Staying at the Stanley Hotel: A Spooky and Historic Experience

Estes Park, Colorado, beckons with a unique blend of history and mystery at the iconic Stanley Hotel. More than just a place to stay, it's an immersive experience where you can walk the same halls that inspired Stephen King's 'The Shining' and perhaps encounter a ghost or two yourself.

From its stunning architecture to its spectral residents, the Stanley Hotel promises an unforgettable getaway for those seeking a thrill.

A Grand Hotel with a Rocky Start

The story of the Stanley Hotel began with Freelan Oscar Stanley, co-founder of the Stanley Motor Carriage Company, who sought a health retreat in the mountains of Colorado. Stricken with tuberculosis, Stanley arrived in Estes Park in 1903 and was revitalized by the fresh, dry air. Inspired, he envisioned transforming the rustic area into a resort destination for upper-class Easterners like himself.

Construction commenced in 1907, and on July 4, 1909, the Stanley Hotel opened its doors. The hotel boasted 48 rooms and was designed in the Colonial Revival style, offering panoramic views of Lake Estes, the Rocky Mountains, and Longs Peak. Stanley ensured his hotel had all the modern amenities of the time, including electricity, telephones in every room, and en suite bathrooms, a luxury for the era. To power the hotel, Stanley built the Fall River Hydroplant, which also brought electricity to the town of Estes Park for the first time.

The Stanley Hotel quickly became a popular destination, drawing guests from the East Coast and transforming Estes Park into a burgeoning resort town. Stanley also contributed to the town by helping to start its first bank, water company, and electric plant. The hotel initially only operated during the summer months, from June to September, due to the lack of heating in the main building. Despite its success, Stanley sold the hotel in 1926 but later repurchased it before selling it again.

Today, the Stanley Hotel is part of the Grand Heritage Hotel Group and continues to attract visitors with its rich history, stunning location, and, of course, its ghostly reputation. It offers a range of accommodations, including the original hotel, The Lodge, Aspire Hotel & Spa, and The Residences.

Image Description: A wide, exterior shot of the Stanley Hotel during the daytime in late September. The building's mustard yellow facade is well-lit by the afternoon sun. The manicured lawn in front of the hotel is green, and a few deciduous trees show early signs of fall color. Several guests are walking around the entrance.

Style Instructions: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full expanse of the hotel and its surroundings. The lighting should be natural and warm, emphasizing the hotel's historic charm. The photo was taken on September 28, 2025, with clear skies.

Room 217: Where King's Nightmares Began

Perhaps the most famous aspect of the Stanley Hotel is its connection to Stephen King's novel, 'The Shining'. In 1974, King and his wife, Tabitha, stayed in Room 217. The hotel was about to close for the winter season, and they were the only guests that night. During their stay, King experienced vivid nightmares that would later inspire his chilling tale of isolation and madness.

Room 217 itself has a history beyond King's visit. In 1911, a gas explosion occurred in the room, injuring Elizabeth Wilson, a housekeeper. Wilson was lighting candles due to a power outage when a gas leak ignited, causing a significant explosion. She fell through the floor into the dining room below but miraculously survived. Some claim that after waking up from a coma, Wilson returned to work in 1913 and remained employed by the hotel until 1950.

The spirit of Elizabeth Wilson is said to still reside in Room 217, with guests reporting strange occurrences such as items being moved, lights turning on and off, and even clothes being unpacked. Unmarried couples have reported feeling a cold presence between them in bed, leading to the belief that the old-fashioned Wilson acts as a chaperone.

Actor Jim Carrey also had a memorable experience in Room 217 while filming 'Dumb and Dumber' at the Stanley Hotel. He reportedly fled the room in fear after only three hours and refused to speak about what he encountered. Despite the unsettling stories, Room 217 remains the most requested room at the Stanley Hotel, with reservations booked far in advance.

Today, Room 217 features a king bed, a work desk, and a claw-foot tub in the restroom. Whether you're seeking a ghostly encounter or simply want to sleep in the room that sparked a literary masterpiece, Room 217 offers a unique and intriguing experience.

Image Description: A medium shot of the door to Room 217. The door is slightly ajar, revealing a dimly lit interior. A small sign with the number '217' is prominently displayed. The hallway is carpeted in a vintage style, and the walls are adorned with classic wallpaper.

Style Instructions: Use a shallow depth of field to focus on the door number, blurring the background slightly. The lighting should be soft and mysterious, hinting at the room's haunted reputation. The photo was taken on October 1, 2025, during the evening.

Ghost Tours: Exploring the Hotel's Haunted Hotspots

For those eager to delve into the paranormal, the Stanley Hotel offers a variety of ghost tours. These tours provide an opportunity to explore the hotel's most haunted locations and hear chilling tales of ghostly encounters. The Historic Stanley Night Tour and the Spirited Night Tour are popular options, each offering a unique perspective on the hotel's spectral history.

One of the most intriguing stops on the ghost tours is the 'Vortex' on the grand staircase. This area is believed to be a paranormal portal, a tunnel of spiritual energy that attracts ghosts and lost spirits. Guests have reported cold spots, dizziness, and the feeling of being touched while on the staircase. The image of a woman was captured on the stairs by a guest, despite no one being there at the time.

