior features intricate ironwork, detailed murals, and native Texas woods, making it not only a political hub but also a showcase of Texas craftsmanship and culture.
Over the years, the Capitol has been preserved and restored to maintain its historic character while accommodating modern needs. It remains a popular destination for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and visitors intrigued by Texas’ unique blend of politics, culture, and a bit of that larger-than-life lore everyone appreciates on a paranormal or ghostly adventure.
Whether you’re wandering the surrounding grounds or taking a guided tour, the Texas State Capitol offers a rich blend of history, legends, and the unmistakable Texan flair that makes it a must-visit spot on any cultural or ghost tour itinerary in the Lone Star State.
Though better known for its politics, the Texas State Capitol has its share of spooky tales. Workers and visitors have reported hearing strange noises, feeling sudden cold spots, and witnessing unexplained shadows. The building dates back to 1888, and some believe it’s haunted by former politicians and laborers who perished during its construction.
4. The Littlefield House
The Littlefield House in Austin, Texas, is an iconic historic mansion that stands as a testament to early 20th-century architecture and the legacy of a prominent Texas family. Built in 1893, this grand residence was commissioned by George Washington Littlefield, a wealthy cattle baron, banker, and benefactor closely tied to the University of Texas at Austin.
The house was designed in the Richardsonian Romanesque style by architect Frederick M. Erving, featuring robust stonework, massive arches, and intricate wood detailing. Located near the UT Austin campus, it originally served as the private home for George and Alice Littlefield and their family.
George Littlefield played a significant role in Texas history—not just as a businessman but also as a supporter of the Confederacy and a significant donor to the university. His philanthropy extended to funding the UT Littlefield Fountain and various campus buildings, solidifying his mark on Austin’s cultural landscape.
Over the years, the Littlefield House has evolved from a family home to a center for university administration and special events. Its historical significance and architectural beauty make it a popular site for paranormal enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Many visitors report an atmosphere thick with stories from the past, perfect for those drawn to ghostly mysteries and Texas heritage.
Today, the Littlefield House stands as a cherished landmark—melding the grandeur of Austin’s Gilded Age with the spirit of scholarship and local lore. For travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and a touch of the supernatural, the house offers a unique peek into Austin’s storied past.
This beautiful historic mansion, built in 1893, was once home to George W. Littlefield, a wealthy cattle baron and Confederate veteran. The house is said to be haunted by Littlefield’s daughter, who died tragically in the home. Visitors have reported hearing piano music playing by itself and seeing fleeting shadows in the windows.
5. Oakwood Cemetery
Oakwood Cemetery in Austin, Texas, is one of the city's oldest and most historically rich burial grounds. Established in 1839, it stands as a silent witness to Austin’s evolution from a frontier town to the vibrant state capital it is today. The cemetery spans over 40 acres and contains more than 80,000 graves, including those of Texas pioneers, politicians, veterans, and notable citizens.
Originally known as the City Cemetery, it was renamed Oakwood Cemetery due to the abundance of oak trees adorning the landscape. Its grounds reflect the early diversity of Austin’s population, with sections designated for African Americans, Latinos, and whites—each telling a story of the city’s social fabric and shifting racial dynamics.
Oakwood is also notable for its Victorian-era funerary art and elaborate mausoleums, which make it a treasure trove for history buffs and paranormal enthusiasts alike. Many gravestones bear inscriptions and symbols characteristic of 19th-century mortuary customs, offering insight into the cultural and spiritual beliefs of the time.
The cemetery became a public park in the 20th century as part of preservation efforts, and it now serves not only as a resting place but also as a historical site hosting ghost tours and cultural events. Visitors often encounter tales of hauntings tied to prominent residents and tragic stories from Austin’s past, making Oakwood Cemetery a captivating destination for those interested in the intersection of history, mystery, and the supernatural.
