A 30-MINUTE DRIVE TRANSPORTS YOU TO FLORIDA’S SUPERNATURAL CAPITAL

October is here, and what better way to embrace the season than a trip to Cassadaga, the “Psychic Capital of the World.” It is located an easy 30-minute cruise down State Road 44 — just take a left before I-4. This historic community is known for its mediums, mystics and legends that blur the line between this world and the next.

The last time I went to Cassadaga, I was a kid. Like many who grew up nearby, we were dared on Halloween to walk through the cemetery at night and sit in the Devil’s Chair. Tiffany said we should revisit the site, but there was no way I was going back, not this scared old guy.

THE HOTEL CASSADAGA AND PSYCHIC CENTER

Instead of the cemetery, we headed over for a day trip to the Hotel Cassadaga and Psychic Center to learn about the history of the town, have lunch and get a reading — a first for me. Located at 355 Cassadaga Road in Lake Helen, the property is a fully functioning hotel and restaurant.

When we walked in, we were immediately impressed with the ambiance. From the cozy couches to the piano and vintage décor, it feels like stepping back in time. After a minute of exploring the lobby, and of course playing a quick tune on the piano, we met Miss Angela, a psychic-medium and spiritual guide. She led us upstairs to her space, where I had my first reading. Her insight was emotional and unforgettable, touching on things that struck deeper than I expected. It was actually way more meaningful than I could have ever imagined it to be. Tiffany sat through my reading and is already planning her own visit.

We then headed downstairs to Sinatra’s, the hotel’s restaurant. The warm lighting, Italian menu and piano bar provided the perfect backdrop to unwind and soak in the atmosphere. They have live entertainment almost every night, and you can find out who is playing on their website: hotelcassadaga.com.

Later, Dawn guided us through the hotel’s storied halls, sharing tales of cigar smoke with no smoker nearby and phantom footsteps echoing down empty corridors. During October, the downstairs transforms into “Cassadaga Haunted Attraction” hosting 11 events between Oct. 16 and Nov. 2. Scan the QR code for the haunted lineup.

Cassadaga remains a place where history, mystery and the supernatural intertwine — and October is the perfect time to experience it.

Happy Halloween from Bobby G!

Photos by Tiffany Sudakis