Darkness Falls

Waverly Hills Sanatorium, once known as Waverly Hills Tuberculosis Sanatorium, has been the subject of various TV shows, movies, and documentaries. Waverly Hills was once the most well-known hospital in Louisville, but has now become known as one of the "most haunted" locations in the world and hosts daily tours and a seasonal haunted house, all focused on history and the paranormal aspects of the property.Parking and public transportation at Waverly Hills SanatoriumThere is no public transportation to Waverly Hills. For those with their own transportation, parking is free. There is ample parking for all visitors, even during busier times of the year like Halloween.Best and worst times to go to Waverly Hills SanatoriumThe worst time to go is during Halloween and all of October. During this time, the abandoned hospital converts to a locally-popular haunted house and wait times can last for hours. The best times to go are during the cooler spring or fall months, like November or March, since the crowds aren't as big and the chances of seeing an actual paranormal event are much higher.Admission to Waverly Hills SanatoriumThere are many options for guided tours or personal investigations, the cheapest of which is $22 ranging up to $100 per person. The tours include public paranormal or historic guided tours, which last approximately 2 hours. The public and private investigation tours are more lengthy at either 4 or 8 hours, but also have limits on how many participants can attend.Must see or do at Waverly Hills SanatoriumRegardless of the tour chosen, be sure to start the night at the visitor's center, at the newly refurbished laundry room. The brief video will give visitors a good idea of why the hospital is so famous, and so haunted. Most visitors are too scared to enter the famous "Body Chute", but be brave. It's a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the most famous feature of Waverly Hills. Also, regardless of the tour chosen, definitely bring a camera. The hospital is a great chance to take some amazing photos of the architecture and maybe you'll even catch a ghost or two in your shot.Other places to visit near Waverly Hills SanatoriumWaverly Hills is located a bit outside the city, there are plenty of attractions close by. Riverside Farnsley-Moremen Landing, Jefferson Memorial Park, and Iroquois Park are within five miles.Insider tip for visitors to Waverly Hills SanatoriumIf you're interested in seeing the hospital architecture and history of tuberculosis in the area, definitely take the historic guided tour. If you're interested in having a paranormal experience, splurge and purchase a private guided tour. These tours will have a limited amount of participants and have tour guides who know how to show every guest a good time. Take a nap before you go because the private tours last overnight and bring a jacket if you go during the winter months as there is limited electricity and heating in the hospital.Author's bio: CC Thomas is freelance writer and Kentucky native who loves to travel. Follow the adventures at www.iknowfuntravel.blogspot.com.