Established in 1839, Oakwood Cemetery is the oldest cemetery in Austin and a hotspot for paranormal enthusiasts. Many gravestones date back to the 19th century, and local legends tell of ghost sightings, disembodied sounds, and unexplained lights. The cemetery offers a haunting glimpse into Austin's past and the people who shaped it.
6. Austin State Hospital
The Austin State Hospital in Texas holds a deep and complex history as one of the state's oldest public psychiatric facilities. Established in 1856 as the Texas Lunatic Asylum, it was created during a time when mental health care was in its infancy, reflecting societal efforts to care for those with mental illness amidst widespread stigma and limited understanding.
Originally housed in a repurposed building in Austin, the facility soon relocated to its current grounds on the outskirts of the city to accommodate growing patient numbers. Over the years, it underwent several name changes—from Texas Lunatic Asylum to Austin State Hospital—as attitudes toward mental health evolved.
The hospital's history is marked by pioneering treatments alongside tragic challenges. Early methods mirrored the era's limited knowledge, including isolation and restraint, but also efforts toward humane care influenced by emerging psychiatry. Throughout the 20th century, Austin State Hospital expanded, modernized, and adapted to changing mental health practices, including psychotropic medications and therapeutic programs.
It also reflects broader cultural shifts, as mental health care moved from custodial confinement to rehabilitation and recovery models emphasizing dignity and community integration. The hospital’s grounds have witnessed layers of history, from Civil War impacts to mid-century population booms.
Today, Austin State Hospital is a critical institution within Texas’s mental health system, providing inpatient psychiatric services with a focus on patient-centered care. Its legacy is a tapestry of history, shaping and shaped by the evolving landscape of mental health treatment in Texas and America. For travelers curious about history mixed with social progress, the hospital’s story offers a poignant glimpse into how care and compassion have transformed over nearly two centuries.
The Austin State Hospital in Texas, one of the oldest psychiatric facilities in the country, has long been a hotspot for paranormal enthusiasts and ghost hunters. Established in the late 19th century, its sprawling grounds and historic buildings carry heavy echoes of the past—stories of patients, caregivers, and tragedies that have left lingering spirits.
Visitors and investigators have reported unsettling encounters: disembodied voices whispering through empty corridors, cold spots that defy explanation, and shadowy figures glimpsed in peripheral vision. One of the most commonly told tales features the apparition of a patient, sometimes called the "Lady in White," who is said to roam the hospital halls, mournfully searching for lost loved ones. Others have felt sudden, inexplicable chills or the sensation of being watched when alone in certain wings.
The hospital’s cemeteries, where patients who passed without family or proper burial reside, add another layer of eerie significance. Paranormal activity here often spikes at night, with misty forms and flickering orbs captured on infrared cameras during investigations.
For those intrigued by history wrapped in mystery, the Austin State Hospital offers more than just ghost stories—it’s a poignant reminder of the human experiences, struggles, and spirits that still whisper through its walls. Perfect for paranormal travelers who want to combine historical reflection with spine-tingling adventure.
7. Paramount Theatre
The Paramount Theatre in Austin, Texas, stands as a historic gem and cultural landmark that has entertained audiences for nearly a century. Opened in 1915, the theatre was originally designed as a movie palace and vaudeville venue by architect John Eberson, renowned for his atmospheric theaters. Its opulent Spanish Baroque style features intricate terra cotta work, stained glass, and an iconic marquee that has become synonymous with Austin’s vibrant arts scene.
Throughout its early years, the Paramount showcased silent films accompanied by live music, as well as a variety of live performances including vaudeville acts, concerts, and community events. As talkies emerged in the late 1920s, the theater seamlessly transitioned to sound films, maintaining its popularity in the city.
Despite the rise of multiplex cinemas and changing entertainment trends, the Paramount faced challenges but was ultimately saved from demolition during the 1970s by a dedicated group of community advocates. Today, it functions as a nonprofit performing arts center, hosting film screenings, live music, theatrical productions, and special events.
