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Harry Packer Mansion Jim Thorpe

4.6
·210 reviews·Jim Thorpe, United States

Historic Victorian mansion, inspiration for Disney's Haunted Mansion, offering unique stays and immersive murder mystery events.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Murder Mystery Weekends

Interactive fun & great food

CrowdHigh
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Harry Packer Mansion - Image 1

Harry Packer Mansion Jim Thorpe

Best Time

Murder Mystery Weekends

Interactive fun & great food

CrowdHigh

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic Victorian mansion, inspiration for Disney's Haunted Mansion, offering unique stays and immersive murder mystery events.

4.6
(210 reviews)

"A truly unforgettable experience, the Harry Packer Mansion delivers on every level with magic, mystery, and charm!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Ghost Tours Early

Spots for ghost tours fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Reserve your spot in advance to avoid disappointment!

🍽️ Buffet Dinner Delights

The buffet dinner is fantastic, with diverse options catering to various dietary needs. Delicious and satisfying!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Haunted Mansion Inspiration

The Haunted Mansion Inspiration

Exterior

See the stunning Victorian architecture said to inspire Disney's Haunted Mansion. A must-see for Disney fans and architecture buffs!

Murder Mystery Weekends

Murder Mystery Weekends

Ballroom/Dining Area

Immerse yourself in a night of intrigue with talented actors and a delicious buffet dinner. Interactive and wildly entertaining!

Historic Inn Experience

Historic Inn Experience

Guest Rooms & Common Areas

Stay in beautifully appointed traditional rooms, some with whirlpool tubs, and enjoy the wood-paneled bar and cozy common areas.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Unique Experiences

Murder mystery weekends and ghost tours at the Harry Packer Mansion are incredibly popular. Book your tickets or room well in advance, especially for weekend stays, as they fill up fast. Instagram

Embrace the Historic Charm

This Victorian mansion offers a unique stay with traditional rooms. While WiFi and outlets are available, expect a historic ambiance. Enjoy the peaceful location above town. Reddit

Best Times

When
Murder Mystery Weekends
Why
Interactive fun & great food
Crowd
High
When
Fall Weekends
Why
Spooky vibes & autumn charm
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Stays
Why
Quieter, more intimate experience
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Weekend vibes in Jim Thorpe! We stopped at a Harry Potter-inspired coffee shop 🪄☕️ that felt straight out of Hogwarts, then toured the iconic Harry Packer Mansion 🏰 , the spooky estate said to have inspired Disney’s Haunted Mansion 👻. 💡 Pro Tip: Book a ghost tour in advance, spots fill up fast, especially on weekends! #JimThorpePA #HauntedMansionVibes #HarryPotterCafe #HauntedHistory #TravelTips
daddydadster
15 likes • 812 views

🎯 Book Ghost Tours Early

Spots for ghost tours fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Reserve your spot in advance to avoid disappointment! Instagram

🍽️ Buffet Dinner Delights

The buffet dinner is fantastic, with diverse options catering to various dietary needs. Delicious and satisfying! Reddit

Abelard the Traveling Hedgehog 🦔 sings Grim Grinning Ghost 👻’s at Harry Packer Mansion in Jim Thorpe and at Disney’s Haunted Mansion in Disney World.
ambrose_peterman
2 likes • 71 views
I was in Jim Thorpe, PA for the day and remembered hearing that the real life inspiration for Disney’s Haunted Mansion exterior was there, so I had to see it for myself! The Harry Packer Mansion was very cool to see in person, even if we only got a peak from the outside. Have you ever visited here? #thehauntedmansion #harrypackermansion #jimthorpepa #disney #waltdisneyworld #disneyworld #disneyg...
mom_in_the_mickey_cap
7.1K likes • 169.2K views

🎭 Actors Stay for Chats

The murder mystery actors are engaging and stay after the show for casual, friendly interactions. A personal touch! Reddit

📶 WiFi & Outlets Available

Despite its historic nature, the mansion offers modern amenities like good WiFi and plenty of outlets in rooms. Reddit

On the right: The Harry Packer Mansion, a historic residence built in 1874 in Jim Thorpe, Carbon County, Pennsylvania, now operates as an inn. On the left: Completed in 1861, this was the home of Asa Packer and has since been converted into a museum.
thishousemedia
9 likes • 177 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Ghost Tours Early

Spots for ghost tours fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Reserve your spot in advance to avoid disappointment! Instagram

🍽️ Buffet Dinner Delights

The buffet dinner is fantastic, with diverse options catering to various dietary needs. Delicious and satisfying! Reddit

🎭 Actors Stay for Chats

The murder mystery actors are engaging and stay after the show for casual, friendly interactions. A personal touch! Reddit

📶 WiFi & Outlets Available

Despite its historic nature, the mansion offers modern amenities like good WiFi and plenty of outlets in rooms. Reddit

🚗 Short Drive to Town

The mansion is peacefully located above town, but it's just a short drive to explore historic Jim Thorpe. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(210 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Guests rave about the Harry Packer Mansion's magical atmosphere, exceptional hospitality, and delicious food, particularly during the murder mystery events. The historic charm and scenic location are consistently praised, making it a highly recommended destination for a unique and memorable stay. Some minor points of feedback relate to the historic nature of the rooms, though modern amenities are generally well-received.

