Haunted hotels have long been a source of fascination for those who love the thrill of the unknown. For those brave enough to check into a haunted hotel, the experience can be a spine-tingling adventure. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, these hotels offer a unique opportunity to experience history, mystery, and maybe even a ghostly encounter.
In this article, we will take a look at the top ten haunted hotels that you can still visit today. From the historic Stanley Hotel in Colorado, which inspired Stephen King’s “The Shining,” to the luxurious Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington D.C., which is said to be home to several ghosts, these hotels offer a range of experiences for those looking to add a little excitement to their travels. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, these haunted hotels are sure to provide a memorable stay.
History of Haunted Hotels
Origins of Ghost Stories in Hospitality
The idea of haunted hotels dates back centuries. In the past, hotels were often built on the sites of former battlefields, prisons, and hospitals. This made them prime locations for paranormal activity. Ghost stories were often told to guests to add an element of excitement to their stay.
Over time, these stories became part of the hotel’s history and culture. Some hotels even embraced their haunted reputation, using it as a marketing tool to attract guests. Today, many hotels offer ghost tours and other spooky activities to thrill-seeking visitors.
Famous Historical Events
Many hotels with a haunted reputation have a connection to famous historical events. For example, the Stanley Hotel in Colorado inspired Stephen King’s novel “The Shining” and is said to be haunted by the ghost of its former owner, F.O. Stanley.
The Queen Mary in Long Beach, California, was once a luxury ocean liner before being converted into a hotel. During World War II, it was used to transport troops and was also involved in a collision that killed over 300 people. Today, it is said to be haunted by the ghosts of some of those who died on board.
Overall, the history of haunted hotels is a fascinating one. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, these hotels offer a unique glimpse into the past and are sure to provide an unforgettable experience for those who dare to stay.
Criteria for Haunted Status
When it comes to determining whether a hotel is truly haunted or not, there are a few key criteria that must be met. These criteria include evidence of paranormal activity and cultural impact.
Paranormal Activity Evidence
One of the most important criteria for determining whether a hotel is truly haunted is the presence of paranormal activity. This can include sightings of ghosts or other supernatural phenomena, unexplained noises or smells, and other strange occurrences that cannot be easily explained.
To gather evidence of paranormal activity, many hotels will hire paranormal investigators to conduct investigations and gather data. This data can then be analyzed to determine whether there is any evidence of paranormal activity present in the hotel.
Cultural Impact
Another important criterion for determining whether a hotel is truly haunted is its cultural impact. This can include the hotel’s history, its reputation as a haunted location, and its influence on popular culture.
Hotels that are known to be haunted often have a rich history that includes stories of tragedy, mystery, and intrigue. This history can make the hotel a popular destination for tourists and ghost hunters alike, and can help to cement its reputation as a truly haunted location.
In addition to its history, a hotel’s reputation as a haunted location can also play a significant role in its cultural impact. Hotels that are known to be haunted may be featured in books, movies, and television shows, further cementing their status as iconic haunted locations.
Overall, when it comes to determining whether a hotel is truly haunted or not, it is important to consider both the evidence of paranormal activity and the hotel’s cultural impact. By taking these factors into account, it is possible to identify the top ten haunted hotels that are still open to guests today.
Top Ten Haunted Hotels
If you’re looking for a spooky place to stay, these top ten haunted hotels will give you the chills. Each of these hotels has a rich history and a reputation for being haunted by ghosts.
The Stanley Hotel
The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado is famous for inspiring Stephen King’s novel “The Shining.” It’s said to be haunted by the ghost of its original owner, F.O. Stanley, as well as several other ghosts. Guests have reported hearing children laughing and playing, doors opening and closing on their own, and feeling a presence in their room.
Hotel Monte Vista
Located in Flagstaff, Arizona, Hotel Monte Vista has been a popular spot for celebrities and travelers since 1927. It’s also known for being haunted by a variety of ghosts, including a phantom bellboy who knocks on doors and disappears, and a woman who committed suicide in one of the rooms.
The Queen Mary
The Queen Mary in Long Beach, California is a retired ocean liner that’s now a hotel and museum. It’s said to be one of the most haunted hotels in the world, with reports of ghostly apparitions, unexplained noises, and objects moving on their own. The ship’s history includes serving as a troop transport during World War II and several tragic deaths on board.
The Crescent Hotel
Built in 1886 in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, The Crescent Hotel has a dark past as a cancer hospital in the 1930s. It’s said to be haunted by the ghosts of patients who died there, as well as a ghostly nurse who still tends to the sick. Guests have reported strange smells, apparitions, and unexplained noises.
Hotel Burchianti
Located in Florence, Italy, Hotel Burchianti is a luxurious hotel with a haunted past. It’s said to be haunted by the ghost of a young girl who died in one of the rooms, as well as several other ghosts. Guests have reported seeing apparitions, feeling cold spots, and hearing unexplained noises.
Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Alberta, Canada is a grand hotel with a history of hauntings. It’s said to be haunted by the ghost of a bride who died on her wedding day, as well as several other ghosts. Guests have reported seeing apparitions, feeling cold spots, and hearing unexplained noises.
The Myrtles Plantation
Located in St. Francisville, Louisiana, The Myrtles Plantation is a historic home with a dark past. It’s said to be haunted by the ghosts of former slaves and the family members who owned them. Guests have reported seeing apparitions, feeling cold spots, and hearing unexplained noises.
Ballygally Castle
Located in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, Ballygally Castle is a 17th-century castle with a haunted history. It’s said to be haunted by the ghost of Lady Isabella Shaw, who fell to her death from a window. Guests have reported seeing her ghostly apparition and hearing her knocking on their doors.
