Would it be Halloween without scary stories? We’ve heard spine-chilling tales set in San Diego, and legend has it, a few ghosts reside in the city. Let’s take a tour of allegedly haunted sites — it’s up to you to determine if these stories are fact or fiction.
The Whaley House
Dubbed “America’s Most Haunted House,” this Old Town site has a long history. Alleged spirits include homeowners Thomas and Anna Whaley, their children, and notorious thief Yankee Jim.
Hotel Del Coronado
This landmark’s history isn’t all Hollywood glamour — the spirit of Kate Morgan is allegedly a permanent resident. In 1892, the young woman checked into the hotel, but after “five lonely days,” she never checked out. Room 3327, where she stayed, remains The Del’s most-requested room. Learn more by taking a ghost tour.
Lots of history is held in the The William Davis-Horton House.
Photo via @homesontheblock
The Davis-Horton House
Built in 1850 in “New Town,” this home is downtown San Diego’s oldest remaining wooden structure. Initially, William Heath Davis lived here. It was later home to Alonzo Horton, and then Anna Scheper who operated a county hospital out of it. Alleged spirits include Davis’ daughter Lillian Davis, Alonzo Horton’s second wife Sarah, a WWII spy, a meowing cat, and and unknown “Lady in Black.”
The Cosmopolitan Hotel
Built in 1827, this is one of San Diego’s oldest buildings and served as the home for pioneer Juan Bandini. Particularly, Room 11 is said to be haunted by Bandini’s daughter, Ysidora. She’s rumored to have fallen off the building, but survived after she was caught by Col. Cave Johnson Couts, who she later married.
Star of India
Built in 1863, this ship is said to have made 21 trips during which many lives were lost. Perhaps the most infamous spirit is English Army Captain McBarnett, who took his own life while traveling from New Zealand to England.