The Paramount Theatre remains a beloved symbol of Austin’s cultural heritage, blending historical grandeur with contemporary artistic expressions. Its preservation reflects the city’s commitment to maintaining spaces where history and modern creativity intersect—a perfect spot for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of Austin’s past and present.
The Paramount Theatre in Austin, TX, isn’t just a historic gem for live performances—it’s also a hotspot for paranormal enthusiasts. Opened in 1915, this century-old venue has its share of ghostly tales that add an eerie charm to Austin’s vibrant cultural scene.
Visitors and staff have reported mysterious footsteps echoing through the empty corridors late at night, and the faint sound of a piano playing when no one is on stage. One of the most famous spirits is thought to be that of a former projectionist, whose presence is often felt near the projection booth, especially when old films are screened.
There’s also talk of ghostly apparitions seen in the balconies—shadowy figures that vanish when approached. Some believe these are the lingering souls of performers and audience members from decades past, still caught up in the magic of the theatre.
For paranormal travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and ghostly intrigue, a night at the Paramount Theatre offers a spooky backdrop to Austin’s thriving arts scene. Whether you’re catching a show or embarking on a ghost tour, keep an eye out for the theatre’s spectral residents who might just steal the spotlight.
8. O. Henry House
The O. Henry House in Austin, Texas, is a charming historic site tied to the famous American short story writer William Sydney Porter, better known by his pen name O. Henry. Built in 1895, the quaint cottage is a classic example of late 19th-century architecture in Austin’s Hyde Park neighborhood, which was one of the city's first suburbs.
William Sydney Porter lived in this house briefly from 1897 to 1898, during a pivotal time in his life. After returning to Austin following a stint in prison for embezzlement—a conviction many believe was unjust—Porter took up residence here and began writing many of the short stories that would cement his literary legacy. The house reflects the modest middle-class lifestyle he led, complete with period furnishings that bring his world to life.
Today, the O. Henry House operates as a museum and a charming tea room, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the ambiance that inspired some of America's most beloved short stories known for their wit, surprise endings, and local color. It stands as both a tribute to O. Henry’s contribution to American literature and a cozy piece of Austin’s cultural and historical tapestry.
The O. Henry House in Austin, TX, is not just a charming historic home—it's a magnet for ghostly tales and paranormal intrigue. Known as the childhood home of William Sydney Porter, the beloved short story writer better known by his pen name O. Henry, the house is steeped in mysterious energy that both history buffs and ghost hunters find irresistible.
Visitors report eerie sounds like soft footsteps in empty rooms and unexplained whispers that seem to float through the halls. Some swear they've seen faint apparitions resembling a man in early 1900s attire—possibly O. Henry himself—wandering the home’s creaky wooden floors. Others speak of sudden chills and flickering lights that defy explanation, especially near the staircase and the attic.
Ghost hunters using EVP recorders have caught unusual voices and cryptic messages, adding to the house’s haunted reputation. The house operates as a museum, and staff occasionally share stories of objects moving on their own or cold spots appearing during visitor tours.
If you’re planning to visit, keep your camera ready and your senses sharp. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the ghosts of the O. Henry House offer a thrilling glimpse into Austin’s supernatural side, wrapped in literary charm and historic mystery. Perfect for those who want a little paranormal spice alongside their appreciation of literature and Texas heritage.
9. St. Mary’s Cathedral
St. Mary’s Cathedral in Austin, Texas, is a stunning example of early 20th-century Gothic Revival architecture and a cornerstone of the city's religious and cultural history. The original church was established in the mid-19th century, with the current cathedral building completed in 1907. It serves as the mother church for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Austin, which was established in 1947.
The cathedral’s design features pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses reminiscent of medieval European cathedrals, all crafted with Texas limestone that gives the structure a distinctly local character. Its impressive stained-glass windows depict biblical scenes and saints, contributing both to its spiritual atmosphere and architectural beauty.
