Texas is full of wide-open landscapes, delicious food, and cowboy culture—but it also has a dark side. If you’re someone who loves spine-chilling stories, haunted places, or anything weird and macabre, the Lone Star State has plenty of spots to explore.
From abandoned asylums to cursed hotels and bizarre roadside oddities, here are 11 creepy places in Texas that will definitely give you goosebumps.
1. The Baker Hotel – Mineral Wells
Once a glamorous spa resort, the Baker Hotel is now an abandoned building with a haunted reputation. Visitors and ghost hunters claim to hear strange voices, footsteps, and even see shadowy figures roaming its empty halls.
Why it’s creepy: A long history of deaths, suicides, and ghost sightings.
Status: Closed to the public but visible from outside; tours are sometimes available.
2. The Goatman’s Bridge – Denton
Also known as Old Alton Bridge, this spot is tied to a legend about a half-man, half-goat creature that supposedly haunts the area. Locals report strange lights, growls, and even sudden nosebleeds when crossing the bridge at night.
Why it’s creepy: Strong paranormal reports and an eerie atmosphere.
Best time to visit: After dark (if you dare)
3. Yorktown Memorial Hospital – Yorktown
This abandoned hospital was once run by nuns and is now known for its terrifying energy. Visitors report dolls that move, disembodied whispers, and a heavy sense of dread. It’s a favourite for paranormal investigators.
Why it’s creepy: Ghosts, old medical equipment, and pitch-dark hallways.
Tour availability: Guided ghost tours are available with advance booking.
4. Marfa Lights – Marfa
Out in the desert near Marfa, mysterious floating lights appear without explanation. Some believe they’re UFOs, others think they’re spirits. Scientists haven’t cracked the case.
Why it’s creepy: No clear explanation for these glowing orbs.
Best time to visit: Nighttime near Highway 90 viewing area
5. The Texas Killing Fields – League City
This haunting stretch of land has been the site of several unsolved murders and disappearances since the 1970s. It remains an open wound in Texas crime history, with many believing the area is cursed.
Why it’s creepy: Real-life mystery and tragic stories.
Note: Respect the area; it’s still sensitive for many.
6. The Driskill Hotel – Austin
This luxurious hotel in downtown Austin may be beautiful, but it’s also full of ghost stories. From a little girl who haunts the stairs to former guests who never left, the Driskill has a long list of unexplained sightings.
Why it’s creepy: Elegant yet eerie, with ghosts in every corner.
Status: Fully operational hotel—you can even stay overnight.
7. Munster Mansion – Waxahachie
A full-scale replica of the Munster family’s haunted house from the classic TV show, this spot is creepy in a fun and quirky way. The owners even live there and sometimes host tours or Halloween events.
Why it’s creepy: Spooky charm with a touch of TV nostalgia.
Best time to visit: Halloween season
8. The Haunted Railroad Tracks – San Antonio
Legend has it that the ghosts of children killed in a bus crash push stalled cars off the tracks to safety. Visitors sprinkle baby powder on their bumpers—and claim to see tiny handprints afterward.
Why it’s creepy: Classic urban legend with a ghostly twist.
Reality check: Some say it’s an illusion caused by gravity, but it’s still spooky.
9. Hotel Galvez – Galveston
Known as the “Queen of the Gulf,” this historic hotel is said to be haunted by a ghost bride who died waiting for her fiancé. Guests report flickering lights, phantom footsteps, and cold spots.
Why it’s creepy: A romantic ghost story that’s still very active.
Status: Operating hotel with haunted history tours
10. Screaming Bridge – Arlington
Locals say you can hear the screams of teenagers who died in a car accident at this now-closed bridge. It’s a popular dare spot for thrill-seekers.
Why it’s creepy: The bridge has been partly dismantled, but the legend lives on.
Caution: It’s not the safest area to visit at night.
11. Catfish Plantation – Waxahachie
This restaurant serves up Southern food and ghost stories. Once a family home, it’s now known for haunted happenings like flying objects and spooky voices.
Why it’s creepy: Great food… with a side of paranormal activity.
Status: Open to the public
Texas may be big and bold, but its creepy side is just as unforgettable. Whether you’re into ghost stories, strange legends, or real-life unsolved mysteries, these 11 places are sure to give you chills.
Some are fun and quirky, others are deeply disturbing—but all of them prove that there’s more to Texas than meets the eye. If you’re up for a road trip with a side of the supernatural, these spooky spots should be on your list.
SOURCES
- (https://tbo.clothing/blogs/talk/dark-tourism-destinations-usa)
- (https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attractions-g28964-Activities-c47-t24-Texas.html)
- (https://www.atlasobscura.com/things-to-do/texas)