About
As recognizable as the Eiffel Tower and the Empire State Building, The Stanley Hotel is Estes Park's iconic landmark. While the white facade and red roof are striking, equally impressive is its history and connection to Hollywood.
Our story begins in 1903, when Freelan Oscar Stanley, better known as the mind behind the Stanley Steamer automobile, arrived in Estes Park.
Doctors encouraged him to seek the mountain air to recover from tuberculosis, so Stanley and his wife, Flora, spent a season living in a small cabin. The stay worked wonders, so they returned year after year.
But they yearned for more than simple mountain living, so they planned a hotel that could combine mountain beauty with the comforts of the era's finest establishments. Construction began in 1907, and Stanley used his skills as an inventor to shape every detail.
He built a hydroelectric plant on Fall River to supply the hotel with full electricity, which was rare at the time. He also arranged for custom Stanley Steamer cars to ferry guests from the Lyons train station. To learn more about F.O. Stanley, tour The Stanley Home Museum, which is a short drive away.
The Stanley Hotel opened in 1909 and single-handedly transformed Estes Park from a quiet outpost to a lively resort town.
Today, the revitalized structure offers unique tours and events, features several restaurants, and connects you with an author named Stephen King, which leads us into our next section!
The Stanley Hotel: Fun Facts & Cool Features
In 1974, Stephen King and his wife stayed in the hotel in winter. They were the only guests, and the empty halls and uniqueness of their stay in room 217 inspired him to write The Shining. While the movie version was filmed elsewhere, The Stanley Hotel's connection to the story remains a big draw. There's a dedicated TV channel that plays the film on loop and a tour offering insights into the book and film productions.
While on the topic of "things that go bump in the night," the hotel has a reputation for the supernatural. Guests and employees have shared plenty of stories, from piano music with no visible player to glimpses of figures when no one else is around, and even the sound of children playing in the halls. If this sounds appealing, sign up for a ghost and paranormal tour focused on these mysterious happenings.
Also on-site is a wellness spa, a gift shop, and a chocolate factory. Connoisseurs of whisky should book a tasting in The Vault to sample the private, curated collection.
Aiden Sinclair's Underground features a unique magic show in a subterranean lounge. Experience a world of illusion and wonder, where time is boundless.
Of course, history abounds at this landmark. An original Stanley Steemer car is on display, and a tour is available to provide insight into its history, notable guests, and architecture.
While there are several restaurants on site, like The Post Mountain House, you're never far from one of Estes Park's dining spots. Places like Notchtop Bakery & Cafe and Mountain Home Cafe are within walking distance of the hotel.
Visiting The Stanley Hotel on your Colorado vacation lets you step into a place where history, pop culture, and intrigue coexist.
Local Tips
- Sign up for Deal Alert emails to learn of upcoming specials.
- Book your wedding or special event at The Stanley Hotel.
- The main lobby and hotel grounds are open to visitors.
- Magic shows and concerts are also available; check the website for details.