Over the years, St. Mary's has played a significant role not only in worship but also as a gathering place for the community during pivotal moments in Austin’s history. The cathedral’s blend of sacred ambiance and rich heritage makes it a compelling stop for those interested in architecture, history, and the evolving story of Austin’s religious communities. Paranormal enthusiasts often find the cathedral’s long history and serene yet mysterious atmosphere ripe for quiet reflection or eerie exploration.
The ghosts of St. Mary’s Cathedral in Austin, TX, have long been part of the city’s whispered legends. This stunning Gothic Revival church, with its soaring spires and stained-glass windows, isn’t just a hub of spiritual gatherings—it’s also a hotspot for paranormal enthusiasts.
Visitors and staff alike have reported strange phenomena: flickering lights when no one’s around, the soft sounds of organ music playing on its own, and shadows darting through the aisles after hours. Some say the apparition of a former priest drifts silently through the pews, his presence felt rather than seen, offering quiet comfort—or maybe a warning.
Local ghost hunters have picked up unexplained EMF spikes near the altar, and footstep noises echo in empty corridors. It’s believed that these restless spirits are tied to the cathedral’s turbulent history, including past conflicts and the many souls who found solace within these sacred walls.
For those drawn to both history and the supernatural, St. Mary’s Cathedral offers a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into Austin’s spiritual and spectral past—where faith and folklore intertwine just beneath the vaulted ceilings. Whether you’re seeking a ghostly encounter or simply soaking in its divine ambiance, this cathedral is a must-visit for any ghost tour through the Texas capital.
10. Austin History Center
The Austin History Center in Texas stands as a vital repository preserving the rich and diverse history of Austin and the Central Texas region. Established in 1933, it began as the Austin Public Library’s history division. Over time, it evolved into a dedicated center that collects, preserves, and provides access to an extensive array of historical documents, photographs, maps, oral histories, and other archival materials. The land on which our building now stands was originally designated for church use and three churches once stood on this lot.
Housed in a stately Art Deco building constructed in 1933, the Austin History Center not only serves as a hub for researchers and history buffs but also as a cultural landmark emphasizing the city’s commitment to celebrating its past. The center’s collections cover topics from Austin’s founding and development to its vibrant cultural and social history, including Native American heritage, local music scenes, political movements, and urban growth.
Visitors to the Austin History Center can explore manuscripts, newspapers, city records, and rare books that tell the story of Austin’s transformation from a frontier town to a bustling modern metropolis. The center also offers public programs, exhibitions, and educational resources that engage diverse audiences, embodying Austin’s eclectic spirit and fostering a deeper appreciation for the city’s layered narratives.
In the context of paranormal and dark tourism, the Austin History Center provides valuable historical context that enhances explorations of Austin’s haunted sites and mysterious past, making it a must-visit destination for those who appreciate history intertwined with the eerie and the extraordinary.
The Ghostly Residents
The Lady in White: Numerous visitors and staff have reported sightings of a pale woman in early 20th-century attire gracefully gliding through the stacks, only to vanish mysteriously. Some believe she’s a former librarian who loved the center so much she never left.
Phantom Footsteps: Late at night, faint footsteps echo through the empty hallways. Despite thorough searches, there’s never another soul to be found. Could these be the echoes of hardworking scholars from decades past?
Whispered Voices: Staff and late-night researchers sometimes hear soft murmurs and hushed conversations, hinting at ghostly study groups engrossed in timeless debates.
11. Breckinridge Hospital
Breckenridge Hospital in Austin, TX, has a spine-tingling reputation that makes it a must-visit for paranormal enthusiasts and ghost hunters alike. Once a bustling medical facility, this historic hospital has long been rumored to host restless spirits of former patients and staff. Visitors and night-shift workers have reported eerie phenomena ranging from unexplained footsteps echoing down empty hallways to shadowy apparitions lurking near old medical wings.
