The Stanley Hotel
Historic hotel inspiring 'The Shining,' offering ghost tours, stunning architecture, and mountain views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peak spooky season vibes
The Stanley Hotel
Best Time
Peak spooky season vibes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic hotel inspiring 'The Shining,' offering ghost tours, stunning architecture, and mountain views.
"A must-visit for 'Shining' fans and history buffs, offering a blend of grandeur and ghostly tales."
Book Tours in Advance
Ghost and historical tours sell out quickly, especially in October. Book online early! :ticket:
Room 217 is a Must-Book
If you're a 'Shining' fan, reserve Room 217 months ahead. It's legendary! :key:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Room 217
Fourth Floor
The legendary room that inspired Stephen King's 'The Shining.' Experience its chilling history firsthand.
The Shining Tour
Various locations within the hotel
Uncover the hotel's spooky past and its connection to Stephen King's iconic horror novel.
Historic Architecture
Throughout the hotel
Admire the stunning Edwardian architecture, intricate woodwork, and grand ballrooms.
The Hedge Maze
Hotel grounds
A fun, albeit sometimes challenging, maze on the hotel grounds, adding to the playful atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Eerie: Book Ahead for Ghostly Encounters
+1Room 217 & The Shining Connection
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tours in Advance
Ghost and historical tours sell out quickly, especially in October. Book online early! :ticket:
Room 217 is a Must-Book
If you're a 'Shining' fan, reserve Room 217 months ahead. It's legendary! :key:
No AC? No Problem!
Rooms lack AC, but windows offer cool mountain breezes. Bring a fan if you're sensitive. :windblowingface:
Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the beautiful gardens and the hedge maze for some outdoor fun. :deciduous_tree:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tours in Advance
Ghost and historical tours sell out quickly, especially in October. Book online early! :ticket:
Room 217 is a Must-Book
If you're a 'Shining' fan, reserve Room 217 months ahead. It's legendary! :key:
No AC? No Problem!
Rooms lack AC, but windows offer cool mountain breezes. Bring a fan if you're sensitive. :windblowingface:
Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the beautiful gardens and the hedge maze for some outdoor fun. :deciduous_tree:
Night Tour Vibe
The hotel transforms at night; the 'Night Spirit Tour' offers a unique, spooky atmosphere. :ghost:
Daytime Crowds
The lobby can get very busy during the day. Visit at night for a more tranquil experience. :moon:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise The Stanley Hotel for its stunning architecture, rich history, and the unique 'Shining' connection. The haunted tours are a major draw, offering spooky thrills. However, some guests note the lack of air conditioning and occasional crowded conditions during peak hours.
"Went to take a Historical tour and The Shining Tour with my family. Both tours were good although some of the same information was in both tours. We did see different parts of the hotel. Staff was kind. Although I did hear a grumpy customer as we were leaving. Idk Maybe they were having a bad day. The grounds are beautiful. If you love Historical buildings you will enjoy seeing the architecture and furnishings."
Samantha Amador
"Location is absolutely beautiful. The gardens and maze are fun. There are a n lot c of c people in the lobby. The lodge is quiet after the restaurants shut down for the day. There is no air conditioning, no mini fridge, or microwave. However there are plenty of ice machines and there is a nice breeze from the window."
Jeffrey Engebretson
"This place was very beautiful, my boyfriend and I had a wonderful time on the night tour with David? Super funny! We stayed at the sunrise suite, the view from the private balcony was everything. I myself am a paranormal investigator, had a lot of weird experiences in that room. Cameras and speakers turning on and off, giggling caught on camera and audio. EMF went off over by the mirror. Most of the staff was super friendly, had a sweet younger lady check us in. Sometimes it's a hit/miss with who you speak to at the front desk (only reason why I'm giving a 4 star.) it's super crowded during the day but during the night it's a whole vibe. I was reading the reviews before heading up and brought my own fan just in case, didn't over heat at all the room stayed nice and cool. Definitely making this a yearly thing now."
Mosher 666
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Stanley Hotel is located in Estes Park, Colorado. The most common way to get there from Denver is by car, taking approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive via US-36 W. Public transportation options are limited, but you can take a bus from Denver to Estes Park, though it will require transfers and take longer.
Yes, parking is generally available for guests and visitors at The Stanley Hotel. However, during peak times, it can become limited. It's advisable to arrive early or inquire about valet services if available.
Absolutely! You can visit The Stanley Hotel for tours, dining, or to explore the public areas without being a registered guest. Many visitors come for the historical and ghost tours.
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Estes Park and The Stanley Hotel, offering flexibility to explore the surrounding Rocky Mountain National Park. If you prefer not to drive, bus services connect Denver to Estes Park.
While there isn't a dedicated shuttle service directly to The Stanley Hotel from Denver, local shuttles and ride-sharing services operate within Estes Park. If you're staying in Estes Park, you might be able to arrange transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tour prices vary depending on the type of tour. The 'Night Spirit Tour' and 'Historical Tour' typically have different price points. It's best to check the official Stanley Hotel website for current pricing and booking information.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book 'The Shining Tour' and other popular tours in advance, especially if you plan to visit during October or on weekends. They often sell out.
Tour hours vary, with the 'Night Spirit Tour' typically running in the evenings and historical tours available during the day. Check the official website for the most up-to-date schedule.
While some tickets might be available on-site, it's not guaranteed, especially for popular tours. Booking online in advance is the safest way to secure your spot.
