The Hauntings of the Stanley Hotel: A Haunting Legacy in Estes Park, Colorado
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Happy All-Hallows Everyone!!
The Hauntings of the Stanley Hotel starts nestled in the picturesque mountains of Estes Park, Colorado. The Stanley Hotel is so much more than just a luxurious getaway; it’s a storied establishment steeped in history and mystery. The Stanley Hotel was Built in 1909 by Freelan Oscar Stanley. The hotel has become famous for its stunning views and exquisite architecture but also for its many ghostly residents. With it's rich past and numerous ghostly encounters, the Stanley Hotel has established itself as a premier destination, especially for those intrigued by the supernatural.
A Brief History, the hauntings of the Stanley Hotel
Freelan Oscar Stanley was an inventor and entrepreneur. Freelan built the Stanley Hotel as a resort for the affluent in the early 20th century. The striking Georgian architecture and absolutely breathtaking mountain vistas made it an instant hit. The hotel’s fame rose significantly when Stephen King chose it as his inspiration for the 1977 horror novel, "The Shining." King spent a lot of time at the hotel, particularly in Room 217. This has engrained the Stanley’s reputation as a hub of paranormal activity.
The Ghosts of the Stanley Hotel
F.O. Stanley: The spirit of Freelan Oscar Stanley himself. He is said to roam the halls of the hotel. Guests have reported seeing a figure resembling Stanley in the lobby and hearing the sound of a piano playing. Several believe that Stanley’s passion for his hotel and its guests keeps his spirit tied to the place.
Room 217, At the End Lady in Room 217: The Lady in Room 217 is thought to be the spirit of a former housekeeper who met an untimely end in the room. Guests have reported clothes being unpacked, objects moving on their own and a feeling like you are being watched. There have been claims to have seen her ghostly figure at the foot of the bed. Perhaps she is the most famous ghostly resident.
Room 217 Children’s Spirits: Several visitors have reported some playful encounters with the spirits of children in the hotel. Footsteps, Laughter, and sounds of children playing or saying "Mommy," can be heard in various locations, particularly the hallways and the grand ballroom.
Please Turn Up Your Audio! Best EVP Ever!!
Taken The Day We Left
The Ghostly Piano Player: Sounds of piano music is often heard in the hotel, especially in the evenings. Believed to be the spirit of a former pianist who once entertained guests in the hotel's concert hall. Several have described the experience as both chilling and enchanting, adding to the hotel’s haunting allure.
Haunted Tours
There are many paranormally active areas on the property. The Stanley Hotel capitalizes on its haunted reputation by offering ghost tours that guide guests to these active areas. These spooky tours provide insight into the hotel’s history, its spectral residents and they then combine storytelling with the eerie encounters. Night tours often culminate in the legendary Room 217, there guests can listen to the tales of ghostly happenings firsthand.
Photos From Our Midnight Ghost Tour
The Door Above "Closed" When Our Guide Asked The Spirit To Close It!
Legacy of the Stanley Hotel
The Stanley Hotel stands as a strong testament to the interchange between the supernatural and history. It's haunted reputation attracts ghost enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. Whether you believe in ghosts or are the skeptic, the experiences and stories and that permeate the halls of this historic hotel provide a unique glimpse into its past.
During All-Hallows, the Stanley Hotel becomes a focal point for anyone seeking a taste of the paranormal. Visitors can enjoy the eerie ambiance that lingers throughout the hotel, they can stay overnight or participate in ghost tours. For many, visiting the Stanley Hotel is a chance to embrace the unknown and hopefully catch a glimpse of its phantom inhabitants.
The hauntings of the Stanley Hotel are not just tales of shadows and spooks; they are an ongoing continuation of the hotel’s rich history and an invitation for guests to discover the mysteries that lie just beyond the veil of the living.
My Own Experience
In 2012, a family member took me to the Stanley Hotel for my birthday. The pictures and videos included in this post were taken with a very old camera; especially by todays standards, so I apologize if they are not of the greatest quality.
Freelan Stanley had it right about the views from the Hotel; they were so beautiful at all times of day and in every direction.
We stayed in room 215; right next to the infamous room, 217. The room was a little creepy. Had the old feel and style we expected but were a little intimidated by. The bathroom was the creepiest part of the room. Somewhat reminded us of the "Bloody Mary Bathrooms," just more high end.
We attended the Midnight Ghost tour; that was exciting. The only thing I could say happened was the door that closed when our guide asked the spirit to close it. The door drug on the carpet and would not close on it's own. I can honestly say the door slid and closed without any of us touching it.
During the Midnight Tour, the stories were amazing to hear! There were stories of the spirits and their sometimes silly antics, Jim Carrey, The Shining, etc... I think when I go next time; of which there will definitely be a next time, I will go on the regular tour instead of the Midnight Ghost Tour & I will spend more time touring the property.
We walked all the halls but several areas on the main floor were blocked off. We looked at and in a couple of different buildings on the vast property. I bought every spooky book on the Hotel that I could and stayed up most of the night reading all the ghostly tales. I heard many sounds coming from room 217 but was unsure if someone was staying there for the night.
The most exciting thing that happened we didn't even notice until we got home. The following day, I downloaded the photos and videos on my computer. The Video above was taken the day we were checking out. I decided to get some video prior to us leaving so I could show off the property to my loved ones. When we walked down the stairs we heard nothing except the sounds of the gift shop and people outside. Needless to say, we were so excited and surprised to hear the voice we heard speaking to us. She says "Mommy." I think about it sometimes and wonder about the restless spirits, especially the children.
We certainly did not hear it when we were descending the stairs. That trip was honestly one of the best I have taken; just the fact I was taken there for my birthday, was special enough. I have loved Estes Park since I was a child, have always had a serious intrigue for the supernatural and had been there several times prior to my trip to the Stanley. Next time and every time I go from here on out I will be stopping at the Stanley Hotel!!
Happy Halloween!
Song: Somebody's Watching Me By: Rockwell