Are you curious about Pensacola, Florida’s haunted history? Pensacola is known for its beautiful beaches, warm Gulf waters, and vibrant culture, but beneath the sun-soaked surface lies a rich and mysterious past. As one of the oldest European settlements in the United States, Pensacola is home to a number of historic buildings, many of which hold tales of eerie encounters and unexplained events. Whether you’re a history buff or a ghost story enthusiast, exploring Pensacola’s haunted homes offers a thrilling journey into the city’s past. Join us as we uncover the stories behind some of Pensacola’s most famously haunted historic homes!
1. The Barkley House – 410 S Florida Blanca St., Pensacola, FL
Located along the waterfront, the Barkley House is one of Pensacola’s oldest remaining homes, built in 1825. Once the residence of George Barkley, a successful merchant, this home has withstood hurricanes, wars, and decades of Pensacola history. Legend has it that the spirit of George Barkley himself never quite left. Staff and visitors report mysterious cold spots, strange noises, and the unsettling feeling of being watched. During ghost tours, people have captured unexplained orbs in photos, and some say that the faint sound of footsteps can be heard pacing the upper floors, as though George is still keeping a watchful eye on his home.
2. The Gray House – 312 S. Alcaniz St., Pensacola, FL
The Gray House in downtown Pensacola is a historical landmark with a chilling reputation for its abundance of paranormal activity. Built in the 1870s, this two-story home has become one of Pensacola’s most haunted sites, with reports of ghostly encounters that range from blasts of cold air to eerie sounds and items that seem to vanish on their own. Visitors and paranormal enthusiasts have reported strange occurrences, including chairs that seem to roll along the floor on their own and doors that open without warning.
Perhaps one of the most peculiar details is the sudden, unmistakable scent of a medicinal ointment that wafts through the air—a smell tied to an era when such remedies were commonly used in homes. Many believe this is linked to the house’s original residents, as though the spirits are tending to old wounds in an endless loop. Adding to the mystery is the figure known as “the Woman in Gray,” often seen moving through the house in her Victorian attire, this is a must-see landmark in Pensacola, Florida!
3. Seville Quarter – 130 E Government St., Pensacola, FL
Seville Quarter is not only a vibrant hub for dining and nightlife but also a historical landmark rich with captivating tales and chilling stories. Originally constructed in 1871 as the Pensacola Cigar and Tobacco Company, the building has seen a variety of businesses come and go throughout its storied history. In 1967, Bob Snow transformed this historic structure into Rosie O’Grady’s Warehouse, marking the birth of Seville Quarter as one of the oldest restaurants and nightclubs in Pensacola.
Over the years, Seville Quarter has served as a gathering place for locals and visitors, offering a lively atmosphere filled with music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences. However, the building’s history is not without its haunted history. The site has witnessed an array of chilling true-life stories, with whispers of ghostly encounters and eerie occurrences reported by staff and patrons alike.
Many have claimed to feel the presence of spirits wandering through the dimly lit corridors and on the dance floors. Some have reported sudden drops in temperature or unexplained sounds that echo through the halls, leading many to believe that the past is still very much alive within the walls of Seville Quarter.
4. Pensacola Victorian Bed & Breakfast
– 203 W. Gregory St., Pensacola, FL
Built in the 1890s, the now charming Pensacola Victorian Bed & Breakfast has a rich haunted history, and guests have reported a variety of strange happenings during their stays. Many have experienced unexplained sounds with no apparent source, such as footsteps echoing down the hall or whispers drifting through the air. The inn is particularly known for its enchanting classical music that seems to play softly in the background, often when no one is near a music source.
Children’s laughter and the sounds of playful footsteps have also been heard, evoking a sense of nostalgia and mystery. One of the most captivating experiences guests report is encountering the apparition of a woman wearing a Victorian nightgown, often seen gliding gracefully through the common areas. Her presence adds a haunting yet welcoming touch to the inn’s atmosphere.
Interestingly, guests have also described the enticing smell of breakfast cooking wafting through the air long before the kitchen was even open.
5. The Kennedy House – 305 S. Adams St., Pensacola, FL
Built in the 19th century, this beautiful home has witnessed its share of tragedy, and many believe that the spirits of those who once lived here linger within its walls.
The house is well-known for its eerie occurrences. One particularly memorable incident involved a tour guide who was recounting the Kennedy House’s tragic history when a ghost decoration on the front porch was suddenly sucked up into the ceiling fan, provoking screams from the tour guests. The air that night was completely still, leaving everyone present bewildered by the unexpected event.
Another unsettling experience was reported by a different guide, who claimed to have heard a disembodied male voice sternly say, “Don’t bring those people on my porch!” The chilling nature of this encounter led the guide to quit leading tours of the house altogether, and to this day, she refuses to step foot on the property. The Kennedy House is one of many known haunted locations in Pensacola, so make sure to keep this home in mind when you visit the area.
6. Lear-Rocheblave House – 214 Zaragoza St., Pensacola, FL
Built in circa 1890, this Pensacola home has a rich history surrounded by an air of mystery. From 1897 – 1910, the Rocheblave family consisted of Tugboat captain Benito Rocheblave, his wife, and their five daughters. Years after they lived there, in the mid-1900s, the new homeowner would give tours of the property, except for one mysterious bedroom on the left side of the home, which was always locked, and no one was permitted to enter.
Once the Pensacola Historical Society took ownership, they began renovations of the historic landmark. The story goes, that one day a painter was outside on a ladder right outside the mysterious bedroom and when he glanced through the window, he saw a young woman dancing (and she was completely see-through!) The painter and his crew quickly scoured the entire home, but it was empty, except for the distinct smell of sweet perfume. Truly a chilling mystery, and one worth exploring!
7. The Mole Hole – 425 Zaragoza St., Pensacola, FL
Built in 1780, this historic home has a legendary ghost story that keeps visitors quite intrigued. In 1982, Sandra Epsy purchased this Pensacola landmark and converted it into The Mole Hole, a unique gift shop that was well-loved by locals and visitors up until 2021 when sadly the doors closed on the quaint shop. Although the little shop is no longer in operation, the history lives on!
At the age of six, Sandra’s daughter Eliza told her mom that she had a new playmate, and she described him in great detail. She said he was between the ages of 8-10 years old, and that he wore knee-length pants, a flat hat, as well as an old-timey vest. Sandra knew her daughter had no previous knowledge of turn-of-the-century children’s clothing, so needless to say, her interest was piqued.
A past employee of Sandra named Marsha Nielsen also has a tale about the mysterious little boy. During Christmas time, the store was charmingly displayed in decorations. One morning when Marsha came into the store, she discovered that the decorations were cluttered around the store as if a little kid had been playing there. In the fake snow that surrounded the decorations, you could see small handprints! Although the store is no longer in operation, the building still stands as a rich part of Pensacola’s history.Pensacola Victorian Bed & Breakfast
Pensacola’s Hauntingly Beautiful Past
These historic places offer more than a glimpse into the architectural and cultural history of Pensacola—they invite us to consider the people who lived, loved, and sometimes lingered long after their time. The city’s commitment to preserving these historic homes provides an eerie but fascinating experience for residents and visitors alike. Whether you believe in ghosts or simply appreciate history, Pensacola’s haunted homes & landmarks add an unforgettable layer to the story of this vibrant Gulf Coast town. Contact us today to learn more about Pensacola, Florida, and find out why people for centuries have called this coastal town their home.
