Historic Hotels Steeped in Local Legend
Welcome to a world of rich history and captivating legend, where grandeur and luxury merge with tales of the past. When it comes to accommodations, nothing adds more character than a hotel that has stood the test of time and holds within its walls secrets and stories of the past. From ghostly apparitions to famous guests, the historic hotels steeped in local legend offer a unique and unforgettable experience. In this article, we take a journey through some of the most renowned historic hotels that have a story to tell.
The Stanley Hotel – Estes Park, Colorado
Nestled in the picturesque Rocky Mountains, The Stanley Hotel is not only a beautiful destination, but it also boasts a fascinating history. The hotel was built in 1909 by Freelan Oscar Stanley, who was known for his invention of the Stanley Steamer automobile. However, it is most famously known for being the inspiration for Stephen King’s novel, “The Shining”. Guests can take a historic ghost tour or stay in one of the famously haunted rooms, such as room 217 where Stephen King stayed and was inspired to write the novel.
The Omni Homestead Resort – Hot Springs, Virginia
Located in the heart of the Allegheny Mountains, The Omni Homestead Resort has hosted presidents, celebrities, and even royalty since its establishment in 1766. This charming hotel boasts a rich history, including the story of the iconic curse of the Hot Springs. Legend has it that during the Civil War, a Union general cursed the hot springs, saying that no Confederate soldier would ever be able to eat, drink, or bathe in them. Interestingly, to this day, the springs are only accessible to guests of The Omni Homestead Resort.
Chateau Frontenac – Quebec City, Canada
Designed by American architect Bruce Price and built in 1893, Chateau Frontenac is considered the most photographed hotel in the world. Set on a cliff overlooking the St. Lawrence River and Old Quebec, this grand chateau is not only a National Historic Site of Canada, but it is also known for its ghostly apparitions. Guests have reported sightings of a tall woman in a flowing dress, a piano playing by itself, and doors mysteriously opening and closing. The most famous legend associated with the hotel is the story of a woman named Mélina, who died on her wedding night in room 692. Some guests have claimed to see her ghostly figure in her wedding dress wandering the halls.
The Plaza Hotel – New York City, New York
The Plaza Hotel has been a prominent landmark in New York City since its opening in 1907. Its luxurious accommodations and glamorous events have attracted celebrities, presidents, and even royalty over the years. However, it is also known for being the setting of several eerie legends. The most famous one is the legend of the tragic death of the hotel’s builder, Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt, during the sinking of the RMS Lusitania in 1915. It is said that his ghost can still be seen wandering the hotel’s hallways and the elevators.
The Fairmont Banff Springs – Banff, Canada
Known as the “Castle in the Rockies”, The Fairmont Banff Springs is not only a stunning hotel but also a landmark in Canadian history. Built in 1888, this iconic hotel has welcomed many distinguished guests, including royalty and celebrities. But behind its luxurious façade lies a ghostly past. Guests have reported sightings of the ghost of a bride, who is said to have died tragically on her wedding day, as well as a bellman who died in a tragic accident on the stairway.
Stepping into one of these historic hotels is like stepping into a time capsule, where the charm of the past meets the comfort of the present. These hotels not only offer a unique and memorable experience, but they also add an air of mystery and intrigue to any stay. So, the next time you are looking for a one-of-a-kind accommodation, consider staying in one of these historic hotels steeped in local legend.
