Spooky season is almost here, and what better way to celebrate than by spending the night in a haunted hotel? Across the country, you’ll find historic spots where ghostly guests reportedly never checked out. If you’re brave enough, you can book a stay and experience the thrills for yourself.
Why Stay in a Haunted Hotel?
Haunted hotels combine history, mystery, and just enough fright to keep your heart racing. These aren’t just old buildings. They’re full of stories, strange noises, and the kind of charm you won’t find at chain hotels.
Plus, booking a stay gives you bragging rights. Anyone can visit a haunted house for Halloween. But only a few spend the night where ghosts might wander the halls.
The Stanley Hotel – Estes Park, Colorado
Made famous by Stephen King’s The Shining, The Stanley Hotel is one of the most haunted hotels in America. Guests report hearing piano music in empty rooms and seeing flickering lights in the hallways.
If you’re feeling adventurous, book a ghost tour along with your stay. It adds an extra layer of eerie fun to your visit.
The Crescent Hotel – Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Nicknamed “America’s Most Haunted Hotel,” The Crescent has a chilling history. It once served as a cancer hospital run by a con man. Many believe patients who died there never left.
Today, guests report seeing ghostly figures, hearing footsteps, and feeling sudden cold spots. The hotel leans into its haunted reputation with nightly ghost tours.
The Queen Mary – Long Beach, California
This retired ocean liner turned hotel is a hotspot for paranormal activity. The Queen Mary is said to be haunted by sailors and passengers who died at sea.
The ship offers haunted attraction tours and paranormal investigations. You can even sleep in the cabins where spirits have been spotted. It’s a unique blend of history and hauntings.
Hotel Monteleone – New Orleans, Louisiana
Right in the French Quarter, Hotel Monteleone is elegant and eerie. Guests have reported ghostly children running through the hallways and playful spirits tugging on sheets.
Despite the hauntings, the hotel is luxurious and charming. It’s perfect for travelers who want a spooky stay with comfort.
The Myrtles Plantation – St. Francisville, Louisiana
Known as one of the most haunted homes in America, The Myrtles Plantation is now a bed-and-breakfast. Legend says at least a dozen spirits roam the grounds, including a servant named Chloe.
Guests often spot figures in mirrors or catch mysterious orbs in photos. Staying here feels like stepping into another time.
Jerome Grand Hotel – Jerome, Arizona
Perched on a hillside in an old mining town, the Jerome Grand Hotel has a chilling backstory. It was once a hospital where many patients passed away.
Guests report eerie voices, moving objects, and lights that flicker on their own. With its old-time charm and ghostly reputation, it’s perfect for thrill seekers.
Tips for Booking a Haunted Hotel Stay
If you’re ready to book, keep these tips in mind:
- Do your research – Some rooms are more haunted than others.
- Book early – Spooky season fills up fast.
- Bring an open mind – You may not see a ghost, but the atmosphere alone is unforgettable.
- Pack a flashlight – Just in case the lights start flickering.
Final Thoughts
Staying in a haunted hotel is more than a Halloween thrill. It’s a chance to walk through history, hear spooky tales, and maybe even meet a ghost or two. Whether you’re looking for luxury with a twist or a truly spine-chilling night, these hotels deliver.
So, if you’re brave enough, book your room this spooky season. Who knows—you might check in with more company than you planned.
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Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.