The Best Haunted Places in Omaha

I believe Freddy Krueger said it best; "Every town has an Elm Street." Wherever you live in this country, or indeed the world at large, you're probably never more than a day-trip away from several known haunted places. The phenomenon seems to be more prevalent in older communities. Those that have been around for, say, a hundred years or more and Omaha is no exception. Founded in 1854 on the fourth of July, this bustling mid-western metropolis can boast its fair share of supernaturally active spots many of them open to the public.

One such haunted place in Omaha is actually a well-know local eatery. Brother Sebastian's Steakhouse and Winery (1350 S 119th St.) has seen plenty of paranormal activity. Doors have been witnessed by staff to open and close themselves and candles that were snuffed out before closing have been found re-lit in the morning. Most of these happenings are attributed to the spirit of a Mr. Bill Wolcott who dined at Brother Sebastian's nearly every night for years. Even after being diagnosed with cancer and having to undergo painful treatments, Wolcott would even leave his hospital bed to dine at his favorite restaurant in his favorite seat in the lounge. When he became too weak to consume solid food the staff would puree his meals for him. It's believed that Bill loved Brother Sebastian's so much that he continues to dine there even after having passed on.

Downtown at Central High School (124 N 20th St.) the ghost of a former custodian is said to haunt the main floor hallways near the deans office. Amateur ghost hunters have reported feeling cold spots even with the heat turned on, as well as the sound of a push broom when no one was around to be sweeping and other assorted creaks and rattles. Perhaps most chilling of all in this haunted place is the shadowy figure that waves from the window of the office while it's locked with no one inside and the phantom voice that can be heard to say "I know you're here." Spirit seekers are encouraged to be patient as "they are sure to show up."