Haunted Hotels in Florida You Can Stay In
Discover the most haunted hotels in Florida with real ghost stories and paranormal activity
30 Haunted Hotels Found in Florida
1872 Denham Inn
555 W Palmer Mill Rd, Monticello, FL 32344, United States
Located in Monticello, which bills itself as 'Florida's Most Haunted Small Town,' the 1872 Denham Inn inherently carries expectations of paranormal activity. Built as a wedding gift, its stories often involve former residents of the Denham family. Guests and staff have reported various experiences: hearing unexplained footsteps, children's laughter when no children are present, seeing fleeting shadows, and feeling sudden temperature changes. Some speak of specific room peculiarities. Given Monticello's dedication to its haunted reputation, the Inn fits well within the local lore of spirits tied to its historic properties.
Grady House Bed and Breakfast
420 NW 1st Ave, High Springs, FL 32643, United States
The Grady House, a historic structure from around the turn of the 20th century, is suggested by local lore and paranormal enthusiasts to have resident spirits. Stories often revolve around past residents, particularly children. Guests and staff have reported hearing faint sounds of children playing or giggling, doors creaking open or shut independently, and objects being subtly moved. Some mention feeling 'cold spots' or an unseen presence in certain rooms, particularly upstairs. While not overwhelmingly menacing, the activity suggests lingering energies from the house's many decades as a family home.
Pensacola Victorian Bed and Breakfast
203 W Gregory St, Pensacola, FL 32502, United States
Built in 1890, the Pensacola Victorian is steeped in history. Ghostly tales associated with properties of this era often involve former residents. While the B&B promotes romance and comfort, some stories persist about gentle paranormal activity. Guests occasionally report subtle occurrences: faint whispers or sounds, doors slightly moving, or items not being exactly where they were left. There isn't usually a frightening narrative, but more a sense of lingering presence, possibly from original owners or inhabitants through its long history, watching over their beloved home.
Casa de Suenos
20 Cordova St, St. Augustine, FL 32084, United States
Casa de Suenos, 'House of Dreams,' built in the early 20th century, contributes to St. Augustine's haunted narrative mostly through atmosphere and history rather than specific ghost tales. Being over a century old, like many buildings in the area, it's considered by some to hold residual energies. Guests seeking paranormal experiences might interpret feelings of presence or minor environmental oddities (like sudden temperature shifts) as signs. However, it's more known for romance and tranquility, suggesting any spiritual presence is benign or very subtle, contributing to the overall sense of history permeating St. Augustine.
Herlong Mansion Bed & Breakfast
402 NE Cholokka Blvd, Micanopy, FL 32667, United States
The Herlong Mansion, with its origins tracing back to before the Civil War, is steeped in Southern history and, consequently, ghost stories. While specific ghost identities are not always agreed upon, many tales center around members of the Herlong family or individuals connected to the house's long past. Common reports include sightings of apparitions in period clothing, sometimes seen looking out windows or in hallways. Disembodied voices, footsteps on creaking floors when no one is there, and doors opening or closing seemingly on their own contribute to its haunted reputation. Some rooms are said to have 'heavier' atmospheres or more frequent activity.
Old Town Manor
511 Eaton St, Key West, FL 33040, United States
Old Town Manor, formerly Eaton Lodge, has a history dating back to 1886. Such old structures in Key West are often associated with spirits. While the Manor promotes tranquility, some tales suggest residual energies remain. Stories include sightings of shadowy figures, particularly on staircases or upper floors. Others mention faint sounds, like whispers or rustling clothing, when no one is present. Being a restored historic home, any potential entities are likely linked to former residents or significant events within its walls over its long lifespan. Specific well-known ghost identities aren't as prominent as in other Key West locations, focusing more on atmospheric experiences.
Seven Sisters Inn
820 SE Fort King St, Ocala, FL 34471, United States
The Seven Sisters Inn embraces its haunted reputation, claiming to host at least seven benevolent spirits. Owners and guests frequently report paranormal activity. These spirits are said to include the original homeowners, Emma and Ben Rheinauer, three playful children, a flirtatious male spirit named 'George,' and possibly others. Experiences range from objects moving on their own, disembodied voices and laughter, temperature fluctuations, and gentle touches. The inn often markets itself with its hauntings, offering ghost tours and paranormal investigation opportunities, assuring guests the spirits are friendly and add to the unique atmosphere of the Victorian property.
