The Stanley Hotel: A Legendary Destination of History, Haunts, and Horror
Nestled in the scenic mountain town of Estes Park, Colorado, the Stanley Hotel has earned its place as one of America’s most iconic, and haunted, hotels. Built over a century ago, the hotel’s fascinating history, luxurious charm, and eerie reputation continue to attract visitors from around the world. Whether you’re drawn by its stunning views, grand architecture, or ghostly legends, the Stanley Hotel offers an unforgettable experience—and maybe a few chills down your spine.
The Birth of the Stanley Hotel: Visionary Beginnings
The story of the Stanley Hotel begins with its founder, Freelan Oscar Stanley, a man with grand ambitions and an eye for luxury. Stanley was a wealthy inventor and entrepreneur, best known for co-founding the Stanley Motor Carriage Company, a manufacturer of steam-powered cars. In 1903, Stanley’s life took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with tuberculosis. At that time, the best treatment for tuberculosis was fresh, dry air and sunshine, so Stanley and his wife, Flora, moved to the Rocky Mountains, hoping the climate of Estes Park would improve his health.
Not only did the clean mountain air work wonders for his health, but it also inspired him to transform Estes Park into a luxurious destination for the elite. In 1909, Stanley opened the Stanley Hotel, a grand Georgian-style building offering 48 rooms, lavish amenities, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. It quickly became a hub for wealthy vacationers and a symbol of elegance in the heart of Colorado.
Stephen King and “The Shining”: The Birth of a Horror Classic
While the Stanley Hotel was known for its beauty and grandeur, its reputation took a darker turn in 1974 when it became the inspiration for Stephen King’s iconic horror novel, The Shining. King and his wife stayed at the Stanley Hotel for one night during the off-season, when most of the hotel’s guests and staff had already left. The couple found themselves nearly alone in the vast, eerie hotel.
King later described the experience as unsettling, particularly when he wandered through the empty halls and into the grand dining room, where they were served dinner. That night, King had a nightmare about his young son being chased down the hotel’s hallways by a possessed fire hose. He woke up in a cold sweat and immediately began to outline the story that would become The Shining—a tale of isolation, madness, and malevolent forces lurking in a haunted hotel.
While the Stanley Hotel was not the setting for Stanley Kubrick’s famous film adaptation, it remains deeply connected to King’s novel. The hotel embraces its spooky legacy, hosting ghost tours, and offering Room 217—the exact room where King stayed—as a popular (and often fully booked) attraction.
Real Hauntings and Paranormal Encounters
Beyond Stephen King’s fictional tale, the Stanley Hotel has developed its own reputation for paranormal activity, and some of its stories are just as chilling as King’s novel.
One of the most famous spirits is that of Elizabeth Wilson, the hotel’s former head housekeeper. In 1911, during a storm that caused a gas leak, Wilson entered Room 217, unaware of the gas buildup, and was injured in an explosion that partially destroyed the second floor. While she survived the incident, her ghost is said to linger in the room to this day. Guests report that their belongings are mysteriously unpacked or rearranged, and some have even claimed to feel a cold presence while staying in the room.
The Concert Hall is another hotbed of paranormal activity. Built by Freelan Stanley as a gift for his wife, Flora, it’s said that her ghost still lingers here, occasionally playing the piano. Visitors often hear soft piano music drifting through the hall, even when no one is near the instrument.
The fourth floor of the Stanley Hotel is also notorious for strange occurrences. This floor, which once housed female employees and children, is said to be haunted by playful spirits. Guests often hear the sound of children laughing and running down the halls, despite no children being present.
Other mysterious happenings reported over the years include flickering lights, ghostly figures appearing in photographs, and even strange voices heard in empty rooms. The hotel offers nightly ghost tours, allowing visitors to explore the haunted areas and hear the spine-tingling stories firsthand.
Visit the Stanley Hotel: A Blend of History and Horror
Today, the Stanley Hotel remains a popular destination for history buffs, paranormal enthusiasts, and The Shining fans alike. Its rich history, coupled with its spooky reputation, makes it a must-visit location in Colorado. Whether you’re looking to learn more about its grand beginnings, hoping to spot a ghost, or just want to relax in the beautiful Estes Park scenery, the Stanley Hotel offers an experience unlike any other.
But be warned: if you do decide to stay in Room 217, you might want to keep the lights on…
