There’s a certain allure to places that time has left behind—towns once full of life, now silent and still, their stories etched into every crumbling building and empty street.
These forgotten corners of America carry a sense of mystery, holding secrets that the world has slowly forgotten. Visiting them is like stepping into a history book, where the pages haven’t turned in years.
The remnants of past lives, nature creeping in, and the quiet isolation paint a picture of a different time. If you’re looking for adventure, history, and a little bit of the unknown, these towns will beckon you.
1. Bodie, California
Bodie is often regarded as the quintessential “ghost town,” and it lives up to its reputation with an eerie charm. Once a booming mining town during the late 1800s, Bodie was abandoned after the gold dried up. It’s been preserved in a state of arrested decay, frozen in time. Walking through its dusty streets feels like stepping into a Western film—one minute, it’s bustling with miners, and the next, it’s silent, save for the wind sweeping through the broken windows.
What makes Bodie particularly captivating is its authenticity. While many ghost towns have been reconstructed or renovated for tourism, Bodie remains as it was when the last residents left. The town is now a state historic park, and the preserved buildings, like the old post office and schoolhouse, make it feel like the clock has truly stopped. You’ll find abandoned cars and tools left behind, making it feel as if the miners just packed up and walked away in a hurry.
Visiting Bodie can be an immersive experience. The landscape is rugged, with the Sierra Nevada mountains providing a dramatic backdrop. The weather here is extreme—summers can be hot, while winters are cold and snowy, adding to the town’s desolate beauty. There’s something magical about the solitude, with only the occasional visitor and the haunting remains of buildings to keep you company.
Relevant Info:
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall (May to October) is ideal due to accessibility and weather.
- Entry Fees: Yes, there’s a small entry fee for the park.
- What to Expect: No food or services, so come prepared with water and snacks.
- Don’t Miss: The old church and the eerie cemetery.
2. Centralia, Pennsylvania
Centralia is a name that likely rings a bell for fans of urban legends and disaster stories. This once-thriving coal mining town is now mostly abandoned, with only a handful of residents left due to a dangerous underground fire that has been burning since 1962. What makes Centralia so surreal is that the fire is still burning today—underneath the town’s cracked streets, producing smoke and occasionally causing small sinkholes. The eerie image of smoke rising from the earth in the middle of an otherwise desolate town is something you won’t soon forget.
The fire began when a landfill caught fire, and it spread into the vast coal mines beneath Centralia. As you can imagine, it’s not a place for casual exploration, but for the adventurous, something is captivating about the dangers lurking beneath your feet. The few remaining buildings are mostly abandoned or partially destroyed, leaving behind a ghostly landscape that feels otherworldly.
One of the most iconic images of Centralia is the abandoned highway, Route 61, which still has large cracks in the pavement, some spewing smoke. The haunting feel of this once-bustling town now being overrun by nature is both unsettling and beautiful, leaving visitors to wonder what might have been.
Relevant Info:
- Best Time to Visit: Spring to fall (April to October) when weather conditions are safer for exploration.
- Entry Fees: None, but be cautious and respectful of private property.
- What to Expect: Smoke, abandoned roads, and an eerie atmosphere.
- Safety Tip: Avoid going too close to visible sinkholes or entering unsafe buildings.
3. Rhyolite, Nevada
Nestled near Death Valley, Rhyolite is another mining town that met its end after a few years of prosperity. Once home to over 1,000 residents, Rhyolite boomed in the early 1900s during the gold rush, but by 1911, it was already a ghost town. What’s left behind are the skeletons of once-sturdy buildings, like the train station, the bank, and the general store, giving it a distinct Wild West vibe.
One of the standout features of Rhyolite is its bizarre art installation, the “Goldwell Open Air Museum,” which has a series of strange sculptures, including a large figure of a man. This juxtaposition of historical ruins with modern art gives Rhyolite a unique, surreal quality. The stark desert surrounding it adds to the ghostly atmosphere. As you walk through the ruins, it’s easy to imagine what it was like during its heyday—horses pulling carts down dirt streets, miners rushing to their claims.
