City Cast Philly logo

What’s The Deal With Haunted Philly?

Posted on October 4, 2022   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Brittany Valentine

Brittany Valentine

The creepy walls of the Eastern State Penitentiary. (OGphoto/Getty Images.)

The creepy walls of the Eastern State Penitentiary. (OGphoto/Getty Images.)

Founded in 1681, Philly is one of the oldest cities in America, and it has a LOT of haunted spots. I mean a lot! So just how haunted is this city we know and love?

TheAcademy of Musicis the oldest grand opera house in the U.S. and is said to be home to some supernatural residents. 

Countless attendees have reported bizarre experiences while seated in the upper balconies. There is said to be a “man in black” that routinely haunted the area right behind the last row of seats.

Attendees also reported observing seat indents and creaking noises, and some even said their hair was pulled. I would have ran out of there SO fast!

See any ghosts lurking behind me on The Moshulu? (Brittany Valentine/City Cast Philly.)

See any ghosts lurking behind me on The Moshulu? (Brittany Valentine/City Cast Philly.)

Ever been on theMoshulu, the ship restaurant in Penn’s Landing? Yep, this one is haunted too. A lantern ghost reportedly re-lights lanterns on tables after dark and a whispering spirit can be heard telling secrets during the early evening.

Unknown spirits also haunt many other spots, including the Betsy Ross House, Eastern State Penitentiary, Washington Square, and more.

Is Philly the city of … ghostly love? Have you ever had any paranormal experiences at any of these spots? Tell us about it.

Share article

Hey Philly

Stay connected to City Cast Philly and get ready to join the local conversation.

Can't subscribe? Turn off your ad blocker and try again.

Philly, Explained

See All

The latest in Philly

Sponsored

Moving to Philadelphia? What to Check Before You Pick a Neighborhood, Book a Truck, and Sign a Lease

With this guide, you can move to Philadelphia, move from another place to Philadelphia, or just see if living in Philadelphia fits your d...

Wellknown Moving Company Logo
Keep It Local with City Cast PhillyJuly 16

Immigrant Marché Opens Pop-Up Storefront in Center City

The shop features products from immigrants representing Mexico, Guatemala, Cuba, and Nicaragua.

Anuj Gupta, the president and CEO of the Welcoming Center, stands inside Immigrant Marché holding a white and blue tote bag that reads “Immigrants Belong.”
Food & DrinkJuly 16

Where To Celebrate National Ice Cream Day in Philly

Ice cream is the perfect summertime treat. Cool down with classic flavors to innovative twists at these parlors.

Scoops of ice cream in a variety of flavors in five individual cups
Keep It Local with City Cast PhillyJuly 16

Shop the World Without Leaving Philly

After spending weeks hosting fans from every corner of the globe, it feels like the perfect time to explore the international markets, im...

Grocery aisles at International Foods & Spices in University City, showcasing spices, oils, flours and butters.
Philly HistoryJuly 13

Phillies' Home Run Derby History

Philly brings the heat to the annual MLB power-hitter competition.

Citizens Bank Park, which hosts the Philadelphia Phillies, is animated by fans in the stands and players on the field. A cloudy sky with blue peeking between the wispy white clouds makes for a perfect day of baseball.
Keep It Local with City Cast PhillyJuly 9

5 Places to Get Unique Phillies Gear

Five of our Phillies made the National League roster for the All-Star Game, so we’re sharing places to shop local and show your support f...

Display of Philadelphia Phillies jerseys, tank tops, hats, purses, and trinkets at Minor Details.
Philly Life HacksJuly 9

How To Live Plastic-Free in Philly

Here’s how to reduce your plastic usage and keep the momentum going once the month is over.

The word stop made of plastic tubes on a blue background with plastic utensils
Keep It Local with City Cast PhillyJuly 9

The New Philly Sports Shop Every Fan Should Know About

The shop sells T-shirts, sweatshirts, shorts, hats, accessories, decor, trading cards, and art designed by local artists.

Alt text: John Foley, owner of Foley’s: The Philly Sports Shop, stands in his shop surrounded by displays of Philly sports merchandise and apparel.