It’s October in Chicago—prime time for ghost stories, folklore, and a few delightful chills. All month long, we’re sharing local legends and true-crime lore that shaped the city we love. Whether you’re a skeptic, a believer, or just here for the history, these tales add a fascinating layer to our neighborhoods.
Resurrection Mary: A Dance with the Dead
Since the 1930s, drivers along Archer Avenue have reported a young woman in a white dress hitching a ride, only to disappear near the gates of Resurrection Cemetery. The most told version: a quarrel at a dance hall, a late-night walk, and a tragic hit-and-run. Decades later, sightings still surface—part cautionary tale, part classic Chicago ghost story that refuses to fade.
Why locals love this legend: It blends South Side history, Prohibition-era nightlife, and the city’s enduring talent for storytelling.
The Congress Plaza Hotel: A Stay You Won’t Forget
Overlooking Grant Park, the Congress Plaza Hotel has hosted presidents, world’s fair visitors, and—if you ask staff and guests—more than a few spirits. From shadowy figures to footsteps in empty corridors, the reports span decades. With its ornate halls and Gilded-Age grandeur, the Congress is a perfect stage for a little paranormal theater.
Make it a mini tour: Pair a lobby walkthrough with a stroll along Michigan Avenue and the lakefront for golden-hour views (spooky vibes optional).
The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre: A Bloody Legacy
On a frigid morning in February 1929, seven men were executed inside a Lincoln Park garage—an event that cemented Chicago’s gangster era in world lore. The building is long gone, replaced by a quiet lot. Still, visitors sometimes describe a sudden chill, uneasy dogs, or an inexplicable urge to move along. Whether it’s suggestion or something more, the city’s past lingers.
Context for today: This chapter of history adds gravity to an otherwise charming, walkable pocket of Lincoln Park—coffee, parks, and a story you won’t soon forget.
Plan Your (Slightly) Spooky Stroll
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Go at dusk for atmosphere—but bring a friend and stay aware.
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Pair legends with local stops: Archer Ave bakeries, Michigan Ave architecture, and Lincoln Park cafés.
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Respect private property and posted hours—history is best enjoyed responsibly.
Thinking About a Move With a Side of History?
From vintage greystones to skyline views, Chicago homes come with stories—some whispered, some celebrated. If you’re hunting for a place with character (ghost optional), we’d love to guide you.
Reach out: [email protected] · 773.377.9200
Share Your Tale
Do you have a Chicago ghost story or neighborhood legend? Comment below or message us on Instagram @ccg_chicago. We’ll pick a few to highlight later this month.