When you visit Rhyolite, you’ll find a strange peace amid the desert. The town is quiet, save for the occasional gust of wind, and the open desert landscape is breathtaking. As the sun sets, the town takes on an almost cinematic quality, making it the perfect spot for photographers and history enthusiasts.
Relevant Info:
- Best Time to Visit: Fall and early spring (October to April) to avoid the extreme heat of summer.
- Entry Fees: None, though donations to the museum are appreciated.
- What to Expect: A mix of ghost town ruins and quirky modern art.
- Don’t Miss: The train station ruins and the eerie sculpture garden.
4. Abandoned Rowlesburg, West Virginia
Nestled along the Cheat River in West Virginia, Rowlesburg was once a bustling railroad town. The town flourished in the 1800s and early 1900s but faced a steady decline after the railroad left, and the town was eventually abandoned. What makes Rowlesburg so intriguing is its location—tucked deep in the Appalachian mountains—and the stories that have been passed down through generations about its heyday.
The town’s downfall was largely due to the decline of the railroad industry, but remnants of its past are still evident in the overgrown buildings and rusted railroad tracks. The town has a haunted quality, with decaying homes and old mills that now seem as though they are slowly being swallowed up by the forest. What I love about Rowlesburg is its sense of mystery; it’s quiet, isolated, and as if time itself is frozen in the quiet corners of the town.
For anyone looking for a more off-the-beaten-path ghost town experience, Rowlesburg offers just that. It’s less visited than some of the more famous ghost towns, which means you’ll likely have the place to yourself. It’s a spot where you can reflect on the rapid changes in American industrialization, especially in the rural towns that once depended on trains.
Relevant Info:
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall (April to October) for the best weather.
- Entry Fees: None.
- What to Expect: Overgrown buildings and rusted railroad tracks.
- Best for: History buffs, hikers, and those seeking solitude.
5. Saint Elmo, Colorado
Saint Elmo is one of the best-preserved ghost towns in Colorado. Founded in the late 1800s, the town was initially a mining hub. It saw its peak in the early 1900s but quickly faded when mining resources ran dry. Today, the town is famous for its preserved wooden buildings, which still stand proudly against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. There’s something incredibly charming about Saint Elmo—it’s one of those places where you feel like you’ve stepped into a time capsule.
Saint Elmo feels almost like a “sleeping town,” waiting for its inhabitants to return. Its buildings, though weathered, remain largely intact, and the place offers a fantastic glimpse into the past. There’s an authenticity here that’s hard to come by. One of the most fascinating things about Saint Elmo is that it’s surrounded by spectacular hiking trails, making it a perfect destination for those who want to mix history with outdoor adventure.
Saint Elmo is also known for its wildlife sightings. If you’re lucky, you might spot some elk or other wildlife roaming near the old buildings. This, combined with the charming buildings and mountain scenery, makes it a perfect destination for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Relevant Info:
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall (May to October) for the best access and weather conditions.
- Entry Fees: None.
- What to Expect: Beautiful mountain views, preserved wooden buildings, and hiking opportunities.
- Don’t Miss: The Saint Elmo General Store and nearby hiking trails.
6. Leadville, Colorado
Nestled high in the Rocky Mountains, Leadville was once one of the richest silver mining towns in the U.S. The town’s boomtown days, which reached their peak in the late 1800s, were filled with wealth and rapid expansion. But as the silver mines ran dry, the town experienced a slow decline, eventually turning into the ghost town it is today. However, what sets Leadville apart from other ghost towns is its unique combination of both historic preservation and modern-day life. It’s a town that blends the past and present in a way that feels almost cinematic.
Leadville’s historic district remains remarkably intact. The old saloons, mining cabins, and even the Tabor Opera House—once one of the finest opera houses in the country—give visitors a glimpse into its grand past. What’s remarkable is that the town is still alive, with a small, vibrant community living amid these historic remnants. You can visit the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum or hike nearby mountains like Mount Elbert, the highest peak in Colorado, all while walking past 19th-century storefronts and train depots.
