As Halloween approaches, travelers seeking an eerie thrill alongside their adventures can check into some of the world’s most haunted hotels. These properties are not just luxurious or steeped in history; they hold a dark past, complete with ghost sightings, unexplained phenomena, and lingering spirits. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, staying in one of these hotels guarantees an unforgettable—and potentially spine-chilling—experience.
Many of these haunted hotels boast a rich history of paranormal activity, featuring stories that will send shivers down your spine. From the legendary Stanley Hotel in Colorado, famously inspiring Stephen King’s horror novel *The Shining*, to The Langham in London, each location offers a unique glimpse into the supernatural world. Here’s a look at 10 of the most haunted hotels across the globe, perfect for those seeking a thrill or simply curious about the unexplained:
1. The Stanley Hotel – Estes Park, Colorado
Located in the breathtaking Colorado mountains, The Stanley Hotel opened in 1909 as a luxurious getaway. However, its history is intertwined with spooky occurrences and ghost sightings. Visitors have reported seeing Freelan Oscar Stanley, the original owner, and his wife Flora. Their spirits are said to linger, with Flora occasionally heard playing the piano. Rooms 217 and 413 are considered the most haunted, and the entire fourth floor is a hub of paranormal activity, including the spirit of a child who enjoys playing pranks on guests. Guests have also reported eerie music from the ballroom and the ghost of a former housekeeper who tidies up the rooms. You can book directly or take a tour for $25 without needing to stay overnight. Rates for a stay start from $229 per night.
2. The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa – Manchester, Vermont
Dating back to 1769, The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa has hosted several historical figures, including President Abraham Lincoln’s wife, Mary Todd Lincoln. Guests have reported seeing Mary Todd Lincoln’s ghost roaming the property, sometimes accompanied by one of her sons. The eerie activity doesn’t end there; rocking chairs are known to move on their own, and strange occurrences continue to spook visitors in this picturesque Vermont setting. Rates start from $149 per night.
3. The Bourbon Orleans Hotel – New Orleans
Located in the heart of one of America’s most haunted cities, the Bourbon Orleans Hotel has a history filled with tragedy and mystery. Originally built as a ballroom in 1815, the building has served as a hospital and orphanage during yellow fever outbreaks. Today, the ghosts of children and a Confederate soldier are often seen pacing the halls. Guests report strange noises, cold spots, and the distinct feeling of being watched. Rates start from $150 per night.
4. The Hollywood Roosevelt – Los Angeles
The Hollywood Roosevelt is an iconic hotel that has long been associated with paranormal activity. Opened in 1926, it became a glamorous hangout for stars such as Marilyn Monroe and Shirley Temple. It’s said that Monroe’s spirit can be seen in a mirror in the room she used to occupy. Guests have also reported seeing the ghost of a little girl, possibly Shirley Temple, playing around the property. Rates start from $249 per night.
5. The Marshall House – Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is known as one of America’s most haunted cities, and The Marshall House is a prime example of why. Built in 1851, this hotel was used as a hospital during the Civil War and later for treating yellow fever patients. Today, guests report seeing ghosts of soldiers and children playing in the halls. Eerie sounds, cold drafts, and mysterious appearances of phantom cats add to the supernatural lore of this famous haunted hotel. Rates start at $182 per night.
6. The Fairmont Banff Springs – Banff, Alberta
Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, the Fairmont Banff Springs has long been home to ghostly activity. The most famous ghost is that of a bride who died on the marble staircase before her wedding day. She is often seen dancing in her wedding gown in the grand ballroom. There’s also the spirit of a former bellman who helps guests, making sure everything is in perfect order. Rooms reportedly experience strange activity such as guests being pushed out of bed or pillows moved mysteriously. Rates start at $330 per night.
7. The Shelbourne – Dublin, Ireland
The Shelbourne, one of Dublin’s most prestigious hotels, is home to the ghost of Mary Masters, a 7-year-old girl who died of cholera in the building centuries ago. Guests often hear the sound of giggling, doors slamming, and faucets turning on by themselves. The activity is especially concentrated on the sixth floor, where Mary’s spirit is most active. Even staff members have reportedly had unnerving encounters with the young ghost. Rates start at $389 per night.
8. The Langham – London
Built in 1865, The Langham is famous for its many ghostly residents. A doctor who murdered his wife on their honeymoon and then committed suicide is frequently seen wandering the hotel. Guests in Room 333 often report being tossed out of bed by unseen hands. Other spirits include Napoleon III, who reportedly haunts the basement, and a German prince who died by suicide before World War I. His ghost, clad in military attire, is regularly spotted. Rates start at $586 per night.
9. The Emily Morgan Hotel – San Antonio, Texas
Right across from the historic Alamo, the Emily Morgan Hotel has a reputation for being one of Texas’ most haunted spots. The 13th floor, previously an operating room and morgue, is said to be the most haunted, with visitors reporting strange smells and sounds, including ghostly screams. Even the elevator has been known to malfunction, bringing guests to the basement without any buttons being pressed. Rates start at $236 per night.
10. The Lizzie Borden House – Fall River, Massachusetts
Perhaps the most infamous location on this list, the Lizzie Borden House was the site of one of America’s most notorious murders in 1892. Visitors staying at the house, now a bed and breakfast, have reported seeing apparitions of Lizzie Borden herself. The spirits of her father Andrew and stepmother Abby, who were brutally murdered in the home, are also said to haunt the property, with guests hearing voices, footsteps, and unexplained cold drafts. Rates start at $258 per night.
For travelers looking to combine luxury with a spine-tingling experience, these haunted hotels provide the perfect opportunity to test your nerves while enjoying top-notch amenities. Whether you’re seeking the paranormal or just a unique Halloween getaway, staying at one of these hotels will surely be a memorable experience—just be prepared for an unexpected visitor during the night. Happy haunting!
