Hello explorers! After going off radar...again...Shrimp 'n Lobster are resurfacing! In the spirit of Halloween, we're exploring the spookier side of San Francisco.
Here are 5 spooky spots you need to Visit while in San Francisco!
Explore Downtown: Skeleton ships of San Francisco Maritime past... Beneath the bustling streets of San Francisco's Financial District lies a ghostly reminder of the city's Gold Rush era-sunken ships buried deep below the ground. As gold fever struck in 1849, ships from around the world flooded San Francisco Bay, only to be abandoned by eager prospectors chasing "gold in the hills." Many of these ships were left to decay, and even used as landfill. As many as 500 ships were deserted in Yerba Buena Cove. Over the years their wooden skeletons became engulfed as the city grew!
New construction continues to unearthed these tall ships skeleton remains. You can see the see the Arkansas...er what is left of her at The Old Ship Saloon located at Pacific Avenue and Battery Street. Listen closely and perhaps you'll hear the voices of sailors past. If you'd like to continue your maritime history visit the Maritime Museum at Aquatic Park!
Check-In to the Haunted Queen Ann Hotel!
Originally this grand victorian was a finishing school for girls in the 1890's, the hotel is rumored to be haunted by the spirit of Miss Mary Lake, the school's headmistress. Guests have reported feelings of being watched, especially in room 401, where Miss Lake had her office. Smell anything? A hint of rose in the air will tell you she's nearby. If that doesn't give you the willies maybe an overnight stay will do the trick! Check for vacancy in this one of a kind hotel. And ask the front desk for personal stories!
Tombstones Hidden in Plain Sight
San Francisco's Buena Vista Park and the Wave Organ hold eerie secrets within their stonework. In the early 20th century, as city cemeteries were moved to free up space and address health concerns, many tombstones were repurposed. Today, these stones lie half-hidden in the park’s winding paths, walls, and even gutters. Visitors might unknowingly tread over names and dates carved long ago. At the Wave Organ, an acoustic sculpture designed by artist Peter Richards near the Marina District’s St. Francis Yacht Club, remnants of these tombstones form part of the jetty. When the tide is right, the waves play haunting notes through the pipes. Listen closely, and you may just tune into San Francisco’s ghostly past.
A Pawsitively Haunting Spot: SF Presidio Pet Cemetery
Tucked away in the Presidio lies a quaint cemetery designed for mans best friend. Originally thought to be a burial ground for calvary horses or WWII guard dogs. It was later adopted by military residents to bury their furry/feathery/and even scaly bffs, from birds, dogs, cats, hamsters and even lizards! This location has been known to have a few cold spots and on occasion a ghostly image of a soldier will lurk on the grounds. While you're there check the tombstones, some will have the rank of the owner along with the animals name. Please keep to yourself this is a protected landmark.
Hauntings on The Rock: Alcatraz Alcatraz Island, San Francisco's notorious landmark, is famous for its dark history. Once a maximum-security prison, it housed infamous criminals like Al Capone and "Birdman" Robert Stroud. Yet even now, long after its closure, some say the spirits of former inmates and staff still linger. From ghostly image of the Birdman seen near the hospital, where he spent much of his time to the Lady in Green, a former warden's wife who ended her life while living on the island. You can see her (if you're lucky) in the washroom window. From unexplained chains clanking and eerie moans to footsteps, slamming doors, and icy cold spots, Alcatraz easily claims the title as San Francisco’s most haunted location.
From sunken ships and hidden tombstones to eerie hotels and ghostly pets, San Francisco is a city where history never quite rests. Have a Happy Halloween!
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