St. Pete Landmark Named Florida’s ‘Creepiest’ Ghost Town

Ghost towns provide an experience unlike any other for those looking for a thrill and those who enjoy the macabre. Abandoned towns that contain history of bygone ages, some of these locales also have haunting tales of how they became empty shells of what they once were when they were at the height of their splendor. It is also possible for them to take the shape of decommissioned military outposts, abandoned mining sites, abandoned villages, and other types of settlements. If you are very fortunate, you could even encounter some lingering ghosts, provided that you have faith in the existence of such occurrences. A creepy ghost town? sign me up!

Thrillist has compiled a list of the "creepiest" and "coolest" ghost towns to see in each state, for the benefit of individuals who are considering paying a visit to one of these eerie communities. The website makes it clear, "Whether they’re roadside stop-offs or full-fledged attractions, each offers a side trip through time along America’s roadways."

The most eerie abandoned town in the state of Florida is Fort Dade, which is now recognized as an important historical site in Hillsborough County. Yet, still a creepy ghost town. Rob Kachelriess, a veteran contributor to Thrillist, shared some further information on the past of this place as follows:

"Located on Egmont Key near St. Petersburg, Fort Dade was built on the heels of the Spanish-American War in 1858. At its peak, it included 300 residents with about 70 buildings, including a movie theater and bowling alley, not to mention electricity and telephones—fancy stuff for the era. Fort Dade was deactivated in 1923, and although the lighthouse is still in operation, the rest of the town is in ruins, with deteriorating brick roads and staircases leading to military batteries that no longer protect Tampa Bay. To visit, catch a ferry from Fort DeSoto Park."

Want to see the creepiest ghost towns in each state? See the full report by clicking here.

Right here around home, we have some haunts of our own within the history of St. Petersburg. Adding another layer to the already vibrant history.

With its sunny beaches and lively vibe, St. Petersburg might seem like the perfect example of a laid-back coastal town in our backyard. But behind its happy look is a world of ghost stories and spooky legends that have caught the imaginations of both locals and tourists. Join us as we explore the eeriest places in St. Petersburg, where ghosts of the past still live, and scary ghost stories add an exciting layer to the city's history.

When hanging with friends and neighbors, especially those who have lived here way longer than me, I hear these top 5 locations come up countless times. I delved into some of the histories of each spot by searching here, and listening to locals' stories and the videos in this post.

The Sunshine Skyway Bridge is a beautiful piece of construction that crosses Tampa Bay. However, it has a darker image as a place where bad things have happened, and ghosts have been seen. There have been stories of strange things happening on and around the bridge over the years. Some people say they have seen the ghosts of people who died in crashes on the bridge, while others say they hear strange sounds and feel very uneasy when crossing the structure.

The Vinoy is an old hotel with stories about ghosts. There are many stories about ghostly figures walking through the halls, doors opening and closing on their own, and footsteps being heard in empty rooms. Some people think that these things happen because the ghosts of past guests or employees have left their marks on the hotel. They may have been drawn back by good memories or unfinished business.

501 5th Ave NE

St. Petersburg, FL 33701

The past of the Suntan Art Center, which used to be a funeral home, is spooky and has made many people interested. Visitors have said that they felt like they were being watched by eyes they couldn't see and heard words that didn't come from anyone. Some people think that the ghosts of the dead, who may have been attracted to the creative energy in the art center, still hang around and change the atmosphere.

3300 Gulf Blvd 2nd Floor

St Pete Beach, FL 33706

The Don CeSar, also known as the "Pink Palace," is a famous and luxurious hotel that has been open since 1928 and has had many guests. Over the years, stories have come out about ghosts that have been seen there. The most popular story is about the hotel's founder, Thomas Rowe, who met a mystery woman named Lucinda while traveling and fell in love with her. Rowe built the hotel to show how much he loved her even though he couldn't marry her. Legend has it that Rowe's spirit still lives in the hotel, watching over his favorite work and letting the staff and guests know he is there.

3400 Gulf Blvd

St Pete Beach, FL 33706

The Open Air Post Office, which was built in 1917 and is now a museum, has its own ghost stories. There are stories about ghost mail carriers who continue to sort mail even after they have died. Reports of dark figures and drafts that can't be explained have made people wonder if the ghosts of mail carriers from the past are still doing their jobs.

400 1st Ave North
St. Petersburg, FL 33701