Houston might be known for space exploration and life-changing BBQ, but it’s also home to some seriously spooky secrets.
We’re talking haunted hospitals, ghost-filled cemeteries, old buildings with creepy pasts, and underground spots that’ll give you goosebumps.
Some of these places are packed with history, others just feel…off, like someone’s watching you even when you’re totally alone.
If you’re into ghost stories that stick with you, keep reading, because these seven haunted places in Houston are not for the faint of heart.
1. Elder Street Artist Lofts
Elder Street Artist Lofts is a spooky-looking old building at 1101 Elder Street, right near downtown.
Originally opened in 1925 as the Jefferson Davis Hospital, the structure was actually built on top of a cemetery full of unmarked graves from the 1800s.
Now it’s home to artist studios and lofts, but people say they hear footsteps, whispers, and even see ghostly figures roaming the halls.
It’s a place where history and lingering spirits blur together, making it one of Houston’s most famously haunted spots.
2. Olivewood Cemetery
Just 7 minutes from the Elder Street Lofts, Olivewood Cemetery takes the haunted vibes to a whole new level.
This historic cemetery at 1300 Court Street is the final resting place of many of the city’s early African American residents, with graves dating back to the 1800s.
Over the years, visitors have reported feeling cold spots, seeing shadowy figures between the trees, and hearing voices when no one’s around.
And with its overgrown paths and weathered headstones, it’s easy to see why so many believe that this place holds more than just memories.
3. Glenwood Cemetery
Did Olivewood send a chill down your spine? Then wait until you wander through Glenwood Cemetery.
This massive burial ground at 2525 Washington Avenue is where some of Houston’s most famous names are buried, including Howard Hughes and past mayors.
Still, what stands out most are the fancy mausoleums, winding roads, and old oak trees that seem to creak when the wind picks up.
Given the setting, it’s not surprising that some people say they’ve seen strange lights floating over graves and figures disappearing behind tombstones.
4. Julia Ideson Building
If cemeteries make you uneasy, swing by the Julia Ideson Building downtown for a different kind of haunting.
This Spanish Renaissance-style library at 550 McKinney Street may look peaceful, but it’s got some seriously eerie stories.
Legend has it that a former caretaker named Jacob still roams the halls, playing violin music late at night.
With its marble pillars, twisting staircases, and shadowy corners, it’s the kind of place that makes you turn around just to be sure you’re alone.
5. Downtown Houston Tunnels
Once you’ve explored the halls of the Julia Ideson Building, the Downtown Houston Tunnels feel unsettling in a whole new way.
These underground walkways stretch over 6 miles beneath the city, connecting offices, shops, and restaurants, though many sections sit empty after hours.
Over the years, folks have claimed to hear footsteps following them, see lights flicker, and spot shadowy figures disappearing around corners.
It’s strangely quiet, the kind of silence that makes you wonder who (or what) might be walking down there with you.
6. The Rice Lofts
Next on the list is The Rice Lofts, located at 909 Texas Avenue.
This swanky building used to be the old Rice Hotel, the place where President Kennedy stopped before heading on toward Dallas.
Many who’ve lived here have reported lights turning on by themselves, doors opening on their own, and ghostly reflections showing up in mirrors.
Even with its modern renovations, many believe the building still holds onto its haunted hotel past and isn’t quite ready to let go.
7. La Carafe
And if you’re up for a ghost with your glass of wine, La Carafe is the place to go.
Located at 813 Congress Street, this dimly lit bar sits inside the oldest commercial building in the city, dating back to the 1860s.
Maybe it’s the age of the place, but bartenders and regulars swear they’ve seen glasses slide on their own, felt sudden cold spots, and heard very odd noises.
But even with its eerie reputation, the bar keeps its cozy, candlelit charm, though some visitors may not be entirely of this world.
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