The Stanley Hotel

When Stephen King stayed in Room 217 in 1974, he experienced nightmares that inspired one of the greatest horror novels ever written. But the real ghosts predate his visit.

The Kings of the Stanley

F.O. Stanley and his wife Flora built the hotel in 1909. They never left:

• Flora’s ghost plays the piano in the ballroom
• Notes sound from the Steinway with no one at the keys
• F.O. is seen in the billiard room
• His image appears in photographs of the hotel

Room 217

The most haunted room, where Stephen King stayed:

• Elizabeth Wilson, a housekeeper, was injured here in an explosion
• She survived and continued working until her death
• Now she unpacks guests’ luggage
• She gets into bed with single men
• Couples feel hands on their shoulders
• The closet light turns on repeatedly

The Fourth Floor

Originally quarters for unmarried staff, now hotbed of activity:

• Room 401: A shadowy figure in the corner
• Room 407: Phantom children running in the hall
• Room 418: Apparitions at the foot of the bed
• Children’s laughter echoes at night
• Balls bounce in empty hallways

The Concert Hall

Built for guests’ entertainment:

• Spectral figures dance during performances
• Voices singing along with performers
• Cold spots that move through the audience

F.O.’s Apparition

The founder still oversees his hotel:

• Seen checking on operations
• Appears in photographs
• Guests smell his pipe tobacco
• His reflection appears in mirrors

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The Stanley Hotel offers ghost tours and Spirit Balls throughout the year.