Southern Wind Inn
18 Cordova St, St. Augustine, FL 32084, United States
The Southern Wind Inn, comprising historic homes from the early 1900s, fits into St. Augustine's haunted landscape through typical 'old house' phenomena. While not known for dramatic or malevolent entities, guests sometimes speak of subtle occurrences. These may include feeling a 'presence,' hearing faint footsteps on wooden floors when alone, or doors seeming to have a mind of their own. It's often attributed to the lingering essence of previous inhabitants enjoying their eternal stay in the historic district, contributing mildly to the city's overall ghostly ambiance rather than having specific named spirits.
Kenwood Inn
38 Marine St, St. Augustine, FL 32084, United States
The Kenwood Inn, dating back to 1865, shares in St. Augustine's haunted heritage. While it doesn't boast a singular famous ghost story like some other local inns, its age suggests residual energies. Guests have reported common paranormal indicators: unexplained cool breezes, faint sounds like whispers or movement in adjacent empty rooms, and occasionally, items slightly misplaced. These are generally perceived as benign, possibly the echoes of individuals who lived, worked, or passed through the inn over its nearly 160-year history. It contributes to the overall 'historic and possibly haunted' atmosphere of staying in old St. Augustine.
Marrero's Guest Mansion
410 Fleming St, Key West, FL 33040, United States
Marrero's Guest Mansion was built by Francisco Marrero for his wife Enriquetta. After Francisco's unexpected death, it was discovered he was still legally married to another woman, Maria, who then claimed the mansion. Enriquetta and her eight children were consequently evicted and left destitute. Heartbroken, Enriquetta vowed she would remain in the home in spirit even if she could not in life. Guests and staff report experiencing paranormal activity attributed to Enriquetta. She is generally considered a benevolent spirit, sometimes seen wandering the halls or playing pranks like moving objects or locking/unlocking doors, particularly in rooms 17, 18, and 23. Some also report hearing children laughing, suggesting her children might haunt the location alongside her. She is said to be protective of women and children within the house.
McFarlin House Bed and Breakfast
305 E King St, Quincy, FL 32351, United States
The McFarlin House, built in 1895, is another historic Florida home with whispers of lingering spirits. As a prominent family home for generations, tales often suggest that members of the McFarlin family might still inhabit the residence. Paranormal claims include typical manifestations: hearing voices or conversations in empty rooms, objects being moved slightly, cold spots, and lights behaving erratically. There isn't one specific dominant ghostly figure cited universally, but rather a collection of experiences suggesting the home is 'occupied' by more than just living guests, adding to its historic charm.
St. Francis Inn
279 St George St, St. Augustine, FL 32084, United States
As likely St. Augustine's oldest inn (1791), the St. Francis Inn has a deep history intertwined with tragic love stories. The most prominent haunting involves 'Lily,' a young enslaved woman who worked at the inn. She fell in love with a nephew of the owner. Their forbidden affair was discovered, leading to her dismissal and the young man's subsequent suicide in despair, often associated with an attic room. Guests report seeing Lily's apparition, dressed in white, sometimes searching for her lost love. Other paranormal occurrences include lights flickering, doors opening/closing, cold spots, and items moving on their own, cementing its haunted reputation.
Coombs House Inn
80 6th St, Apalachicola, FL 32320, United States
The Coombs House Inn is believed to be haunted by members of the Coombs family, particularly focusing on stories related to the tragic loss of children or misfortunes connected to the family's history in the lumber trade. One persistent legend involves a ghostly child. Guests report hearing children playing or crying when none are present. Other accounts speak of experiencing sudden cold spots, doors opening and closing, and personal items being moved. Some claim to see apparitions reflecting figures from the Victorian era. The most dramatic claims involve nightmares about fires, possibly linked to historical events or anxieties related to wooden structures of the time.
