23 Spooky Hotels and Haunted Inns That Keep the Legends Alive
From historic inns with ghostly guests to grand hotels where spirits roam the halls, the world is filled with eerie accommodations where the past refuses to rest. In response to growing fascination with supernatural stays, we’ve expanded our list to 23 of the most haunted hotels and inns—each steeped in chilling history and unexplained phenomena. Whether you're a thrill-seeker, a history buff, or simply curious about the unknown, these haunted havens offer an experience that is equal parts captivating and unnerving. Some travelers visit for the architectural grandeur and rich history, while others hope to encounter the paranormal firsthand. No matter your reason, one thing is certain—these hotels are far from ordinary. Join us as we uncover the ghostly legends, mysterious occurrences, and spectral sightings that have made these haunted hotels infamous. Will you dare to spend the night?
1. The Stanley Hotel - Inspiration for Horror
Nestled in the picturesque town of Estes Park, Colorado, The Stanley Hotel is a grand establishment with a chilling reputation. Famous for inspiring Stephen King's "The Shining," this hotel is steeped in ghostly lore and supernatural occurrences. Built in 1909 by Freelan Oscar Stanley, the hotel was intended as a luxurious retreat for the wealthy. However, its opulent halls soon became the backdrop for tales of spectral sightings and unexplained phenomena. Guests and staff alike have reported hearing piano music echoing through the empty ballroom, while others have encountered the apparitions of former employees and guests. The most famous ghostly resident is that of Elizabeth Wilson, a former housekeeper who survived an explosion in Room 217. Her spirit is said to linger, tidying up after guests and ensuring their comfort. The hotel's remote location, combined with its storied past, creates an atmosphere ripe for paranormal activity. Visitors often describe a palpable energy that permeates the building, heightening the sense of anticipation and unease. The Stanley Hotel's connection to "The Shining" has only amplified its eerie allure, drawing fans of the novel and film to experience the chilling ambiance firsthand.
2. The Queen Mary - A Ship with a Haunted Past
The RMS Queen Mary, now permanently docked in Long Beach, California, is a majestic ocean liner with a storied history and a reputation for paranormal activity. Launched in 1934, the ship served as a luxury cruise liner and a troopship during World War II. Over the years, the Queen Mary has been the site of numerous tragic incidents, including accidental deaths and wartime casualties. These events have contributed to the ship's haunted reputation, with reports of ghostly apparitions and unexplained occurrences becoming commonplace. Visitors to the Queen Mary often recount encounters with the spirits of former passengers and crew members. The most famous of these is the "Lady in White," a ghostly figure seen wandering the ship's corridors in a flowing white gown. Other reported phenomena include the sounds of children playing in the nursery, sudden temperature drops, and mysterious knocking on cabin doors. The ship's Art Deco interiors and long, narrow hallways create an atmosphere of suspense and intrigue, making it a popular destination for paranormal investigators and thrill-seekers alike. The Queen Mary's rich history and ghostly legends ensure that its allure remains undiminished, drawing visitors from around the world to explore its haunted decks.
3. The Crescent Hotel - America's Most Haunted Hotel
Perched atop a hill in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, the Crescent Hotel is a striking example of Victorian architecture with a dark and mysterious past. Built in 1886 as a luxury resort, the hotel has served various purposes over the years, including a college for young women and a hospital. It was during its time as a hospital under the ownership of Norman Baker, a notorious charlatan, that the hotel earned its reputation as "America's Most Haunted Hotel." Baker claimed to have discovered a cure for cancer and used the hotel to treat patients, many of whom met tragic ends. Today, the spirits of those who perished in Baker's care are said to haunt the halls of the Crescent Hotel. Guests and staff report seeing apparitions of former patients, as well as the ghost of a young woman who fell to her death from the roof. The hotel's rich history and architectural beauty provide a captivating backdrop for its ghostly legends. The Crescent Hotel embraces its haunted reputation, offering ghost tours and paranormal investigations for those brave enough to explore its eerie corridors. The combination of historical intrigue and supernatural lore makes the Crescent Hotel a must-visit destination for those seeking an unforgettable experience.
