Iowa, with its picturesque landscapes and peaceful rural towns, might seem like a serene place to call home—but underneath its calm exterior, the state harbors a rich history of paranormal activity.
From abandoned buildings to eerie cemeteries, Iowa is home to some truly spine-chilling haunted locations. Whether you’re a skeptic or a die-hard ghost hunter, the state’s most haunted spots will leave you questioning what lies beyond the living world.
1. The Villisca Ax Murder House (Villisca)
One of Iowa’s most infamous haunted locations, the Villisca Ax Murder House is the site of a brutal family murder that took place in 1912. The Moore family, along with two houseguests, were murdered in their sleep by an unknown assailant wielding an axe. Despite extensive investigations, the killer was never caught, and the case remains unsolved.
Today, visitors claim to have heard strange noises, footsteps, and even disembodied voices while touring the house. Some have even reported feeling cold spots or seeing shadows moving through the rooms. For those seeking a truly terrifying experience, the Villisca Ax Murder House offers overnight ghost hunts, where people attempt to communicate with the spirits of the long-dead victims.
2. The Franklin County Poor Farm (Wellsburg)
The Franklin County Poor Farm in Wellsburg was once a home for the impoverished and elderly, and the conditions there were far from ideal. Many who lived on the farm reportedly suffered from mistreatment, and it is said that some of them never left. Today, the remains of the poor farm are a popular site for paranormal investigators.
Visitors have reported hearing strange noises like footsteps, crying, and even a cold breeze sweeping through the abandoned buildings. Apparitions and shadowy figures have also been spotted. Some claim that the spirits of those who died in poverty still haunt the grounds, restless and seeking closure.
3. The Black Angel (Oakland Cemetery, Iowa City)
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Located in the Oakland Cemetery in Iowa City, the Black Angel is one of the most photographed and well-known paranormal sites in Iowa. The statue, made of bronze and standing tall over the grave of the Davies family, appears to be a mourning angel draped in a shroud. Over time, the statue has become infamous for its eerie, haunting appearance.
According to local legends, the Black Angel is cursed. People claim that if you touch the statue, you will suffer misfortune or even death. Many say that the angel’s gaze follows them as they pass, and some have reported strange feelings of unease or fear when standing near it. Paranormal investigators frequently visit the site to document unexplained activity, and some believe the angel itself is an active spirit guarding the cemetery.
4. The Iowa State Penitentiary (Fort Madison)
The Iowa State Penitentiary in Fort Madison has been in operation since 1839 and holds the distinction of being one of the oldest prisons in the United States. Over its long history, the penitentiary has seen many brutal executions, riots, and violent acts—creating a perfect storm for paranormal activity. The prison was closed in 2015, but the ghost stories continue.
Reports from former prisoners and staff members tell of strange occurrences, including unexplained sounds, flickering lights, and the sensation of being watched. Ghost tours of the prison are popular, with visitors often hearing footsteps in empty hallways or encountering cold spots. Some say the spirits of former inmates still linger in the cells, forever trapped behind bars.
5. The Haunted Hill (Ames)
In Ames, Iowa, lies a place known to locals as The Haunted Hill, also referred to as “Graveyard Hill.” This site, a wooded area with an old cemetery, is said to be haunted by the restless spirits of those buried there. Though the cemetery is small, it has a long history, and many of the gravestones are weathered and worn, adding to the eerie atmosphere.
Numerous reports have surfaced of strange happenings at the site, from glowing lights to disembodied voices. Some visitors have claimed to see figures moving between the trees, while others have felt an overwhelming sense of dread or unease. The legend of The Haunted Hill has made it a hotspot for those looking to experience something paranormal in Iowa.
6. The Orpheum Theatre (Sioux City)
The Orpheum Theatre in Sioux City is not only known for its grand performances but also for its haunted history. The theater, built in 1927, has witnessed countless performances, but it’s the spirits of its past patrons and workers that give the building its spooky reputation. According to several reports, the ghost of a former usher named “Annie” haunts the theater, often seen walking through the halls or sitting in empty seats.
There have also been numerous accounts of objects moving on their own, strange sounds, and flickering lights. One particularly creepy story involves a staff member hearing laughter from the balcony when no one was supposed to be there. For those brave enough to spend a night at the Orpheum, ghost tours reveal the spine-tingling history of this well-loved haunted venue.
7. The Lost Island Theme Park (Waterloo)
Abandoned theme parks have an eerie allure, and Lost Island Theme Park in Waterloo is no exception. Though the park has been closed for several years, it is said that the spirits of former visitors linger in the now-deserted rides and attractions. The remnants of the once-popular park have become a playground for urban explorers, who report ghostly apparitions and strange noises when venturing through the grounds.
Some claim to have seen shadowy figures moving between the rusted structures, while others report hearing the sounds of children laughing or rides starting up despite the lack of power. Whether these are remnants of a bygone era or the playful spirits of the park’s former guests, Lost Island remains one of Iowa’s most chilling haunted sites.
Iowa may be best known for its rolling farmland and charming small towns, but the state is also home to some truly eerie and haunted locations. From abandoned houses to old cemeteries, these spine-chilling spots reveal the darker side of Iowa’s rich history. Whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or just looking for a good scare, these haunted locations offer a glimpse into the state’s supernatural past. Just remember—if you visit, be prepared to meet the spirits that still linger.
Juniper Calloway is a dedicated journalist with 3 years of experience in covering hard-hitting stories. Known for her commitment to delivering timely and accurate updates, she currently works with MikeandJon Podcast, where she focuses on reporting critical topics such as crime, local news, and national developments across the United States. Her ability to break down complex issues and keep audiences informed has established her as a trusted voice in journalism.
