Haunted Hotels in Flagstaff, Arizona You Can Stay In

Haunted History of Flagstaff, Arizona

Nestled in the high country mountains of Northern Arizona, Flagstaff is a city with a wild and rugged past. Born as a rough-and-tumble railroad and lumber town in the late 1800s, its historic downtown was once filled with saloons, gambling halls, and brothels catering to a transient and often violent population. The lawlessness of the Old West, combined with the harsh realities of life on the frontier, has left behind a host of spirits who are said to still walk the historic streets and occupy their favorite rooms in the city's old hotels.

Beyond its Old West roots, Flagstaff's haunted history is enriched by its unique location. As a key stop on the iconic Route 66, it became a crossroads for a new generation of travelers, each leaving their own stories and energies behind. The city is also surrounded by ancient Native American lands, and the San Francisco Peaks, which tower over the town, are sacred to many tribes, adding a layer of deep, ancient mystery to the area's already active paranormal landscape.

Other Haunted Attractions in Flagstaff, Arizona

• Lowell Observatory: This world-famous observatory, where Pluto was discovered, is also known for its celestial and spectral inhabitants. The ghost of its founder, Percival Lowell, is said to still wander the grounds, particularly near the Clark Telescope. Staff have also reported hearing disembodied footsteps and the chilling cries of a mysterious "Lady in Black" near his mausoleum on the property. Official Website
• Riordan Mansion State Historic Park: This stunning Arts and Crafts style duplex mansion was built in 1904 for the Riordan brothers, two of Flagstaff's most prominent founding citizens. The spirits of the family are believed to have never left, with frequent reports of ghostly children laughing, the apparitions of the Riordan wives appearing in their former bedrooms, and objects moving on their own. Official Website
• The Orpheum Theater: A cornerstone of historic downtown Flagstaff since 1917, this former vaudeville house and movie palace is known for its paranormal performers. The theater is said to be haunted by a friendly female ghost named "Clara" who is seen in the balcony, as well as a more somber male presence that lurks backstage. Staff often report lights flickering and strange sounds long after the audience has gone home. Official Website
• Flagstaff City Cemetery: As the final resting place for many of the city's pioneers, railroad workers, and victims of the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic, this historic cemetery is a prime location for paranormal activity. Visitors have reported seeing shadowy figures darting between the tombstones and hearing the disembodied laughter of children near the oldest sections of the graveyard.

Travel Tips for Haunted Hotel Stays in Flagstaff, Arizona

• Take a Haunted Walking Tour: The history of downtown Flagstaff is packed with tales of murder, mayhem, and mystery. A guided ghost tour is the best way to hear the chilling stories of the city's Old West spirits and learn about its most active paranormal locations.
• Stargaze with Ghosts: A visit to the haunted Lowell Observatory is a unique and essential Flagstaff experience. You can gaze at the cosmos through a historic telescope and maybe even catch a glimpse of a ghost among the stars.
• Bring a Jacket: Flagstaff's high-altitude mountain climate means that nights get cool year-round, even in the summer. The chill in the air will only add to the spooky atmosphere of your late-night ghost hunt.
• Explore Historic Route 66: Drive the stretches of the "Mother Road" that run through Flagstaff and the nearby town of Williams. The old motels, diners, and shops have a classic, eerie vibe and are full of stories from a bygone era of American travel.

FAQ about Haunted Hotels in Flagstaff, Arizona

Are haunted hotels in Flagstaff, Arizona safe to stay in? Yes, absolutely. They are historic and beloved hotels that offer safe, unique, and comfortable accommodations. Their resident ghosts are a fascinating part of the city's Old West and Route 66 heritage.

What is the most haunted hotel in Flagstaff, Arizona? While one famous downtown hotel is world-renowned for its catalog of ghostly guests, several other historic inns in Flagstaff have their own well-documented spirits. The city's past as a bustling railroad and lumber town has left many spectral residents behind.

Do haunted hotels in Flagstaff offer ghost tours? Flagstaff has a thriving ghost tour scene, and companies like Freaky Foot Tours make the city's haunted hotels a central part of their spooky walks through the historic downtown district.

Can kids stay in haunted hotels in Flagstaff, Arizona? Most hotels are family-friendly. The stories of the Old West, railroad pioneers, and Route 66 can be a thrilling and educational adventure for older kids and teens.

What time of year is best for haunted hotel stays in Flagstaff, Arizona? Autumn is a perfect time to visit. The crisp mountain air, the stunning colors of the changing aspen trees, and the lead-up to Halloween create an unbeatable spooky atmosphere for exploring this historic mountain town.