Tampa Bay's 'Haunted' Places

Tampa Bay area residents hoping to scare up some fun this Halloween season might want to check out some of the region’s most “haunted” places.

The following sites have been chronicled by Haunted Places and other sources as some of the spookiest in the Bay:

The Capitol Theatre

This historic Clearwater venue at 405 Cleveland St. supposedly has three ghosts known to haunt it. “The Captain” reportedly wanders the halls in a blue coat and hat while a young girl watches over the theater and its patrons. The most spooky claim, however, involves the ghost of Bill, a man who was allegedly murdered in the balcony.

Ghosts or not, the Capitol remains a popular venue in Clearwater that is now managed by the folks behind Ruth Eckerd Hall. It has a full lineup of events throughout the year. To find out more, visit it online.

The Tampa Theatre

This historic venue at 711 Franklin St. in downtown Tampa is well known for its ghost sightings. The theater is reportedly haunted by the ghost of Foster “Fink” Finley, who worked as a projectionist for 35 years. CBS News says staff members have reported ghostly sightings through the years, including hearing the jingling of keys. Haunted Places points out that some have reported seeing Fink himself wandering the theater’s hallways.

The Vinoy Hotel

This 501 5th Ave. N.E. venue in St. Petersburg dates back to the 1920s as a playground for the famous and rich. The Pink Palace, as it’s called, is reportedly haunted by a man in a top hat and coat. Some guests have reported seeing him standing over their beds, Haunted Places says.

Ringling College of Art and Design

This 2007 N. Tamiami Trail treasure has put Sarasota on the ghost-hunting map for stories about “Mary.” This specter is reported to be a young prostitute who committed suicide on the grounds.

Fogartyville Cemetery

Located at 293 42nd St. N.W. in Bradenton, this cemetery reportedly has an extra “creepy” feel and more than a few ghosts haunting it, according to Haunted Places.

Plant Hall at the University of Tampa

This iconic Tampa building now serves students from around the world, but it once was a famous hotel that played host to the likes of Theodore Roosevelt. The 401 W. Kennedy Blvd. spot is reported to have a number of ghosts, including Bessie, who was an actress that committed suicide, according to Haunted Places. The Examiner also mentions stories about the “Brown Man,” who has been spotted in a three-piece brown suit.

For a complete look at all of the “haunted” spots in the Tampa Bay area, check out Haunted Places’ map.

What places would you say are the scariest, creepiest or most “ghost” infested in Tampa Bay? Add to the list by commenting below!

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