Follow along as I unveil some of the spookiest hotels that also happen to be my top personal picks. From a top-tier diamond hotel rumored to be haunted by its former owner to a property said to be home to “The Lady in Blue,” these legendary places to stay are sure to scare up a good time—just don’t forget to pack your ghost-hunting gear!

My top picks include:

Although there are plenty of allegedly haunted hotels in America, let’s just say these are a cut above the rest. Beyond their ghostly reputations, they’re known for everything from scenic views to serious “wow” factor. But there’s nothing to fear at these historic properties—they’re all clean, beautifully maintained, and ready to welcome travelers.

So, if you’re looking for a few extra chills and thrills on your next trip, be sure to check out one of these hauntingly great stays.

Hotel Monteleone | New Orleans, Louisiana

My Pick: Wow Effect

When staying here, I always recommend enjoying some downtime in style at the infamous Carousel Bar and Lounge. It actually spins, providing guests with a fun, memorable experience.

If you’re looking for a scary good time (allegedly), head up to the 14th floor. This beautifully appointed, classic hotel offers rooms that vary in size and design, with some on the cozier side. The inviting lobby offers plenty of space to relax, and the rooftop pool is a huge draw. Hotel Monteleone is ideally situated on a popular street in the French Quarter, surrounded by upscale antique shops, boutiques, and incredible fine-dining choices.

Jekyll Island Club Resort | Jekyll Island, Georgia

My Pick: Wow Effect

This is one of my all-time favorite destinations simply for the natural beauty of the island, the storied history of the hotel, and the Gilded Age “cottages,” shops, and tours nearby.

If you’re brave enough, head to the second floor—it’s where you might get an unexpected knock from a bellhop said to still be on the job, or spot the late founding president taking a sip of coffee while reading the paper. Offering a rare glimpse into the Gilded Age, this restored hotel and its annexes feature a variety of rooms and suites across five historic buildings, each decorated with period furnishings (some even have private glass porches with rocking chairs). It’s located right in the heart of the historic district, so history lovers can stroll past the many restored on-site cottages that once belonged to some of the country’s most powerful individuals.

Omni Parker House | Boston, Massachusetts

My Pick: Personal Favorite

Steeped in rich history, this special Boston landmark is actually where both the Parker House roll and the Boston cream pie originated!

From apparitions and orbs to elevators being mysteriously called to the third floor, this hotel offers plenty of unexpected thrills near the theater district and the T (Boston’s subway system). Built in 1855 by Harvey Parker, the Omni Parker House is reputed to be Boston’s oldest operating hotel. Its opulent lobby exudes pure Gilded Age elegance, while the rooms feature plush, super-soft white bedding, robes, and thick oversize towels.

Countless famous guests have stayed here just a block away from Boston Common. You can take a peek at the press room where JFK announced his candidacy for Congress, or request Table 40 in the main dining room where he proposed to Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Charles Dickens even resided here for over two years while rehearsing and performing A Christmas Carol for the first time—his large gilded rehearsal mirror is still on display near the press room. If you’re interested in the supernatural, wander the halls of the 10th floor, where the ghost of the original owner is said to still roam.

The Omni Grove Park Inn | Asheville, North Carolina

My Pick: Scenic View

I am always mesmerized by the view from the Sunset Terrace, looking out over the terraced hill and grottos toward the Carolina mountains. Perched high on a hilltop, The Omni Grove Park Inn has been a local landmark since 1913, drawing visitors with its granite architecture, distinctive clay-tiled roof, massive stone fireplaces, and breathtaking mountain vistas.

Locals love to share stories about the “Pink Lady,” a ghostly young woman who haunts the property, and many brave guests seek out the infamous Room 545. The guest rooms feature beautiful Craftsman-style period furnishings, with options ranging from cozy historic rooms full of character to spacious suites. With numerous dining choices, a championship golf course, an extensive luxury spa, and a massive health club, it delivers a complete resort experience.

The Seelbach Hilton | Louisville, Kentucky

My Pick: Meetings & Events

Whenever I walk down the elegant staircase from the mezzanine to the lobby, I’m reminded that Tom and Daisy—the fictional characters from The Great Gatsby—were married right here.

A restored 1905 hotel, The Seelbach Hilton is not only one of Downtown Louisville’s most elegant historic landmarks, but also home to a few lingering mysteries. Travelers have reported sudden cold spots and even the faint scent of perfume, allegedly left behind by “The Lady in Blue.” Rooms are beautifully appointed with mahogany furniture and high-thread-count linens.

Don’t miss the Rathskeller Room in the basement. Appointed with ornate Rookwood tiles, intricately tooled leather, and ceramic images of storks, the room exudes an almost mystical, brooding atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else.

The Read House Hotel | Chattanooga, Tennessee

My Pick: Wow Effect

There are so many beautiful and interesting details to take in inside this lobby that I’m honestly surprised they don’t charge admission!

Many believe Room 311 is haunted by the ghost of Annalisa Netherly—a guest allegedly murdered in her bathtub in 1927 by a jealous lover. Guests here have reported all kinds of paranormal activity, including unexplained noises, flickering lights, running water, and full apparitions. The room itself retains authentic period details, including a vintage clawfoot tub and an old-school AM radio.

The entire historic property has been restored to its original Roaring ’20s elegance, complete with plush furnishings, backlit bars, and movie-star art. There’s even a secret billiard room tucked away in the rear of the lounge, plus a library nook filled with backlit bookcases where you can borrow a book and soak in the hotel’s storied atmosphere.