4. The Langham Hotel - London's Supernatural Sanctuary
The Langham Hotel, located in the heart of London's West End, is a luxurious establishment with a reputation for ghostly encounters. Opened in 1865, the hotel has hosted numerous celebrities, politicians, and royalty over the years. However, it is the hotel's spectral residents that have captured the imaginations of visitors. The most famous of these is the ghost of a German prince who reportedly leapt to his death from a fourth-floor window. His spirit is said to haunt Room 333, where guests have experienced sudden temperature drops, flickering lights, and the sensation of being watched. Other ghostly encounters at the Langham include the spirit of a man in Victorian evening wear, who has been seen walking through walls, and the apparition of a butler who continues to serve guests from beyond the grave. The hotel's opulent interiors and rich history create an atmosphere of elegance and mystery, enhancing its supernatural allure. The Langham Hotel's reputation as a haven for the paranormal has made it a popular destination for those seeking a taste of London's haunted past. Its blend of luxury and legend ensures that the Langham remains an intriguing and unforgettable experience for all who visit.
5. The Banff Springs Hotel - The Castle in the Rockies
Nestled in the heart of Canada's Banff National Park, the Banff Springs Hotel is a majestic castle-like structure with a reputation for ghostly phenomena. Built in 1888 by the Canadian Pacific Railway, the hotel was designed to attract tourists to the scenic beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Over the years, the hotel has become known for its stunning architecture, luxurious accommodations, and paranormal activity. The most famous ghostly resident is the "Ghost Bride," a young woman who reportedly died in a tragic accident on her wedding day. Her spirit is said to wander the hotel's grand staircase, still clad in her wedding gown. Other reported phenomena include the apparition of a bellman who continues to assist guests, and the ghostly presence of a family who perished in a tragic accident. The hotel's remote location and breathtaking surroundings create an atmosphere of mystery and wonder, making it a popular destination for those seeking both natural beauty and supernatural intrigue. The Banff Springs Hotel's combination of historical significance, architectural grandeur, and ghostly legends ensures that it remains a captivating destination for visitors from around the world.
6. The Fairmont Empress - Victoria's Haunted Grandeur
The Fairmont Empress, located in Victoria, British Columbia, is a grand hotel with a reputation for elegance and paranormal activity. Opened in 1908, the hotel has hosted royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries over the years. However, it is the hotel's ghostly inhabitants that have captured the imaginations of guests. The most famous of these is the spirit of a former architect, who is said to haunt the hotel's corridors, ensuring that his vision for the building is maintained. Guests have reported seeing his apparition, as well as experiencing unexplained noises and cold spots. The Fairmont Empress is also home to the ghost of a maid who continues to perform her duties from beyond the grave. Her spirit is said to tidy up rooms and assist guests, adding to the hotel's supernatural allure. The hotel's opulent interiors and stunning waterfront location create an atmosphere of elegance and mystery, drawing visitors from around the world. The Fairmont Empress's combination of historical significance, architectural beauty, and ghostly legends ensures that it remains an intriguing and unforgettable destination for all who visit.
7. The Myrtles Plantation - A Southern Gothic Tale
The Myrtles Plantation, located in St. Francisville, Louisiana, is a historic antebellum mansion with a reputation for being one of America's most haunted homes. Built in 1796, the plantation has a dark and mysterious past, with tales of murder, betrayal, and tragedy. The most famous ghostly resident is Chloe, a former slave who is said to haunt the plantation after being involved in a tragic incident that led to the deaths of two children. Her spirit is often seen wearing a green turban, and guests have reported hearing her footsteps and seeing her apparition. Other reported phenomena at the Myrtles Plantation include the spirits of former owners and guests, as well as unexplained noises and cold spots. The plantation's Southern Gothic architecture and lush surroundings create an atmosphere of mystery and intrigue, drawing visitors from around the world. The Myrtles Plantation's combination of historical significance, architectural beauty, and ghostly legends ensures that it remains a captivating destination for those seeking a taste of the supernatural.
