Looking for something to do during your next vacation that is more “exciting” than seeing an old battlefield or taking a city tour? How about exploring a haunted house? This option does depend on how adventurous you are. It takes someone with an adventurous ‘spirit’ (pardon the pun) to knowingly (and enthusiastically) enter a haunted dwelling given that anything could happen while inside the property. Here are some things you need to know before you step foot inside...
1. You need to know the history of the place to know what you’re walking into. Who haunts the house and why? When was the last paranormal activity documented? Where? Does the ghost “make contact” or interact in any way with visitors? For instance, has it been known to push, slap, pinch, or shove visitors? Is it suitable to bring children under the age of 16? If it is open to the public, there will be a website. Go to the site and take a look at its history and see if any warnings or advice is given. Do a quick Internet search to see what has been posted about the house. Ghost enthusiasts are eager to share experiences and tips, which are generally reliable and useful.
2. You need to be respectful. These spirits are still here because they are confused or feel they have unfinished business. If there is a family member or friend with you that just wants to tag along and make stupid comments or pull a practical joke, that can not only ruin the experience, but cause problems. Teasing lingering spirits or trying to scare you or otherwise acting inappropriately is not suitable behavior. If you’ve watched any of the many paranormal television shows currently on the air, you have seen team members trying to evoke a response from an apparition by taunting them. But this is one of those “Do Not Try This At Home” situations! It may well be that an evil spirit haunts the dwelling and you would do well not to provoke it.
3. You need to be aware of visitor information. Are there any areas that are off limits? If so, how will that impact your interest in visiting the property? Is it easily accessible? What are the hours of operation? What are the tour options? Is it recommended for small children? Many haunted houses offer a variety of tour options, ranging from daytime historical tours to evening flashlight tours. Typically, there are special events and options offered seasonally. Be aware that ghost tours and special events book up well in advance so plan accordingly. The busiest times are usually during the summer months and throughout October. Some places permit overnight stays for ghost groups. If you’re interested in that option, find out if your group needs liability insurance or can it be purchased through the tour operator. How should you dress? Some of these places lack electricity so there is no lighting or heat or air and the glass may be missing in a few of the windows. Do you need a coat or bug spray or a flashlight? It should go without saying that you need to wear good walking shoes—no flip flops (do you really have to ask why) or heels (even if you’re comfortable wearing high heels, chances are the owner won’t be).
Terrance Zepke has a B.A. in Journalism and a Masters degree in Mass Communications and has studied parapsychology, which is the study of paranormal phenomena, at the renowned Rhine Research Center. She is the author of numerous books on the paranormal and travel. She is in demand as a speaker and has appeared on The Learning Channel, History Channel, and Travel Channel. Her latest book is A Ghost Hunter’s Guide to The Most Haunted Houses in America (Safari Publishing, 4/13), which discusses fifteen of the most haunted houses in America and includes detailed histories, photographs, fun facts, and visitor information, including accessibility, tips, addresses, and websites.
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