"A Magical Evening at the Harry Packer Mansion! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

If you're looking for a truly unforgettable experience, the Harry Packer Mansion delivers on every level!

We attended the dinner and murder mystery show, and it was absolutely amazing from start to finish.

The buffet-style dinner was fantastic, offering a wide variety of delicious options to satisfy different dietary preferences and needs.

The murder mystery show was wildly entertaining. The actors were talented, witty, and fully committed to their roles, making the whole evening so much fun. Even better, they stuck around after the show for casual, friendly interactions, which added a personal touch you don’t often find.

The staff were all incredibly kind and accommodating, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere throughout the evening.

And the setting? Simply magical. The mansion and its grounds feel like a blend of Hogwarts and Little Switzerland—a truly enchanting backdrop that adds to the whole immersive experience.

If you're looking for a unique night out filled with great food, engaging entertainment, and stunning views, we highly recommend the Harry Packer Mansion. A perfect mix of mystery, charm, and fun!"

Stephanie

"My husband and I stayed this past weekend (October 3rd - 5th) and absolutely loved it! The staff and owners are absolutely wonderful! They all made us feel very welcome. The entire mansion is spotless and the breakfast was fantastic! They answered all the questions we had, even the dumb ones. You can tell they really love owning this beautiful one of a kind bed & breakfast. We can't wait to stay again! I'm also looking forward to bringing my mom for one of the Murder Mystery weekends."

Teresa Saul

"Cathy, the owner, was fantastic and clearly cares about not only the history of the mansion but the stay of her guests as well. Naomi, our attendant was an absolute treasure during our nights there and was always "there" but never came off as "hovering" or pushy. She just magically appeared the moment we needed anything.

The location is fantastic, up and above the bustle of the town below. Will absolutely be staying here regularly."

M

What People Like

Magical atmosphere
Exceptional hospitality
Delicious food

What People Dislike

Historic room quirks

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Harry Packer Mansion is located in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania. It's situated on a hill overlooking the town. Driving is the most common way to reach it. Parking is available on-site. Instagram

While direct public transport to the mansion itself is limited, Jim Thorpe is accessible by bus services from major cities. Once in town, a short taxi or ride-share would be needed to reach the mansion. Reddit

Jim Thorpe is a walkable town, but the Harry Packer Mansion is located up on a hill. Consider driving or taking a short taxi ride to the mansion from the town center. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

To stay at the mansion as an inn, you'll need to book a room. For special events like murder mystery weekends or ghost tours, separate tickets are required and should be booked in advance. Instagram

As an inn, the mansion is open for guests 24/7. For specific events like dinner shows or tours, check their official schedule as hours vary. Reddit

While you can often see the exterior and grounds, full interior tours are typically part of special events or overnight stays. Check their website for any available tour options. Instagram

Room rates vary depending on the season and room type. Special events like murder mystery weekends have separate pricing that includes dinner and the show. It's best to check their official booking site for current rates. Reddit

Discounts are not commonly advertised, but booking during weekdays or off-peak seasons might offer better rates. Keep an eye on their social media for any special promotions. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The mansion offers traditional rooms and suites, many with unique historic charm. Some rooms feature whirlpool tubs. Accommodations in the carriage house are also available and described as cozy. Reddit

Yes, breakfast is included for overnight guests and is often described as delicious. Dining on the porch is a highlight for many guests. Reddit

The mansion is famous for its murder mystery dinner shows and ghost tours. Overnight stays offer a chance to experience the historic ambiance and enjoy the grounds. InstagramReddit

While the mansion has a historic and sometimes spooky atmosphere, families can enjoy the unique experience. Murder mystery events are generally suitable for older children and adults. Instagram

Guests have reported that the Wi-Fi works well, and there are plenty of outlets available in the rooms, which is convenient for a historic property. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The mansion offers a buffet-style dinner for its murder mystery events, which is highly praised for its variety and taste. Breakfast is also provided for overnight guests. Reddit

Typically, dining is part of the murder mystery event package. For other times, it's best to check their schedule or explore the many restaurants in downtown Jim Thorpe. Reddit

The buffet-style dinner is noted for offering a wide variety of options to satisfy different dietary preferences and needs, suggesting accommodations are likely available. Reddit

The mansion features a wood-paneled bar, suggesting a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are available for guests to enjoy. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Absolutely! The mansion's stunning Victorian architecture and scenic hilltop location make it incredibly photogenic, especially its exterior. Instagram+1

