1. Stanley Hotel – Estes Park, Colorado
If the name Stanley Hotel sounds familiar, it’s probably because it inspired Stephen King’s The Shining. This historic hotel is more than just a spooky setting for a novel—it’s an active site of supernatural activity. Guests have reported hearing eerie laughter in the halls, doors slamming shut by themselves, and the unmistakable sound of piano music from an abandoned ballroom. Most famously, some have claimed to see the spirits of former guests walking through the lobby, as if they never quite checked out.
Despite these unsettling reports, the Stanley Hotel remains a popular destination for tourists and ghost hunters alike. You can take a spooky guided tour through the hotel, or if you’re brave enough, you can book a stay and hope the ghosts decide to leave you in peace. The hotel’s charm lies in its classic grandeur, which may be hard to appreciate if you’re constantly looking over your shoulder.
2. The Queen Mary – Long Beach, California
Docked permanently in Long Beach, California, the Queen Mary is a former luxury cruise liner that now serves as a hotel and restaurant. But this ship isn’t just known for its nautical history—it’s also notorious for being one of the most haunted places on the West Coast. Since its days as a troop transport during World War II, there have been numerous reports of paranormal activity, including footsteps in empty halls and the voices of children playing in the ship’s pool area. Guests have claimed to feel a cold chill, even when the air conditioning is off, and some say they’ve spotted ghostly apparitions in the ship’s corridors.
Despite the spooky reputation, the Queen Mary continues to operate as a hotel, offering guests the chance to explore its haunted past. The ship hosts an annual Halloween event, drawing thrill-seekers and those curious about its haunted legacy. If you decide to stay, just know you’re not alone—at least, not in the way you might expect.
3. The Myrtles Plantation – St. Francisville, Louisiana
The Myrtles Plantation, built in 1796, is infamous for its bloody history and the many ghostly figures that are said to haunt the property. One of the most well-known spirits is Chloe, a former slave who allegedly poisoned the family and then tragically died in the plantation’s grounds. Guests staying at the plantation have reported hearing footsteps, seeing apparitions, and even experiencing sudden drops in temperature. The plantation is often listed as one of the most haunted places in America.
Though it’s steeped in dark history, The Myrtles Plantation is still open for tours and overnight stays. Many visitors come for the eerie ambiance, while others are simply seeking the thrill of a haunted getaway. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, there’s no denying the chilling atmosphere of this historic home.
4. The Cecil Hotel – Los Angeles, California
The Cecil Hotel in downtown Los Angeles has a long and twisted history. It’s been the scene of numerous deaths, suicides, and disappearances, including the infamous case of Elisa Lam in 2013, whose body was found in the hotel’s water tank. The hotel has been known to attract troubled souls, and its past includes ties to serial killers like Richard Ramirez. Many visitors to the Cecil Hotel report feeling an overwhelming sense of dread, and some have claimed to experience violent disturbances in their rooms.
Though it has been rebranded as the Stay on Main, the hotel’s troubled past remains. Today, it still accepts guests, offering them a chance to stay in one of the most notorious locations in modern history. If you’re daring enough to stay the night, make sure you’re prepared for the heavy atmosphere that lingers in the air.
5. The Hotel del Coronado – Coronado, California
The Hotel del Coronado is one of the most beautiful resorts on the California coast, but don’t let its charm fool you. The hotel has a haunted reputation, thanks in part to the mysterious death of a young woman named Kate Morgan in 1892. Morgan checked into the hotel under an assumed name, and days later, she was found dead of a gunshot wound on the hotel’s beach. Since then, guests and staff have reported seeing her ghostly figure wandering the grounds, especially near the hotel’s old Victorian-style rooms.
Despite the chilling tales, the Hotel del Coronado continues to be a favorite vacation spot for tourists. Guests can enjoy the stunning views and elegant accommodations while knowing that they might share the property with a few lingering spirits. If you’re looking for luxury with a side of the supernatural, this hotel offers both.
6. The Langham Hotel – London, England
The Langham Hotel in London is known for its elegant design and historical significance, but it’s also famous for its spooky reputation. In the 19th century, a guest reportedly jumped to his death from the hotel’s fourth floor, and since then, numerous ghost sightings have been reported. The most well-known apparition is that of a man in Victorian clothing, who’s often seen wandering the hallways or appearing in guests’ rooms during the night. The hotel’s eerie history has made it a favorite among paranormal enthusiasts.
