What are the Best Haunted Spots in Austin?

While Austin, TX is not known for being particularly spooky, there are still some iconic spots throughout the city that may give you a good fright. From bunkers to former workplaces, haunted theaters and more, there are some places around Travis County that have an eerie vibe and plenty of stories that go along with them. Whether you’re looking for a Halloween-themed destination or just want to be scared into submission, this article will discuss some of the best haunts in Austin.

The Grove at the University of Texas

The Grove is located in the heart of the University of Texas at Austin. The site has been featured on various TV shows and movies, including American Horror Story and American Girl. The site is historically known as one of the most haunted places in Austin and has seen its fair share of unexplainable events. From claims of hearing mysterious laughter to students reporting seeing figures darting through the grove at night, the place gets its share of scare.

Historically, the grove was used for hangings during the Confederate era, though no one is certain about who was actually hanged there. In addition, throughout its history, many students have committed suicide at the grove due to competition for grades and college pressures. These events have added to the feeling of horror found at The Grove today.

In recent years, students have noted seeing ghosts shuffling from behind trees, as well as doors opening and closing on their own accord. In addition, students have reported smelling strange odors in The Grove and hearing the sounds of claps and footsteps.

The Grove’s creepy atmosphere can be found late into the night when most people have left the campus. If you’re brave enough to venture out it’s best to bring a friend or two as not to be alone in a place with as many stories as The Grove has to tell.

Austin Airport

Though now mostly seen as a safe-haven for weary travellers making their way to or from Austin, the city’s international airport has had its own fair share of eerie stories. The airport has a long and sometimes mysterious history, having been used as a bunker during World War II before becoming the international hub that it is today.

Of course there are plenty of modern stories about paranormal activity to be found at the airport. Many passengers have reported seeing figures darting about the terminals at night. There are also stories about unexplained lights being seen throughout the airport, with many believing these to be spirits still roaming the area from when it was an airbase during the war.

Many passengers have reported seeing faces in the windows of planes and hearing unexplained whispers in their headsets while in the cockpit. If you happen to be travelling through the Austin airport late at night, you may want to be extra vigilant and make sure you stick close to others in case any mystical individuals show up!

Zilker Park

Want a safe-haven with still a chance to get scared in Austin? Zilker Park is a great spot to explore if so! While mostly known for its diverse ecosystem, large open green spaces and family-friendly amenities (including putt-putt golf, kayaking on Lady Bird Lake and more), there are some spooky stories in Zilker that keep it interesting at night.

The most famous of these stories is probably the so-called “Lady of the Lake”. The Lady is believed to have been a young woman from early 19th century France who was tragically swept away by a sudden current in Lady Bird Lake and drowned at the site. Visitors have reportedly heard screaming from within and around the lake late at night, though this could just be some natural wildlife getting riled up.

Additionally, people have reported feeling like there was someone watching them around Zilker Park late at night — even on days with no actual visitors present. There’s no doubt that Zilker Park can seem like a creepy place late at night and if you plan on visiting after dark it’s best to stay close to your friends and in well-lit areas just in case any ghosts decide to show up!

The State Theatre

The State Theatre is one of Austin’s iconic buildings and has been featured on numerous TV shows, movies and videos. In addition to being a popular concert venue for local musicians and national acts, it has spawned countless rumors about paranormal activities occurring on the premises.

Most famously known for the “ghost musician” who allegedly died on stage while performing a particularly passionate set, people have long reported hearing strange notes and sounds emanating from inside the venue long after closing hours. It’s believed by some that this ghostly presence is his way of continuing to play music even after death.

Additionally, people have noted seeing unexplained lights near or inside the venue late at night. And some past visitors claim they were touched or pushed while inside or outside of the theater, their experiences only strengthening belief in the paranormal activity that existed there. If curious — and brave enough — consider venturing out to The State Theatre in Austin after dark!

Conclusion:

Austin may not be known for its spookiness but there are still some haunted spots around town — from The Grove at UT Austin to the State Theatre and even Zilker Park — that can give you a good scare. If you’re looking for more thrills why not take a Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour? GetYourGuide offers Austin: Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour so you can discover all of Austin’s eeriest haunts! It’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!