Whether you’re a skeptic or a true believer, there’s something intriguing about the things that go bump in the night. Some of the most iconic movies feature paranormal happenings or unexplained abilities. Those interested in the paranormal are fascinated by ghosts, ghouls, demons, aliens and more—the paranormal encompasses anything easily dismissed as incompatible with the rules of known science. Yet the questions remain.
From paranormal kids films like the notable Goosebumps series, Casper the Friendly Ghost, and Beetlejuice to more mature options like The Conjuring, Midsommar, and Paranormal Activity, the paranormal is often explored in a range of horror movies and other media like books, comics, and podcasts.
But the realm of the paranormal is not limited to fiction only. There are entire swaths of paranormal researchers and lifelong searchers. From real-life accounts of hauntings and demon possession to a myriad of documentary-style ghost-hunting tv shows, we are drawn to the paranormal in search of answers. But will we ever find them?
If you’re a paranormal junkie or just curious about what could be out there, here are some intriguing places to start:
And once you’ve finished with these, explore the stories below for a fascinating deep dive into all things paranormal.
You won't find peace and quiet on these haunted trails.
Bare walls never looked so good.
In 1804, John Bell settled down for a quiet life in the country...until a sinister presence invaded his home and wreaked havoc on his family.
The eerie painting spooked many who just saw it. Those who owned it fared worse.
Legend has it that a man murdered his wife and young daughter, before committing suicide...
Spend your summer with some chilling company at these haunted places around the country.
In a quiet hamlet north of New York City, darkness grew...
Outside of Washington, D.C. lies an abandoned institution with a thoroughly disturbing past.
By Gary Sweeney
Don't believe in ghosts? These spooky clips might make you a believer.
Even 24 doors couldn't give Charles Lapham a way out of his seemingly-cursed life.
The horror special was so disturbing it was banned for 10 years.
By Orrin Grey
An eerie tombstone stands watch over one of the city's oldest cemeteries.
As if the episodes about mysterious deaths and serial killers on the run weren’t terrifying enough...
Was it all in your head?
Being a kid can be terrifying.
Its brutal past has made it home to some of the most intense paranormal activity in the area.
The woods are dark and full of terrors.
A ghost hunter shares unsettling anecdotes—and chilling audio—from investigations at two of America's most haunted sites.
By Olivia Mason
The ship is reportedly home to 120 ghosts. You can book a room—if you dare.