Top 5 Most Haunted Hotels Where You Can Spend the Night
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Stay the night if you dare! Discover the top 5 most haunted hotels where guests report ghostly encounters, eerie noises, and spine-chilling experiences. Perfect for thrill seekers!
If you’ve ever dreamed of sleeping with spirits—of the ghostly kind—then you’re in for a chilling treat.
Some hotels don’t just offer luxury linens and room service; they come with centuries-old legends, eerie encounters, and paranormal activity that’ll make your hair stand on end.
In this post, we’re counting down the top 5 most haunted hotels where you can actually spend the night.
From flickering lights to mysterious footsteps and haunted hallways, these places are perfect for thrill-seekers and ghost hunters looking for a real-life scare.
Ready to check in?
Introduction: Dare to Check In to These Haunted Hotels – You Might Just Check Out
Most people book a hotel for comfort, relaxation, or maybe a romantic weekend getaway.
But there’s a different kind of traveler out there—the kind who seeks out chills instead of comfort, whispers instead of silence, and spirits that never checked out.
For these thrill-seekers, the hotel stay is the destination, especially if it comes with ghost sightings, haunted hallways, and rooms with a reputation for the paranormal.
Across the United States, there are hotels with pasts so dark, that their walls seem to echo with the energy of the people who once walked them—and in many cases, still do.
Whether it’s the tragic loss of a hotel guest, the horrific acts of a corrupt doctor, or the residual energy of long-dead children, some hotels are far more than just a place to sleep.
These haunted hotels serve as the backdrop for ghost stories that continue to be crafted by intrepid inquisitive visitors.
In this blog post, we’re going far beyond flickering lights and drafty old buildings.
We’re diving deep into five of the most haunted hotels in America that you can actually stay in overnight.
These aren’t urban legends or fictional tales made to scare tourists.
These are real places with documented paranormal activity, guest testimonies, and enough spine-tingling accounts to keep you up all night—literally.
So whether you’re a die-hard ghost hunter, a history-loving traveler, or someone who just wants a hotel stay with a little… extra spirit, this list will help you find your perfect haunted hideaway.
Bring a flashlight. Leave the lights on. And remember—checking out isn’t always the hardest part. It’s making it through the night that counts.
Ready to face the unknown? Let’s explore the top 5 haunted hotels where the guests aren’t the only ones roaming the halls.
Why Are Haunted Hotels So Popular?
Individuals have consistently been captivated by the mysteries of the unknown.
The appeal of haunted hotels lies in the perfect blend of history, mystery, and fear.
For many, it’s the adrenaline rush of possibly encountering something that defies explanation.
Here’s why haunted hotels have become a travel trend:
- Ghost tourism is booming: Paranormal tourism is now a global industry. From haunted pub crawls to overnight ghost hunts, people love to explore the supernatural side of history.
- Authentic storytelling: Unlike amusement park-style scares, haunted hotels offer real stories—often tied to tragic events or unexplained deaths. These narratives add a depth that draws curious minds.
- History buffs meet thrill-seekers: Many haunted hotels are housed in century-old buildings with rich, sometimes dark, backstories. The opportunity to experience both historical architecture and paranormal phenomena in one place is a major draw.
- Influence of pop culture: TV shows like Ghost Adventures, Haunted Hotels, and The Haunting Of have made ghost hunting mainstream. More people are open to trying it firsthand.
- Personal challenge: Staying in a haunted room is a badge of courage for many. It’s a way to confront fear and collect an unforgettable story to share.
What Makes a Hotel “Haunted”?
Not every creaky floor or flickering light means you’re dealing with a ghost.
Truly haunted hotels have a consistent pattern of unexplained events reported over the years.
Paranormal researchers look for certain characteristics to validate these claims.
Common signs of a haunted hotel:
- Multiple guest reports:
- Visitors often describe hearing footsteps, voices, or doors opening on their own.
- Guests staying in different rooms frequently report the same experiences—like cold spots, tapping on the walls, or seeing the same ghost.
- Employee testimonies:
- Housekeeping and maintenance staff often witness things when the hotel is quiet.
- Repeated stories across shifts and departments lend credibility to the hauntings.
- Tragic or violent history:
- Many haunted hotels were once hospitals, asylums, or sites of murder and suicide.
- Residual energy from these traumatic events is believed to linger in the building.
- Paranormal evidence:
- Some locations have documented paranormal evidence—such as EMF spikes, EVP recordings, or photographic anomalies.
- Investigators often bring in infrared cameras, voice recorders, and motion sensors to verify claims.
These signs, especially when used together, help to identify which hotels are truly haunted.