Lizzie Borden Bed and Breakfast
The Lizzie Borden Bed and Breakfast in Fall River, Massachusetts is a historic home where Lizzie Borden was accused of murdering her father and stepmother in 1892. It’s said to be haunted by the ghosts of the victims, as well as Lizzie herself. Guests have reported seeing apparitions and hearing unexplained noises.
Chillingham Castle
Located in Northumberland, England, Chillingham Castle is a medieval castle with a reputation for being one of the most haunted places in England. It’s said to be haunted by the ghosts of former prisoners and victims of torture. Guests have reported seeing apparitions, feeling cold spots, and hearing unexplained noises.
These top ten haunted hotels offer a unique and spooky experience for those brave enough to stay the night.
Guest Experiences
Personal Accounts
Many guests have reported strange occurrences during their stay at haunted hotels. Some have claimed to see apparitions, hear unexplained noises, and feel cold spots in their rooms. For example, at the 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa, guests have reported seeing the ghost of a nurse who worked at the hotel during the 1930s. She is said to appear in the hallways and rooms, wearing her old-fashioned uniform.
At the Mizpah Hotel in Tonopah, Nevada, guests have reported hearing strange noises and seeing apparitions of a woman in a red dress and a man in a cowboy hat. Some guests have even claimed to have been touched by unseen hands.
Recorded Hauntings
Some haunted hotels have been investigated by paranormal researchers, who have captured evidence of ghostly activity. For example, at the Hotel del Coronado, a team of paranormal investigators captured video footage of a ghostly figure walking down a hallway. The figure appeared to be wearing a Victorian-era dress, which is consistent with the hotel’s history.
At the Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s novel “The Shining,” paranormal investigators have captured audio recordings of ghostly voices and footsteps. The hotel has also been featured on several paranormal TV shows, including “Ghost Hunters” and “Ghost Adventures.”
How to Visit
Booking a Haunted Hotel
To visit one of the top ten haunted hotels, the first step is to book a room. Most of these hotels offer online booking through their official websites or various travel booking websites. It is important to note that rooms in these hotels tend to book up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Therefore, it is recommended to book well in advance to secure a room.
Best Times to Visit
The best time to visit a haunted hotel depends on the specific hotel’s location and history. For example, hotels located in areas with harsh winters may be less busy during the colder months, while hotels located in popular tourist destinations may be busier during the summer months. Additionally, hotels that are known for their holiday events may be busier during the holiday season. It is recommended to research the specific hotel’s history and location before booking to determine the best time to visit.
What to Expect
When visiting a haunted hotel, it is important to keep an open mind and respect the hotel’s history and hauntings. Guests may experience unexplained occurrences such as cold spots, strange noises, or even sightings of apparitions. However, it is important to note that not all guests may experience paranormal activity. It is recommended to bring a camera and record any unusual occurrences. Additionally, many of these hotels offer ghost tours or have knowledgeable staff who can provide information about the hotel’s history and hauntings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most famous haunted hotels where guests can still stay?
There are numerous haunted hotels around the world where guests can still stay and experience paranormal activity. Some of the most famous ones include The Stanley Hotel in Colorado, which inspired Stephen King’s “The Shining,” and the 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa in Arkansas, which is known as “America’s Most Haunted Hotel.” Another notable mention is the Queen Mary in California, which was once a luxury ocean liner and is now permanently docked and turned into a hotel.
Which haunted hotels have the highest reported paranormal activity?
While the level of paranormal activity can vary from one haunted hotel to another, there are a few that are known to have a high level of reported activity. The 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa in Arkansas is often cited as having some of the highest levels of paranormal activity, with guests reporting ghost sightings and strange occurrences. The Stanley Hotel in Colorado is also known for its high level of paranormal activity, with some guests reporting seeing apparitions and hearing unexplained noises.
Can you recommend haunted hotels that offer themed experiences?
There are several haunted hotels that offer themed experiences for thrill-seeking guests. For example, the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast in Massachusetts offers guests the chance to stay in the room where Lizzie Borden’s parents were murdered and participate in a murder mystery dinner. The Myrtles Plantation in Louisiana offers ghost tours and a “Murder Mystery Weekend” package. The Kehoe House in Georgia offers a ghost tour and a “Spirits with the Spirits” package that includes a ghost tour and a cocktail hour.
What are the top haunted hotels in the United States?
There are many haunted hotels in the United States, but some of the most popular ones include The Stanley Hotel in Colorado, the 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa in Arkansas, the Queen Mary in California, and the Hotel Del Coronado in California. Other notable mentions include the La Fonda Hotel in New Mexico, the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast in Massachusetts, and the Myrtles Plantation in Louisiana.
Are there any haunted hotels with a history of ghost sightings?
Many haunted hotels have a long history of ghost sightings and unexplained phenomena. For example, The Stanley Hotel in Colorado is said to be haunted by the ghosts of former guests, including the wife of the hotel’s founder, who is said to play the piano in the ballroom. The 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa in Arkansas is said to be haunted by the ghosts of patients who died at the hotel when it was a hospital. The Queen Mary in California is said to be haunted by the ghosts of former passengers and crew members.
What amenities do haunted hotels provide for thrill-seeking guests?
Haunted hotels often provide a range of amenities for thrill-seeking guests, including ghost tours, paranormal investigations, and themed packages. Some hotels may also offer ghost hunting equipment for guests to use during their stay. Additionally, some hotels may have on-site restaurants and bars that offer themed cocktails and food items. It’s important to note that while these amenities can add to the overall experience, guests should always be respectful of the hotel’s history and the spirits that may still reside there.