8. The Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast - A Notorious Legacy
The Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast, located in Fall River, Massachusetts, is a historic home with a notorious past. In 1892, the home's occupants, Andrew and Abby Borden, were brutally murdered, and their daughter, Lizzie, was accused of the crime. Although she was acquitted, the case remains one of America's most infamous unsolved mysteries. Today, the home operates as a bed and breakfast, offering guests the opportunity to stay in the rooms where the murders took place and experience the eerie atmosphere firsthand. Visitors to the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast often report experiencing unexplained phenomena, including the sounds of footsteps, doors opening and closing on their own, and the feeling of being watched. The home's Victorian architecture and dark history create an atmosphere of suspense and intrigue, drawing visitors from around the world. The Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast's combination of historical significance, architectural beauty, and ghostly legends ensures that it remains a captivating destination for those seeking a taste of America's most notorious haunted house.
9. The Driskill Hotel - Austin's Historic Haunt
The Driskill Hotel, located in Austin, Texas, is a historic establishment with a reputation for elegance and paranormal activity. Built in 1886 by cattle baron Jesse Driskill, the hotel has hosted numerous celebrities, politicians, and dignitaries over the years. However, it is the hotel's ghostly inhabitants that have captured the imaginations of guests. The most famous of these is the spirit of Jesse Driskill himself, who is said to haunt the hotel's corridors, ensuring that his legacy is maintained. Guests have reported seeing his apparition, as well as experiencing unexplained noises and cold spots. The Driskill Hotel is also home to the ghost of a young girl who tragically died on the premises. Her spirit is said to play with a ball in the hallways, adding to the hotel's supernatural allure. The hotel's opulent interiors and rich history create an atmosphere of elegance and mystery, drawing visitors from around the world. The Driskill Hotel's combination of historical significance, architectural beauty, and ghostly legends ensures that it remains an intriguing and unforgettable destination for all who visit.
10. The Marshall House - Savannah's Haunted Gem
The Marshall House, located in Savannah, Georgia, is a historic hotel with a reputation for elegance and paranormal activity. Built in 1851, the hotel has served various purposes over the years, including a hospital during the Civil War. It is this period of the hotel's history that has contributed to its haunted reputation, with reports of ghostly apparitions and unexplained phenomena becoming commonplace. Guests and staff alike have reported seeing the spirits of former patients, as well as experiencing sudden temperature drops and mysterious noises. The Marshall House's combination of historical significance, architectural beauty, and ghostly legends ensures that it remains a captivating destination for those seeking a taste of Savannah's haunted past. The hotel's opulent interiors and rich history create an atmosphere of elegance and mystery, drawing visitors from around the world. The Marshall House's blend of luxury and legend makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking an unforgettable experience.
11. The Omni Parker House - Boston's Historic Haunt
The Omni Parker House, located in Boston, Massachusetts, is a historic hotel with a reputation for elegance and paranormal activity. Built in 1855, the hotel has hosted numerous celebrities, politicians, and dignitaries over the years. However, it is the hotel's ghostly inhabitants that have captured the imaginations of guests. The most famous of these is the spirit of Harvey Parker, the hotel's founder, who is said to haunt the hotel's corridors, ensuring that his legacy is maintained. Guests have reported seeing his apparition, as well as experiencing unexplained noises and cold spots. The Omni Parker House is also home to the ghost of a former guest who continues to roam the halls, adding to the hotel's supernatural allure. The hotel's opulent interiors and rich history create an atmosphere of elegance and mystery, drawing visitors from around the world. The Omni Parker House's combination of historical significance, architectural beauty, and ghostly legends ensures that it remains an intriguing and unforgettable destination for all who visit.
12. The Heathman Hotel - Portland's Paranormal Paradise
The Heathman Hotel, located in Portland, Oregon, is a historic establishment with a reputation for elegance and paranormal activity. Built in 1927, the hotel has hosted numerous celebrities, politicians, and dignitaries over the years. However, it is the hotel's ghostly inhabitants that have captured the imaginations of guests. The most famous of these is the spirit of a former guest who is said to haunt the hotel's corridors, ensuring that his presence is felt. Guests have reported seeing his apparition, as well as experiencing unexplained noises and cold spots. The Heathman Hotel is also home to the ghost of a maid who continues to perform her duties from beyond the grave. Her spirit is said to tidy up rooms and assist guests, adding to the hotel's supernatural allure. The hotel's opulent interiors and rich history create an atmosphere of elegance and mystery, drawing visitors from around the world. The Heathman Hotel's combination of historical significance, architectural beauty, and ghostly legends ensures that it remains an intriguing and unforgettable destination for all who visit.
