Bars are gathering places filled with good times and camaraderie, but some watering holes also play host to restless spirits beyond last call. Across America, many storied bars come with legendary tales of ghosts that never left. Read on for haunted bar stories that will send a chill down your spine.
Schooner Wharf Bar, Key West, FL
The Schooner Wharf Bar stands along the historic Key West Seaport. Operating since the late 1800s, this waterfront rum bar has a storied past, including patronage by Ernest Hemingway. But one regular patron seems to have outlasted the famous author. The bar's CCTV has captured glasses flying off shelves and barstools toppling over on their own. Staff and customers report spotting a mysterious bearded man in 19th-century clothing who vanishes into thin air. Could it be the ghost of a sailor attached to this harbor bar? The uncanny events certainly lend credence to the supernatural sightings.
Jean Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop, New Orleans, LA
This dimly lit bar on Bourbon Street looks like a relic from its early 1800s origins as – you guessed it – a blacksmith shop. But over the centuries, its questionable past fostered ghostly tales. As the story goes, the bar was a front for pirate Jean Lafitte to sell contraband and plan plundering missions. Lafitte himself is said to haunt the bar, appearing in mirrors and slamming doors. Bartenders report bottles mysteriously falling off shelves when no one is near. Could Jean Lafitte's spirit still be guarding buried treasures beneath the bar? Patrons flock here, hoping to encounter the infamous pirate ghost.
White Horse Tavern, Newport, RI
Dating to 1673, White Horse Tavern feels frozen in time with its dark wood beams and fireplaces. But patrons might not be alone in the historic dining room. According to legend, a prostitute was murdered on the second-floor centuries ago, and her ghost remains restless. Restaurant staff report flickering lights, levitating objects, and goosebumps-inducing cold spots. Some have even spotted her ghostly figure dressed in 17th-century clothing. Next time you're dining at the tavern, keep watch for this tragic specter wandering the stairwell.
Pioneer Saloon, Goodsprings, NV
Don't be surprised to find bullet holes in the wall at this 1874 Wild West saloon – they're remnants of rancher Victor Frolich's untimely demise in the bar. Ever since Frolich was gunned down at his favorite table, bar patrons have reported his ghost knocking over drinks and starting fights. Some have even caught glimpses of a shadowy figure dressed in cowboy garb that vanishes upon approach. If you hear the swinging saloon doors open and close with no one around, it just may be Victor coming back for another round. But watch your manners – you don't want to anger this cantankerous ghost.
Mayflower Tavern, Sydney, Australia
With a rich history dating back to 1845, it's no wonder the Mayflower Tavern has a few permanent residents beyond last call. In its early days, the basement functioned as a morgue, lending itself to spooky stories. Staff report eerie activity like disembodied voices, shadowy figures, and objects moving untouched. One paranormal investigation recorded a faint voice whispering "get out" repeatedly. Could spirits of the deceased still lurk in the basement, unwilling to depart the historic tavern? Visitors flock here seeking a ghostly encounter over drinks. Just be warned – the resident ghosts may not want you to overstay your welcome.
So, if you're looking for a spirited adventure or a paranormal experience with your nightcap, head to one of these haunted bars. But enter at your own risk – the ghost stories may prove all too real as you pull up a stool next to these unrestful spirits of the past. Just don't forget to tip your invisible bartender!