Visit These Top 5 Spooky Attractions in New York

Halloween is around the corner, which means it’s time for all things spooky. To celebrate, Empire Rent A Car highlights the top five spooky attractions in New York. If you’re planning a trip, make sure to check out these creepy places. While you can visit them any time of year, an October visit evokes just the right amount of spooky to make the adventure worthwhile 

1. The Dakota

The Dakota stands in stark gothic contrast to its nearby structures. The residential building is the site of Roman Polanski's "Rosemary's Baby" and John Lennon's demise. Located near Central Park West, the building isn't accessible to the public, only adding to its mystique. The exclusive building on the Upper West Side doesn't have the history that other places on the list do, but it still attracts visitors from near and far. That's why this makes the list of spooky attractions in New York. 

2. Palmyra Historical Museum

This former multi-family property is now a museum. A woman and her six children all died in a terrible fire in 1964. Today, museum visitors share stories of creepy experiences during visits. For example, many people say they smell smoke and ash in the basement. Others speak of toys falling off the shelves. Some even say they've felt someone tug on their clothes or hair. 

3. The Amityville Horror House

Next on our list of spooky attractions in New York is the Amityville Horror House. Unless you've been living under a rock, you've undoubtedly heard the story. Ronald Defeo Jr. murdered six of his family members back in the '70s. Theories abound as to whether this was supernaturally related or something else. Moreover, some people insist he didn't act alone. 

Rent a car, watch the movie, check out the house, and read up on all the interviews and theories. The backstory is just as worthwhile and more accessible than the private residence. Speaking of which, don't be that person who takes photos, and don't go up to the house. Someone lives there, and unless you want them to send the internet to your home, you should probably respect their space, too. 

4. Rolling Hills Asylum

American Horror Story: Asylum was filmed on location at this site. The old asylum hosts plenty of rooms with hospital beds and creepy dolls. Interestingly, the second floor of the east wing is said to be a hot spot for supernatural activity. 

5. Gurnsey Hollow

Get a group of people together and grab a rental van for this trip. The cemetery lies along an abandoned dirt road and boasts a sordid history. According to local lore, a young girl with developmental disabilities was stoned to death by the village. Over time, vandals have tipped over headstones and upset the many children who lie there. In the dark, secluded graveyard in the woods, you may see apparitions and hear the sounds of children in the dark. 

Your Spooky Adventure Awaits

If spooky attractions in New York are your gig, you have plenty of opportunities to get your fix. Empire Rent A Car is ready and waiting for your reservation at any of our 12 locations in NY. Call (800) 750-8782 to reserve your vehicle.