Introduction
For those who love ghost stories, paranormal investigations, and the thrill of staying in a haunted location, the U.S. has plenty of historic hotels and inns with eerie reputations. From restless spirits to ghostly apparitions, these hotels offer more than just a comfortable stay—they provide an unforgettable (and potentially supernatural) experience.
If you’re brave enough, book a room at one of these haunted hotels and see if you encounter anything… otherworldly.
- The Stanley Hotel – Estes Park, Colorado
Why Stay Here?
This grand hotel, nestled in the Rocky Mountains, is famous for inspiring Stephen King’s The Shining. It has a long history of ghostly sightings and paranormal activity.
Ghostly Encounters:
- Room 217: Guests report hearing ghostly whispers and objects moving on their own.
- The Concert Hall: A spirit named Lucy is said to linger, playing pranks on guests.
- Phantom Piano Music: Some have heard an invisible pianist playing late at night.
Travel Tip:
Take the Stanley Hotel Ghost Tour for a spine-tingling history lesson on the hotel’s haunted past.
- The Crescent Hotel – Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Why Stay Here?
Known as “America’s Most Haunted Hotel,” the Crescent Hotel was once a fraudulent hospital run by a conman claiming to cure cancer. Many believe the spirits of his unfortunate patients still roam the halls.
Ghostly Encounters:
- Room 218: Reports of flickering lights, disembodied voices, and unexplained touches.
- The Morgue: The basement area, once used for experimental medical procedures, is considered the most haunted.
- Ghostly Nurses: Guests have seen apparitions of nurses still “caring” for patients.
Travel Tip:
Book a room on the third floor for the most frequent paranormal activity.
- The Queen Mary – Long Beach, California
Why Stay Here?
This retired ocean liner-turned-hotel has a dark history of ghostly legends, including tragic deaths and mysterious disappearances.
Ghostly Encounters:
- Stateroom B340: Guests report seeing shadowy figures and hearing knocks at night.
- The Pool Area: Ghostly apparitions of children playing have been spotted.
- Engine Room: Strange noises and temperature drops occur frequently.
Travel Tip:
Join the Haunted Encounters Tour to explore the ship’s paranormal hotspots.
- The Marshall House – Savannah, Georgia
Why Stay Here?
Located in one of America’s most haunted cities, this 19th-century hotel was used as a hospital during the Civil War and yellow fever outbreaks.
Ghostly Encounters:
- Ghostly Children: Guests hear the sound of running feet and laughter, even when no children are present.
- Room 414: One of the most haunted rooms, with reports of faucets turning on by themselves.
- Apparitions of Soldiers: Spirits of Civil War soldiers have been seen wandering the halls.
Travel Tip:
Visit during October for heightened ghostly activity and Halloween events.
- Hotel Monte Vista – Flagstaff, Arizona
Why Stay Here?
This historic hotel has hosted Hollywood legends, but it’s also known for its ghostly visitors, including spirits from the Prohibition era.
Ghostly Encounters:
- Room 305: A rocking chair moves on its own, and guests report feeling watched.
- The Phantom Bellboy: Staff and guests have heard knocks on their doors, only to find no one there.
- The Basement: Said to be haunted by a former bank robber who died in the hotel.
Travel Tip:
The staff openly shares ghost stories—just ask them about their eerie encounters!
Conclusion
Whether you’re a ghost hunter or just looking for a spooky experience, these haunted hotels offer more than just a place to sleep. Who knows? You might check in—but will you check out alone?
FAQs
- Are haunted hotels safe to stay in?
Yes! While they may be spooky, they operate like any other hotel and are safe for guests.
- Do I have to book a haunted room to experience ghostly activity?
Not necessarily—many paranormal encounters occur in hallways, lobbies, and public areas.
- Can I request a specific haunted room?
Most hotels with haunted reputations allow guests to request specific rooms known for paranormal activity.
- Are there ghost tours available?
Yes! Most haunted hotels offer guided tours sharing their spooky history.