The Artist House Bed and Breakfast
534 Eaton St, Key West, FL 33040, United States
The Artist House is renowned primarily for its association with Robert Eugene Otto and 'Robert the Doll,' gifted to him as a child. This creepy doll is said to be haunted, possibly by spirits or energies attached during its creation or through Otto's intense relationship with it. Though 'Robert the Doll' now resides in the Fort East Martello Museum, its original home was the Artist House. Reports link the doll to misfortunes befalling those who disrespected it. Within the house itself, guests report phenomena attributed both to residual energy from the doll and potentially other spirits. These include footsteps in empty rooms, disembodied giggling, sightings of a woman in a wedding dress (allegedly Otto's spurned aunt), and electrical anomalies. The 'Turret Suite' where Robert kept the doll is often cited as a center of activity.
The Belleview Inn
25 Belleview Blvd, Belleair, FL 33756, United States
The Belleview Inn is a preserved section of the original Belleview-Biltmore, a grand hotel built by railroad tycoon Henry B. Plant. Such historic structures often carry ghostly legacies. Reports associated with the original site (and carrying over to the Inn) include sightings connected to Plant himself or his family. More frequently, guests speak of encountering spirits possibly linked to former guests from its long history as a high-society destination. These include apparitions in period attire, unexplained sounds like music or conversations from empty rooms, and feelings of being watched. There's a particular story about a bride who met a tragic fate associated with the hotel.
Casablanca Inn on the Bay
24 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084, United States
Located across from the Castillo de San Marcos, the Casablanca Inn claims a notable ghost story tied to the Prohibition era. Legend says the original owner was involved in smuggling and would signal offshore bootleggers by swinging a lantern from an upstairs window. It's said her spirit continues this duty, and people report seeing a flickering light in an empty upstairs window, interpreted as her signal. Others report hearing footsteps, soft voices, or feeling cold drafts, attributing them to her or other past residents watching over the bay. The proximity to many historic St. Augustine sites adds to its atmospheric appeal.
Loews Don CeSar Hotel
3400 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach, FL 33706, United States
The Don CeSar's most famous haunting revolves around its founder, Thomas Rowe, and his forbidden love, Lucinda. Rowe built the hotel as a tribute to her after she was whisked away by her parents who disapproved of their relationship. Lucinda died young, never seeing the hotel. Staff and guests report seeing a spectral couple, believed to be Thomas and Lucinda, strolling hand-in-hand through the property, particularly around the central fountain they planned together or on the 5th floor where Rowe lived. Other phenomena include unexplained door knocks, ghostly employees still 'working,' and items moving mysteriously. The hotel embraces its romantic ghost story.
The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, Autograph Collection
501 5th Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, United States
The Vinoy is notorious for its hauntings, with stories often connected to its history, including its time as a military barracks/hospital during WWII. One prominent figure is a 'Lady in White,' often seen roaming hallways. Another involves ghostly figures in period clothing, sometimes linked to baseball players from when teams stayed during spring training. People report feeling 'watched,' experiencing sudden temperature drops, seeing doors open and close on their own, and hearing unexplained noises. Some accounts suggest specific areas, like the original building's fifth floor, have more activity, possibly connected to past lives and events within the historic structure.
Historic Peninsula Inn
2937 Beach Blvd S, Gulfport, FL 33707, United States
The Historic Peninsula Inn has a rich history, including stints as a hospital/care facility, which often fuels ghost stories. Staff and guests report a variety of phenomena: disembodied voices, phantom footsteps echoing in hallways, and objects moving. One notable spectral resident is believed to be 'Isabelle,' possibly a former patient or nurse. She is described as non-threatening but present, sometimes sensed or seen briefly. Electrical disturbances, like lights flickering, are also common. Given its history of care and potential loss, many feel spirits linger, attached to memories within its walls.