The 'Night Spirit Tour' focuses on the hotel's paranormal history and alleged hauntings, often including access to areas not typically seen by guests. It's designed to be an immersive, spooky experience.
🎫 🏨 Onsite Experience
The Stanley Hotel is famously considered one of America's most haunted hotels. Room 217 is particularly known for its paranormal activity, inspiring Stephen King's 'The Shining.' Other rooms and areas are also reported to have ghostly encounters.
Rooms at The Stanley Hotel typically offer basic amenities. Notably, there is no air conditioning, no mini-fridge, or microwave in standard rooms. However, ice machines are readily available.
Yes, The Stanley Hotel can be suitable for families. While it has a haunted reputation, the historical aspects, beautiful grounds, and the hedge maze offer family-friendly activities. The 'Historical Tour' is a good option for all ages.
The atmosphere is a blend of historic grandeur and eerie mystique. During the day, it can be quite crowded, but at night, it takes on a more intimate and spooky vibe, especially during ghost tours.
Beyond its haunted reputation, The Stanley Hotel boasts stunning Edwardian architecture, a beautiful bar with incredible woodwork, and the famous hedge maze. The views of the surrounding mountains are also a significant draw.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Stanley Hotel offers several dining options, including the Cascades Restaurant for fine dining and The Whiskey Bar for drinks and lighter fare. Room service may also be available.
Yes, complimentary breakfast is often included for guests staying at The Stanley Hotel, adding value to your stay.
Yes, you can dine at the restaurants within The Stanley Hotel even if you are not a guest. Reservations are recommended, especially for the Cascades Restaurant.
Cascades Restaurant at The Stanley Hotel typically serves American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients, offering a fine dining experience.
While specific menus can change, fine dining establishments like Cascades often have vegetarian options. It's advisable to check the current menu or inform your server of any dietary restrictions.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand staircase, the lobby with its intricate woodwork, the exterior architecture, and the views from guest rooms (especially suites with balconies) are excellent for photography. The hedge maze also offers unique shots.
Photography inside Room 217 is generally permitted for guests staying in the room. However, if you are not staying in Room 217, you may only be able to photograph it from the hallway, or during specific tours that may grant brief access.
While general photography for personal use is usually allowed in public areas, professional photography or filming may require special permits. Always be mindful of other guests and hotel operations.
Many visitors capture the hotel's historic charm, its connection to 'The Shining,' and the stunning mountain scenery. Paranormal photography is also a niche interest for some visitors.
Many guests try to capture unusual phenomena during ghost tours. While not guaranteed, some have reported capturing interesting anomalies in their photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a family-friendly room or suite with mountain views. The complimentary breakfast is a convenient perk for families. While the hotel lacks air conditioning, rooms are generally kept cool by mountain breezes, and ice machines are plentiful. The beautiful grounds also offer space for exploration and enjoying the Colorado scenery.
👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts
+2Consider booking a stay in one of the reportedly haunted rooms for a truly immersive experience. Bring your own ghost-hunting equipment if you have it, as many visitors have reported success capturing evidence. The hotel's history is rich with ghost stories, making it a prime destination for paranormal investigations and enthusiasts.
🎬 'The Shining' Fans
+1Take 'The Shining Tour' to learn about Stephen King's stay and how the hotel's atmosphere influenced his writing. Even if you don't stay in Room 217, exploring the hotel's grand architecture and its isolated mountain setting can evoke the eerie ambiance of the fictional Overlook Hotel.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Stanley Hotel's Haunted History
+2Stephen King's stay in Room 217 in 1974 is perhaps the most famous catalyst for the hotel's paranormal fame. His unsettling experiences there directly inspired his iconic novel, 'The Shining.' While the film adaptation was not shot at the Stanley, the hotel embraced its role as the real-life 'Overlook Hotel' inspiration. Today, the hotel actively leans into its haunted past with dedicated ghost tours and themed events.
+2Visitors often report experiencing strange occurrences themselves, from lights flickering to doors opening and closing. The fourth floor, in particular, is a hotspot for reported activity. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, the hotel's atmosphere and the stories shared on its tours create a compelling and often chilling experience.
+1Experiencing 'The Shining' Connection
+1To fully immerse yourself, consider booking a stay in Room 217. This iconic room is highly sought after and requires booking far in advance. Even if you can't stay in Room 217, the hotel offers 'The Shining Tour,' which delves into the history, King's inspiration, and the hotel's own paranormal lore. This tour provides fascinating insights into how the real-life hotel influenced the fictional masterpiece.
+1Beyond Room 217, the hotel's architecture and isolated mountain setting contribute to the eerie ambiance that mirrors the novel's atmosphere. Walking the hallways, especially at night, can evoke a sense of the uncanny, making it easy to understand how this historic establishment sparked such a terrifying tale.
Beyond the Hauntings: The Stanley's Grandeur
The hotel's location in Estes Park, Colorado, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains. The grounds themselves are beautifully maintained, featuring gardens and the famous hedge maze, providing a pleasant contrast to the hotel's darker tales. Visitors can enjoy fine dining at the Cascades Restaurant or a cocktail at the impressive Whiskey Bar, experiencing the hotel's sophisticated side.
Even without focusing on the paranormal, the hotel offers a rich historical experience. Guided tours provide insights into its construction, its famous guests, and its role in the development of Estes Park. It's a destination that appeals to history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and those simply seeking a beautiful mountain getaway.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit