Houmas House Plantation

Known as the "Crown Jewel of Louisiana's River Road," this sugar plantation dates back to the 1700s and sits right on the Mississippi. The freestanding staircase inside is famous, and the gardens are stunning.

During 2003 renovations, workers spotted a young girl in a blue dress descending the staircase before vanishing. Two more crew members saw her during late-night work. She's believed to be either General Wade Hampton's granddaughter or the 7-year-old daughter of Colonel William Miles. Today, she follows tour groups through the home. The ancient oak trees called "The Gentlemen" are thought to be inhabited by the spirits of 16 workers who died during construction. Doors open and close on their own, the temperature drops noticeably on warm nights for no clear reason, and a woman in period clothing weeps near the windows.