I have include the website links for each haunted hotel in the sources section at the bottom of this post.
Top 5 Haunted Hotels You Can Sleep In (If You Dare)
Here are five haunted hotels in the U.S. where you can stay and maybe meet a ghost.
1. The Stanley Hotel – Estes Park, Colorado
The Stanley Hotel is one of the most famous haunted hotel in America.
This grand property inspired Stephen King’s The Shining. But long before it became a horror icon, the Stanley had its own terrifying history.
Perched against the majestic backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado, is as renowned for its architectural grandeur as it is for its chilling tales of the supernatural.
Since its opening in 1909, this Colonial Revival masterpiece has attracted guests not only for its luxurious accommodations but also for the spectral legends that permeate its halls.
The hotel’s most infamous room, 217, gained notoriety after a 1911 incident where chambermaid Elizabeth Wilson was injured in a gas explosion.
Though she survived and continued working at the hotel, guests have since reported unexplained activities in the room, such as their belongings being mysteriously unpacked or lights turning on and off without cause.
Some unmarried couples have even felt a cold presence between them in bed, leading to speculation that Wilson’s spirit lingers, enforcing her old-fashioned morals.
Stephen King’s 1974 stay in Room 217 further cemented the hotel’s eerie reputation.
The author experienced a vivid nightmare during his visit, which inspired his novel “The Shining.”
This connection has drawn countless fans and paranormal enthusiasts to the hotel, eager to experience its haunted history firsthand.
Beyond Room 217, the hotel boasts other paranormal hotspots.
The grand staircase, often referred to as “the Vortex,” is believed to be a portal for spirits, with guests reporting sudden cold spots and apparitions.
The fourth floor echoes with the laughter of unseen children, and Room 401 is said to house a malevolent male presence, with women reporting unsettling experiences.
Embracing its haunted heritage, The Stanley Hotel offers nightly ghost tours, allowing guests to delve into its storied past and perhaps encounter its lingering spirits.
Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, a stay at The Stanley promises an unforgettable experience steeped in history and mystery.
Haunting Highlights:
- Room 217:
- This is where King stayed and had a vivid nightmare that became the seed for The Shining.
- Guests report objects moving on their own, sudden cold bursts, and the sensation of being watched.
- The spirit of Elizabeth Wilson, a former housekeeper, is believed to still occupy the room.
- Piano Music from Beyond:
- Flora Stanley, the original owner’s wife, is said to play the piano in the music room at night.
- Hotel staff often find the piano lid open even after locking it down.
- Fourth Floor Activity:
- Guests staying on the fourth floor report hearing children laughing and running in the hallway when no children are checked in.
- Some guests have felt their sheets being tugged during the night.
Experience Details:
- Offers guided night tours exploring the haunted hotspots.
- You can request a “spirited room” when booking.
- Rooms book out months in advance during Halloween season.
2. The Queen Mary – Long Beach, California
The Queen Mary, permanently docked in Long Beach, California, is a historic ocean liner renowned for its luxurious past and eerie reputation.
Launched in 1936, the ship served as a transatlantic passenger vessel and later as a troopship during World War II.
Throughout its service, numerous deaths occurred on board, including a tragic collision with the HMS Curacoa in 1942, resulting in over 300 fatalities.
Today, the Queen Mary operates as a floating hotel and museum, attracting visitors intrigued by its storied history and alleged hauntings.
The ship is reputed to be haunted by over 150 spirits, with reports of ghostly apparitions, unexplained noises, and sudden temperature drops.
One of the most infamous locations on board is Stateroom B340, where guests have reported paranormal experiences so intense that the room was closed to the public for decades.
Other areas, such as the First-Class Swimming Pool and the engine room’s Door 13, are also hotspots for supernatural activity.
Visitors have claimed to see wet footprints leading from the pool and have reported encounters with the spirit of a crew member who was crushed by a watertight door.
The Queen Mary offers guided tours and paranormal investigations for those seeking to explore its haunted corridors and learn more about its chilling tales.
Terrifying Encounters:
- Engine Room #13:
- A young crew member died tragically here, crushed by a watertight door.
- Guests have seen his ghost roaming the corridor, often described as oily and in overalls.
- The First-Class Pool:
- No longer in use, but the pool area is a paranormal hotspot.
- Apparitions of a little girl and a woman in a 1930s swimsuit have been seen.
- Wet footprints sometimes appear despite the area being dry.
- Cabin B340:
- Arguably the most haunted room on the ship.
- Guests report extreme poltergeist activity—lights flickering, furniture moving, and knocking sounds at night.
