Tampa’s Spookiest Spots to Read About in the Dark

Image provided by The Tampa Theatre.

Are you a fan of the paranormal? It’s no secret that Tampa Bay has a very rich history of cigar factories and even ties to the mafia. But did you know it also happens to be home to some of the most (allegedly) haunted places in the United States? Below we will explore just four of Tampa’s oldest and most beautiful haunted buildings.

The Tampa Theatre

The Tampa Theatre, a historic and beautifully ornate movie palace in Tampa, Florida, has long been shrouded in tales of paranormal activity. Ghost stories surrounding this iconic venue have captivated the imaginations of visitors and staff alike. One of the most famous legends is that of "Fink Finley," a noble and dedicated spirit said to show up for his job as the movie projectionist almost daily. In the words of Tampa Theatre’s Jill Witecki “every projectionist that we’ve ever had has had stories of things that can’t be explained in the booth”. Many report the scent of Lilac from Fink’s shaving cream and the smell of coffee brewing as he gets ready for a long day of changing film. When older film reels were still in use, it was said that Fink helpfully tapped the shoulder of the projectionists near the time the new reel was meant to be inserted as if to say ‘look alive, the change is coming up!’. Some claim to have witnessed former guests in the seats waiting to catch a movie, only to disappear when approached. Others have reported eerie auras and phantoms on the infamous third floor. Whether it's the breathtaking architecture or the theatre's rich history that fuels these eerie tales, The Tampa Theatre continues to be a destination not only for cinema and history lovers but also for those seeking a taste of the supernatural.

Don Vicente, Casa Ybor

The Don Vicente de Ybor Historic Inn, nestled in the heart of Ybor City, Florida, is renowned not only for its exquisite architecture and old-world charm but also for its reputation as one of the most haunted hotels in the Sunshine State. Guests and staff have shared spine-tingling accounts of paranormal experiences within its walls. The basement of the Don Vicente is said to be haunted by Dr. Jose Luis Avellena Jr. and a ghostly nurse. There are chilling accounts of a deranged doctor who conducted gruesome experiments on patients and disposed of their bodies in the basement incinerator. Room 305, during the hotel's operation, was notorious for paranormal activity, with guests frequently witnessing the apparition of a man standing at the foot of their bed. Eerie occurrences throughout the Don Vicente include lights flickering, mysterious footsteps, doors opening and closing on their own, and faucets mysteriously turning on and off. Although you may no longer stay at the haunted hotel, as it is now an office space, the legacy of the Don Vicente still sends chills down the spines of locals.

The Cuban Club

The Cuban Club in Tampa, Florida, carries a rich history infused with ghostly tales. From the tragic story of Little Jimmy, a playful spirit known to interact with guests through blinking flashlights, to the lingering presence of an actor who took his life on stage, this historic venue is a hub of paranormal activity. The Cuban Club's past as a vibrant social center, complete with a swimming pool in what is now the Cantina, has left behind a lingering energy that visitors can sense. From inexplicable elevator movements to doors that won't close, the Cuban Club offers a unique blend of history, culture, and ghostly encounters, making it a must-visit for those seeking a glimpse into Tampa's haunted past. A popular ghost tour through Ybor City takes attendees inside the Cuban Club, although it is also a popular spot to host events like weddings and corporate meetings.

Don CeSar Hotel

The iconic Don CeSar Hotel, known as "the Pink Lady" on St. Pete's Beach in Tampa, Florida, is a stunning beachfront resort with a rich history and a touch of the supernatural. Its pastel pink façade and grandeur have made it stand out among other beachfront properties. The hotel's haunted reputation is linked to a tragic love story involving Thomas Rowe and his lover, Lucinda. Despite their separation in life, they are said to reunite in the afterlife, often spotted as a spectral couple on the beach at dawn. The Don CeSar, designed by Rowe, blends Mediterranean and Moorish architecture and has been a haven for the rich and famous, including F. Scott Fitzgerald and Al Capone. After periods of decline and renovation, it remains a beloved and historic landmark, offering not only luxurious accommodations but also a hint of ghostly romance for those who visit.