The front facade of the mansion, the surrounding grounds, and views overlooking Jim Thorpe are prime photo locations. The interior, with its wood paneling, also offers great shots. Instagram

Yes, guests staying at the inn or attending events can take photos inside. Be mindful of other guests and any specific photography rules. Reddit

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can provide beautiful lighting for the exterior. Evenings can be atmospheric, especially if the mansion is lit up. Instagram

While generally permitted for personal use, it's always a good idea to check with the staff if you plan on extensive professional photography or videography. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families can enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Harry Packer Mansion, especially if they are fans of the Haunted Mansion. While the mansion itself is historic, the murder mystery events are generally suitable for older children and teens who can appreciate the interactive theater. Instagram The scenic location above Jim Thorpe also offers beautiful views. Consider booking a room with a whirlpool tub for an extra treat. Reddit

When visiting Jim Thorpe, consider other family-friendly activities like the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway or exploring the charming shops downtown. The mansion's proximity to these attractions makes it a convenient base for a family trip. Reddit

👻 Ghost & Paranormal Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by the paranormal, the Harry Packer Mansion is a must-visit. Its reputation as an inspiration for the Haunted Mansion, coupled with its own historical narratives, makes it a prime spot for ghost stories and potential encounters. Instagram+1 Many visitors attend specifically for the ghost tours, which are highly recommended and should be booked in advance due to popularity. Instagram

The mansion's atmospheric setting, especially during the fall, enhances the spooky allure. Even if you don't experience a direct paranormal event, the sheer history and the tales shared by guides create a thrilling and eerie experience. Instagram

💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways

The Harry Packer Mansion offers a wonderfully romantic setting, especially for couples who appreciate history and unique experiences. Staying in one of the traditional rooms, perhaps one with a whirlpool tub, provides a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Reddit Enjoying breakfast on the porch or a quiet drink at the wood-paneled bar adds to the charm. Reddit

Attending a Murder Mystery Weekend together can be a fun and engaging date activity, offering shared laughter and intrigue. The mansion's hilltop location provides beautiful views, perfect for a romantic evening stroll or simply enjoying the scenery. It's an ideal escape for those looking for something beyond a typical hotel stay. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Haunted Mansion Connection

The Harry Packer Mansion in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, holds a special place in the hearts of Disney fans. Its striking Victorian Gothic architecture is widely cited as a primary inspiration for the exterior design of Walt Disney World's iconic Haunted Mansion attraction. Imagineers reportedly drew inspiration from its imposing facade, intricate details, and hilltop perch when conceptualizing the spooky manor. Instagram+3

Visitors often marvel at the similarities, noting the mansion's dramatic silhouette and the eerie charm that perfectly captures the spirit of the beloved theme park ride. While the mansion itself has its own rich history and local legends, this connection to Disney adds an extra layer of fascination for many who visit. Instagram+1

Whether you're a Disney enthusiast or simply appreciate unique historical architecture, seeing the real-life inspiration for such a famous attraction is a memorable experience. It’s a fascinating blend of pop culture and historical preservation. Instagram

Murder Mystery Weekends: An Immersive Experience

The Harry Packer Mansion is renowned for its Murder Mystery Weekends, offering guests a truly immersive and entertaining experience. These events transform the historic mansion into a stage where guests become part of the unfolding drama. The evenings typically include a delicious buffet-style dinner, followed by a live performance by talented actors who guide attendees through a thrilling mystery. Reddit

What sets these events apart is the interactive nature; actors mingle with guests, staying in character and encouraging participation. This creates a lively and engaging atmosphere where everyone feels involved in solving the crime. The actors are praised for their wit, talent, and commitment to making the experience fun and memorable. Reddit

Beyond the mystery, the mansion's enchanting ambiance, combined with the excellent food and friendly staff, makes these weekends a highly recommended getaway. It’s a perfect blend of historical charm, culinary delight, and interactive entertainment, making it a popular choice for a unique night out or a special occasion. Reddit

A Historic Stay Above Jim Thorpe

Staying at the Harry Packer Mansion Inn offers a unique opportunity to step back in time. The mansion, built in 1874, provides traditional rooms and suites, some featuring luxurious whirlpool tubs. The interior boasts elegant wood-paneled common areas and a cozy bar, evoking the grandeur of a bygone era. InstagramReddit

Guests consistently praise the warm hospitality of the staff and owners, who are dedicated to making visitors feel welcome and cared for. The mansion's location offers a peaceful retreat, situated high above the bustling town of Jim Thorpe, providing scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere. Despite its historic nature, modern amenities like reliable WiFi and ample electrical outlets are available in the rooms, ensuring a comfortable stay. Reddit

Breakfast is a highlight for many, often enjoyed on the porch with picturesque surroundings. The carriage house accommodations also receive positive mentions for being cozy and well-appointed. It's an ideal choice for those seeking a distinctive lodging experience steeped in history and charm. Reddit

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