Things that go bump in the night fascinate lovers of the Halloween season. As with any building that sees the moonlight of a few centuries, some Hillsborough County landmarks have their own lively histories. Here are some of the spookiest haunted spots in Tampa Bay.
The Tampa Theatre
For 91 years, movie-goers have enjoyed cinematic wonders at the classic Tampa Theatre on Franklin Street. Each year around Halloween, the theatre puts on a horror film series to add some extra ‘boo’ to your haunt season. The frights do not stop after All Hallows’ Eve though. According to locals, Tampa Theatre is haunted by a number of spirits still lingering around the venue. From ‘the balcony to backstage’, they offer late-night ghost tours to catch a glimpse of Fink Finley, the ‘Lady in White’, and more.
The Belleview Biltmore Hotel
The Belleview Biltmore Hotel, once known as the “White Queen of the Gulf,” was a grand and luxurious destination for wealthy visitors in its heyday. However, since its closure in 2009, the historic building has gained a reputation for being one of the most haunted places in Pinellas County. Guests have reported strange noises, apparitions, and mysterious voices echoing through its empty halls. The most famous ghostly resident is that of Thomas Rowe, the hotel’s original owner, who is said to linger in spirit, unable to leave the place he loved so dearly.
Don Vicente Inn
This historic hotel sits just beyond Centro Ybor in a rather quiet piece of the entertainment district. Its rich history dates back to 1895 when it was built by the Ybor City founder for which it is named. The structure served as the El Bien Publico, a health care facility, until 1980, when it was left abandoned for 18 years. Guests are said to have experienced creaky footsteps, lights that flicker, and more phantom anomalies. Others have reported ghostly guests, nurses, and a mad doctor in the building’s basement. Are you ready to check in?
The Don CeSar Hotel
Known as “The Pink Palace,” the Don CeSar Hotel is an iconic structure on St. Pete Beach. Guests and staff have reported numerous paranormal encounters over the years. Some have claimed to see the apparition of Thomas Rowe, the same man associated with the Belleview Biltmore Hotel, on the hotel grounds. The hotel’s pink facade, reminiscent of a grand castle, adds to the ambiance, making it a must-visit spot for ghost enthusiasts.
Plant Hall
Most locals know that the university’s Plant Hall used to serve as a 500 room hotel from 1891 to 1933. Teddy Roosevelt and Babe Ruth are among the most famous of guests who enjoyed the splendor of this luxury winter resort. Since its transformation into a place of education, some of the past guests have refused to check out. A couple is often seen waltzing in the former ballroom, while the sounds of servants and gamblers ring in the halls. Do you think the professor will take the excuse that a phantom ate your homework?
Fort DeSoto Park
Fort De Soto Park, a picturesque natural haven, has a darker side hidden within its serene beauty. The ruins of Fort De Soto are believed to be haunted by the spirits of soldiers who died during the Spanish-American War. Visitors have reported shadowy figures and eerie sounds emanating from the ruins, making it a chilling but fascinating historical site.
The Cuban Club
Ybor City, within Tampa but not far from Pinellas County, is home to The Cuban Club, a historic building known for its cultural significance and supernatural occurrences. Visitors have reported strange occurrences, such as disembodied voices, cold spots, and the apparition of a woman dressed in white who is believed to be the spirit of a former performer.
Heritage Village
Heritage Village in Largo, a living history museum, is not just a place to learn about the past; it’s also known for its paranormal activity. The historic structures on the site have been sources of unexplained events, with visitors and staff encountering ghostly figures and hearing mysterious noises echoing through the buildings.
