Want to do something different this Halloween? Something more exciting than a costume party? Make up your own ghost story by checking into a famously haunted hotel. There are several stories of haunted hotels, bed and breakfasts and inns; however the ones in which the establishment recognizes the haunting seems to increase the likelihood of your own supernatural experience.
Myrtles Plantation, St. Fransiville, Louisianahttp://www.myrtlesplantation.com
Built in the late 1700's, this historic mansion was supposedly built on a sacred Indian burial ground. It’s been reported that this is the most haunted house in the U.S. Rumors state that over 10 murders have occurred here – including that of the famous ghost named Chloe. Apparently, she was a plantation slave that accidentally poisoned the owner’s wife and two daughters. If you’re searching for sightings, look no further.
Napa River Inn, Napa, California
http://www.napariverinn.com/hauntedhotel.php
This famous Inn was once a warehouse, mill and feed store in 1885. Back then it was owned by Captain Albert Hatt. His son, Captain Albert Hatt Jr., hung himself in an area now known as Sweetie Pies Bakery. He and many other ghosts have reportedly been seen here; amongst them a woman that staff considers to be Hatt Jr’s wife.
Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado
http://www.stanleyhotel.com/
This hotel’s construction was completed in 1909 and owned by F.O. Stanley. He resided there with his wife and hosted many of the rich and famous, including Steven King; his 5-month stay was the inspiration to his book “The Shining”. Many guest and employees have reported seeing Mr. Stanley and hearing Mrs. Stanley playing the piano. The key rooms to look out for are 401, 407, 217 and several have stated they hear children in room 418. Supposedly, Steven King saw a child calling out to his nanny on the second floor! EERRIE!
Farnsworth House Inn, Gettysburg, PA http://www.farnsworthhouseinn.com/
This Bed & Breakfast is a historical landmark from the Battle of Gettysburg that now serves to commemorate the brave soldiers that fought from both sides. It’s said that some of these soldiers still roam the grounds. They count 14 ghosts that call the Farnsworth House home, one of which is a woman named Mary. She comes to those who suffer and will often lay in bed with them in attempts to sooth them.
Queen Mary Hotel, Long Beach, Californiahttp://www.queenmary.com and www.ghostsandlegends.com
This ship started its history in the early 1900’s. Many reports have been made about the various sightings – a bearded man in the Engine Room, a female beauty in a white evening gown in the Queen’s Salon, a baby’s cry in the Third Class Children’s Playroom and many more. This ship turned hotel offers special tours that will leave you wondering where reality ends and the paranormal begins.
If spending the night with ghouls and goblins is out of your reach, check out the spirits lingering in your own backyard with a walking ghost tour, which can be found in almost every city, especially those with famous historic sites and people that once roamed your town.
