Louisiana is no stranger to the paranormal. With a state as old as ours, you’re bound to have a few ghost stories floating around. From voodoo tales in New Orleans to swamp monsters lurking through the bayous, here are some of our favorite twisted tales and paranormal hotspots in Louisiana that will spook you silly.

1. The Myrtles Plantation

Perhaps one of the most well-known haunted hotspots in Louisiana, the Myrtles Plantation is known as the most haunted plantation in the country. Built in 1796, the resident ghost is known as Chloe, a former slave at the plantation. According to the legend, Chloe had her ear cut off as punishment for eavesdropping. In an act of revenge, Chloe attempted to poison the master of the house, but accidentally poisoned his wife and children instead. She was then hanged and thrown into the river, but many believe that she never moved on and still roams the property. The plantation is now a popular B&B and you can book a room to stay overnight and possibly meet Chloe for yourself.

Address: 7747 US Hwy 61, St. Francisville, LA 70775

2. The Old State Capitol

Located in Baton Rouge, this castle-like building was constructed between 1847-1852. Before it was abandoned for the new capitol, it was also used a prison and a hospital during the Civil War, so it shouldn’t be surprising to anyone that there have been paranormal encounters here. From disembodied voices to footsteps on floors where no one is found, many visitors have experienced unexplained occurrences at this historic building. One of the more popular sightings is that of a little girl named Sara Morgan, who is often seen roaming the halls.

Address: 100 North Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70801

3. Shreveport Municipal Auditorium

This historic building first opened its doors in 1929 and has helped launch the careers of notable musicians like Elvis Presley, Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, and countless others. As is the case with many older buildings in Louisiana, this one also claims that there are spirits lurking around, and you can take an auditorium tour to learn all about them.

Address: 705 Grand Ave., Shreveport, LA 711101

4. Le Pavillon Hotel

First opened in 1907 under the name New Denechaud Hotel, this New Orleans hotspot has welcomed many paranormal teams investigate the building. It’s estimated that there are over a hundred spirits that wander around the property, and one theory is that the hotel sits on a supernatural portal to the "other side." Of the many paranormal encounters experiences by both staff and guests at Le Pavillon Hotel, one of the most popular is that of a well-dressed couple wearing 1920s attire, strolling down the hall towards the elevator. Once spotted, they vanish before your very eyes. Check out the Le Pavillon Hotel website to book a room - if you dare.

Address: 833 Poydras St., New Orleans, LA 70112

5. The Bonnie and Clyde Ambush Site

These infamous criminals met their end in 1934 when they were involved in a shootout with police on a dusty stretch of Highway 154 in Bienville Parish. You can visit the memorial site, which just a few miles outside of Gibsland, but you should know that there are claims that it’s haunted by none other than Bonnie and Clyde themselves.

Here’s a map to help you find it. Once you check out the memorial marker, head into town to visit the Bonnie & Clyde Ambush Museum, located at 2419 Main St., Gibsland, LA 71028.

6. Hotel Bentley

There are a few spirits that just can’t seem to check out of this beautiful hotel, which was built in 1907. One of the many sightings is that of a child who allegedly died in an elevator shaft, and many guests and staff have reported hearing disembodied voices and even seeing apparitions when the elevator doors open. Many also believe that Mr. Bentley himself still roams the halls, as people have claimed to have heard his voice in his old suite. If you’re brave enough to book a room, visit the Hotel Bentley website.

Address: 200 Desoto St., Alexandria, LA 71301

7. The Rougarou

There are many different twisted tales surrounding this mythical creature. What most likely began as a cautionary tale to keep children from wandering into the swamps has evolved into a Cajun Bigfoot of sorts that lurks in the shadows, searching for its next victim. In one version of the story, you would turn into a Rougarou if you broke your Lenten promise. This beastly creature is described at being up to eight feet tall with razor sharp teeth and piercing red eyes. As if the swamps don’t have enough scary animals, now you have to worry about this beast!

8. Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop

Built in the 1700s, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop is the oldest building in the country being used as a bar. This famous little watering hole on Bourbon Street was once believed to be the headquarters for the infamous Lafitte brother’s illegal smuggling operation, and many believe that Jean Lafitte still frequents the bar. He is often seen standing in a dark corner, gazing out at the patrons. When your eyes meet, he will vanish into thin air, making you question whether or not you should finish your drink. That’s not all though, as many have claimed to have seen a pair of glowing red eyes appear in the fireplace, leading some to believe that there’s a much darker, sinister type of energy here as well. So the next time you find yourself at this bar and you think you see something, don’t be so quick to blame it on those cocktails.

Address: 941 Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116

Have you ever had a paranormal encounter in Louisiana? Share it with us in the comments below!