Top 5 Haunted Hotels for Thrill-Seekers
For those who seek a little more than just a comfortable bed and room service, haunted hotels present an exciting opportunity to experience the supernatural. From eerie whispers in the night to apparitions wandering the halls, these locations promise chills and thrills that are hard to forget. Whether you’re a true believer or just a curious skeptic, here are five haunted hotels that will give your spine a shiver.
1. The Stanley Hotel – Estes Park, Colorado
A Historical Backbone
The Stanley Hotel is perhaps best known as the inspiration for Stephen King’s “The Shining.” Built in 1909 by F.O. Stanley, this picturesque hotel is nestled in the Rocky Mountains and offers breathtaking views alongside its haunted reputation.
Ghostly Residents
Guests have reported various ghostly encounters, particularly with F.O. Stanley and his wife, Flora. Many claim to see Flora playing the piano in the ballroom or hear her laughter echoing through the halls. Others have reported seeing shadows and feeling cold spots, especially on the fourth floor, which is said to be a hotspot for paranormal activity.
Haunted Activities
For thrill-seekers, The Stanley offers ghost tours that explore its haunted history. These tours delve into chilling stories and experiences shared by guests through the years. For those brave enough, spending a night in Room 217—where King himself stayed—might leave you with more than just memories; some say it’s where Flora’s spirit is most active.
2. The Queen Mary – Long Beach, California
A Floating Legend
The Queen Mary, originally launched as an ocean liner in 1936, has since been docked in Long Beach. This majestic ship has a rich history as well as a reputation for being one of the most haunted places in America.
Paranormal Events
Several spirits are said to roam the ship, including a young girl named Jackie who reportedly plays in the pool area, and a crew member who met an untimely end in an accident aboard the ship. Guests often report strange noises, unexplained cold spots, and even sightings of ghostly figures wandering the decks.
Haunted Experiences
Those looking for scares can participate in guided ghost tours or attend special events like “Dark Harbor,” which features live actors and haunted mazes inspired by real ghost stories from the ship’s past. Room B340 is notorious among guests for its disturbing energy; many have reported waking up to find themselves not alone!
3. Hotel Monte Vista – Flagstaff, Arizona
A Historic Hotspot
Established in 1927, Hotel Monte Vista has long served as a haven for travelers exploring Northern Arizona. However, it’s also known for its colorful history filled with eccentric guests and ghostly tales.
Notable Spirits
This hotel boasts several resident spirits. One of the most famous is a phantom bellboy who mysteriously appears to help guests with their luggage but vanishes shortly thereafter. Another legend involves a woman from the ’30s who was allegedly left behind after her lover broke off their engagement—she’s said to still wander the hotel in search of him.
Unique Activities
Visitors can enjoy experiencing the hotel’s unique ambiance while sharing ghost stories with fellow guests or on organized ghost tours that uncover the hotel’s sordid past. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or just passing through Flagstaff, expect some spine-tingling encounters.
4. The Myrtles Plantation – St. Francisville, Louisiana
The Dark History
Often referred to as “one of America’s most haunted homes,” Myrtles Plantation dates back to 1796 and is steeped in tragedy and loss. Originally a cotton plantation, it has been home to countless tales of misfortune and hauntings over its long history.
Infamous Hauntings
One of the most famous spirits is that of Chloe, a former enslaved woman who supposedly took revenge on her masters by poisoning their children—a story that’s become entwined with folklore surrounding the plantation. Guests often report seeing her apparition wearing a green turban along with other spectral children running through the grounds.
Engaging with Spirits
At Myrtles Plantation, you can opt for an overnight stay or partake in guided evening ghost tours that take you through eerie rooms filled with period furniture and artifacts linked to its dark past. The plantation also features an extensive collection of paranormal photography captured by visitors over the years.
5. The Marshall House – Savannah, Georgia
A Southern Gem
The Marshall House is one of Savannah’s oldest hotels, having opened its doors in 1851. With its rich history during Civil War times serving as a hospital, it’s no wonder this hotel is said to be haunted.
Ghostly Encounters
Guests have reported sightings of soldiers moving through hallways and hearing unexplained noises such as footsteps when no one else is around. Visitors frequently mention feeling cold drafts and seeing lights flicker without reason.
Exploring History Through Haunting
To fully immerse yourself in this historic site’s paranormal activity, you can join one of Savannah’s many ghost tours or simply stroll through its antique-filled hallways at night when things get particularly eerie. With charming Southern hospitality combined with mysterious spirits from another era, The Marshall House guarantees an unforgettable stay.
Conclusion
Haunted hotels offer thrill-seekers not only an opportunity to experience something out of the ordinary but also provide historical context regarding their origins and lore. Each location holds its unique stories and specters that add character to your travel adventures—if you’re brave enough to seek them out! Whether you’re hoping for a ghostly encounter or just want your heart racing from suspenseful tales, these five haunted hotels are sure to deliver spine-tingling excitement that will linger long after your stay has ended. So pack your bags (and maybe some sage) for these spooky escapes!