Destination Westport: Westport Sanitarium

This Halloween season, dare to uncover the chilling past of Westport’s lost sanitariums, where heartbreak, psychological control, and eerie medical practices once thrived. Though the buildings have vanished, the spirits remain—haunting the grounds of Winslow Park. 

Join us for a spine-tingling tour through this historic site, where you’ll hear real stories of the doctors, administrators, and patients who once walked these halls. As you explore, you’ll see haunting images and uncover secrets that linger in the shadows—tales of life, death, and the unexplained. 

From the unsettling reality of early mental health treatments to the restless souls who may still roam, this is your chance to experience the darker side of Westport’s history. Are you brave enough to step into the past? 

Meet us at the cement path in front of the parking lot along Compo Road North. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and bringing bottled water, as the ground is uneven and the weather may be warm. Be prepared for a chilling, unforgettable adventure. 

Tickets are $10 for members and $15 for nonmembers, with reservations required. Space is limited to just 25 participants, so be sure to secure your spot before it’s too late! If the tour sells out or you’d like to arrange a private tour, email us at programs@westporthistory.org. Tickets are nonrefundable, but if you need to cancel, your purchase will be considered a donation, and we’ll gladly issue you a donation receipt. 

This Halloween, dive into the eerie past with us. Dare to explore the darker side of history? Join us for this spooky tour and other Spooktober events—click here to explore more! 

Easily accessible via public transit—if you make it back! The Westport-Saugatuck railroad station has connections on the MTA New Haven line from Norwalk, Bridgeport, Stratford, Milford, and New Haven, and more. Uber 2.3 miles to the Museum or take the Norwalk Wheels bus transit system when available to Post Road West at Myrtle Avenue, which is a brief 7-minute walk from the Museum!  

Park on Myrtle Avenue and Avery Place or behind Westport Town Hall or in the Baldwin Parking lot. Westport Museum is a privately funded 501(c)3 museum not affiliated with or managed by Westport Town government. Please support our work by donating here.