Tales tell of rooms where temperatures drop suddenly, and haunting whispers seem to float through the stale air. Some claim to hear faint cries and the clatter of medical equipment operating without power. The hospital’s past, filled with intense emergency cases and tragic outcomes, is believed to fuel its paranormal activity.
For those who appreciate a blend of dark history and paranormal intrigue, Breckenridge Hospital offers a unique experience that combines Austin’s vibrant cultural energy with an eerie glimpse into the supernatural. Whether you’re exploring solo or in a group with fellow ghost hunters, bring your EMF meters and a healthy dose of curiosity—this haunted hospital has stories to tell that go beyond the grave.
Ghosts of Breckinridge Hospital in Austin, Texas
Breckinridge Hospital, once a bustling medical hub in Austin, has since become a hotspot for paranormal enthusiasts and ghost hunters alike. Though the hospital closed its doors years ago, many say that the restless spirits of former patients and staff linger within its walls. Visitors report eerie footsteps echoing through the empty corridors, flickering lights, and sudden cold spots that seem to follow them from room to room.
One of the most talked-about hauntings centers around the old maternity ward. Locals claim to hear the distant cries of newborns and soft lullabies late at night, as if the past is reaching out to comfort those souls who never left. Nurses dressed in vintage uniforms are said to appear and disappear, often near the nurses' station, a quiet reminder of the hospital’s care-filled history.
There’s also the legend of a doctor who worked tirelessly during the hospital’s heyday. Some say his spirit still roams the premises, trying to save patients even in death. Witnesses occasionally glimpse a shadowy figure making rounds, pausing in front of beds that no longer exist.
For anyone enchanted by haunted history and the supernatural, Breckinridge Hospital offers a chilling, atmospheric experience. It’s a place where past lives brush just beneath the surface—waiting for the next curious soul to uncover their stories. Whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or simply love a good spooky tale steeped in Texas history, Breckinridge Hospital is a must-visit on your paranormal travel itinerary.
12. French Legation State Historic Site
The French Legation State Historic Site in Austin, Texas, is a treasure trove for history buffs and paranormal enthusiasts alike. Built in 1841, this charming Federal-style home served as the French diplomatic mission to the Republic of Texas. Its walls echo the whispers of diplomats, settlers, and soldiers, some of whom may never have left.
Visitors often report eerie sensations and unexplained phenomena that suggest the presence of lingering spirits. The most commonly told tale is of a mysterious lady in period attire roaming the hallways, thought to be someone connected to the legation’s early diplomatic days. Some have heard disembodied voices and footsteps in otherwise empty rooms, while others spot shadowy figures flitting through the windows at dusk.
Ghost hunters point to the French Legation’s mix of diplomatic history, political drama, and personal tragedies as the perfect storm for paranormal activity. Whether it’s the unsettled spirit of a former diplomat or a soldier who met an untimely end nearby, the site offers more than just historical facts—it offers an invitation to experience the past in a whole new way.
For those eager to explore the supernatural side of Austin’s rich heritage, the French Legation State Historic Site is a must-see. Combine your visit with a late afternoon stroll through the beautiful gardens, and maybe—just maybe—you’ll catch a glimpse of the legation's ghosts still tending their historic grounds.
13. The Four Seasons Hotel Austin
The Four Seasons Hotel Austin isn’t just known for its luxury accommodations and stunning views of Lady Bird Lake—it also has a spooky side that’s perfect for paranormal enthusiasts and those who love a good ghost story. Guests and staff have reported eerie occurrences that hint at restless spirits wandering the halls.
Several visitors have shared stories about unexplained noises echoing through the hotel, from faint whispers to footsteps in empty corridors. Some even claim to have seen shadowy figures flicker at the edges of their vision, especially near the historic parts of the building where the original structures once stood.
One of the most talked-about hauntings involves a mysterious presence on the 4th floor. Guests staying there have reported objects moving on their own, lights flickering without explanation, and sudden drops in temperature that send chills down your spine. Staff members have also mentioned feeling watched or experiencing strange electrical disturbances during quiet hours.
