Stanley Hotel Estes Park, Colorado

Nestled in the picturesque town of Estes Park, Colorado, the Stanley Hotel stands as an iconic landmark with a reputation for being one of the most haunted hotels in the United States. Built in 1909 by F.O. Stanley, the hotel’s grandeur and old-world charm have attracted guests from all walks of life, including celebrities and dignitaries. However, it’s not just the stunning architecture and scenic surroundings that draw people to the Stanley; it’s the reported paranormal activity that has captured the public’s imagination.

Numerous ghostly encounters have been documented at the Stanley Hotel over the years, fueling its reputation as a hotspot for supernatural phenomena. One of the most famous stories involves the ghost of F.O. Stanley himself, who is said to still roam the hallways and lobby of the hotel. Guests and staff have reported seeing his apparition dressed in formal attire, often accompanied by the scent of his cigar smoke lingering in the air.

Another well-known spectral resident is Elizabeth Wilson, a former housekeeper at the Stanley. Legend has it that she haunts Room 217, where she once worked. Guests staying in the room have reported encountering her ghostly presence, with some claiming to have felt her tucking them into bed or unpacking their luggage.

Other paranormal occurrences include mysterious footsteps echoing through empty corridors, doors slamming shut on their own, and flickering lights. The hotel’s famous concert hall is also said to be frequented by ghostly performers, with visitors reporting the sound of phantom music and applause late at night.

Despite its haunted reputation, the Stanley Hotel continues to welcome guests eager to experience its rich history and otherworldly charm. Whether one believes in the paranormal or not, a stay at the Stanley is sure to leave a lasting impression, with the allure of the unknown lingering long after check-out.