Wyoming is a state steeped in wild history, ghostly legends, and strange natural wonders. Whether you’re a fan of the eerie, haunted, or downright macabre, Wyoming offers a spine-tingling array of sites where mystery and the supernatural lurk around every corner. From haunted hotels to eerie natural landscapes, here are ten of the most chilling spots across the state that promise an unforgettable journey into the unknown.
1. Wyoming Frontier Prison (Rawlins)
Known as “The Old Pen,” the Wyoming Frontier Prison operated for nearly 80 years and is infamous for its executions, escapes, and eerie deaths. The prison has a haunting history, and visitors report ghostly encounters on special haunted tours, especially around Halloween. Local legends include the “pie lady” and the restless spirits of executed inmates who still roam the grounds.
2. Historic Plains Hotel (Cheyenne)
Built in 1911, the Historic Plains Hotel is the site of a notorious love triangle murder-suicide. Guests and staff report seeing apparitions, hearing unexplained noises, and glimpsing the ghostly “bride” on the second floor—Rosie, who killed her husband and his lover before turning the gun on herself. The hotel is one of Cheyenne’s most haunted locations, making it a must-see for ghost hunters.
3. Wort Hotel (Jackson)
The Wort Hotel in Jackson is known for both playful and tragic hauntings, including the spirits of two children who tragically died in the 1960s. Guests have reported seeing the children’s faces appear in windows and feeling their presence in the halls. Other ghostly occurrences have also been reported, making the Wort Hotel a spooky stop for anyone seeking a haunted experience.
4. Sweetwater County Library (Green River)
Built atop an old graveyard, the Sweetwater County Library is a hotspot for supernatural activity. Visitors and staff have reported flying books, flickering lights, mysterious whispers, and regular apparitions. Halloween brings special evening haunted tours, adding to the spooky atmosphere of this historic building.
5. Irma Hotel (Cody)
The Irma Hotel in Cody, founded by the famous Buffalo Bill, is reportedly haunted by the spirits of Buffalo Bill himself, his daughter Irma, and several other restless ghosts—one of whom is said to be missing his lower half. Room 16, once Irma’s, is particularly known for unexplained occurrences, making it a popular destination for those interested in paranormal experiences.
6. Fort Bridger State Historic Site
Once a military outpost during the frontier era, Fort Bridger is now home to several ghost stories. Visitors report sightings of spectral soldiers, shadowy figures, and even a loyal dog named Thornburgh, who is said to stand guard over the cemetery. The fort’s old infantry barracks now house exhibits showcasing its history, including its five occupational eras.
7. Lander Pioneer Museum
At the Lander Pioneer Museum, visitors will find the preserved, still-pierced human skull of a pioneer who was tragically killed by a wagon spike, with the spike remaining embedded to this day. The museum also houses displays of old hearses and eerie artifacts that are guaranteed to send a shiver down your spine.
8. Acme Theatre (Riverton)
The Acme Theatre in Riverton, built in the 1920s, is said to be haunted by a mysterious man who lingers in the balcony during performances. Thought to be a vaudeville-era performer, this ghost seems to have never left his favorite venue, making it an intriguing stop for those seeking paranormal activity during a live show.
9. Heart Mountain Relocation Center (Powell)
The Heart Mountain Relocation Center, where Japanese Americans were interned during World War II, is now known for frequent hauntings. Visitors have reported seeing friendly ghosts during the day, but more sinister “shadow people” and unexplainable noises are often heard at night. This historical site offers a chilling glimpse into a dark chapter of American history.
10. Hell’s Half Acre (Powder River)
Hell’s Half Acre, a stark and otherworldly landscape, is a place of eerie beauty. Once a Native American buffalo jump and later a dumping ground for animal bones, the site’s haunting appearance earned it the nickname “The Pits of Hades.” It has also served as a setting for the alien world in the sci-fi film Starship Troopers. Its desolate, barren landscape makes it a chilling place for anyone looking to experience something otherworldly.
Wyoming is a state rich in history and steeped in the eerie, macabre, and mysterious. From haunted hotels and libraries built on graveyards to natural wonders with eerie histories, there’s no shortage of spine-chilling sites to explore. Whether you’re interested in ghost stories, historical sites, or just want to experience the creepy side of Wyoming, these ten destinations are sure to leave you with a memorable—and possibly ghostly—experience.
Sources
[1] https://travelwyoming.com/blog/stories/post/haunted-places-to-visit-in-wyoming/
[2] https://usghostadventures.com/uncategorized/the-top-10-haunted-places-in-cheyenne/
[3] https://www.hauntedrooms.com/wyoming/haunted-places
[4] https://jhstylemagazine.com/ghost-hunting-in-jackson-hole
[5] https://windriver.org/spookiest-places-wyoming/
[6] https://www.worldatlas.com/places/10-strangest-landmarks-in-wyoming.html
