Colorado is full of haunted history, from spooky mines to old restaurants with interesting histories. But when it comes to scary ghost stories, nothing quite stands out like Colorado’s haunted hotels. The Stanely Hotel is likely the most well known, inspiring Stephen King’s The Shining. Two different Colorado hotels, however, made it into Historic Hotels of America‘s top 25 most haunted hotels across the United States.
The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa
The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa, Autograph Collection, located right in the heart of downtown Denver, has over 130 years of dramatic history, ranging from romances and scandals to fatal falls and murders. According to some guests and staff, the former guests involved in the drama may still inhabit the hotel’s halls. A 720-foot-deep artesian well lies at the center of the triangular building, with the Brown Palace Club, sitting over the well, reportedly hosting the most paranormal activity.
Additionally, the eighth and ninth floors, once long-term apartments, are also known sites of hauntings. The deceased resident of Suite 904 apparently made calls to the switchboard long after her death, and founding hotelier Henry C. Brown is said to still linger near his office.
Hotel Colorado
Hotel Colorado, located in downtown Glenwood Springs, opened in 1893, and with a long history often comes rumors and stories of lingering spirits. According to Historic Hotels of America, the most famous ghost goes by Walter, named after the hotel founder, Walter Devereux. He’s been reportedly sensed in the hotel halls and lobby during the evening, with witnesses claiming to smell cigar smoke.
There’s also a nurse who served at the hotel when it was a naval hospital during World War II. Killed by a jealous lover, Bobbie (as she’s been named) has been sensed through a specific perfume smell in the dining room during lunch and dinner times. Many other supposed sightings and mysterious experiences have taken place throughout the hotel, including in several guest rooms.
