Have you heard the eerie tale of 13 Curves, one of the most haunted roads in Syracuse, NY? Whether you're a ghost story junkie or just looking for spooky things to do in Central New York, buckle up—literally. This local legend might just make you think twice before driving alone at night on Cedarvale Road in Marcellus.

 

 A Wedding Night Gone Wrong

As the story goes, sometime in the early 1900s, a young couple had just exchanged vows and promised, “till death do us part.” Unfortunately, death came sooner than they expected. After their wedding celebration, the newlyweds left the reception and headed home—choosing Cedarvale Road, a narrow stretch of roadway infamous for its 13 dangerous curves.

Tragically, the couple never made it. Their car, a 1909 Stanley Steamer, crashed fatally along one of the winding turns. Some say the bride and groom were thrown from the vehicle and separated in their final moments.

 

Why the Ghost Bride Still Haunts 13 Curves

Heartbroken and taken from this world too soon, the bride’s spirit is said to remain, eternally wandering the road searching for her lost love.

According to local lore, she appears late at night—walking the curves, standing at the edge of the road in her white wedding gown, and calling out for her groom. Some even believe she protects others from a similar fate… others think she’s simply looking for closure.

 

 Real Ghost Sightings on 13 Curves

Don’t believe the legend? Here's what people claim they’ve seen:

  • Two white orbs of light following behind their car—but when they look back, no headlights, no vehicle… nothing.

  • Drivers stopping to pick up a woman in white hitchhiking, only to find she’s vanished before reaching the destination.

  • A veil floating near a bend in the road… with no one else around.

  • Several unexplained car accidents along 13 Curves with no clear cause.

If you're brave enough to drive it at night, be sure to check your mirrors… twice.

Fact or Fiction? The Debate Lives On

Of course, not everyone believes the legend. Some say the entire story was invented to deter teenagers from reckless driving. Others argue that no such accident ever took place.

Regardless of your stance, the tale of 13 Curves in Marcellus has stood the test of time—and continues to send chills down the spines of late-night drivers.

 

How to Visit 13 Curves

Cedarvale Road, located between Marcellus and Onondaga Hill, is home to the legendary 13 Curves. It’s a short drive from downtown Syracuse and makes for a perfect stop on a haunted fall road trip.

Pro Tip: Drive cautiously. The curves are real—and dangerous—even without a ghostly bride.

More Haunted Places Near Syracuse

If 13 Curves leaves you wanting more, don’t miss out on other spooky spots in Central New York:

  • The Erie Canal Museum (haunted archive rumors)

  • Split Rock Quarry (abandoned and eerie)

  • Historic Oakwood Cemetery tours

Check out our Fall Events & Haunted Attractions for more ghostly adventures.

 

Dare to Drive the 13 Curves?

Ready to experience Syracuse’s most chilling legend for yourself? Visit 13 Curves—if you dare—and decide whether this local ghost story is fact or fiction. Just don’t forget to keep your eyes on the road… and your rearview mirror. 

No matter what you’re into, keep up to date with the Visit Syracuse blog because there’s something for everyone to discover when visiting Onondaga County.