I Stayed in the Haunted Hotel That Inspired 'The Shining,' and It’s Full of Real and Imagined Ghosts

A History of Hospitality and…Happenings

Before delving into the spectral side, it's important to understand the Stanley Hotel's origins. Built in 1909 by Freelan Oscar Stanley, an inventor and entrepreneur, the hotel was intended to be a luxurious mountain retreat for the wealthy. Its grand ballroom, opulent dining room, and meticulously kept grounds quickly established its reputation. However, whispers of strange happenings began circulating early on, adding another layer to the hotel’s already intriguing story.

The legend truly took hold when Stephen King and his wife Tabitha stayed at the Stanley in 1974. They were the only guests in the hotel as it was preparing to close for the winter. This isolation, coupled with the hotel’s distinctive atmosphere, sparked King's imagination, leading to the creation of his iconic novel. While "The Shining" is fictional, the Stanley Hotel's ambiance provided the perfect backdrop for his tale of madness and the supernatural.

Checking In and Checking for Spirits

My arrival at the Stanley Hotel was both exciting and slightly unnerving. The crisp mountain air and the imposing architecture immediately set the stage. I opted for a ghost tour to learn more about the hotel's reported paranormal activity. Our guide, a knowledgeable storyteller, recounted tales of former staff and guests who had reported encounters with spirits. From the laughter of children in the hallways to the sound of a piano playing in the empty ballroom, the stories were varied and compelling.

The most frequently cited ghosts are those of Freelan Oscar Stanley and his wife, Flora. Many guests have reported seeing Mr. Stanley tending to his billiards in the billiard room, while Flora is said to play the piano in the music room, often selecting her favorite songs. One particularly chilling story involves Room 217, where Stephen King himself stayed. Guests have reported experiencing unusual phenomena in this room, including objects moving on their own and unexplained noises. I, unfortunately (or perhaps fortunately), wasn't assigned to Room 217.

My Own Encounters (or Lack Thereof)

While I didn't witness any dramatic apparitions, I did experience a few odd occurrences. The hallway outside my room felt unusually cold, even though the temperature inside was comfortable. I also heard faint whispers in the middle of the night, although it's possible they were simply the sounds of an old building settling. Perhaps my mind was simply playing tricks on me, fueled by the hotel’s reputation and the anticipation of a haunted experience.

Ultimately, my stay at the Stanley Hotel was more about the atmosphere than concrete paranormal evidence. The hotel’s history, combined with the stories of ghost sightings, created a palpable sense of unease and intrigue. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the Stanley Hotel offers a unique and memorable experience.

Beyond the Ghosts: Exploring the Stanley

Even without the paranormal activity, the Stanley Hotel is worth visiting for its historical significance and stunning location. You can explore the meticulously preserved rooms, wander through the beautiful grounds, and enjoy fine dining in the elegant restaurants. The hotel also offers a variety of events and activities, from murder mystery dinners to live music performances. And, of course, any visit should include a viewing of "The Shining" on the hotel's own closed-circuit channel. It's a fittingly meta experience.

Planning Your Own Haunted Adventure

If you're considering a trip to the Stanley Hotel, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience:

Book in advance: The Stanley Hotel is a popular destination, especially during peak season.

Take a ghost tour: This is a great way to learn about the hotel’s history and reported paranormal activity.

Request a specific room: If you’re feeling brave, you can request Room 217 or one of the other rooms known for ghost sightings.

Be open to the experience: Whether you believe in ghosts or not, embrace the atmosphere and let your imagination run wild.

Respect the history: The Stanley Hotel is a historical landmark, so treat it with respect.

Rating the Stanley Hotel Experience

Let's break down the experience with a rating system based on different factors:

My stay at the Stanley Hotel was an unforgettable experience. It’s a place where history and mystery intertwine, offering something for everyone, whether you're a ghost hunter, a history buff, or simply looking for a unique getaway. Just be prepared to keep an open mind – and maybe keep a nightlight handy.