Though much of the town’s population has dwindled, Leadville has managed to maintain its sense of place and history, and it’s a great spot for those who want a living ghost town experience. It’s also a wonderful area for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, skiing, and fishing in the area surrounding this mountain town.
Relevant Info:
- Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall (June to September) for the best weather and outdoor activities.
- Entry Fees: Some museums and historical sites have small entrance fees.
- What to Expect: A mix of preserved buildings, modern life, and outdoor adventures.
- Don’t Miss: The Tabor Opera House and Mount Elbert.
7. Silver City, New Mexico
Silver City, once a thriving mining town, is now a charming, somewhat quirky destination that feels like a blend of history and artistic expression. This town flourished during the silver rush in the mid-1800s, but as the mining boom died, so did the town’s prosperity. What remains, however, is a town full of history, with beautiful 19th-century architecture and a community that’s known for its artistic vibe.
One of the best things about Silver City is its walkability—something rare in a place with such deep historical roots. You can easily stroll through the downtown area, admiring buildings that date back to the late 1800s, many of which have been restored and are now home to galleries, shops, and cafes. The town has embraced its past, turning many of the old mining structures into cultural hotspots. The Silver City Museum, housed in a former miner’s home, is one of the best places to learn about the town’s mining heritage.
Silver City’s location in the Gila Wilderness also makes it a prime spot for outdoor activities. Whether you’re interested in hiking, birdwatching, or visiting nearby hot springs, Silver City offers a mix of historical charm and nature, making it a hidden gem that hasn’t lost its spirit.
Relevant Info:
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall (March to May, September to November) for pleasant weather.
- Entry Fees: Some attractions have small fees, but the town itself is free to explore.
- What to Expect: A small town with rich history, arts, and nature.
- Don’t Miss: Silver City Museum and the Gila Wilderness.
8. Jerome, Arizona
Jerome is a fascinating town with an incredible view—it’s perched on the side of Cleopatra Hill, overlooking the Verde Valley. The town was once a booming copper mining hub, home to thousands of residents. But, like many mining towns, Jerome went into decline after the mines were exhausted. What makes Jerome so interesting, however, is its transformation from a sleepy ghost town to a vibrant arts community.
Walking through Jerome, you’ll feel the remnants of its mining past everywhere—from the crumbling ruins of old mining buildings to the Jerome State Historic Park, which showcases the town’s history. But what sets Jerome apart from many other ghost towns is its thriving arts scene. The town is home to galleries, unique boutiques, and artists’ studios. You’ll find that Jerome has a certain artistic, creative energy that’s palpable as you walk its steep, winding streets.
Another fascinating aspect of Jerome is its ghost stories. Many locals believe the town is haunted, and several hotels and buildings are said to be inhabited by the spirits of former miners. Whether you believe in the supernatural or not, Jerome’s eerie atmosphere only adds to its allure, especially at night when the town is shrouded in darkness and mystery.
Relevant Info:
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall (March to May, September to November) for mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Entry Fees: Some historical sites charge a small fee, but the town itself is free to explore.
- What to Expect: A mix of mining history and contemporary art.
- Don’t Miss: Jerome State Historic Park and the art galleries.
9. Point Roberts, Washington
Point Roberts is an unusual town—it’s located in the northwest corner of Washington State, but it’s separated from the rest of the U.S. by Canada. Because of its location, it’s one of the few places where you can cross the border without a passport. Point Roberts is a small, quiet community, and its isolation adds to its charm. The town’s population is small, and it has a sleepy, serene atmosphere that makes it a fascinating place to visit.
What’s most interesting about Point Roberts is how the town exists in a strange limbo between two countries. The U.S. side of the town is American, but to get there from the rest of the U.S., you have to cross into Canada and then back again. The town’s laid-back vibe makes it a place that feels untouched by time. The Point Roberts Historical Society Museum is a great stop to learn about the town’s rich maritime history.
For those who appreciate quiet solitude, Point Roberts offers plenty of opportunities to relax by the water, walk along the coastline, or explore the nearby parks. It’s a place where you can enjoy the natural beauty without the distractions of a larger, bustling town.
