6 Things to Do During Spooky Season

Haunted Mansions, Historic Cemeteries, and Foggy Lighthouses

Feeling brave? It’s officially spooky season and whether you’re an avid believer in the paranormal or simply a curious adventurer, this coastal haven promises unforgettable encounters with the unknown. Let’s dive into the eerie and unexplained as we offer a tantalizing glimpse into some of the region’s most hauntingly captivating experiences you’ll have to see to believe.

1. Goddard Mansion

Begin your otherworldly journey at Fort Williams Park, not just for its famed Portland Head Light but for the ominous Goddard Mansion. Designed by the noted architect Charles Alexander, this once-magnificent structure now stands in spectral grandeur within the park. Though the mansion’s interior remains off-limits, its exterior and the surrounding grounds have taken on an eerie, ethereal charm. With breathtaking views of Casco Bay and its proximity to the iconic lighthouse, this historic site invites you to immerse yourself in a bygone era steeped in history.

2. Eastern Cemetery

Amidst the whispers of centuries past, Eastern Cemetery emerges as a place where history and the paranormal coexist. This burial ground, entangled in tales from long ago, sets the stage for a captivating journey into the afterlife. Embark on a self-guided tour or join Spirits Alive, an educational and spine-tingling cemetery expedition led by a knowledgeable local guide. Here, the departed still echo their stories, merging echoes of yesteryear with ghostly shadows of now.

3. Henry-Wadsworth Longfellow House

Once the childhood home of poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, this historic abode conceals mysteries that awaken in the moonlight. Wander through corridors and lush gardens of Longfellow House, where history and art intertwine seamlessly. They even host a unique Longfellow’s Haunted House tour inspired by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s poem “Haunted Houses.” Expertly crafted and led by a seasoned guide, this immersive experience brings to life the stories of family members who have passed away within the historic home and their enduring connection to the family’s residence. Immerse yourself in the spirit of Longfellow’s poetry while conjuring memories of those who once called this house their home.

4. McLellan-Sweat Mansion

The McLellan-Sweat Mansion, a relic of the golden era, resides with the Portland Museum of Art. Beyond its stately façade lies an air of mystery. As twilight settles upon the mansion, it is said the lady of the house, Margaret Jane, can be heard wandering through the hallowed halls. There is speculation of which lady of the house the soul belongs to as the home was sold several times. According to hauntedhouses.com, “Her [the female entity] apparition has been seen around the three storied historical home: Perhaps reliving her memories, and enjoying the artwork and projects on display as well.”

5. Fort Gorges

A sentinel guarding the waters of Casco Bay, Fort Gorges stands as an imposing relic of a bygone era. Accessible by kayak, charter, or private tour, this destination is cloaked in mystery. Its formidable stone walls reverberate with echoes from the past, where vigilant soldiers once stood guard. By boarding a boat, you’ll traverse tranquil waters to reach the fortress’s stone exterior. Inside explore labyrinthine tunnels and chambers where history intertwines with the eerie possibility of restless spirits. Guided tours with the Friends of Fort Gorges offer a captivating journey through time, where the line between history and hauntings blurs.

6. Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse

Nestled at the harbor’s entrance, the Spring Point Ledge Light beckons with its enigmatic charm. Built in the late 1800s to guide mariners through treacherous waters, this lighthouse boasts a unique sparkplug-style design. It has witnessed over a century of maritime history, carrying the tales of sailors and ships into the present. One thing that sets this landmark apart is it’s public tour schedule that allows an up-close look.

Or venture along the massive granite blocks of the breakwater and listen to the mournful call of the foghorn on your own. It carries with it whispers of maritime legends and the ships it once guided. The Spring Point Ledge Light Breakwater is a testament to history’s enduring presence and offers a hauntingly beautiful experience by the sea.

Remember, whether you’re a firm believer in the supernatural or a skeptic, these places promise unique and often spine-tingling experiences for those who seek the mysteries of the unknown in the heart of Greater Portland, Maine.