11 Ghost Towns in the U.S. You Can Still Experience

The rapid westward expansion in the 19th century brought many towns to life across the United States. Due to factors such as illness, industry collapse, or the migration of early settlers, these once-thriving communities eventually became known as “ghost towns.” Today, well-preserved remnants of the past can be found throughout the nation.

According to a report by Geotab, over 3,800 ghost towns exist across the U.S., particularly those abandoned in the 20th century as people sought opportunities in larger cities. Fortunately, many ghost towns are open for exploration, providing a chance to step back in time.

Silver City, California

Efforts by Dave and Arvilla Mills rescued more than 20 buildings in Silver City, California, from destruction during the 1960s. This site now serves as a museum open seven days a week, where visitors can explore structures that include old miner’s camps and settler housing. Rumors of haunting phenomena add to its allure, making it a unique ghost town to visit.

St. Elmo, Colorado

Founded in 1880, St. Elmo became a bustling gold and silver mining hub, attracting around 2,000 residents. However, as mines became depleted, the once-thriving town experienced abandonment. Today, visitors can admire the well-preserved buildings and even shop in the general store during warmer months.

Terlingua, Texas

Once a significant producer of quicksilver by the 1930s, Terlingua faced decline in the following decades as mining operations ceased. Today, however, this ghost town has seen a revival, attracting new residents and providing a welcoming atmosphere for visitors to explore its history.

Rhyolite, Nevada

Rhyolite, once a bustling mining town, boasted hotels, stores, and even a stock exchange during its prime. As mining dwindled, the town fell into disrepair, but visitors can still wander the remnants and imagine life in this early-20th-century community.

Custer, Idaho

This historic mining town, established in 1879, once attracted gold seekers and thrived with numerous mines. Although it was abandoned by 1910, many structures remain intact for visitors to explore during summer months, complemented by guided tours.

Kennecott, Alaska

Located in Alaska, Kennecott was a booming copper mining town until its camp closure in 1938 due to diminishing resources. The National Park Service now preserves its history, offering self-guided tours for those interested in understanding this piece of mining legacy.

Calico, California

Calico became a mining hotspot in San Bernardino County during the mid-1800s. After declining in the 1890s, the site was preserved by Walter Knott in the 1950s, allowing visitors to explore its revitalized history every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

South Pass City, Wyoming

Once a bustling gold-mining town, South Pass City now serves as a designated historic site. Visitors can wander through its beautifully restored structures year-round, with summer activities including guided tours and artifact showcases.

Independence, Colorado

Discover Independence, a former gold mining hotspot, which peaked in population during the late 1800s. After mining dwindled, the town fell into decline, but today, it offers self-guided tours of its historic ruins in the summer months thanks to preservation efforts.

Nevada City, Montana

Thanks to extensive restoration by the Bovey family, Nevada City stands as an open-air museum, allowing visitors to delve into its past. Live interpretations and numerous displays provide an engaging experience for those exploring this classic mining town.

Goldfield, Arizona

Goldfield flourished in the mid-1800s, offering opportunities for those drawn by gold prospecting. Its entertaining atmosphere includes reenactments by the Goldfield Gunfighters, adding a Wild West feel that makes this ghost town an enjoyable excursion.