Relevant Info:
- Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to September) for the best weather and outdoor activities.
- Entry Fees: None.
- What to Expect: A quiet, isolated community with a unique border crossing experience.
- Don’t Miss: Point Roberts Historical Society Museum and the coastline.
10. Custer, South Dakota
Custer, South Dakota, is a town that’s filled with history and charm. Though it’s not quite the ghost town it once was, its past still lingers in the air. Custer was established during the Gold Rush days and became the site of many important events in U.S. history, including Custer’s Last Stand and the Black Hills Gold Rush. Today, the town still maintains a sense of old-time charm, but it’s been revitalized with tourism and modern-day amenities.
What makes Custer special is its proximity to some of the most iconic sites in the U.S., including Custer State Park, Mount Rushmore, and Crazy Horse Memorial. Even though the town is relatively small, it’s a great base for exploring the rich history and natural beauty of the Black Hills. The historic buildings, such as the old Custer County Courthouse, give visitors a sense of the town’s gold rush days.
Custer also has an old-time atmosphere, with saloons, antique stores, and even historic train rides. The town still feels like a Western frontier town, and you can easily imagine what it would have been like during its wild early days.
Relevant Info:
- Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall (June to September) for good weather and to enjoy outdoor activities.
- Entry Fees: Some attractions may charge a fee.
- What to Expect: A blend of historic buildings and modern tourism, surrounded by natural beauty.
- Don’t Miss: Custer State Park, Mount Rushmore, and the Custer County Courthouse.
11. New River, Arizona
New River, Arizona, is a hidden gem tucked away in the rugged desert landscape of the Sonoran Desert. Once a thriving gold and silver mining town, it now stands mostly abandoned, its once-bustling streets quiet and overgrown. What makes New River particularly captivating is its stark contrast to the surrounding desert. As you approach the town, it feels as if you’ve stumbled upon a forgotten corner of the world, where time has stopped, and the past lingers in the air like the dust in the wind.
The remnants of New River are scattered throughout the area—there are dilapidated buildings, old mining equipment, and weathered homes. However, it’s the natural beauty that surrounds the ghost town that truly makes it stand out. The desert, with its jagged mountains and cacti, offers a breathtaking backdrop for the ruins. The area also has a rich history, and local stories of the gold rush era add an intriguing layer to the visit. What’s more, it remains a relatively unknown spot, so you won’t have to deal with the crowds that often flock to more famous ghost towns.
Despite its abandonment, New River holds a unique allure for those who love the desolate, forgotten places of the American West. If you enjoy outdoor adventures, you can also explore the nearby Horseshoe Reservoir and the Sonoran Desert, making for a perfect mix of history and nature.
Relevant Info:
- Best Time to Visit: Winter and early spring (November to April) for milder temperatures.
- Entry Fees: None.
- What to Expect: A secluded, forgotten town surrounded by desert beauty.
- Don’t Miss: Old mining equipment and the desert views.
12. Picher, Oklahoma
Once a thriving mining town during the early 20th century, Picher, Oklahoma, now stands as a haunting reminder of the environmental consequences of the mining boom. The town’s rapid decline started when the mining operations in the area led to toxic waste dumping, resulting in severe contamination of the land and water. By the 1970s, the town’s population began to dwindle, and by the 2000s, it was officially declared a Superfund site. Today, Picher is largely abandoned, with buildings that are gradually falling apart, leaving behind an eerie, almost apocalyptic landscape.
Despite the tragedy that led to Picher’s downfall, there’s a strange beauty in the ruins. The crumbling schoolhouse, once the heart of the community, is now a shell of its former self, and the old gas stations and general stores sit eerily still. However, it’s important to remember that Picher’s decline is not just historical—it’s a cautionary tale about the effects of unchecked industrialization. Visitors to Picher will be struck not just by the haunting sight of abandoned homes but also by the environmental scars that remain.
