8. The Queen Mary, Long Beach, California
History & Hauntings: Once a majestic ocean liner that transported royalty, celebrities, and thousands of troops during WWII, the RMS Queen Mary now serves as a docked hotel, restaurant, and tourist attraction in Long Beach, California. Over its decades of service, the ship experienced numerous deaths, from accidents in the engine room to passengers succumbing to illness. Many believe these unfortunate souls never truly left the vessel.
With over 150 documented paranormal encounters, the Queen Mary is considered one of the most haunted places in America:
- Pool Area: The ship’s drained swimming pools are particularly active. The ghost of a young girl named Jackie, who drowned in the first-class pool, is often heard giggling and calling out, while wet footprints inexplicably appear.
- Engine Room: The spirit of a crew member, John Pedder, who was accidentally crushed to death by Door 13 in the engine room, is frequently reported. Visitors hear his cries and whistling.
- Cabin B340: This cabin is so notoriously haunted that it’s no longer rented out. Guests reported poltergeist activity, objects flying, and extreme cold spots.
- “The Lady in White”: A mysterious female apparition in a white gown is often seen dancing in the Queen’s Salon.
- Winston Churchill’s Presence: Some claim to smell cigar smoke in Churchill’s former stateroom, even though smoking is prohibited.
The sheer scale of the ship and the countless lives that passed through its decks contribute to its intense paranormal energy.