Guest Experience:
- Hosts Dark Harbor—a seasonal Halloween event with haunted mazes and attractions.
- Offers paranormal tours, seances, and overnight investigations.
- Rooms are beautifully restored but come with a ghostly reputation.
3. Crescent Hotel – Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Dubbed “America’s Most Haunted Hotel,” the Crescent Hotel has a sinister past.
It served as a hospital in the 1930s under Dr. Norman Baker, a fraud who claimed he could cure cancer.
Perched atop the Ozark Mountains in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, the 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa is renowned as one of the most haunted hotels in America.
Originally established as a luxury resort for affluent travelers, the hotel has undergone several transformations, including serving as a college for young women and later as a controversial cancer hospital in the 1930s.
Baker, a charlatan without medical credentials, claimed to cure cancer using dubious methods, leading to numerous patient deaths and leaving behind a legacy of sorrow and unrest.
The hotel’s haunted reputation is bolstered by tales of lingering spirits.
Guests and staff have reported encounters with various apparitions, including Michael, an Irish stonemason who fell to his death and is said to haunt Room 218; Theodora, a former cancer patient who appears near Room 419; and a young boy named Breckie, who died from appendicitis and is occasionally spotted playing in the hallways.
Adding to the eerie ambiance is the hotel’s basement, which once served as Baker’s morgue.
Visitors have reported unexplained cold spots, apparitions, and other paranormal phenomena in this area, further cementing the Crescent Hotel’s status as a hotspot for ghostly activity.
Today, the Crescent Hotel embraces its haunted heritage by offering ghost tours and paranormal investigations, inviting guests to explore its storied past and perhaps experience a brush with the supernatural themselves.
Paranormal Phenomena:
- Room 218 – Michael the Stonemason:
- Michael died during construction and is said to linger in the room where he fell.
- Guests hear tools clinking, experience sudden cold drafts, and even report being pushed.
- Former Hospital Wing:
- Shadow figures, sudden sickness, and feelings of dread are commonly reported in this area.
- Some believe the spirits of patients who died here are still trying to find peace.
- Morgue Ghosts:
- The former morgue in the basement is open to tour.
- Cold spots, unexplained lights, and EVP activity have been captured.
Unique Offerings:
- Ghost tours led by trained guides each night.
- Halloween specials, including séances and overnight investigations.
- Pet-friendly and full of historic charm—ghosts included.
4. The Myrtles Plantation – St. Francisville, Louisiana
This Southern-style mansion looks serene on the outside, but don’t let the beauty fool you. The Myrtles Plantation is often called one of the most haunted homes in the U.S.
Nestled in the heart of St. Francisville, Louisiana, The Myrtles Plantation stands as a testament to antebellum architecture and a repository of Southern folklore.
Constructed in 1796 by General David Bradford, this historic estate has garnered a reputation as one of America’s most haunted homes.
Among its numerous spectral tales, the legend of Chloe, an enslaved woman punished for eavesdropping, remains the most enduring.
According to lore, Chloe poisoned the family’s food, leading to the deaths of Sara Woodruff and her two daughters, though historical records indicate they succumbed to yellow fever.
Despite discrepancies between legend and fact, many visitors report sightings of a woman in a green turban, believed to be Chloe’s restless spirit.
Another chilling account involves William Drew Winter, the plantation’s only documented murder victim.
Shot on the front porch in 1871, Winter is said to have staggered inside, dying on the 17th step of the staircase.
To this day, guests claim to hear his final footsteps echoing through the halls.
Visitors have also reported unexplained phenomena, such as handprints appearing in an antique mirror, believed to trap the spirits of Sara Woodruff and her children.
Others have witnessed apparitions of children playing in the yard or felt sudden cold spots throughout the house.
Today, The Myrtles operates as a bed and breakfast, offering guests a chance to experience its storied past firsthand.
Whether drawn by its rich history or the allure of the supernatural, The Myrtles Plantation continues to captivate all who cross its threshold.
Notorious Spirits:
- Chloe the Ghost:
- A slave girl who allegedly poisoned her owner’s children.
- Guests see her ghost in photographs, near windows, or walking silently across the veranda.
- Ghost Children:
- Visitors report children’s laughter in empty rooms and feel tugging on their clothes.
- A mirror inside the house supposedly holds the spirits of those who died tragically.
- Mystery Stairs and Portraits:
- People feel disoriented near the stairs, as if being pulled.
- Some say the eyes in certain portraits follow them around the room.
Booking Info:
- Stay in haunted suites with antique furnishings.
- Enjoy guided tours both day and night.
- Breakfast is included—hopefully not served by ghosts.
