News Summary
As Halloween approaches, ghost enthusiasts are drawn to historic hotels across North America with chilling tales. This article highlights the top ten haunted hotels, from the infamous Hotel del Coronado in California to the spooky Hawthorne Hotel in Salem, Massachusetts. Each hotel offers unique ghostly lore, making them perfect for thrill-seekers looking for an eerie experience this season. Many of these haunted locales also provide ghost tours and themed events, enhancing the supernatural excitement for visitors.
Coronado, California – With Halloween just around the corner, numerous hotels throughout North America are drawing attention for their haunted histories. A list has been compiled highlighting the top ten haunted hotels that promise an eerie experience for ghost enthusiasts seeking thrills this season.
Top Haunted Hotels for Halloween
The selection showcases a variety of historic hotels, each with unique ghostly lore and famous spirits. From California to Louisiana, these hotels have earned their ghostly reputations over the decades.
1. Hotel del Coronado, Coronado, California
Opened in 1888, the Hotel del Coronado is infamous for the ghost of Kate Morgan, who tragically took her life in 1892. Known as the “beautiful stranger,” her spirit reportedly haunts both the room where she died and the third floor of the hotel.
2. Crescent Hotel, Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Constructed in 1886, the Crescent Hotel has gained the title of “America’s most haunted hotel.” Visitors have reported encounters with the ghost of Norman Baker, a fraudulent physician, along with Theodora, a patient who died under his care. Theodora is known for her habit of tidying up after guests.
3. Driskill Hotel, Austin, Texas
The historic Driskill Hotel, which opened in 1886, is reportedly haunted by Jesse Lincoln Driskill, its founder, as well as two jilted brides who committed suicide there. A little girl who fell down the grand staircase is also said to wander the hotel.
4. Hawthorne Hotel, Salem, Massachusetts
Established in 1925, the Hawthorne Hotel has a history tied to the Salem Witch Trials. Guests have experienced ghost sightings, including those of long-deceased sea captains. Haunted rooms include 325 and 621, and the hotel hosts a Halloween ball and themed experiences based on the cult classic “Hocus Pocus.”
5. Chelsea Hotel, New York, New York
After reopening in 2022, the iconic Chelsea Hotel has a rich history of hosting artists and influencers. It is haunted by two women: Mary, a Titanic survivor who took her own life, and Nadia, who also died by suicide. Mary, often referred to as the “Vain Ghost,” is known for appearing in mirrors, while Nadia is seen in a wispy gown.
6. Fairmont Banff Springs, Alberta
Built in 1914, the Fairmont Banff Springs is known for the ghost of bellhop Sam McCauley and a Bride who met a tragic end before her wedding. Guests have reported numerous paranormal experiences in the ballroom and Sam’s former office.
7. Colonial Inn, Concord, Massachusetts
Dating back to 1716, Colonial Inn holds significant historical value from the Revolutionary War. Apparitions resembling literary figure Henry David Thoreau and a young girl dressed in 18th-century attire have reportedly been spotted.
8. Brown Palace Hotel, Denver, Colorado
With a legacy spanning over 130 years, the Brown Palace Hotel is said to host the ghost of its founder, Henry C. Brown. Guests frequently report haunted activities occurring on the eighth and ninth floors.
9. Pfister Hotel, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Officially opened in 1893, the Pfister Hotel has earned the title of “baseball’s most haunted hotel.” Athletes staying at the hotel have shared experiences of ghostly encounters, including unexplained noises and the movement of personal belongings.
10. Le Pavillon, New Orleans, Louisiana
Known as the “Belle of New Orleans,” Le Pavillon features a mischievous ghost named Phillipe who engages in playful pranks with guests. The third floor is noted for being particularly active, and the hotel offers a “Boo’z & Beads” package during the Halloween season.
Ghost Tours and Themed Experiences
Many of these haunted hotels provide ghost tours and specially themed events to draw in visitors during the Halloween season. For those looking to experience a frightful stay, these hotels offer a blend of history and supernatural excitement that is sure to delight ghost seekers and history buffs alike.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
California’s Haunted Destinations: Ghostly Legends and Spooky Sites
California’s Haunted Locations Attract Thrills This Halloween
Halloween-Themed Events Across Coronado and San Diego
Top Travel Destinations in California
Explore California’s Diverse Attractions and Destinations
2.0 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Off Coronado Coast
Coronado Plans Festive Halloween Community Events
Top 25 Most Haunted Hotels Revealed for Halloween
Additional Resources
- The Manual: Halloween Travel Guide
- LoveToKnow: 15 Haunted Spots That Still Haunt Me Today Ranked
- Condé Nast Traveler: Haunted Hotels Around the World
- Forbes: America’s 25 Most Haunted Hotels Where It’s Always Halloween
- BBC Travel: The Curious Appeal of Haunted Hotels
- Wikipedia: Halloween
- Google Search: haunted hotels
- Google Scholar: haunted hotels
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Halloween
- Google News: haunted hotels
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
