Philadelphia’s Haunted Opera House

Located in the heart of Philadelphia, The Academy of Music is one of America’s oldest-running opera houses. Performers such as Frank Sinatra, Lynn Fontanne, and Duke Ellington have delighted audiences since the Academy opened its doors in 1857. The world-class performances continue to this day, and some say ghosts come to enjoy the show.
Spirits at the historic concert hall seem to prefer the upper deck. Guests there report feeling someone, or something, tug their hair. At times, startled witnesses see the victim’s hair rising in the air, as if pulled by unseen hands.
When The Academy isn’t full, the ghosts are happy to fill in. Visitors sitting next to a vacant seat often sense a presence beside them. When they turn to look, they see the cushion of the empty seat is oddly indented, as if an invisible person is sitting there. Perhaps it’s the man in black said to haunt the last row. The man is said to favor women, though at times he gets too handsy and pinches female guests.
Over the years, countless performers and guests have enjoyed themselves at The Academy of Music. Perhaps its these beautiful memories that lure them back.