For some, the chilly autumn rain signals the gloomy end of summer. For others (like me), this time of year is when we start to come alive. With the cool winds rustling the red and golden leaves here in Maryland, you can bet I’ll be out exploring any number of small towns that come into their own in the fall. And one of my absolute favorites is Ellicott City. This little mill town on the Patapsco is purported to be the most haunted town in Maryland. While I can’t say I’ve ever seen a ghost in my time exploring this town, I can say that it is absolutely one of the best spots to come for a warm cup of tea on a chilly day, and of course, the haunted rumors and historic architecture bring it a certain charm that is absolutely perfect when the fall rolls around!

Ellicott City’s iconic bridge is the welcome banner into town for anyone who arrives by crossing the Patapsco River. It’s the first thing you’ll see as you enter into this charmingly spooky little town.

The B&O Railroad Museum is a fascinating - and free - hidden gem of a museum, which houses some artifacts dating to the Civil War and even further back. It is the oldest commercial railroad station terminal in the entire country, and accordingly, the ghost stories are abundant.

While not a stop on the ghost tour, St. Paul’s Catholic Church is the oldest active Catholic parish between Baltimore and Pittsburgh. It’s not famous for any paranormal activity, but Babe Ruth did famously tie the knot with his first wife here in 1914.

Off of Main Street, you’ll find Tiber Park, a small green space with a bridge that crosses over the Tiber branch, the infamous tributary of the Patapsco which flooded in 2016 and 2018. Regardless of this history, the park is a lovely spot to stop and enjoy the chilly autumn breeze.

Up the hill, watchfully looking down on Main Street, is the Firehouse Museum. This building was in operation until 1924, and it remains a fascinating look into the practical side of firefighting in early America.

Tonge Row is a famous curve of haunted stone houses along Old Columbia Pike, but just behind it is a beautiful plaza with tables, shade trees, and a delightful view of the river.

Of course, lording over the town is the infamous Patapsco Female Institute. This haunted ruin was constructed as a finishing school for wealthy girls, but was converted throughout its life into a hotel, a theater, a hospital, and a county park - the label the site currently holds.

Ellicott City’s Main Street is famous for the restaurants, shops, and cafes that line it. What are some of your favorites?

Once you've wrapped up your shopping, dining, and otherwise activity-filled afternoon in Ellicott City, why not give yourself a ghost tour? Head over to Bookshop.org and grab this spooky title all about the ghosts, ghouls, and otherwise mysterious paranormal stories that this small riverside town has to offer and the places you can seek them out - if you're brave enough, of course!