The Winchester Mystery House stands as a testament to Sarah Winchester’s endless construction driven by supernatural beliefs. Built continuously for 38 years, this 160-room Victorian mansion features bizarre architectural elements like stairs leading to ceilings, doors opening to nowhere, and windows overlooking other rooms. Sarah Winchester, widow of the Winchester rifle heir, built continuously based on nightly séances, believing she needed to appease the spirits of those killed by Winchester rifles. The mansion features oddities like the number 13 repeating in window panes, stairs, and wall panels. Visitors report cold spots, mysterious footsteps, doorknobs turning by themselves, and glimpses of Sarah Winchester’s ghost in her favorite rooms. The séance room, where Sarah received her building “instructions” from spirits, is particularly active.
Location: 525 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose, CA 95128
Contact: (408) 247-2000
Website: https://winchestermysteryhouse.com
Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Tours vary by season)
Admission: $20-$54 (varies by tour type)
Activities: Guided Tours, Gardens, Gift Shop, Special Events
Reported Phenomena: Intelligent Hauntings, Residual Activity