Island Hotel & Restaurant
373 2nd St, Cedar Key, FL 32625, United States
The Island Hotel proudly shares its ghost stories, featured on their website. Built before the Civil War, it's rumored to house several spirits. One story involves a former owner or long-term guest. Another common legend involves Confederate soldiers, given its age. Guests and staff report classic paranormal experiences: doors opening or closing by themselves, lights flickering, footsteps in empty hallways, and items being moved. Some claim to see apparitions or feel sudden temperature changes. The bar area is often mentioned as a spot for ghostly interactions, adding to its authentic 'Old Florida' atmosphere.
Casa Monica Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection
95 Cordova St, St. Augustine, FL 32084, United States
Opened in 1888, the Casa Monica Resort, despite not officially acknowledging paranormal activity, has numerous reports from staff and guests. The 4th floor is often cited as a hotspot, with sounds of phantom children running. Specific suites hold darker tales: Room 511 is associated with a reported suicide by hanging, leading to feelings of cold spots and unexplained footsteps. In Room 411, figures were reportedly seen by a guest. The Flagler Suite features an inexplicable child's handprint and a strange welcoming voice heard by staff in an empty room. The Ponce de Leon suite is allegedly visited by a 'woman in white,' reportedly captured in a photograph, and experiences electrical disturbances like radios turning on spontaneously. Additionally, apparitions dressed in 1920s attire have been sighted, possibly former guests connected to its early glamorous days before closing during the Depression.
Biltmore Hotel Miami Coral Gables
1200 Anastasia Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134, United States
The Biltmore Hotel's reputation as haunted primarily centers around the murder of gangster Thomas 'Fatty' Walsh. On March 7, 1929, Walsh was fatally shot during a gambling dispute in what is now known as the Everglades Suite, located on the 13th floor, sometimes referred to as the Al Capone Suite, although Capone's direct involvement in the murder is unconfirmed. Guests and staff have reported numerous paranormal incidents since, especially connected to this floor and suite: elevators allegedly ascend to the 13th floor without being called, ghostly apparitions (sometimes believed to be Walsh), disembodied voices, unexplained cold spots, and the scent of cigar smoke appear. Adding to the lore, the hotel served as a military hospital during World War II and later a VA hospital. Some believe spirits from this era, including soldiers who may have passed away within its walls, contribute to the hauntings. Mysterious sights, sounds, and eerie feelings have been reported throughout various parts of the expansive property.
Clewiston Inn
108 Royal Palm Ave, Clewiston, FL 33440, United States
The Clewiston Inn, built to accommodate executives from the U.S. Sugar Corporation, has collected ghost stories over its decades. Many revolve around past guests or residents. Some staff and guests have reported hearing disembodied footsteps, particularly in hallways at night. Others speak of lights flickering or turning off inexplicably and strange cold spots appearing. There are whispers of specific rooms holding onto energies of former occupants, though distinct identities of spirits are less publicized. Its long history in a town heavily tied to local industry suggests tales have grown through generations.
Lakeside Inn
100 N Alexander St, Mount Dora, FL 32757, United States
As Florida's oldest continuously operating hotel, Lakeside Inn is rich with history and ghost stories. Multiple spirits are said to roam its grounds. One common figure is a friendly 'Victorian gentleman.' Another involves spectral children heard playing or seen fleetingly. Guests also speak of items moving, doors opening or closing on their own, and unexplained cold spots. Given its long history, weathering numerous events and hosting countless individuals, it's believed many energies from the past remain anchored to this historic landmark on Lake Dora.
Florida House Inn
22 S 3rd St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, United States
The Florida House Inn, being one of Florida's oldest operating hotels (built in 1857), naturally carries tales of spectral residents. Staff and guests have reported encounters primarily with two figures. One is described as a 'sad-looking man' often seen roaming the hallways, appearing as if searching for something or someone. More startlingly, multiple guests have reported the apparition of a woman boldly climbing into bed with them uninvited. While details about who these spirits might be in life are sparse, their presence contributes to the inn's haunted reputation within the historic Fernandina Beach area.