5. The Pfister Hotel – Milwaukee, Wisconsin
The Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, stands as a beacon of opulence and history since its opening in 1893.
Envisioned by Guido Pfister and brought to fruition by his son Charles, the hotel was designed to be the “Grand Hotel of the West.”
The hotel boasts of modern amenities of the era, such as electricity and fireproofing, and adorned with an extensive collection of Victorian art.
Beyond its luxurious facade, the Pfister has garnered a reputation for paranormal activity, particularly among Major League Baseball players.
Reports include unexplained knocks, flickering lights, and electronics turning on and off without cause.
Some guests have even claimed to see apparitions, believed to be Charles Pfister himself, wandering the halls and staircases.
The hotel’s haunted lore is further fueled by its location, which was once a private burial ground, adding to the mystique for those intrigued by the supernatual.
Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, a stay at the Pfister Hotel offers a unique blend of historical grandeur and eerie intrigue.
Creepy Reports:
- Unseen Guests:
- Players from the MLB have reported seeing shadow figures, hearing whispers, and feeling watched.
- One even claimed his iPad kept turning on and off, playing creepy music.
- Electronics Gone Haywire:
- TVs flicker, lights dim, and phones ring with no caller.
- Some guests wake up to find furniture slightly moved.
- Elegant Hauntings:
- The ghost of Charles Pfister, the hotel’s original owner, is said to walk the halls, inspecting the property.
Guest Notes:
- Rooms are luxurious but come with haunted reputations.
- Staff don’t deny the ghost stories—they often share their own.
- Located in the heart of Milwaukee with beautiful lake views…and spirits.
Tips for Staying in a Haunted Hotel
Want to survive—and enjoy—your haunted stay? Follow these tips:
- Book early, especially for Halloween and weekends.
- Choose the right room: If possible, stay in rooms with known hauntings.
- Bring basic ghost-hunting gear:
- EMF detector
- Digital voice recorder
- Spirit box (for the adventurous)
- Stay respectful: Avoid mocking or provoking spirits.
- Keep a journal: Document your night, especially any dreams or odd sensations.
- Don’t go alone: Bring a friend to witness what you experience.
Are Haunted Hotels Safe to Sleep In?
Absolutely. The paranormal activity in these hotels is more eerie than dangerous.
Spirits—if they exist—aren’t likely to harm you.
Most guests simply experience a few odd moments, maybe some lost sleep, but no real danger.
Many hotels even train their staff to handle questions about ghosts, and some embrace their haunted status with pride.
Would You Spend the Night With a Ghost?
The five haunted hotels in this list offer more than creepy vibes—they offer authentic, bone-chilling experiences that stay with you long after checkout.
Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, spending the night in a haunted hotel is a story you’ll never forget.
Which one would you choose?
Let us know in the comments—and share your paranormal experiences if you’ve had any!
FAQ: Top 5 Most Haunted Hotels Where You Can Spend the Night.
1. Are these haunted hotels safe to stay in?
Yes, all of the hotels listed are safe and fully operational. While paranormal activity has been reported, there’s no evidence of any harm caused by the hauntings. Most ghostly encounters are limited to noises, cold spots, visual sightings, or other unexplained phenomena.
2. Can I specifically request a haunted room when booking?
In many cases, yes. Some hotels—like the Stanley Hotel and Crescent Hotel—offer “spirited” or “haunted” rooms by request. However, these rooms often book up fast, especially around Halloween or during ghost-hunting events, so it’s best to call ahead or book well in advance.
3. Are there ghost tours available at these hotels?
Yes, most of the haunted hotels featured offer on-site ghost tours:
- The Stanley Hotel offers nighttime spirit tours.
- The Queen Mary runs “Haunted Encounters” and historical paranormal tours.
- The Crescent Hotel has nightly ghost tours and special seasonal events.
- The Myrtles Plantation offers both historical and mystery tours.
- The Pfister Hotel does not offer official ghost tours, but the staff often share stories, and local ghost tour companies include it on their routes.
4. Do I need ghost-hunting equipment for my stay?
It’s not required, but some guests bring gear to enhance the experience. Recommended tools include:
- EMF detectors
- Digital voice recorders
- Spirit boxes or apps
- Flashlights and infrared cameras
If you’re just visiting for the thrill, a phone camera and open mind are all you need.
5. Can families stay in these haunted hotels?
Yes, most of the hotels are family-friendly, though some ghost tours may have age restrictions. Be sure to check in advance if you’re bringing children. Some haunted rooms or stories might be too intense for younger guests.
6. Are pets allowed in these haunted hotels?
Policies vary by location:
- The Crescent Hotel is pet-friendly.