13. The Skirrid Mountain Inn - Wales' Ancient Haunt
The Skirrid Mountain Inn, located in Llanvihangel Crucorney, Wales, is a historic pub with a reputation for being one of the oldest and most haunted inns in the country. With a history dating back over 900 years, the inn has been the site of numerous executions and tragic events, contributing to its haunted reputation. Guests and staff alike have reported seeing ghostly apparitions, hearing unexplained noises, and experiencing sudden temperature drops. The most famous ghostly resident is the spirit of a former hangman who is said to haunt the inn, ensuring that his presence is felt. The Skirrid Mountain Inn's combination of historical significance, architectural beauty, and ghostly legends ensures that it remains a captivating destination for those seeking a taste of Wales' haunted past. The inn's rustic charm and rich history create an atmosphere of mystery and intrigue, drawing visitors from around the world.
14. Château de Brissac – The Green Lady’s Eternal Lament
Standing as one of the tallest castles in France, Château de Brissac is an awe-inspiring yet ominous sight. Known as the "Giant of the Loire Valley," this magnificent estate boasts seven stories, over 200 rooms, and a history steeped in tragedy. Though the castle today operates as a luxury hotel, its grandeur is overshadowed by the chilling legend of La Dame Verte (The Green Lady)—one of Europe’s most famous ghosts. The ghost is said to be Charlotte de Brézé, the illegitimate daughter of King Charles VII. According to legend, Charlotte met a gruesome fate at the hands of her husband, Jacques de Brézé, who discovered her affair with another man. In a fit of jealous rage, Jacques brutally murdered her in their chamber, stabbing her multiple times. Ever since, her tormented spirit is said to haunt the halls of Château de Brissac, forever wandering its vast corridors, unable to find peace. Guests and staff have reported eerie encounters with Charlotte’s ghastly apparition, describing her as a shadowy female figure draped in a green gown, with hollow, blackened eyes and an agonized expression. Even more terrifying, her mournful cries are said to echo through the castle, particularly in the dead of night. Some visitors have awakened to the sound of a soft whisper in their ears, only to find their room empty. Despite its ghostly reputation, Château de Brissac remains a stunning and historically rich destination, offering tours that blend its elegant Renaissance architecture with chilling ghost stories. Whether you come for the fine wine and luxury or to seek out the Green Lady yourself, this castle promises a hauntingly unforgettable stay.
15. The Mermaid Inn – Smugglers and Specters
Nestled in the heart of Rye, The Mermaid Inn is one of England’s most atmospheric and eerie inns, with a history stretching back to the 12th century. Steeped in tales of smugglers, duels, and ghostly apparitions, the inn was once the hideout of the notorious Hawkhurst Gang, a violent group of smugglers who dominated the area in the 18th century. The gang operated in secrecy, using underground tunnels and hidden passages to transport contraband—and sometimes, to dispose of those who got in their way. The ghosts of these ruthless criminals and their unfortunate victims are said to linger, making The Mermaid Inn a paranormal hotspot. Guests and staff have reported rocking chairs moving on their own, fireplaces reigniting with no apparent cause, and mysterious shadows flickering across the dimly lit rooms. One of the most haunted rooms, Room 17, is infamous for the spirit of a ghostly woman in white. She has been seen sitting on the edge of the bed, silently watching guests before fading into the walls. The sounds of footsteps pacing above—on a floor that no longer exists—have unnerved many who stay the night. The bar area is no safer, with reports of a spectral man in old-fashioned clothing appearing by the fireplace before disappearing into thin air. Some visitors have even reported the sensation of unseen hands brushing against them or an icy breath on the back of their neck.
