Becky Logan, a resident of North Georgia, embodies the growing interest in dark and haunted tourism. With a passion for Halloween and haunted locations, Becky’s experiences reflect a unique blend of curiosity and bravery. In an exclusive interview, she shared her journey through some of America’s most haunted spots and her philosophy on exploring the darker side of history.
The Rise of Haunted Tourism
Dark tourism, including visits to haunted locations, has seen a significant surge in popularity. Statistics show that this niche of travel is not only a fascination but also a boon for many small, rural towns. For example, Kentucky’s After Dark program has put many previously unheard of towns on haunt tourists’ maps. By attracting tourists, these areas experience economic benefits, revitalizing local communities.
Becky’s Haunted Adventures
Becky’s adventure began in her teenage years, with ghost tours becoming a staple of family vacations. “My mom would take me on a ghost tour,” Becky reminisced. This early exposure laid the groundwork for her future explorations. Living near St. Augustine further fueled her interest. “You can just feel it the second you get into the downtown area,” she says about St. Augustine’s palpable haunted atmosphere.
Top Haunted Locations
Becky lists St. Augustine, New Orleans, Scott County Jail, Octagon Hall in Kentucky, and Brushy Mountain as her top haunted experiences. Each location offers unique stories and paranormal activities, contributing to her growing fascination. “Brushy Mountain has a lot going on that I’ve not entirely experienced yet,” Becky adds, indicating her ongoing quest for understanding the unexplained.
The Motivation Behind the Mystery
For Becky, ghost tours are more than just thrill-seeking; they’re a gateway to the unfiltered history of a place. “They’re not trying to edit it and make it politically correct. They are just telling you the nitty-gritty,” she explains. This approach to history, coupled with the potential for paranormal experiences, drives her exploration.
The Importance of Open-mindedness
Becky emphasizes the importance of being open to experiences, even for skeptics. Her husband, who accompanies her on these adventures, but does not refer to himself as a dark tourist or Halloween enthusiast, is a testament to this. She urges others to approach these experiences with an open mind, whether they believe in the paranormal or not.
Becky Logan’s experiences as a dark tourist highlight a unique intersection of history, mystery, and tourism. Her journeys through America’s most haunted locations offer insight into a growing trend that not only satisfies curiosity but also supports local economies. In 2023, 33 percent of 1,300 haunted attractions surveyed expected to see as many as five times more visitors this year compared with 2022’s numbers. As paranormal tourism continues to grow, more individuals may find themselves, like Becky, walking the shadowy paths of history.
