The Stanley Hotel

PARANORMAL TRAVEL FEATURE

The Haunted Inspiration for The Shining

Nestled in the Rocky Mountains of Estes Park, Colorado, the Stanley Hotel is one of the most famous haunted hotels in the United States. Known as the inspiration for Stephen King’s The Shining, the hotel has a long history of paranormal activity, ghost sightings, and eerie experiences.

From phantom piano music to ghostly children playing in the hallways, the Stanley Hotel remains a bucket list destination for ghost hunters and horror fans alike.

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The History of the Stanley Hotel

The Stanley Hotel was built in 1909 by Freelan Oscar Stanley, the inventor of the Stanley Steamer automobile. Designed as a luxurious mountain retreat for wealthy travelers, the hotel quickly gained a reputation for its elegance and grandeur.

However, despite its beauty, the Stanley Hotel developed a darker side, with stories of hauntings and supernatural activity reported throughout its history.

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The Paranormal Activity at the Stanley Hotel

1. The Ghost of Flora Stanley

One of the most famous spirits said to haunt the Stanley Hotel is Flora Stanley, the wife of the hotel’s founder.

Guests and staff report hearing a piano playing in the dead of night, even when no one is there.

Some have even seen a ghostly figure sitting at the piano, believed to be Flora’s spirit.

2. The Fourth Floor: Ghostly Laughter of Children

The fourth floor is said to be the most haunted part of the hotel.

Visitors often hear the sound of children running and laughing in the hallways, though no children are present.

Some have reported tiny handprints appearing on mirrors and windows overnight.

Room 418 is considered one of the most active rooms, with guests reporting beds shaking and strange noises.

3. The Haunted Room 217: The Inspiration for The Shining

Stephen King’s famous horror novel The Shining was inspired by his stay in Room 217.

In 1911, a housekeeper named Elizabeth Wilson was injured in a gas explosion in the room but survived.

Guests now report seeing her ghost, feeling their luggage being mysteriously unpacked, and even experiencing lights turning on and off.

When Stephen King stayed in Room 217, he had a terrifying nightmare about his young son being chased by a malevolent entity—which led to the creation of The Shining.

4. The Shadow Figures and Whispering Voices

Many guests have reported seeing shadowy figures in the hallways and staircases.

Some visitors hear whispers calling their names or disembodied voices having conversations.

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The Stanley Hotel in Pop Culture

Thanks to Stephen King and The Shining, the Stanley Hotel has become a pop culture icon. While the 1980 movie adaptation directed by Stanley Kubrick was not filmed at the Stanley, the hotel still embraces its haunted reputation by offering:

Ghost tours exploring the hotel’s haunted history.

Special events for paranormal enthusiasts.

A yearly Halloween Masquerade Ball, attracting horror fans from around the world.

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Final Thoughts: Would You Stay at the Stanley Hotel?

Whether you’re a paranormal investigator, a horror fan, or just a curious traveler, the Stanley Hotel offers an unforgettable experience.

Some guests leave with only great memories, while others leave with ghostly encounters they’ll never forget.

Would you dare spend the night at the Stanley Hotel? Just be sure to keep the lights on!