BY TIO STAFF

Indianapolis may be known for its sports, thriving arts scene, and Hoosier hospitality, but it also has a darker side. Beneath the surface of the city’s historic charm lie ghostly tales and eerie locations that send shivers down the spines of even the most skeptical visitors. From haunted theaters to spectral sightings in historic buildings, here are eight spooky locations in Indianapolis you probably didn’t know about.

1. Indiana Statehouse

The Indiana Statehouse is a bustling government building by day, but by night, it’s said to be home to several lingering spirits. One of the most famous legends involves the ghost of former Governor James A. Mount, who reportedly still roams the halls. Visitors and employees alike have claimed to hear footsteps echoing through empty corridors and doors closing on their own. Some even believe they’ve seen shadowy figures peering out of office windows late at night.

2. Central State Hospital

Once a mental asylum known for treating the mentally ill, Central State Hospital has a dark history that has fueled decades of ghost stories. Opened in 1848, the hospital was operational until 1994, but its past is marred by reports of mistreatment and questionable medical practices. Today, many of its buildings stand abandoned, and ghost hunters flock to the site to investigate strange noises, disembodied voices, and the eerie feeling of being watched. It’s said that the spirits of former patients still wander the grounds, seeking peace that eluded them in life.

3. Slippery Noodle Inn

Known as the oldest bar in Indiana, the Slippery Noodle Inn is not just a lively blues club—it’s also a hotspot for paranormal activity. The building dates back to 1850 and once served as a stop on the Underground Railroad and a brothel. Patrons have reported strange occurrences such as glasses moving on their own, the sound of footsteps on creaky floors, and ghostly apparitions lingering in the basement. Some say the spirits of former employees and patrons still hang around, adding to the inn’s haunted reputation.

4. Hannah House

The historic Hannah House is perhaps one of Indianapolis’ most famous haunted locations. Built in 1858, it was used as a stop on the Underground Railroad. Legend has it that a tragic fire in the basement claimed the lives of several escaping slaves, and their spirits are said to remain trapped in the house. Visitors have reported cold spots, strange sounds, and the unsettling sensation of being touched by unseen hands. The home now offers ghost tours for those brave enough to explore its haunted halls.

5. Indianapolis City Market Catacombs

Beneath the bustling Indianapolis City Market lie the mysterious catacombs—an underground network of tunnels and rooms dating back to the 1880s. Though they’re not open to the public every day, special tours give thrill-seekers the chance to explore these dimly lit chambers. Many believe the catacombs are haunted by spirits from the past, particularly after hearing disembodied voices and seeing ghostly figures dart through the darkened hallways. Some say the spirits of those who worked and died in the market’s early days still linger here.

6. Rivoli Theatre

The Rivoli Theatre was once a thriving movie palace, but today it’s more famous for its ghostly residents than for the films it once screened. The theater opened in 1927 and was a popular entertainment venue before falling into disrepair. Several paranormal investigators claim the building is haunted by the spirit of a man who died during a renovation project. Visitors have reported hearing his footsteps on the balcony and seeing shadowy figures in the empty seats. The Rivoli’s spooky reputation continues to attract ghost hunters from around the region.

7. Willard Library’s Gray Lady

Just a short drive from Indianapolis, the Willard Library in Evansville is home to one of the most famous ghost sightings in Indiana—the Gray Lady. First reported in 1937, the Gray Lady is said to be the spirit of a woman who roams the library’s halls, occasionally appearing to startled visitors. Her presence is often accompanied by the smell of perfume, cold drafts, and books mysteriously falling from shelves. Though it’s not in Indianapolis proper, the Gray Lady’s legend is well-known among Indiana ghost hunters.

8. James Allison Mansion

Located on the campus of Marian University, the James Allison Mansion was once the home of James Allison, a co-founder of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Since his death, the mansion has been the subject of numerous ghost sightings, including reports of shadowy figures and eerie voices. Some believe that Allison himself haunts the building, along with a mysterious woman in white who is often seen near the mansion’s grand staircase. The mansion’s dark hallways and gothic architecture only add to its chilling atmosphere.

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Indianapolis may be a thriving metropolis by day, but by night, its haunted history comes to life. These eight locations offer a glimpse into the city’s eerie past, where ghost stories and paranormal sightings are more common than you might think. Whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or just someone seeking a thrill, Indianapolis has plenty of spooky spots to explore—if you dare!