Ultimate Guide to the Most Haunted Roads in Florida

Florida, known for its sunny beaches and vibrant nightlife, has a darker side that often goes unnoticed. The state is home to some of the most haunted roads in the United States, where ghostly apparitions, mysterious happenings, and chilling legends intertwine with the local culture. This blog post will guide you through 25 of these eerie highways, each with its own spine-tingling story. Buckle up as we embark on a journey down Florida’s most haunted paths.

1. Highway 17

High angle view of an abandoned stretch of Highway 17 lined with trees — Abandoned stretch of Highway 17 in Florida

Highway 17 winds through the heart of Florida, connecting various towns and cities. Yet, many travelers have reported seeing shadowy figures wandering the roadside, particularly near the historic town of Crescent City. Strange noises, such as whispers and screams, have been documented, adding to the road’s creepy allure.

2. The Ghost Road in St. Petersburg

Eye-level view of the Ghost Road sign at dusk — Ghost Road sign glowing in the twilight

Located in St. Petersburg, the Ghost Road is said to possess an energy that draws spirits from the past. Many have experienced apparitions and sudden temperature drops. Those brave enough to drive down this road often report eerie feelings and bizarre encounters with ghostly figures.

3. State Road 80

Close-up view of a foggy State Road 80 lined with palm trees — Foggy State Road 80 with palm trees in the background

State Road 80 stretches through the Everglades, making it one of the most isolated roads in Florida. Travelers frequently report sightings of ghostly alligators and other spectral creatures. Some believe that spirits of those who lost their lives in the swampy waters still haunt this highway.

4. Highway 441

Wide angle view of a misty Highway 441 surrounded by dense foliage — Misty Highway 441 surrounded by dense trees

This highway is notorious for tragic accidents, which some believe have caused hauntings along its stretch. Drivers have recounted hearing unexplained voices and feeling as though someone is watching them. An eerie sense of sadness hangs in the air, contributing to Highway 441’s haunted reputation.

5. The A1A Scenic and Historic Coastal Byway

Eye-level view of a weathered stretch of A1A with crashing waves — Weathered A1A by the ocean with waves crashing

While this picturesque route sounds inviting, it has a dark history. Ghost ships reportedly roam the waters off the coast, and legends of pirates and shipwrecks pervade the area. Tales of ghostly sailors and their lost treasures intrigue many who travel along A1A.

6. The Old Tampa Bay Bridge

High angle view of an old bridge over Tampa Bay at sunset — Old Tampa Bay Bridge under a dramatic sunset

The Old Tampa Bay Bridge is linked to numerous mysterious disappearances. Locals say that if you listen closely, you may hear the cries of those who vanished without a trace. The haunting atmosphere draws thrill-seekers and paranormal enthusiasts alike.

7. Route 66 in Florida (Historical Route 66)

Close-up view of a Route 66 sign partially obscured by foliage — Route 66 sign surrounded by overgrown plants

Although not entirely in Florida, the historical Route 66 passes through the northern part of the state. Travelers have reported strange occurrences, including flickering headlights and ghostly figures appearing in the rearview mirror.

8. Poinciana Boulevard

Eye-level view of Poinciana Boulevard lined with palm trees at dusk — Poinciana Boulevard under a darkening sky

In Kissimmee, Poinciana Boulevard is where locals have recounted tales of a phantom hitchhiker. Drivers have spotted a young woman in white asking for a ride, only for her to vanish before reaching her destination. This urban legend remains a topic of debate among local residents.

9. U.S. Highway 19

Wide angle view of U.S. Highway 19 with a sunset backdrop — U.S. Highway 19 leading into the sunset

U.S. Highway 19 stretches across the Gulf Coast, and several ghost stories have surfaced involving fatal accidents. Travelers hear mysterious car engines revving and have reported an overwhelming sense of dread while driving along this infamous highway.

10. State Road 26

Close-up view of a weathered sign for State Road 26 surrounded by trees — Weathered State Road 26 sign in a wooded area

State Road 26 weaves through Alachua County and is home to several haunted sites. The stretch near the Gainesville area is said to be a hotspot for paranormal activity, where car lights have been reported to flicker unexpectedly and shadows dart past vehicles.

11. Highway 90

High angle view of the long stretch of Highway 90 under a cloudy sky — Long stretch of Highway 90 disappearing into the distance

Highway 90 intersects many ghostly tales throughout Florida. One haunting tale involves a ghostly truck that appears suddenly on the highway, causing drivers to swerve and panic. Many who have encountered this phantom vehicle claim it vanishes just as quickly as it appeared.

12. County Road 484

Eye-level view of County Road 484 veiled in fog — Foggy County Road 484 winding through trees

County Road 484 in Ocala is said to be haunted by the spirits of those who died in car accidents. Ghostly figures have been spotted wandering the roadside at night, wearing clothing from decades past. Many believe these spirits have unfinished business.

13. State Road 45

Wide angle view of State Road 45 framed by colorful autumn leaves — State Road 45 surrounded by colorful leaves in autumn

This stretch of road is associated with numerous tragedy, leading some to speculate about the spirits it may host. Motorists have claimed to see flickering lights in the distance and hear laughter echoing in the night, evoking an unsettling feeling as they navigate this route.

