Some posts contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).
There might not be an eerier place to visit in the greater Philadelphia area than the vampire museum in Doylestown.
VAMPA Vampire and Paranormal Museum is an attraction like no other. It is an extensive collection of paranormal-related artifacts and art that were curated by its owner Edmondo Crimi over decades as an antiques dealer. The museum is located on the same property as Crimi’s more mainstream Best of France Antiques store.
Even before I spotted the museum itself, the grounds set the tone. I was greeted by an unexpected collection, including a giant stegosaurus, a bust of a monkey, and large ornamental fountains. By the time I reached the VAMPA entrance, which was flanked by skeleton chairs and a grim reaper during my visit, I was ready for the items inside.
Vampire Hunting: A Real Obsession
My first surprise upon entering the museum was that vampire hunting wasn’t just folklore—it was a genuine practice with its own tools and traditions. The front room is filled with ornate trunks and boxes, each containing the supplies needed to fight the nocturnal predators.
It turns out that there are a number of ways to kill a vampire. You can burn them with holy water, expose them to sunlight, display a crucifix, or the most iconic of all—drive a wooden stake through their heart. VAMPA ‘s collection includes highly ornamental stakes, some topped with cherubic heads or mythical creatures and others combined with crucifixes in a kind of 2-for-1 deadly weapon. (For even more lethal options, check out the museum’s signage.)
One hunting cabinet stood out for its famous owner, Alexander Dumas, author of The Three Musketeers and The Count of Monte Cristo. A lover of supernatural tales, Dumas’s cabinet is adorned with carved dragons, faces, and a terrifying screaming ram. Another kit on the opposite side of the room briefly belonged to Michael Jackson, who bought it after filming Thriller. The singer intended to give it to a friend but ultimately returned it to the store when his Jehovah’s Witness friends convinced him the gift wasn’t a good idea.
Rooms of the Macabre
As I explored the 8 rooms, there were remarkable items everywhere. Among the most memorable was an extraordinary skeleton clock, crowned by a grim reaper who was patiently waiting to collect souls. It was soon rivaled by an even stranger piece—a rocking chair decorated with multiple skeleton heads, which was believed to have belonged to horror film legend Vincent Price.
One of the most chilling artifacts was the original exorcism chair. Built in the 19th century, it was designed to restrain a person when their demon was being cast out. A warning posted nearby advised visitors to be cautious when viewing the chair due to its lingering demonic energy.
In addition to the items on display, the rooms themselves are part of the creepy atmosphere. One richly decorated space was complete with a grand fireplace, velvet curtains, and a massive chandelier. It looked as though it had been lifted straight out of the Addams Family mansion.
Throughout the rooms, I saw Ouija/talking boards, tarot cards, and love potions, which were decidedly tamer than some other items—namely things that masquerade as children’s toys. For those who already dislike clowns, it’s worth knowing that there is a whole section dedicated to creepy dolls, puppets, and clowns that is guaranteed to make even the bravest visitor shiver. They have reportedly made several people faint.
As you walk through the museum, keep an eye out in some of the passageways for artifacts that are particularly reviled. In one place, I found Pazuzu, the king of winged demons. An information panel explained the evil of this 16th-century marble statue. He can only be viewed through a cut-out niche in the wall, safely distancing him from direct sight.
Pointing the way to the final room is an elaborately carved 18th-century funeral hearse. Outfitted to capture and eliminate vampires, it is one of the museum’s largest pieces.
The visit concludes in a surprising way. After lots of haunting displays, the final gallery is bright and well-lit, dedicated to Archangel Michael and his triumph over the devil. Images of Michael defeating Satan are joined by serene depictions of Mary, the mother of Jesus. It’s a light-filled finale to an otherwise dark museum.
Why Visit VAMPA?
Equal parts eerie, educational, and fascinating, Vampa’s eclectic mix of artifacts is like nothing I’ve ever seen. Whether you’re a fan of horror movies, a lover of the unusual, or simply curious about the supernatural, the museum offers a one-of-a-kind look into people’s fascination with what lurks in the dark.
Visiting information
The museum is located at 3686 US-202 in Doylestown.
It is open from 10am – 5pm Thursday through Sunday. Tickets are $20 for those ages 18+ and $8 for those ages 6-17. Children under 6 are free.
Park at the barn on the right side of the property and walk to VAMPA on the left side.
Other things to do nearby include visiting Fonthill Castle, touring Mercer Museum, and enjoying a beer at Geronimo Brewery. For even more, consult our guide to Doylestown.