The hotel's spa and restaurant areas are also rumored hotspots for paranormal activity, with some employees swearing they’ve encountered unseen presences or felt an otherworldly energy while working late. Given Austin’s rich history and the Four Seasons’ prime waterfront location, it’s no surprise that past secrets might still linger in the atmosphere.
Whether you’re staying overnight or just stopping by for a cocktail with a side of the supernatural, keep an eye out for the unexplained at the Four Seasons Hotel Austin. This blend of luxury and mystery serves as a perfect backdrop for those who crave a travel experience mixed with a touch of ghostly intrigue.
For a truly memorable paranormal adventure in Austin, the Four Seasons is definitely a place to add to your haunted itinerary.
The Four Seasons Hotel Austin, perched on the banks of Lady Bird Lake, is known for luxury and stunning city views. But beneath the polished veneer lies a mysterious side that paranormal enthusiasts can’t ignore: ghosts.
Guests and staff have reported eerie, unexplained happenings that seem straight out of a supernatural thriller. Several people have described hearing faint, disembodied footsteps echoing through the hallways late at night when the corridors should be empty. Some claim to see shadowy figures briefly flicker at the edges of their vision—just beyond the reach of the hotel's elegant lighting.
One particularly persistent spirit is said to be a woman in vintage attire, wandering near the pool area or by the lakeside terrace. Some say she appears to be searching for something, or someone, her presence accompanied by the scent of old perfume and a sudden chill in the warm Texas air.
Employees have shared stories of lights flickering on their own and elevators stopping spontaneously between floors, adding to the hotel's mystique. These paranormal whispers blend intriguingly with the Four Seasons’ rich history, offering guests a luxury stay with an unexpected escort from the other side.
If you're in Austin and eager to mix ghostly thrills with five-star comfort, the Four Seasons Hotel provides the perfect blend of haunting beauty and upscale charm. Keep your camera ready—and your mind open.
Austin’s haunted places offer the perfect blend of spooky thrills and historic richness. Whether exploring solo or joining one of Ghosts & Getaways’ specially curated paranormal tours, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure!
Austin’s weirdness runs deep — and not just the live music and food truck kind. From Victorian mansions to subterranean speakeasies, the city has a rich collection of haunted sites, strange histories, and lingering spirits perfect for paranormal travelers. Below are top haunted hotspots in Austin, with what to expect, notable legends, and tips for visiting safely and respectfully.
14. Old Bakery & Emporium
Built in 1876, the Old Bakery & Emporium began when Swedish immigrant Charles Lundberg opened a bakery there. The Old Bakery doesn’t serve baked goods anymore, but it still welcomes visitors as a tourist information center, gift shop, art gallery, and museum featuring original items from the 1800’s.
Reported phenomena and common stories
Disembodied footsteps: Staff and visitors frequently report the sound of footsteps on the upper floor when no one is there. Footfalls seem to follow the old baker’s routine — early morning pacing between rooms.
Cold spots: Sudden drops in temperature reported near the original ovens and the back stairwell, even on warm Austin afternoons.
Smells of baking: Several witnesses have described the scent of fresh bread or cinnamon where no food is present — a classic residual haunting cue.
Apparitions and shadow figures: Occasional sightings of a male figure in 19th-century clothing near the stairwell, and fleeting dark shapes passing through the storefront windows.
Misplaced items: Small objects moved or turned, stock rearranged by staff — usually minor but persistent.
Electrical anomalies: Flickering lights and short-lived camera glitches in specific rooms, often tied to the building’s old wiring and humidity but sometimes reported at the same time as other phenomena.
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Austin’s weirdness runs deep — and not just the live music and food truck kind. From Victorian mansions to subterranean speakeasies, the city has a rich collection of haunted sites, strange histories, and lingering spirits perfect for paranormal travelers. Below are top haunted hotspots in Austin, with what to expect, notable legends, and tips for visiting safely and respectfully.