Florida’s Eerie Abandoned Places You Can Explore
Florida is known for its beaches, theme parks, and bustling cities, but hidden within the Sunshine State are remnants of forgotten worlds. Florida’s abandoned sites—mysterious ghost towns, decrepit hotels, and long-deserted theme parks—offer a haunting glimpse into the past. Stepping into these eerie locations feels like crossing into another dimension, where whispers of old stories echo and time appears frozen. Here’s a look at some of Florida’s most hauntingly abandoned spots where history and mystery intertwine.
Biltmore Hotel, Coral Gables
The Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables is renowned for its beauty and luxury, but few know about its eerie past. Built in 1926, the Biltmore was a lavish destination frequented by the wealthy, but during World War II, it was converted into a military hospital. Later, it stood vacant for years, gathering tales of ghostly apparitions and strange sounds. Locals speak of a particular spirit—Thomas Walsh, a mobster killed on the hotel’s 13th floor in 1929—who is said to haunt the corridors. Now restored, the Biltmore offers ghost tours for visitors looking to experience its spectral side. Explore the Biltmore Hotel’s ghost tours
Cassadaga: Florida’s Spirit Town
For those looking to experience the paranormal, Cassadaga is more than just a town—it’s a spiritual enclave filled with mediums, psychics, and a long history of supernatural encounters. Known as the “Psychic Capital of the World,” Cassadaga was established in 1894 by George Colby, a trance medium from New York. Colby claimed that a spirit guide led him to this very spot in Florida. The Cassadaga Hotel, the town’s primary lodging, is reportedly haunted, with guests recounting sightings of ghostly figures and unexplained phenomena. Learn more about Cassadaga’s haunted history
The Dome Homes of Cape Romano
Off the coast of Marco Island in the Ten Thousand Islands stands a structure like no other—the Dome Homes of Cape Romano. Built in 1981 as a self-sustaining vacation home by oil tycoon Bob Lee, these futuristic dome structures have since been abandoned and partially submerged due to hurricanes and erosion. Now, they sit eerily above the waves, hauntingly beautiful and mostly reclaimed by the sea. Accessible only by boat, the Dome Homes have become an icon of Florida’s abandoned places, attracting kayakers and photographers who seek this modern ruin in the gulf. Plan a kayaking trip to the Dome Homes
Stiltsville, Biscayne Bay
Off the coast of Miami, Stiltsville is a cluster of stilt houses that rise eerily from the waters of Biscayne Bay. Originally built in the 1930s as a gathering spot for the elite, it was once a lively social hub where people would boat out to fish, swim, and drink at remote bars over the bay. Today, these few remaining structures stand empty, weathered by time and tides, creating an eerie silhouette at sunrise and sunset. The National Park Service now protects Stiltsville, offering occasional tours for those interested in seeing these historic houses up close. Explore Stiltsville with Biscayne National Park tours
The Ghost Town of Ellaville
Tucked away along the Suwannee River, the ghost town of Ellaville was once a thriving sawmill town in the late 1800s. Founded by George Drew, who later became governor of Florida, Ellaville was home to hundreds of workers and a bustling community. As the timber industry declined, the town slowly faded, and by the mid-20th century, it was completely abandoned. Today, only the ruins remain, including the remnants of a grand mansion, hauntingly overgrown with vines. Exploring Ellaville offers a rare glimpse into Florida’s timber past, though visitors should be prepared for the eerie silence that fills the town. Learn more about Ellaville’s history
The Ruins of Fort Dade, Egmont Key
Egmont Key, a small island at the mouth of Tampa Bay, is home to Fort Dade, a military base built in the late 19th century during the Spanish-American War. After the war, it was used sporadically before being abandoned in the 1920s. Today, the fort’s remnants—a network of crumbling batteries and moss-covered ruins—create an eerie yet fascinating landscape. Egmont Key is now a state park accessible by ferry, where visitors can explore the decaying barracks and underground tunnels while soaking in the solitude of the island’s deserted beaches. Visit Egmont Key State Park
Miracle Strip Amusement Park, Panama City Beach
Miracle Strip Amusement Park once stood as a staple of Panama City Beach’s tourist scene. Opened in 1963, this beloved amusement park featured roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, and carnival games. Over the years, the park fell into disrepair and was eventually abandoned, leaving its rusty rides and faded signs behind. Though most of it has now been demolished, parts of the park remain as a nostalgic, albeit haunting, tribute to the thrills it once provided. Visitors can explore what’s left of the original site or head to the new Miracle Strip, a smaller attraction that pays homage to its predecessor. Read more on the Miracle Strip’s history
The Coral Castle, Homestead
The Coral Castle is one of Florida’s most mysterious abandoned sites, created by a Latvian immigrant named Edward Leedskalnin in the early 1900s. Leedskalnin, who claimed to have discovered the secrets of the pyramids, singlehandedly carved massive blocks of coral rock into unique formations. The castle includes chairs, tables, a giant sundial, and even a 9-ton gate, all made of coral. Today, Coral Castle is open to the public, allowing visitors to marvel at this architectural wonder. While it’s not entirely abandoned, its eerie ambiance and mysterious origins make it one of Florida’s strangest sites. Plan a visit to Coral Castle
Final Reflections on Florida’s Forgotten Places
From the ghostly halls of the Biltmore Hotel to the submerged domes of Cape Romano, Florida’s abandoned places offer more than just a thrill—they are doorways to forgotten stories and historical chapters that often go overlooked. These remnants of Florida’s past invite exploration, mystery, and a reminder of the impermanence of human endeavors against time and nature.
While these sites can be eerily beautiful, visitors should always approach with respect and responsibility. Many of these locations are protected for preservation, so following guidelines and leaving no trace is essential to ensure these pieces of Florida history remain for future generations. Whether you’re a history buff, a paranormal enthusiast, or simply seeking an offbeat adventure, Florida’s abandoned sites provide unforgettable experiences that are truly one of a kind.