13 Creepiest Places On Google Maps
Google Maps has become an essential tool for travelers, but it’s not just about finding directions anymore. With Google Street View, you can explore the world from the comfort of your own home, including some of the creepiest places on earth. From abandoned asylums and haunted houses to eerie cemeteries and mysterious islands, these 13 locations will give you chills. But don’t let that stop you from visiting them, as there is much to see and discover.
Top Attractions
The top attraction in the list of creepiest places on Google Maps is undoubtedly the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone in Ukraine. This abandoned city is frozen in time and is a haunting reminder of the nuclear disaster that occurred here in 1986. Other top attractions include the abandoned island of Hashima in Japan, the catacombs of Paris, and the abandoned city of Pripyat.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, check out the abandoned city of Centralia in Pennsylvania. The underground coal fire that has been burning here since 1962 has turned the town into a ghostly landscape of smoke and ash. Another hidden gem is the abandoned town of Humberstone in Chile, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once a thriving mining town but is now a ghost town frozen in time.
Food Scene
While most of the creepy places on this list are not known for their culinary delights, there are still some spots worth checking out. In New Orleans, visit the oldest operating restaurant in the United States, Antoine’s, which is rumored to be haunted by the ghosts of past patrons. In Japan, try the local delicacy of fugu, or blowfish, at one of the many restaurants that serve it. Just be sure to choose a restaurant with a good reputation, as the dish can be deadly if not prepared correctly.
Budget-friendly Tips
Many of the creepy places on this list are free to visit, such as the abandoned ghost town of Bodie in California or the abandoned island of Gunkanjima in Japan. To save money on accommodations, consider camping at one of the many state parks near these locations. Another budget-friendly tip is to pack a picnic lunch instead of eating out, as many of these places are remote and do not have many dining options nearby.
Outdoor Adventures
If you’re an adventure seeker, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy at these creepy locations. In Romania, hike to the top of the Poenari Castle, which is said to be the real-life inspiration for Dracula’s castle. In Australia, visit the abandoned town of Wittenoom and hike through the surrounding national park, which is home to some of the most stunning natural scenery in the country.
Historical Landmarks
Many of the creepy places on this list have a rich history that is worth exploring. In Italy, visit the Capuchin Catacombs in Palermo, where the mummified remains of over 8,000 people are on display. In Scotland, tour the Edinburgh Castle, which has a long and bloody history dating back to the 12th century.
Family-friendly Activities
While some of the creepy places on this list may not be suitable for young children, there are still plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy. In the United States, take a ghost tour of the Winchester Mystery House in California, which was built by a widow who believed that ghosts were haunting her. In Mexico, visit the Island of the Dolls, which is covered in creepy dolls that were left by the island’s former owner.
Off-the-beaten-path Experiences
If you’re looking for something truly unique, consider visiting the abandoned island of Poveglia in Italy, which was once used as a quarantine station for plague victims. Or, visit the abandoned village of Kayakoy in Turkey, which is now a ghost town that has been preserved as a historical site.
Natural Wonders
While some of the creepy places on this list may be man-made, there are also some stunning natural wonders to explore. In Iceland, visit the abandoned plane wreck on the black sand beach of Sólheimasandur, which has become a popular spot for photographers. In the United States, check out the abandoned Taum Sauk Hydroelectric Power Station in Missouri, which is now surrounded by beautiful hiking trails.
Vibrant Nightlife
While most of the creepy places on this list are not known for their nightlife, there are still some spots worth checking out. In New Orleans, visit the famous Bourbon Street, which is home to some of the best jazz clubs and bars in the country. In Japan, explore the vibrant nightlife of Tokyo, which has a thriving club scene and some of the best sushi restaurants in the world.
Local Markets
If you’re looking to experience the local culture, check out the markets near these creepy locations. In Mexico, visit the Mercado de Sonora, which is a market that sells everything from herbs and potions to live animals and exotic foods. In Thailand, explore the Chatuchak Weekend Market, which is one of the largest outdoor markets in the world and is home to over 15,000 stalls.
Beaches and Mountains
While many of the creepy places on this list may not be known for their beaches or mountains, there are still some spots worth visiting. In Greece, visit the abandoned town of Varosha, which was once a popular tourist destination but is now a ghost town that is surrounded by beautiful beaches. In Japan, hike to the top of Mount Fuji, which is the highest mountain in the country and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Cultural Immersion
To fully immerse yourself in the local culture, consider visiting the creepy places on this list during a festival or cultural event. In Mexico, visit the Day of the Dead festival, which is celebrated throughout the country and is a time to honor the dead. In Japan, attend a traditional tea ceremony or participate in a traditional Japanese dance performance.
Art and Music Scene
While most of the creepy places on this list may not be known for their art and music scene, there are still some spots worth checking out. In New Orleans, visit the French Quarter, which is home to some of the best jazz clubs and art galleries in the country. In Australia, attend the Dark Mofo festival in Hobart, which is a celebration of art, music, and food that takes place during the winter solstice.
Walking Tours
To fully explore these creepy places, consider taking a walking tour. In Romania, take a tour of the Bran Castle, which is said to be the inspiration for Dracula’s castle. In France, explore the underground tunnels of the Catacombs of Paris, which are lined with the bones of over six million people.
Architectural Marvels
Many of the creepy places on this list are architectural marvels that are worth exploring. In Spain, visit the abandoned city of Belchite, which was destroyed during the Spanish Civil War and is now a haunting reminder of the conflict. In Italy, tour the abandoned city of Craco, which is perched on a hilltop and has been abandoned since the 1960s.
Historical Sites
Many of the creepy places on this list have a rich history that is worth exploring. In Japan, visit the abandoned city of Shime, which was once a thriving mining town but has been abandoned since the 1970s. In the United States, tour the Winchester Mystery House, which was built by a widow who believed that ghosts were haunting her.
Biking Routes
To fully explore these creepy places, consider taking a biking tour. In Italy, bike through the abandoned city of Craco, which is perched on a hilltop and has been abandoned since the 1960s. In Germany, bike through the abandoned city of Beelitz-Heilstätten, which was once a tuberculosis sanatorium but is now a ghostly landscape of abandoned buildings.
Wellness Retreats
While most of the creepy places on this list may not be known for their wellness retreats, there are still some spots worth checking out. In Japan, visit the hot springs of Beppu, which are said to have healing properties and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. In Iceland, visit the Blue Lagoon, which is a geothermal spa that is surrounded by stunning natural scenery.
In conclusion, the 13 creepiest places on Google Maps offer a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, outdoor adventures, or just want to be spooked, there is something for everyone on this list. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the dark side of the world.