16. Fairmont Château Laurier – Ottawa’s Phantom of the Founder
The Fairmont Château Laurier is one of Canada’s most stunning and historic hotels, yet behind its grand Edwardian architecture lies an eerie legend. Charles Melville Hays, the man who commissioned the hotel, never got to see it open—he perished aboard the Titanic just weeks before its grand unveiling in 1912. Many believe Hays still roams the halls, overseeing the hotel from beyond. Guests and staff report ghostly apparitions, flickering lights, and strange cold spots in the halls. The sound of footsteps echoing when no one is there has spooked many visitors, and some claim to have seen the shadowy figure of a distinguished gentleman in early 1900s attire. While the hotel is a beacon of luxury, its link to the Titanic tragedy adds an unmistakable chill to its opulent atmosphere.
17. Dragsholm Castle – A Haunted Noble’s Resting Place
Sitting ominously in the Danish countryside, Dragsholm Castle is an impressive medieval stronghold with a long and haunted past. Dating back to the 13th century, the castle has served as a fortress, a noble residence, and even a prison, where high-profile captives were chained and left to waste away. Today, it operates as a luxury hotel—but its eerie history refuses to stay buried. Dragsholm Castle is home to three famous ghosts. The White Lady: Believed to be the daughter of a nobleman, she fell in love with a commoner and was bricked up inside the castle walls as punishment. Hundreds of years later, her skeleton was discovered in a hidden chamber, still in a white dress. Her apparition continues to wander the corridors, eternally trapped in the place of her death.The Gray Lady: This spirit is thought to be a former maid who remains loyal to the castle even in death. She is often seen at night, quietly drifting through rooms, as if still tending to the needs of the guests. The Earl of Bothwell: The most terrifying presence is that of James Hepburn, the 4th Earl of Bothwell, who was imprisoned in Dragsholm’s dungeons in the late 16th century. He reportedly went mad before dying in captivity, and his spirit is said to still roam the castle, often heard wailing from the basement.
18. The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel – A Star-Studded Spectral Cast
In the heart of Hollywood, where fame and tragedy often intertwine, the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel stands as one of the most haunted celebrity haunts. Opened in 1927, this lavish hotel has hosted some of Hollywood’s greatest legends—but some stars seem to have never checked out. One of the most famous spirits is Marilyn Monroe, whose reflection has been seen in a full-length mirror in Room 1200, the suite she once frequently stayed in. Guests have reported cold spots, mysterious whispers, and even feeling a soft touch on their shoulders. Another famous ghost is Montgomery Clift, who stayed in Room 928 while filming From Here to Eternity. Guests in this room claim to hear the sound of a trumpet playing—a nod to Clift’s habit of practicing in his room. With phantom voices, floating apparitions, and an atmosphere filled with Hollywood’s golden age, The Roosevelt remains an iconic yet eerie destination for those intrigued by the darker side of fame.
19. Dalhousie Castle – A Haunted Highland Fortress
Dating back to the 13th century, Dalhousie Castle is now a breathtaking luxury hotel—but its past is filled with betrayal, imprisonment, and ghostly encounters. The most famous spirit is Lady Catherine, known as the Grey Lady, who was locked in the castle’s tower and starved to death. Guests staying in her former chamber report feeling an unseen presence, sudden drops in temperature, and even an invisible hand brushing against them as they sleep. The dungeon-turned-restaurant also has its share of ghostly activity—diners have seen shadowy figures lurking near their tables, only for them to vanish moments later. With its medieval charm and chilling legends, Dalhousie Castle is a dream (or nightmare) destination for those seeking a paranormal stay.
20. The Sagamore Resort – Lake George’s Ghostly Guests
Nestled on Lake George, The Sagamore Resort is a picture-perfect escape… until nightfall. Built in 1883, this luxury retreat is home to numerous spirits, from a ghostly child playing in the hallways to phantom whispers heard in empty corridors. One of the most chilling encounters takes place on the resort’s golf course, where the ghost of a mischievous young boy is known to appear. Golfers have spotted him stealing golf balls and running into the woods, only for him to vanish before their eyes. Inside the hotel, guests have reported hearing their names called when no one is there, feeling cold hands touch their shoulders, and seeing ghostly figures dressed in 19th-century clothing. With its stunning lakeside views and unexplained phenomena, The Sagamore is a luxurious yet chilling haunted getaway.