14. Highway 27

Close-up view of the winding pathways of Highway 27 near a forest — Winding paths of Highway 27 nestled within a forest

Highway 27 connects various towns in central Florida and has a reputation for being haunted by the spirits of lost travelers. Some dare to venture here at night, claiming to have seen apparitions of people on the roadway, appearing only to fade into the darkness as vehicles approach.

15. Parramore Road

High angle view of the overgrown Parramore Road pathway — Overgrown Parramore Road leading into the woods

Parramore Road is known for its disquieting ambiance, as many locals share stories of inexplicable phenomena. Some have encountered dim lights hovering in the air, while others experience sudden drops in temperature, fueling the legends that surround this stretch of road.

16. State Road 70

Eye-level view of a quiet State Road 70 lined with trees — Quiet State Road 70 disappearing into the distance

State Road 70 connects several remote areas and is rumored to harbor the restless spirits of those who frequented the area. Drivers have reported eerie sensations and glimpses of figures stepping out from the underbrush. Often, these encounters leave motorists feeling uneasy throughout their journey.

17. County Road 495

Wide angle view of a shaded County Road 495 surrounded by thick trees — Shaded County Road 495 surrounded by thick trees

Known for its winding paths through the forest, County Road 495 has an unsettling reputation. Drivers have stated that they felt an unexplainable presence and witnessed shadowy figures darting across the road, adding to its notoriety for ghostly sightings.

18. Highway 1 (Overseas Highway)

Eye-level view of the Overseas Highway stretching into the horizon over water — Overseas Highway extending toward the horizon

The Overseas Highway connects the Florida Keys and has its fair share of ghostly encounters. Many travelers have reported seeing the reflection of a woman in white standing by the water, looking out at the sea, only for her image to vanish when approached.

19. Alico Road

Close-up view of Alico Road with a scenic green backdrop — Alico Road surrounded by lush greenery

Alico Road is prominent for its haunted reputation, as many locals have reported eerie feelings and sightings of specters roaming the area. It’s now a topic of ghost stories and urban legends, captivating those curious enough to drive through its haunted stretch.

20. Sanibel Island Causeway

Wide angle view of Sanibel Island Causeway with a cloudy sky — Sanibel Island Causeway leading toward a mysterious destination

The causeway to Sanibel Island is believed to house restless spirits who took their last breaths in tragic accidents. The sound of phantom waves crashing beneath the road and the appearance of misty figures have led to unusual phenomena reported by countless visitors.

21. Old Fort Pierce Road

Eye-level view of a rural stretch of Old Fort Pierce Road lined with cypress trees — Rural stretch of Old Fort Pierce Road under a cloudy sky

Old Fort Pierce Road is laden with urban legends about ghostly inhabitants of the area. Many late-night drivers have reported ghostly apparitions waving at them from the roadside, only to disappear when approached, adding to the folklore surrounding this road.

22. Dade Battlefield Historic State Park Road

Close-up view of the entrance sign to Dade Battlefield State Park — Dade Battlefield State Park entrance surrounded by trees

This road, leading to a historic battleground, is steeped in supernatural tales. Visitors have experienced sudden chills, feelings of being watched, and apparitions of soldiers from bygone eras. It is indeed a daunting yet intriguing spot for paranormal enthusiasts.

23. State Road 32

Wide angle view of State Road 32 stretching into a hazy horizon — State Road 32 disappearing into a misty background

State Road 32 showcases the beauty of Florida’s wilderness but carries stories of loss and tragedy associated with its history. Reports of spectral figures and inexplicable sounds in the nearby woods keep this road firmly in the realm of the haunted.

24. North Florida’s Blue Highway

Eye-level view of a serene stretch along North Florida's Blue Highway — Serene stretch of North Florida’s Blue Highway at dusk

North Florida’s Blue Highway is adorned with stories about ghostly apparitions that appear unexpectedly. Many have reported that strange glow-in-the-dark figures are visible, evoking a sense of mystery among those who traverse its lanes.

25. Robert M. McDonald Parkway

High angle view of the Robert M. McDonald Parkway winding through suburbia — Winding Robert M. McDonald Parkway surrounded by suburban homes

This parkway is not only a vital route for commuters but also a hot spot for various paranormal activities. From ghostly images appearing in rearview mirrors to unexplained sensations of fear, this road contributes to the eerie tapestry of Florida’s haunted highways.

Conclusion

Florida’s roads aren’t just pathways to scenic beaches and fun-filled theme parks; they are also gateways to the supernatural. From ghostly hitchhikers to shadowy figures, these 25 haunted roads each possess their unique blend of history, tragedy, and paranormal activity. Whether you’re a believer in the supernatural or simply curious about the local legends, these haunted highways are sure to leave you with chills. So, the next time you find yourself driving through the Sunshine State, keep your eyes peeled and your mind open. You might just encounter something unexplainable on the road less traveled.

KWAL Adventure and Travel Magazine