Although it has a dark history, The Langham continues to attract a steady stream of guests. Its luxurious accommodations and proximity to London’s famous attractions make it a popular choice for travelers—though some may prefer to steer clear of the ghostly presence that seems to linger just beyond the shadows.
7. The Paris Opera House – Paris, France
The Paris Opera House, or Palais Garnier, is an architectural masterpiece and a cultural landmark in Paris. It’s also home to one of the most famous ghost stories of all time: the legend of the Phantom of the Opera. Though the story is fictional, many believe the opera house is genuinely haunted by the spirit of a former resident. Visitors have reported hearing strange sounds during the night, like creaking floors, whispers, and even the sound of opera music in empty rooms. Some say they’ve seen mysterious figures in the audience during performances.
Despite its ghostly reputation, the Paris Opera House is still operational and open to the public for tours and performances. The building’s grandeur and the mystique surrounding its supernatural ties continue to attract tourists from all over the world. If you’re lucky—or unlucky—you might even get a glimpse of the phantom in the process.
8. The Biltmore Hotel – Asheville, North Carolina
The Biltmore Hotel in Asheville, North Carolina, is known for its luxurious offerings and stunning architecture, but it also has a long history of paranormal activity. Guests have reported seeing the ghost of a woman who died mysteriously in the hotel’s gardens, as well as hearing the sounds of footsteps in the hallways when no one is around. The most famous apparition is said to be that of a former staff member who died while working at the hotel, still tending to the guests’ needs in the afterlife.
Despite these eerie encounters, The Biltmore remains one of the most sought-after destinations in the region. Its gorgeous gardens, grandiose design, and world-class amenities make it a prime spot for visitors looking for a touch of history—and perhaps a brush with the supernatural.
9. The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel – Banff, Canada
Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is a stunning place to stay, but it’s also one of the most haunted hotels in North America. The hotel is home to several restless spirits, including a bride who tragically fell to her death on the staircase and a bellman who still roams the halls, helping guests with their luggage. Many guests have reported seeing ghostly figures in their rooms or feeling a chill when walking through certain corridors.
Despite its ghostly reputation, the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is a popular destination for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation in the Canadian wilderness. It offers breathtaking views and a rich history, and if you’re brave enough, you might just encounter one of its long-departed guests.
10. The Chateaubriand Hotel – Paris, France
In the heart of Paris, the Chateaubriand Hotel is a beautiful, historical establishment that is also home to numerous ghost stories. The hotel is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former owner who died under mysterious circumstances. Guests have reported seeing a tall, dark figure wandering the halls and hearing strange noises in the night. Some have even claimed to have experienced cold spots or seen lights flicker inexplicably.
Even though its ghostly reputation precedes it, the Chateaubriand Hotel still welcomes guests to enjoy its luxurious accommodations. The rich history and elegant atmosphere make it a popular spot for tourists, but be prepared to encounter some supernatural guests along with the regular ones.
11. The Omni Parker House – Boston, Massachusetts
The Omni Parker House is one of Boston’s most famous hotels, boasting a rich history that includes hosting several U.S. presidents and notable figures. But it’s also known for its haunted history. Guests have reported seeing the ghost of a former hotel employee who passed away while working there. Other paranormal activity includes the sound of phantom footsteps and doors that open and close on their own. Some visitors even claim to have been woken up by an unseen presence in the middle of the night.
Despite these unsettling reports, the Omni Parker House continues to operate as a historic hotel, drawing visitors from across the country. Its legacy and iconic status make it a must-see for anyone visiting Boston, though you may want to bring a flashlight—just in case.
12. The Bell Witch Cave – Adams, Tennessee
While not technically a hotel, the Bell Witch Cave is one of the most haunted places in America, and it once hosted overnight stays for those daring enough to test the paranormal. The cave is named after the Bell Witch, a spirit that tormented the Bell family in the early 19th century. Guests who have stayed overnight nearby have reported hearing strange voices, footsteps, and feeling an oppressive sense of fear. The cave and surrounding property are now part of a tourist attraction, with tours available for those brave enough to explore its dark history.
Though you may not find luxury accommodations here, staying near the Bell Witch Cave certainly promises a spine-tingling experience. If you’re looking for a getaway with a chilling history, this hauntingly unique location might be just what you need.