The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado is widely known as the inspiration of Stephen Hawking's novel "The Shining," which also had a film adaptation. Dating back to 1909, the property is notoriously popular as a haunted hotel for its history, and various ghost tours are actually organized in the place.
Take a look at the key features of the Stanley Hotel and learn why it's said to be haunted.
The Shining Facade
First off, it was said that the title "The Shining" is because of the fact that the hotel's white facade literally shines "like a wedding cake" against the landscape. According to the official website of the hotel, the property is situated "7,500 feet above the ordinary." It is set against a backdrop of lush greens, red rocks and mountains.
The Maze
Those who've seen the film "The Shining," which was an adaptation of Stephen Hawking's novel of the same title, would remember the maze featured in the movie by Stanley Kubrick. Back in December 2014, the Stanley Hotel announced an international design competition for a 10,100-square-foot hedge maze to be built in the hotel. In June this year, CBS Denver reported that the haunted hotel is opening the hedge maze to the public, which is located on the front lawn of the property. The maze is said to be homage to the film, which was inspired by King's novel.
Room 217
According to stories and accounts of guests and hotel staff, Room 217 is where ghosts apparitions are most common; it is also the one where hotel owners F.O. Stanley and his wife reportedly make their presence known through otherworldy things and even apparitions. Ironically, for that reason, it is said to be the most booked room in the hotel, as guests clamor for their own "ghost adventures" when staying in the hotel.
Ghost Tours and Adventure Packages
Speaking of ghost adventures, the Stanley Hotel offers guests the "ultimate haunted experience" with its Ghost Adventure Package, which, according to their site, includes a guaranteed 4th floor room, a K2 Meter per reservation, a glow-in-the-dark Stanley Hotel squishy ghost per person, and a REDRUM mug per person. According to Roadtrippers, a five-hour ghost hunt at the hotel is also available for $50, and it includes a paranormal investigator and a resident psychic to teach you on how to hunt for ghosts using their equipment. There's also a 90-minute ghosts-and-history tour for $15.
The Stanley Hotel also offers a Halloween ball during the season.