This spooky-fun New York inn was just named the best haunted hotel in the country

Tucked away on a tranquil 17-acre island in the Susquehanna River, the Fainting Goat Island Inn in Nichols, New York, offers more than just picturesque views and charming accommodations. The mid-19th-century inn promises a brush with the supernatural. Voted the No. 1 Haunted Hotel in the U.S. by USA TODAY's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards in 2025, this former railroad hotel has become a haven for those seeking both serenity and spine-tingling experiences.

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The inn's rich history is steeped in mystery. Guests have reported hearing the voices of women having tea, witnessing a child-sized chair moving on its own in the Nubian Room and encountering gumballs spilling onto the floor of an empty hall. Perhaps most unsettling are the footsteps heard on a staircase that no longer exists and the unsettling reflections in mirrors.

The inn's name isn't just a whimsical nod to ghost-inspired terror among goats. The property is home to a herd of fainting goats, known for their unique response to sudden stimuli. These goats, along with other animals like the potbelly pig named Porkchop (who chose to live in a former smokehouse; this place really is creepy!), add a touch of charm to the otherwise eerie atmosphere.

Despite its ghostly reputation, the inn offers modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay amid the terror. Each of the five rooms boasts period furnishings, including phonographs, and is equipped with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi and televisions. Guests can enjoy homemade cinnamon buns in the morning and relax in the private BYOB lounge.

For those eager to delve deeper into the supernatural, the inn offers guided ghost hunts and haunted tours. These events provide an opportunity to explore the inn's most haunted spots and perhaps encounter a spirit or two.

New York State was well represented on the list, with Adirondacks' Hotel Saranac (located on the former site of a high school, if you can imagine the horrors) taking the No. 10 spot. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, these spooky stays offer an unforgettable experience. So, if you're seeking a getaway that's a little off the beaten path and a lot on the spooky side, these haunted havens might just be the place.