The mystique of the paranormal has found a stronghold in America's most haunted cities, with New Orleans declared the supernatural capital.
A survey by Tarotoo has listed the most haunted cities in the U.S., using unique metrics such as ghost sightings and the age of buildings, placing New Orleans at the top, the New York Post reported.
The intriguing survey, conducted by the online tarot reading platform Tarotoo, explored a variety of metrics to determine which cities in the United States are the most haunted. Among the factors considered were the number of cemeteries, graves, and psychic services available, as well as historical data related to ghost sightings.
New Orleans, famed for its deep historical roots and vibrant cultural tapestry, topped the list. The city's numerous cemeteries, which total 79, are not only resting places but have become attractions drawing tourists from around the globe.
The age of buildings in New Orleans averages 51 years, setting a picturesque backdrop for tales of hauntings and apparitions. Notably, the Bourbon Orleans Hotel stands out for its ghostly tales, including sightings of a young girl spirit who has become a chilling centerpiece for guests’ stories.
Many visitors, including a recent guest, have reported eerie experiences at the Bourbon Orleans Hotel. “Book 305 and maybe you will see the little girl my husband woke up to see. [He] woke up to getting poked on his feet and saw a little girl standing by the bed," they shared.
These supernatural stories contribute heavily to the city's allure during Halloween, making it an ideal destination for thrill-seekers looking for an authentic ghostly experience.
Following New Orleans, Louisville ranked second, with its high number of graves and memorial parks enhancing its reputation for hauntings. Cleveland came in surprisingly high on the list due to its staggering 780,519 graves, nearly double its living population.
However, despite its multitude of graves, Cleveland reports a low ghost sighting rate of just 0.34 per 100,000 residents. In contrast, Tucson boasts the highest rate of supernatural encounters, with 5.3 sightings per 100,000 people, making it a significant city of interest in studies of paranormal activity.
Other cities that rounded out the top ten included Pittsburgh, Milwaukee, Providence, Oklahoma City, Nashville, and Baltimore, each with their unique stories and historical hauntings that draw visitors and ghost enthusiasts alike.
New Orleans’ inclusion of 44 psychics among its population aids those curious about the paranormal, providing a resource for visitors and residents yearning to connect with the spirit world. Detailed records and the narrative strength of ghost sightings make the city a hotspot for paranormal investigation.
Mariah Wilson Tran, a tourist in New Orleans, was captivated by the city's spooky charm. Reflecting on her visit, she said, "Oh, what a boo-tiful city," encapsulating the playful yet mysterious vibe that New Orleans embodies during the spooky season.
Adjacent cities like Baltimore, which relocated to the list's lower rankings, draw attention through attractions related to famous historical figures associated with the macabre, such as Edgar Allan Poe. His former home, now the Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum, offers a hauntingly intimate look into the life of one of America's most famous writers of the supernatural.
The survey by Tarotoo not only shines a light on where ghost enthusiasts might consider their next ghost tour but also underscores the cultural and historical significance that continues to captivate the human imagination. Cities rich in history and storytelling craft a diverse tapestry of heritage that blurs the lines between the past and the paranormal.
Further studies and continuous interest in the supernatural elements of these cities help preserve their tales and traditions, fostering a sense of mystery and continuity that attracts tourists and scholars alike.
The blend of historical reverence and supernatural intrigue ensures that cities like New Orleans maintain their position as prime destinations for those fascinated by ghost stories and haunted histories, proving that some tales never die.