Although Picher is not the typical “tourist destination,” it holds an undeniable fascination for those interested in industrial history and environmental issues. The surrounding area is also part of the Quapaw Tribe’s land, adding another layer of cultural significance to the region.
Relevant Info:
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall (March to May, September to November) when the weather is cooler.
- Entry Fees: None, but access to some areas may be restricted due to contamination.
- What to Expect: Abandoned buildings, environmental decay, and a historical lesson.
- Don’t Miss: The abandoned school and the old mining sites.
13. Calico, California
Calico is a well-preserved ghost town located in the Mojave Desert and is one of California’s most famous. Originally a silver mining town that boomed in the late 1800s, Calico flourished until the silver mines ran dry. Unlike many other ghost towns, Calico has been partially restored and is now a popular state historic park, making it a bit more tourist-friendly but still maintaining its old-world charm. Walking down its dusty streets, you’ll find old mining equipment, shops, and saloon-style buildings that recreate the atmosphere of the mining era.
What makes Calico so special is its rich history which has been carefully preserved. You can visit the Calico Mine Ride, which takes you on an underground tour of the mines or stroll through the Calico Ghost Town Museum to learn about the mining days. The town’s desert location gives it an intense, hot atmosphere, especially during the summer months, but the sunset views over the desert landscape make it worth the visit.
In addition to the history, Calico also offers a great glimpse into the American Wild West. The town has become a bit of a time capsule, with reenactments, preserved shops, and old-west charm that draws in visitors looking for an authentic taste of the past.
Relevant Info:
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall (March to May, September to November) to avoid extreme desert heat.
- Entry Fees: Yes, there’s a small entry fee for the park and attractions.
- What to Expect: A mix of preserved buildings and interactive historical attractions.
- Don’t Miss: the Calico Mine Ride and Calico Ghost Town Museum.
14. Keene, New Hampshire
Keene, New Hampshire, is a small town with a big history. While not entirely a ghost town, its quiet, quaint streets make it feel like time has slowed down. Once an industrial hub, Keene’s mill industry boomed in the 1800s, but as industries shifted and the mills closed, the town’s vibrancy waned. Today, Keene is still a charming town with well-preserved Victorian buildings and a strong sense of community, but there are still pockets of the past that remain largely forgotten, creating a perfect atmosphere for exploring.
Keene is known for its historic architecture, including the Keene Public Library, a stunning example of early 20th-century design. While the town is small, its downtown area is a delightful mix of old-world charm and small-town life. The old mills and dilapidated homes that line the outskirts of the town stand as reminders of its once-thriving industrial past.
Despite its abandonment of industry, Keene offers a rare combination of both historical beauty and modern charm. For those who love to take their time exploring a town that feels almost forgotten but not entirely abandoned, Keene offers a peaceful step back into a slower era.
Relevant Info:
- Best Time to Visit: Fall (September to November) for colorful foliage and mild weather.
- Entry Fees: None.
- What to Expect: A mix of historical buildings and a small-town feel.
- Don’t Miss: Keene Public Library and the historic mills.
15. Loma, Montana
Loma, Montana, is a tiny, unincorporated community that sits along the banks of the Missouri River. Once a railroad town that saw its peak in the early 1900s, Loma has been reduced to a few scattered buildings, but its rich history is still felt. The town’s charm lies in its isolation and the historic railroad depot, which once served as a bustling hub for trade and travel.
Loma may be small, but its surroundings are breathtaking. The wide-open plains and the mighty Missouri River create an expansive landscape, and while the town itself is quiet, the area is full of outdoor activities, including fishing and hiking along the river. The Loma Bridge, which spans the Missouri, is an iconic landmark and offers visitors a picturesque view of the town and the surrounding countryside.
For those who enjoy rural, quiet destinations, Loma offers a rare opportunity to experience the wide-open spaces of Montana while exploring the remnants of its once-thriving railroad days.
Relevant Info:
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring and summer (May to August) to enjoy the outdoor activities and warm weather.
- Entry Fees: None.
- What to Expect: A peaceful, rural setting with remnants of railroad history.
- Don’t Miss: Loma Bridge and the Missouri River.
