The leaves are changing, the temperature’s dropping, and everyone’s favorite flavors are making a comeback. It’s finally fall—spooky season for those who celebrate—and many are looking for their next festive fall adventure. Instead of the usual pumpkin patch or haunted house, why not visit one of the most haunted destinations in the U.S.? Welcome to St. Augustine, Florida.
As one of the oldest cities in the U.S., St. Augustine is rich in history—and with that history comes ghost stories, legends, and plenty of eerie encounters. If you’re ready to embrace all things Halloween, here’s how to spend a delightfully spooky weekend in this historical coastal town.
Stay at a Haunted Hotel
When time is limited on a weekend getaway, your hotel should be part of the adventure. Located in the heart of historic downtown, Casa Monica Resort & Spa is not only beautiful—it’s also rumored to be haunted.
Originally built in 1888, the 138-room hotel has an old-world charm with modern comfort. Rooms are decorated in Spanish Baroque style, completed with red velvet headboards and antique-inspired furniture. On-site, you’ll find Cordova, a restaurant serving Spanish and Moroccan coastal cuisine, as well as a heated outdoor pool, fitness center, and Poseidon Spa. In October, the hotel leans into its haunted history with themed spa treatments like the Monster Mash Massage and Drop Dead Gorgeous Facial, nightly ghost stories in the Cobalt Lounge, and an intimate magic show.
Rumor has it the hotel is home to several spirits, including a sobbing man in the Kessler Suite, thought to be the original owner Franklin W. Smith, and former prisoners from the building’s stint as a courthouse in the 1960s. You can even request a “haunted room” when booking. Just be warned that some guests haven’t made it through the night.
Experience Some IRL Magic
Casa Monica Resort & Spa
While staying at Casa Monica Resort & Spa, book a ticket to Magic Hideaway: Magic Show, hosted by Master Magician Bill Abbott. The experience begins with close-up magic at your table in a VIP setting, followed by a one-hour show of magic and mind-reading in a 22-seat venue. After the show, you can meet Abbott, take photos, and ask questions. Tickets are $125 and shows run every Saturday through Nov. 29. Due to limited seating, advance bookings at magichideaway.com are strongly recommended.
Check Out the City’s Haunted Locations
St. Augustine is widely considered one of the most haunted cities in the country—and what better way to explore its spooky side than with a ghost tour? There are countless options available year-round, from walking tours of haunted locations to full-on paranormal investigations. Prefer to explore on your own? Some of the city’s most notorious spots are open for self-guided visits:
End Your Night With The Beetlejuice Pub Crawl
If you’re looking for some laughs with your frights, check out The Beetlejuice Pub Crawl, hosted by The Tasting Tours. This nearly three-hour experience takes up to 16 guests to four different bars—all led by Beetlejuice himself. Expect four ghost-themed drinks, some spooky bites to share (though, no full meals), and a healthy dose of fun. The tour runs only in October, and spots go fast. Tickets are $95 per person and include all four drinks.
Whether you’re chasing ghosts, sipping cocktails with Beetlejuice, or relaxing in a haunted hotel, St. Augustine delivers big on spooky charm.
