Searching for a spooky adventure this Halloween season? For travelers seeking a truly thrilling and unique escape, combining the prospects of the supernatural with luxurious amenities can lead to an unforgettable adventure. From the East Coast to the West, America boasts a collection of elegant, historic places to stay where guests may encounter more than just luxurious amenities – you might just cross paths with a ghostly presence. In the spirit of Halloween, we take you on a spine-tingling journey through some of America’s finest haunted luxury hotels, each with its own chilling tale.
The Stanley Hotel
Estes Park, Colorado
One of the most iconic properties in the world, the Stanley Hotel stands as a magnificent testament to history and grandeur. Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Estes Park, Colorado, this luxurious retreat (best known as the inspiration for Stephen King’s novel “The Shining”) has a reputation for being one of the most haunted hotels in the United States. Guests have reported eerie encounters with apparitions, phantom piano music, and mysterious whispers that permeate the hallways. The iconic Room 217, where King himself stayed, is said to be the epicenter of supernatural activity. Much less scary are the newly renovated rooms and suites, modern amenities like Tesla chargers, and whiskey bar boasting Colorado’s largest selection of whiskeys and single malt scotches.
The Elms Hotel & Spa
Kansas City, MI
From its beautifully landscaped grounds and world-class spa to its elegant dining options and lavish accommodations, The Elms is a wonderful option while visiting Kansas City. But while the hotel’s modern-day splendor is undeniable, the lingering echoes of its haunted history add an extra layer of intrigue to the experience. Initially built in 1888, The Elms has a rich past that includes visits from dignitaries and celebrities, but it is equally renowned for its ghostly inhabitants. Guests have reported eerie encounters with apparitions, phantom footsteps in the hallways, and inexplicable temperature drops, particularly in the haunted room 314. As featured on Ghost Hunters, the luxury haunted hotel’s history is woven into the fabric of its luxurious offerings, creating an enchanting blend of the past and present that promises an unforgettable stay.
The Pfister Hotel
Milwaukee, WI
Nestled in the heart of downtown Milwaukee, The Pfister Hotel is a magnificent establishment that seamlessly blends timeless luxury with a rich and eerie history. Boasting Victorian charm and modern elegance, the hotel offers ornate architecture, plush accommodations, and amenities like a renowned spa. However, it’s the hotel’s equally celebrated haunted history that lends an additional layer of allure. Charles Pfister, the hotel’s original owner, is believed to continue his vigilance from beyond the grave, making appearances in various forms and leaving behind traces of his spectral presence. Eerie tales abound within these hallowed halls, with reports of flickering lights, mysterious noises, and even sightings of a distinguished apparition in a tuxedo. The Pfister Hotel provides a blend of historic luxury and ghostly intrigue that promises an enchanting stay for all visitors.
The Driskill
Austin, TX
The historic Driskill stands as a beacon of timeless elegance in Austin. This opulent establishment captivates visitors with its exquisite architecture, sumptuous accommodations, and classic charm making it a prime destination for visitors each year. However, the Driskill’s enduring allure goes beyond its luxurious offerings, for it is also renowned for its rich and eerie haunted history. The hotel’s most famous spectral inhabitant is the ghost of Samantha Houston, a bride who tragically met her end on her wedding day. Her presence is said to linger, with guests reporting inexplicable temperature drops, the faint, lingering scent of cigar smoke in non-smoking rooms, and doors mysteriously opening and closing on their own. The Driskill Hotel beckons visitors to embrace the convergence of timeless luxury and the unknown.
The Omni Grove Park Inn
Ashton, NC
Nestled in the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, The Omni Grove Park Inn is a true southern gem that blends historic charm with modern luxury. This iconic resort offers guests an array of sumptuous amenities, from its championship golf course and award-winning spa to the stunning, lagoon-like indoor pool and opulent accommodations. But the luxury haunted hotel’s rich history, dating back to its opening in 1913, adds an extra layer of allure to the experience. While it boasts a reputation for luxury, The Omni Grove Park Inn is equally renowned for its haunted history, with tales that have been passed down through generations. The most notable spectral inhabitant is the Pink Lady, a mysterious and mischievous spirit often seen as a woman in a pink ball gown. Her presence adds a touch of the enigmatic to the overall ambiance, with guests recounting experiences such as ghostly laughter, unexplained footsteps, and the sensation of being watched. Sleep tight.