San Antonio isn’t just famous for its history, Tex-Mex, and the iconic River Walk—it’s also home to a wealth of eerie tales and paranormal activity. For travelers intrigued by the supernatural, San Antonio offers a perfect blend of history and hauntings, with ghosts said to roam battlefields, bridges, missions, and more. If you’re ready for a spine-tingling adventure, these haunted places in San Antonio are a must-visit. From urban legends to ghostly apparitions, you’ll discover the city’s dark and mysterious side.
1. The Alamo: Ghosts from Texas’ Most Famous Battlefield
It’s no surprise that The Alamo, one of the most famous sites in Texas, also harbors ghost stories. Visitors have reported seeing shadowy figures wandering the grounds at night, believed to be the restless spirits of soldiers from the 1836 battle. Some say they’ve felt an eerie presence when standing near the old walls or walking through the chapel. Ghostly whispers and sudden cold breezes have also been experienced by those paying quiet tribute to this historic landmark.
The Alamo’s tragic history makes it one of the most haunted places in San Antonio—and a must-visit for anyone seeking a brush with the paranormal.
2. The Emily Morgan Hotel: A Haunted Stay Right by The Alamo
Known as one of the most haunted hotels in San Antonio, the Emily Morgan Hotel offers guests more than just luxury accommodations—it’s also the perfect place for a paranormal encounter. Located right next to the Alamo, the hotel once served as a medical facility, complete with a psychiatric ward and operating rooms. It’s said that the spirits of former patients still roam the hallways.
Guests frequently report flickering lights, objects moving on their own, and mysterious apparitions on certain floors. Some have even described waking up to find a figure standing by their bed, only to vanish the next moment. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, a stay at the Emily Morgan might just give you a story to tell.
3. San Fernando Cathedral: Ghostly Apparitions at the Heart of the City
The San Fernando Cathedral is not only one of the oldest churches in Texas—it’s also believed to be one of the most haunted places in San Antonio. The cathedral played a role in the aftermath of the Battle of the Alamo, with some legends claiming that the remains of Alamo defenders are buried within its walls.
Visitors have reported strange occurrences, including ghostly figures dressed in old-fashioned clothing and mysterious lights that appear on the walls at night. Some say they’ve heard whispers or felt cold spots while attending mass or exploring the courtyard.
4. The Haunted Railroad Tracks: San Antonio’s Tragic Urban Legend
One of San Antonio’s most famous urban legends takes place on a set of railroad tracks south of the city. According to local lore, a school bus carrying children stalled on the tracks, resulting in a tragic accident. Now, it’s said that the spirits of the children push stalled cars off the tracks to prevent a similar disaster.
If you visit, sprinkle baby powder on your car’s bumper and wait—some say you’ll see tiny handprints appear as the ghostly children push your vehicle to safety. Whether you believe the story or not, it’s a fascinating legend that continues to attract curious visitors.
5. La Villita Historic Arts Village: Where the Past Lingers
Once a humble settlement, La Villita is now a thriving arts district—though some say its ghostly residents never left. Shop owners and visitors alike have reported unexplained noises, objects moving on their own, and a sense of being watched. Some claim to have seen shadowy figures wandering between the old buildings.
The district’s long history, dating back to the early days of San Antonio, gives weight to the paranormal reports. Whether you’re there to browse art or experience a touch of the supernatural, La Villita offers a glimpse into both the past and the paranormal.
6. The Spanish Governor’s Palace: History Meets the Supernatural
The Spanish Governor’s Palace is known for more than its beautiful colonial architecture—it’s also rumored to be haunted. Visitors often report feelings of unease and a sense that they’re not alone. Some have seen ghostly apparitions dressed in period clothing, while others have heard strange footsteps echoing through the hallways.
The palace’s blend of history and mystery makes it a fascinating stop for travelers interested in haunted places in San Antonio.
7. The Missions of San Antonio: Ghostly Guardians of History
The San Antonio Missions are a vital part of the city’s heritage, but their tranquil beauty hides a darker side. Visitors along the Mission Trail have reported sightings of shadowy figures believed to be monks or indigenous spirits watching over the land. Strange lights and sounds have also been experienced by those exploring the missions at dusk.
If you’re looking to blend history with a touch of the supernatural, the missions offer a perfect opportunity.
8. The Majestic Theatre: Paranormal Performances and Phantom Guests
The Majestic Theatre, with its stunning architecture, is one of San Antonio’s cultural gems—but it also has a haunted reputation. Patrons and staff have reported seeing ghostly figures sitting in empty seats and hearing disembodied voices backstage. Some performers have even claimed to hear phantom applause during rehearsals.
If you’re visiting for a show, keep an eye out—your seatmate might just be from another era.
9. Donkey Lady Bridge: Urban Legends Come to Life
The Donkey Lady Bridge is a popular urban legend in San Antonio, Texas. According to the tale, the spirit of a woman who was horribly disfigured in a fire—some say set by an enraged husband or by a mob—haunts the area near the bridge. Her hands and face were burned, leaving her with a grotesque, donkey-like appearance. Locals claim that if you visit the bridge at night, you might hear her anguished cries or see her distorted figure. Over the years, the legend has become a part of San Antonio’s spooky folklore, drawing thrill-seekers to the site.
Whether you believe in the legend or not, it’s a fun and spooky spot to explore—just be sure to visit with a friend!
Explore the Haunted Side of San Antonio
San Antonio’s rich history and ghostly legends make it an intriguing destination for anyone interested in the supernatural. Whether you want to explore famous landmarks like the Alamo or visit hidden gems like La Villita, there’s no shortage of haunted places in San Antonio to experience.
For a truly immersive encounter with the paranormal, consider booking a stay at The Emily Morgan Hotel—and who knows, you might just leave with a story to share.
