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Haunted Thrills At Stanley Hotel

Published:

by Lavinia Womble

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Ever wondered what it's like to stay in a haunted hotel? The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado, might be the perfect place for you. Known for its eerie atmosphere and ghostly encounters, this historic hotel inspired Stephen King's famous novel, "The Shining." Guests have reported strange noises, flickering lights, and even sightings of ghostly figures. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or just curious, visiting the Stanley Hotel offers a unique experience. Imagine walking through the same halls where King found his inspiration. Ready to face your fears? Let's dive into the haunted history and spine-chilling stories of the Stanley Hotel.

Haunted History of the Stanley Hotel

The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado, is famous for its ghostly encounters. Built in 1909, this grand hotel has a rich history filled with eerie tales and spooky sightings. Let's explore some of the most haunted spots within this historic landmark.

The Infamous Room 217

Room 217 is perhaps the most famous room in the Stanley Hotel. This room inspired Stephen King to write "The Shining" after he experienced a chilling night there.

  1. Stephen King's Stay: King and his wife stayed in Room 217 in 1974. He had a nightmare about his son being chased through the hotel, which led to the creation of his famous novel.
  2. Elizabeth Wilson's Ghost: Elizabeth Wilson, a former housekeeper, is said to haunt this room. Guests report their belongings being mysteriously unpacked and lights turning on and off by themselves.

The Concert Hall

The Concert Hall is another hotspot for paranormal activity. Built by F.O. Stanley as a gift for his wife, Flora, this hall has seen many ghostly apparitions.

  1. Paul the Handyman: Paul worked at the hotel until his death in 2005. His spirit is known to enforce the hotel's curfew, often heard telling guests to "get out."
  2. Lucy: A young girl named Lucy is believed to haunt the basement of the Concert Hall. She is often seen or heard humming and singing.

The Grand Staircase

The Grand Staircase is a beautiful centerpiece of the hotel, but it also has its share of ghostly encounters. Many guests have reported seeing apparitions on the stairs.

  1. Ghostly Figures: Several guests have captured photos of ghostly figures on the staircase. These figures often appear as misty shapes or orbs of light.
  2. Phantom Footsteps: Visitors frequently hear footsteps on the stairs when no one is there, adding to the eerie atmosphere.

The Fourth Floor

The fourth floor of the Stanley Hotel is known for its high level of paranormal activity. Originally used as a servant's quarters, this floor has many ghostly tales.

  1. Children's Ghosts: Guests often hear the sounds of children running and laughing in the hallways, even when no children are present.
  2. Room 401: This room is particularly haunted, with reports of a male ghost who likes to stand at the foot of the bed and watch guests as they sleep.

The Underground Tunnels

Beneath the Stanley Hotel lies a network of underground tunnels. These tunnels were used by staff to move about the hotel unseen, but they are now known for their ghostly inhabitants.

  1. Shadow Figures: Many have reported seeing shadowy figures moving through the tunnels. These figures are often seen out of the corner of one's eye, disappearing when looked at directly.
  2. Cold Spots: Visitors frequently experience sudden drops in temperature while walking through the tunnels, a common sign of paranormal activity.

The MacGregor Room

The MacGregor Room, used for meetings and events, has its own share of ghostly encounters. This room is known for its strange occurrences and eerie atmosphere.

  1. Mysterious Noises: Guests often hear unexplained noises, such as knocking and whispering, coming from this room.
  2. Moving Objects: Objects in the MacGregor Room have been known to move on their own, with chairs and tables shifting positions overnight.

The Stanley Hotel Grounds

Even the grounds of the Stanley Hotel are not free from paranormal activity. The beautiful landscape hides many ghostly secrets.

  1. Ghostly Apparitions: Visitors have reported seeing ghostly figures wandering the grounds, especially near the hotel's entrance.
  2. Unexplained Lights: Strange lights are often seen floating around the property at night, adding to the hotel's haunted reputation.

Spooky Adventures Await

Stanley Hotel offers a unique blend of history and haunted thrills. From ghost tours to eerie stories, there's something for every thrill-seeker. The hotel's haunted history adds an extra layer of excitement to your stay. Whether you're exploring the haunted rooms or joining a ghost hunt, the experience is unforgettable. The beautiful surroundings of Estes Park provide a perfect backdrop for your spooky adventure. Don't forget to visit the Stanley Hotel's famous bar for a drink and maybe a ghostly encounter. For those who love a good scare, this hotel is a must-visit. Pack your bags, bring your courage, and get ready for a stay filled with haunted excitement. The Stanley Hotel promises a thrilling experience you won't soon forget.