- The Stanley Hotel has limited pet-friendly accommodations.
- The Queen Mary and Pfister Hotel typically do not allow pets.
- Always call ahead or check the hotel’s website for current pet policies.
7. How can I verify if the hauntings are real?
While personal experiences vary, many of these hotels have been featured on paranormal TV shows, investigated by ghost-hunting teams, and covered in news stories. They also have decades (in some cases, centuries) of eyewitness accounts from guests and staff.
8. What’s the best time of year to stay in a haunted hotel?
Fall is the most popular time—especially in October during the Halloween season. However, paranormal activity isn’t limited to one season. Guests report ghostly encounters year-round, and some hotels even host special winter or summer ghost-hunting events.
9. Do any of these hotels offer paranormal investigation packages?
Yes. Several locations offer packages that include:
- Overnight stays in haunted rooms
- Access to specific ghost-hunting equipment
- Private or group investigations
- Meals and historical briefings
These packages vary, so check each hotel’s website or call their booking office for details.
10. How do I prepare for my first haunted hotel stay?
Here are a few quick tips:
- Do your research about the location and its history.
- Bring an open mind—but remain respectful of the spirits.
- Take notes or record any strange occurrences.
- Try to relax and enjoy the experience—most hauntings are more fascinating than frightening.
Conclusion: Haunted Hospitality You’ll Never Forget
From eerie footsteps in empty hallways to ghostly piano music echoing in the night, haunted hotels offer something far beyond your average overnight stay.
They give you a story—one you’ll never forget and probably won’t stop talking about.
Whether you’re an experienced ghost hunter or a curious traveler, these chilling destinations invite you to spend the night where the living and the dead may just cross paths.
Each of the five haunted hotels on this list has earned its reputation not through gimmicks or tourist traps, but through decades of documented paranormal experiences, tragic histories, and eyewitness accounts.
These aren’t just places to sleep—they’re immersive, spine-tingling experiences that challenge your senses and connect you to the past in a uniquely haunting way.
From the mountain chills of the Stanley Hotel to the Southern spirits of the Myrtles Plantation, each property offers a rich blend of historic architecture, ghostly legends, and real reported hauntings.
And the best part? You can check in tonight.
Final Thoughts: Would You Sleep with a Spirit?
Haunted travel isn’t for everyone. But if you’re the kind of person who thrives on adrenaline, history, and a little dose of fear, staying in one of these haunted hotels is an experience like no other.
Whether you witness full-blown apparitions or just feel the eerie presence of something unseen, one thing’s for sure—you won’t look at hotel rooms the same way again.
So, would you dare to stay in a haunted room?
Have you already spent a night at one of these ghost-infested getaways?
Or are you still deciding which haunted hotel tops your paranormal bucket list?
We want to hear from you!
Drop your thoughts, personal ghost stories, or questions in the comments below.
And if you’re planning your haunted getaway, don’t forget to check out the contact info and booking tips we shared earlier in this post.
Ready to check in—possibly with the undead?
Start your haunted hotel journey today… just don’t forget to leave the light on.
Click on the haunted hotel website links below for more information.
Explore More Chilling Reads:
- 10 True Ghost Stories That Will Give You Chills
- How to Know if Your House is Haunted
- Top 10 Paranormal Investigation Tips for Beginners
Related YouTube Video for the Top 5 Most Haunted Hotels Where You Can Spend the Night
Sources for Top 5 Most Haunted Hotels Where You Can Spend the Night
Here is a list of the Top 5 Most Haunted Hotels Where You Can Spend the Night with complete official websites for more information and reservations:
- The Stanley Hotel – Estes Park, Colorado
This iconic hotel, known for inspiring Stephen King’s The Shining, offers historic charm alongside reports of paranormal activity.
Visit The Stanley Hotel - The Queen Mary – Long Beach, California
A retired ocean liner turned hotel, The Queen Mary is renowned for its rich history and numerous ghost sightings.
Explore The Queen Mary - 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa – Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Dubbed “America’s Most Haunted Hotel,” this Victorian-era resort offers ghost tours and a unique stay experience.
Discover the Crescent Hotel - The Myrtles Plantation – St. Francisville, Louisiana
This antebellum plantation is famed for its ghost stories and is considered one of America’s most haunted homes.
Visit The Myrtles Plantation - The Pfister Hotel – Milwaukee, Wisconsin
A historic hotel known for its elegance and reports of ghostly encounters, particularly among visiting athletes.
Experience The Pfister Hotel
These sources will direct you to each hotel’s official website, where you can find more details about their haunted histories, accommodations, and booking information.