The concert hall is another haunted hotspot, particularly known for the presence of Flora Stanley, F.O. Stanley's wife. Flora is said to play the piano in the music room, now the 217 Wine Bar, late at night. Guests and employees have reported hearing classical piano music even when the hall is empty. Some believe it is Flora's spirit, ensuring her guests are entertained.

The underground caves beneath the hotel also contribute to its paranormal allure. These caves, with their high concentration of limestone and quartz, are believed to capture paranormal energy. In the early days, employees used the caves to move around the hotel. The smell of baked goods has been reported in the tunnels, attributed to a former pastry chef.

Whether you're a believer or a skeptic, the ghost tours at the Stanley Hotel offer a fascinating glimpse into the hotel's history and the unexplained phenomena that have made it one of the most haunted hotels in America.

Image Description: A low-angle shot of the grand staircase inside the Stanley Hotel. The staircase is ornately decorated with vintage mirrors and portraits. The lighting is dim, creating a mysterious atmosphere. A few people are walking up and down the stairs, adding a sense of scale.

Style Instructions: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full height of the staircase. The lighting should be dramatic, with strong contrasts between light and shadow to emphasize the architectural details and create a spooky ambiance. The photo was taken on October 1, 2025, during the evening.

Spirited Rooms: Encounters on the Fourth Floor

The fourth floor of the Stanley Hotel is renowned for its high level of paranormal activity. Originally an enormous attic used for storage, it was later converted into lodging for female employees and their children. Today, guests report numerous strange occurrences on this floor, making it a prime location for ghost hunters.

Specific rooms on the fourth floor, such as 401, 407, 418, and 428, are particularly known for their ghostly residents. Room 401 is considered one of the creepiest, haunted by an unfriendly male ghost. Women have reported being touched inappropriately in the closet, and a man claimed his wedding ring moved and fell down the sink drain.

In Room 407, guests have felt an invisible force tucking them into bed or sitting on the edge. Room 418 is said to be haunted by the ghosts of children who play games with guests. Lights flicker, hangers move on their own, and bed covers are yanked off. A four-year-old girl reported being tickled by a little boy who disappeared when asked to stop.

Room 428 is haunted by a friendly cowboy. Guests have seen his shadow at the foot of their beds and in the corner of the room. Female guests have reported waking up to him kissing their foreheads. Footsteps and furniture moving are often heard above this room, even though the roof's slope makes it impossible for anyone to be there.

Whether you're seeking a playful encounter with ghostly children or a visit from a friendly cowboy, the fourth floor of the Stanley Hotel promises a spirited experience.

Image Description: A dimly lit hallway on the fourth floor of the Stanley Hotel. The hallway is long and narrow, with vintage wallpaper and carpet. Several doors line the hallway, each with a room number. The lighting is provided by antique sconces, casting long shadows.

Style Instructions: Use a wide-angle lens to emphasize the length of the hallway. The lighting should be moody and atmospheric, with a focus on shadows and highlights to create a sense of unease. The photo was taken on October 1, 2025, late at night.

Dining with Ghosts: A Culinary Experience

The Stanley Hotel offers a variety of dining options, each with its own unique atmosphere and culinary offerings. From fine dining to casual fare, there's something to satisfy every palate.

Cascades Restaurant is a classic American restaurant and steakhouse featuring fresh, innovative dishes with a local flair and a focus on sustainable ingredients. The Whiskey Bar & Lounge, located within Cascades, boasts Colorado's largest selection of whiskeys and single malt scotches. The atmosphere is elegant and romantic, although it can get crowded during peak season. Menu items include Elk, Bison, and Wild Boar Meatloaf, Filet Mignon, and Grilled Elk Loin.

Brunch & Co. offers award-winning brunch and lunch at The Lodge. 217 Wine Bar, located in the historic music room in the main lobby, provides a sophisticated setting to enjoy a curated selection of wines. The Post Chicken & Beer, located in the renovated 1909 Carriage House, serves crispy fried chicken and cold beer, with a motto of 'Hot Chicken Loves Cold Beer'. It was featured on Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-Ins, & Dives.

While dining, keep an ear out for the ghostly melodies of Flora Stanley playing the piano in the music room, now the 217 Wine Bar. Whether you're enjoying a romantic dinner at Cascades or a casual meal at The Post, the Stanley Hotel's dining options offer a unique and memorable experience.

Image Description: A warm and inviting shot of the Whiskey Bar & Lounge inside the Stanley Hotel. The bar is well-stocked with a vast selection of whiskeys and single malt scotches. Patrons are seated at the bar and tables, enjoying drinks and conversation. The lighting is soft and intimate, creating a cozy atmosphere.

Style Instructions: Use a wide aperture to create a shallow depth of field, blurring the background and focusing on the bar and patrons. The lighting should be warm and inviting, emphasizing the bar's extensive whiskey collection. The photo was taken on October 1, 2025, during the evening.

The Stanley Hotel is more than just a hotel; it's a destination that blends history, mystery, and scenic beauty. From its grand architecture and ghostly tales to its unique accommodations and dining options, the Stanley Hotel offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking a thrilling and memorable getaway.