If you’ve ever dreamed of sleeping in a haunted hotel—or simply crave crisp mountain air with a side of Victorian grandeur—then the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park is calling your name. Perched at 7,500 feet with front-row views of the Rocky Mountains, this century-old gem isn’t just a pretty face—it’s steeped in spooky lore, Hollywood fame, and high-altitude elegance.
Whether you’re here for ghost stories, a luxe weekend getaway, or just to sip a cocktail in a grand historic lobby, the Stanley delivers a dose of drama and delight. From the creaky floorboards to the postcard-worthy porch views, this isn’t your average mountain lodge—it’s an experience.
What We Love
The Shining Connection
Yes, that movie. While Kubrick’s The Shining wasn’t filmed here, Stephen King’s fateful stay at the Stanley in 1974 inspired the Overlook Hotel. You can even request Room 217—the very room that gave him those hair-raising ideas. Whether you’re a horror fan or just curious, the eerie vibes are deliciously palpable.
Historical Tours with a Side of Goosebumps
The hotel offers daily history and ghost tours that blend architecture, gossip, and the supernatural. Picture marble staircases, grand ballrooms, and flickering chandeliers, all while hearing about real-life haunted encounters. And yes, people have captured mysterious orbs on camera. You might, too.
Whiskey Bar Heaven
Inside the Cascades Restaurant lies one of the best whiskey bars in Colorado, with more than 1,000 bottles lining the walls like a liquid library. It’s moody, cozy, and perfect after a long hike or long drive. Pro tip: try a local craft whiskey flight—you’ll be warm and happy in no time.
Porch Sits with Mountain Views
There’s something almost cinematic about rocking gently on the wraparound veranda, with Longs Peak looming in the background and elk wandering across the lawn. Add a steaming mug of coffee (or a sneaky mimosa) and you’ll understand the magic.
Unexpected Extras
The Stanley isn’t just a hotel—it’s a whole village. There’s a hedge maze (in honor of The Shining), a vintage-style concert hall, and even a paranormal research center onsite. It’s like a creepy-cute campus for curious travelers.
Atmosphere & Setting
Step through the front doors and you’ll feel it—that hush of history mixed with the grandeur of early 1900s luxury. The lobby hums with quiet piano music and the scent of polished wood. Massive windows frame the mountains like oil paintings, and antique chandeliers drip light across velvet armchairs and ghost-hunting guests alike.
Outside, the crisp alpine air is fragrant with pine, and the breeze carries the distant sounds of laughter, elk bugles, and the occasional bagpipe performance (yes, really). The building itself is a gorgeous white colonial revival masterpiece, and the entire property feels like something out of a glamorous—and slightly spooky—time capsule.
Value (Is It Worth It?)
Staying overnight runs from around $200–$600 per night depending on the room and season, but even a day visit is well worth your time. Tours run about $30–$60, and they’re meaty enough to keep you entertained for 90+ minutes. The vibe is upscale without being snobby, and it’s ideal for couples, ghost-curious travelers, and anyone with a soft spot for Americana. You don’t have to be a hotel guest to enjoy the restaurant, whiskey bar, or guided tours.
Want to make it budget-friendly? Come for lunch, explore the grounds, and book a tour—you’ll get 90% of the magic for a fraction of the price.
Other Considerations
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Parking is free and plentiful for both guests and day visitors.
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Book in advance—especially for Room 217 or ghost tours, which often sell out.
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Weather tip: Even in summer, Estes Park cools down quickly at night. Layers are your friend.
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Not super stroller or wheelchair friendly in some spots—those historic stairs are charming but steep.
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Food options are limited nearby, so plan to dine onsite or in downtown Estes Park, just a few minutes away.
Whether You’re Here for Haunts or History, the Stanley Makes You Feel Like You’re Part of the Story
With its grand halls, eerie legends, and panoramic Rocky Mountain backdrop, the Stanley Hotel is more than a place to stay—it’s a place to feel. Whether you’re a skeptic, a thrill-seeker, or just in the mood for a stylish escape, this storied estate promises a getaway that’s a little mysterious and a lot memorable.
Stanley Hotel
📍 333 Wonderview Avenue, Estes Park, CO 80517