Haunted History Trail of New York State

Taking Amtrak Along The Haunted History Trail of New York

Beginning with tales of the great spirits invoked by early Native American tribes, to the first Dutch settlers fascination with haunted places, New York State has centuries of “haunted” history. The Haunted History Trail of New York is a collection of spooky spaces and eclectic events, many of which can be reached by Amtrak. This Halloween season is a perfect time to spend the night in a haunted castle, tour a cemetery, or witness the Headless Horseman galloping across a historic site!

EVENTS

Marble Orchard Ghost Walks (5.4 miles from Niagara Falls Amtrak station): Theatrical guides will be on hand to provide eerie stories in the historical district of Lewiston, NY during this family-fun event that is considered one of Western New York’s most popular autumn tourist destinations. Tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for children under 12. Call (716) 754-0166 for more information.

Ghosts in the Yaddo Garden Tours (2.9 miles from Saratoga Springs Amtrak Station): Bask in the forces of the famous spirits lurking around in the Gardens, some of whom include various famed Native Americans, Edgar Allen Poe, and the Trask family. Private tours led by a docent start on September 18 and continue through Halloween. Tours last approximately one hour. Cost is $10 per person and children under 12 are free.  To join the tour, call (518) 584-0746.

Photo Credit: Historic Hudson Valley

Horseman’s Hollow (8.1 miles from Croton-on-Hudson Amtrak station): Entice your spooky cravings at Philipsburg Manor as it houses the undead, the evil, and the insane for 15 days only. Walk a haunted trail as creatures, human or otherwise, terrify visitors in a town ruled by the one and only, Headless Horseman. The event is held on weekends only, every evening from October 2^nd-November 1^st. Tickets start at $20. Historic Hudson Valley members receive a $5 discount per ticket. Fast track tickets are available for an additional $15. For further ticket information, call (914) 366-6900.

Legends by Candlelight Ghost Tours (14.0 miles from Kingston-Rhinecliff Amtrak station): Candlelight tours are offered at this historic, 18^th century mansion that belonged to generations of the Livingston family. For more information, call (518) 537-4240 or email info@friendsofclermont.org.

HISTORIC SITES

Iron Island Museum (5.0 miles from Buffalo Amtrak station): This museum, which has appeared on the program Ghost Hunters, houses a building that was formerly a church and a funeral home, so expect paranormal activity. Pictures and video are available on the guided tour to enhance the experience. Public tours are $5 per person, but you can also arrange for private investigations via appointment as well as overnight stays at (716) 892-3084.

Erie Canal Museum (2.4 miles from the Syracuse Amtrak station): Visit the last remaining Weighlock Building in America as it transforms into all things paranormal.  Stroll through the haunted museum and observe the many eerie sightings including a group of see-through children playing in the courtyard, and arguing men stomping through the 150 year old hallways. The Haunted History tours, led by a docent, operate from 10am-5pm Monday through Saturday, and Sunday from 10am-3pm. The tours are free, though a $5 suggested donation is greatly appreciated. For more information, call (315) 471-0593.