5 of the Most Haunted Hotels in Chicago

Prepare Yourself for Mystery Inside the Most Haunted Hotels in Chicago

Chicago is known for its architecture and history, but behind its famous skyline lies mysterious tales. Some of the most historic hotels in Chicago have developed reputations for being haunted.

If you enjoy a thrill with your vacation, dare to stay at one of these properties. As you wander the halls, you may encounter a shadowy figure, or maybe even see an object move across the room. If you can stomach the unknown, these haunted hotels in Chicago are worth adding to your itinerary.

Here are some of the most haunted hotels in Chicago and a taste of the stories that have made them famous.

Congress Plaza Hotel

Opening in 1893, the Congress Plaza Hotel was first used to house travelers visiting the World’s Columbian Exposition. Over the years, the hotel has undergone many renovations to keep up with modern style changes and technology. One particularly notable addition was its banquet hall, now known as the Gold Room, which became the first hotel ballroom in America to use air conditioning.

Now enough talk of history—the ghost stories are where things get interesting.

The hotel’s darker history earned it an eerie reputation. It is famous for being one of the most haunted hotels in Chicago, with many years of paranormal sightings and mysterious deaths. Paranormal legends surround several areas of the property. The fourth and twelfth floors are singled out as particularly haunted.

Guests and paranormal investigators have reported unexplained noises, strange sensations, and apparitions. Whether you believe the stories or not, this hotel boasts 130 years of fascinating history, making it one of the most intriguing Chicago haunted hotels to visit.

The Drake Hotel

Sitting at the beginning of the Magnificent Mile, The Drake has welcomed guests since 1920 and is one of Chicago’s most recognizable historic hotels. Few of the haunted hotels in Chicago combine old-timey elegance and ghost stories like this one.

Its most famous ghost story involves the so-called Woman in Red.

According to local legend, a woman discovered her fiancé with another man during a New Year’s Eve party at the hotel in 1920. Distraught, she went to an upper floor and jumped to her death. Ever since, guests have claimed to see the figure of a woman wearing a red dress around the hotel’s ballrooms and upper floors.

Even if ghosts aren’t your thing, there’s still much to enjoy at The Drake. It’s known for its character and famous Palm Court and is a great choice for travelers who want a comfortable Chicago experience—with a bit of mystery thrown in, of course!

Palmer House

The Palmer House is better known for its grand architecture, famous guests, and history. However, it is also one of the city’s more intriguing hotels for paranormal enthusiasts.

The hotel was destroyed by the Great Chicago Fire only 13 days after opening in 1871. The owner, Potter Palmer, rebuilt the property and reopened it in 1873. Over the years, it has welcomed many generations of travelers and celebrities.

Guests have reported unexplained footsteps, flickering lights, and other strange occurrences on the property. Some stories connect the hotel’s paranormal activity to its past and the people who have walked through its halls, such as the rumors of a woman in vintage attire who wanders the upper floors.

The hotel is located close to Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Theater District. The property also offers a history tour, which gives visitors the opportunity to learn more about its past. Even without the ghost stories, the Palmer House is a beautiful place to visit.

The Blackstone

The Blackstone’s reputation is tied to its connection with Chicago’s political and social history. Its famous “smoke-filled room” is associated with the political negotiations that helped shape the Republican Party’s presidential nomination in 1920.

However, politics isn’t the only thing lurking in the hotel’s past.

Over the years, there have been many stories of unexplained activity, giving The Blackstone a place among haunted hotels in Chicago. Guests have claimed to hear strange sounds and unexplained sensations.

Today, the hotel showcases stunning historic architecture complimented by modern accommodations and amenities, making it a great place to stay. Its location also puts travelers close to Grant Park, Millennium Park, and other downtown attractions.

It may not be the first hotel that comes to mind when you think of ghosts, but its paranormal lore makes it worth considering if you’re looking for a spooky stay.

Millennium Knickerbocker Chicago

Just steps from the Magnificent Mile, this historic property dates back to the 1920s and is known for its beautiful Crystal Ballroom.

As with many older hotels, the Knickerbocker has accumulated its share of supernatural stories. Visitors have shared tales of strange noises and ghostly encounters, causing it to earn a reputation among travelers interested in the paranormal.

Although the hotel’s history alone makes it an interesting place to stay, it is also conveniently located near Michigan Avenue, putting guests close to some of Chicago’s most popular shopping, dining, and entertainment.

If you want to explore the city by day and investigate mysterious tales by night, the Knickerbocker is your type of stay.

Why Are So Many Chicago Hotels Reportedly Haunted?

So, why are there so many haunted hotels in Chicago?

Part of the answer lies in the city’s history.

Chicago has experienced many changes over the past 150 years, including the Great Chicago Fire, the World’s Columbian Exposition, organized crime, political scandals, and more. Many of the city’s older hotels have been standing throughout those events.

Hotels are uniquely tied to ghost stories. They are constantly filled with strangers who come and go. Hallways, elevators, and guest rooms have all been host to countless people. When a building has been around for centuries, it’s easy to imagine how mysterious stories can become a part of its identity.

Whether you believe them or not, it’s up to you. But it’s undeniable that they add another layer to Chicago’s captivating history.

Experience the Eerie Thrill for Yourself

All of these properties offer something for every type of traveler, including old fashioned architecture, luxurious accommodations, and intriguing stories of the past.

If staying overnight in one of these Chicago haunted hotels sounds a bit too scary for your liking, you can always explore the surrounding neighborhoods and learn about the city’s paranormal history during the day.

Want an easy way to cruise the city and see haunted spots all in one? An architecture boat tour with Tours & Boats lets you experience its famous architecture and landmarks from the water.

So…would you spend the night in a haunted Chicago hotel?

If you’re brave enough, the city is ready to welcome you. Just don’t be surprised if you hear a strange noise down the hall at night.