21. The Grand Hyatt Taipei – Built on Unsettled Spirits
Towering over Taipei’s skyline, the Grand Hyatt Taipei is a luxury high-rise hotel known for its modern opulence, five-star service, and ghostly disturbances. Though guests come expecting high-end accommodations, many leave shaken by the unexplainable phenomena they experience during their stay. The source of the hauntings? The hotel was reportedly built on the site of a former prison and execution ground, where many political prisoners met tragic ends. While the sleek, contemporary design of the Grand Hyatt conceals this dark past, the spirits of the past seem unwilling to be forgotten. Reports from guests include inexplicable knocking sounds, objects moving on their own, and an overwhelming sense of unease—particularly on the upper floors. Some visitors have even fled their rooms in the middle of the night after experiencing disembodied whispers or the sensation of an invisible force pressing down on them. Even Hollywood celebrities have refused to stay at the Grand Hyatt due to the eerie energy. The hotel has attempted to ward off the spirits by placing feng shui talismans and sacred scrolls throughout the lobby, yet guests still claim to feel an unshakable presence lingering in the air.
22. The Old Bell Hotel – A 13th-Century Tavern of Terrors
Reputed to be one of England’s oldest coaching inns, The Old Bell Hotel has been welcoming weary travelers for over 800 years—but some guests have never checked out. Steeped in medieval history, this charming yet eerie hotel is said to be home to several ghostly presences. Paranormal activity is strongest in Room 3, where guests frequently wake to the sensation of someone sitting on their bed. Many have glimpsed an apparition of a woman in a flowing white gown, who appears at the foot of the bed before silently vanishing into the darkness. The hotel bar is also a hotspot for ghostly activity. After closing hours, staff have heard disembodied voices murmuring, as if unseen patrons continue their conversations from centuries past. Bottles have been known to fall from shelves without cause, and guests relaxing in the lounge have reported feeling an icy breath on their necks—only to turn and find no one there. With its antique furnishings, crackling fireplaces, and medieval charm, The Old Bell offers a stay that is equal parts cozy and chilling. Whether you come for a pint of ale or a paranormal experience, this centuries-old inn guarantees an unforgettable visit.
23. Pousada Mosteiro de Amares – A Hauntingly Beautiful Monastery Stay
Perched high in the serene Portuguese countryside, the Pousada Mosteiro de Amares is a breathtakingly restored 16th-century monastery, offering guests a blend of tranquility and ghostly intrigue. While now a luxurious pousada (historic hotel), it retains much of its original stone archways, shadowy cloisters, and flickering candlelit corridors—all of which contribute to its otherworldly atmosphere. Though the hotel exudes peace and beauty, visitors have reported eerie encounters with the spirits of monks who never left. Some guests have been startled awake by the distant sound of chanting, despite the fact that no monks reside here anymore. Others have felt sudden cold spots in certain hallways, as if walking through an unseen presence. One particularly chilling report comes from travelers who claim to have seen figures in hooded robes gliding silently through the courtyard, disappearing into the stone walls. Staff members have also experienced unexplained occurrences, such as doors locking on their own, lights flickering without reason, and the sensation of being watched while alone in the kitchen. For those drawn to spiritual history with a supernatural twist, Pousada Mosteiro de Amares is a dream destination. Whether you visit for the monastery’s timeless beauty or the thrill of encountering its lingering spirits, this hotel promises a stay unlike any other.
Where Legends Live On
As we conclude our journey through the 23 eeriest hotels and haunted inns, we find ourselves captivated by the stories and legends that have shaped these destinations. Each location offers a unique glimpse into a world where the past and present intertwine, creating an atmosphere of mystery and intrigue. The allure of haunted hotels lies in their ability to transport us to a realm where the supernatural is not only possible but palpable. Whether drawn by history, architecture, or the thrill of the unknown, visitors to these haunted havens find themselves immersed in a world where legends never die. These eerie establishments remind us that the line between reality and the supernatural is often blurred, leaving us to ponder the mysteries that lie beyond. As we step inside these haunted hotels and inns, we are reminded of the stories and spirits that continue to captivate our imaginations, ensuring that their legends live on for generations to come.
