1. Michigan’s First State Prison – Jackson, Michigan
It might look like an art complex today, but the Armory Arts Village in Jackson was once home to Michigan’s first state prison, built in 1842 and later expanded to become the largest walled prison in the world, housing over 6,000 inmates.
The prison’s dark history includes a violent 1952 riot sparked by inhumane conditions and poor medical care. Guards were taken hostage, inmates made demands for reform, and chaos ruled the cell blocks. Today, artists live and work within those same thick limestone walls — and some residents have reported unexplained footsteps, flickering lights, and the eerie sense of being watched.
If you ever visit Jackson, stop by the Armory Arts Village on East Ganson Street and see if you can feel the lingering energy of its past life.
2. Eloise Psychiatric Hospital – Westland, Michigan
Once covering a sprawling 902 acres with more than 70 buildings, Eloise Psychiatric Hospital in Westland has one of the darkest — and most fascinating — histories in Michigan. What began in the 1830s as a poorhouse evolved into a mental hospital, tuberculosis sanitarium, and general hospital, complete with its own school, post office, fire department, and cemetery.
At its peak, Eloise was home to over 10,000 residents and staff. Treatments ranged from lobotomies and shock therapy to the then-progressive “music and TV therapy.” The facility finally closed in 1984, but the remaining structures still hold a chilling presence.
Today, Eloise Asylum operates as a haunted attraction, letting guests explore tunnels and wards where echoes of the past still seem to whisper. The 2017 horror film Eloise was even based on real stories from the site. If you’re brave enough, this is one Michigan haunt you can experience for yourself — flashlight optional.
3. The Terrace Inn & 1911 Restaurant – Petoskey, Michigan
Built in 1911, this historic hotel in Petoskey’s Bay View neighborhood is beautiful by day and downright spooky by night. Legend has it that two workers were killed during construction when a beam collapsed — and their spirits never left.
Guests and staff at the Terrace Inn and 1911 Restaurant have reported shadowy figures, footsteps, and even the sound of parties echoing through empty halls. Paranormal investigators have confirmed unusual energy readings, especially in room 211, which is said to have the most activity.
Despite its ghostly reputation, the inn remains open and welcoming — though you might want to keep a light on while you sleep.
4. Seul Choix Pointe Lighthouse – Gulliver, Michigan (Upper Peninsula)
Standing proudly along Lake Michigan’s northern shoreline since 1895, the Seul Choix Pointe Lighthouse is a beacon not just for sailors — but also for spirits.
The main ghostly resident is believed to be Captain Joseph Willie Townshend, a former lightkeeper who died in 1910 at the age of 63. Known for his love of cigars, his ghostly scent and reflection have reportedly appeared in mirrors throughout the keeper’s quarters.
Visitors touring the lighthouse often report cold spots, flickering lanterns, and the faint smell of cigar smoke — all signs that Captain Townshend is still keeping watch over his beloved light.
5. Holy Family Orphanage – Marquette, Michigan
Built in the early 1900s, the Holy Family Orphanage in Marquette was originally meant to care for abandoned children but gained a much darker reputation. Run by eight nuns, it housed around 60 Native American children who had been taken from their families in an effort to assimilate them into Western culture.
Stories of neglect and abuse circulated for decades, including a tragic account of a young girl who died after being left outside during a snowstorm. Her body was allegedly displayed as a warning to the other children.
The orphanage closed in 1967, later housing Cuban refugee children in the 1980s before falling into disrepair. In 2017, the building was renovated into The Grandview Apartments, overlooking Lake Superior — but residents still report hearing children’s laughter, crying, and furniture moving when no one else is home.
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