Explore Bay Area's Most Mysterious Spots

These spooky destinations might be considered tourist traps by some, but a visit to four Bay Area "Mystery Spots" will remind locals that these classic spots aren't to be missed. Road Trip around the Bay, and let your imagination run wild.

Santa Cruz Mystery Spot
456 Mystery Spot Rd
Santa Cruz, CA 95065
(831) 423-8897
www.mysteryspot.com

One of the South Bay Area's most popular spooky destination, the Santa Cruz Mystery Spot is a scientific phenomenon. Or is it? A wooden cabin that defies the laws of gravity? Only $5 and open 365 days a year, the Santa Cruz Mystery Spot is a wonderful place for kids. It's fun to explore the mysteries of the spot, and try and figure out the science behind it.

Winchester Mystery House
525 South Winchester Blvd
San Jose, CA 95128
(408) 247-2101
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This San Jose estate is a national legend. After a medium told Sarah Winchester that her family's fortune was essentially blood money from those killed by Winchester guns, Mrs. Winchester attempted to make amends by building a house designed entirely by spirits. As an eccentric millionairess, she had the means to spend years on her "mystery" mansion. Staircases reach empty walls, doors open to nothing, and some rooms were specially designed with eavesdropping in mind. Don't miss the annual month-long Halloween Haunted House, a super-spooky night-time fun-house that might be best for older kids and teens. (We scare easily!)

Sam's Castle, Pacifica Historical Society
PO Box 752
Pacifica, CA 94044
(650) 359-5462
www.pacificahistory.org

Owned since 1959 by the late Sam Mazza and called Sam's Castle, this stunning and spooky structure was built in 1908. Mr. Mazza was a building contractor who used this castle a sort of art collector's playhouse. Public tours are only available a few times a year, but ghost-hunters frequent the site in search of proof. And staff members have reported hearing strange sounds. Sam, is that you?

Ripley's Believe It or Not
175 Jefferson Street
San Francisco, CA 94133
415 202.9850
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With over 70 interactive and hands-on exhibits, San Francisco's Believe It or Not! 'Odditorium' is the most interactive Ripley's in the world. Home to more than 400 exhibits, many of the exhibits are focused on Bay Area history. Located in the heart of Fisherman's Wharf, this admittedly touristy spot offers curious fun for the whole family.