La Concha Key West, Autograph Collection
430 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040, United States
La Concha, opened in 1926, has accumulated numerous ghost stories over its long history. Its location on Duval Street and association with famous figures contribute to its lore. One common tale involves victims of tragic accidents or suicides within the hotel. Staff and guests have reported seeing apparitions, hearing strange noises, and feeling unexplained cold spots, especially on the upper floors. There are accounts of items moving inexplicably and feelings of being watched. Some claim specific rooms hold more energy, linked to past guests who met unhappy ends within their walls. Given its age and eventful past in Key West, many believe several spirits linger.
Safety Harbor Resort and Spa
105 N Bayshore Dr, Safety Harbor, FL 34695, United States
Safety Harbor Resort and Spa sits atop the 'Espiritu Santo Springs,' considered sacred by native inhabitants long before European settlement, adding a deep layer to its history. Reports of paranormal activity are varied. Some guests feel 'watched' or experience unease, particularly in older sections or near the springs. Others tell of seeing apparitions in hallways, hearing disembodied voices or phantom music from the ballroom era. Given its long history as a place of healing and rejuvenation (and also periods of use as a health facility), it's speculated that various spirits - from native peoples to past guests seeking health - might linger.
Hotel Cassadaga
355 Cassadaga Rd, Cassadaga, FL 32706, United States
Hotel Cassadaga, built in 1927, is situated in Cassadaga, known as the 'Psychic Capital of the World,' and embraces its spiritualist heritage, openly acknowledging resident spirits. Multiple entities are reported: 'Arthur' is known as a mischievous presence roaming the halls. Another frequently mentioned spirit is 'Gentleman Jack,' characterized as a ladies' man often associated with the scent of cigars. Reports also include encounters with spirits of two young girls, 'Kaitlin and Sarah.' Guests and staff report a range of paranormal experiences consistent with its reputation as a spiritual sanctuary. These include hearing phantom children laughing, witnessing shadowy figures, experiencing sudden cold spots, and an persistent feeling of being watched. The hotel actively leans into its haunted reputation, offering psychic readings, mediumship sessions, séances, and various spiritual workshops, encouraging connection with the spiritual realm.
Quality Inn Crestview Near Eglin AFB
151 Cracker Barrel Rd, Crestview, FL 32536, United States
Reports of this Quality Inn being haunted are less about defined historical tragedy and more anecdotal. The source 'Haunted Rooms' lists it, suggesting some level of paranormal reports. Stories found online through various forums mention general unexplained activity: lights turning on/off, TVs changing channels, strange noises like knocking or muffled voices in otherwise empty rooms/hallways, and feelings of unease or being watched, particularly in certain rooms or late at night. There isn't a specific named ghost or widely known origin story; rather, it seems to be an accumulation of guest experiences suggesting something unseen resides there.
The Lesesne House
415 Centre St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, United States
The Lesesne House (pronounced 'Le-sane'), built around 1860, is one of Fernandina Beach's most historic residences. As with many pre-Civil War homes in the South, it's subject to local ghost stories. While primarily an event venue/rental rather than a continuously operating hotel, tales persist. These often revolve around Dr. John Lesesne himself or family members. Activity reported includes standard ghostly fare: unexplained noises like footsteps or whispers, objects slightly moving, lights turning on or off, or cold spots. Its status as a recognized historic place contributes to the likelihood of such stories being passed down and associated with the property.
Haunted History of Florida
Florida's haunted history is as old and tangled as the mangrove forests that line its coasts. Long before the theme parks, the Sunshine State was a rugged frontier of Spanish conquistadors, marauding pirates, and fierce Seminole warriors. The nation's oldest city, St. Augustine, is a paranormal epicenter, where the spirits of soldiers, colonists, and yellow fever victims are said to wander the narrow streets and ancient forts, their spectral sorrows echoing for over 450 years.
The state's folklore is rich with maritime ghost stories, from phantom pirate ships seen on the horizon to the doomed spirits of shipwreck victims lost to hurricanes and the mysterious Bermuda Triangle. The Gilded Age brought lavish hotels and railroads, but also tragedy and labor strife, leaving behind the ghosts of industrial barons and the workers who died building their empires. From the eerie swamps of the Everglades to the haunted theaters of Tampa, Florida's sunny disposition hides a deep and fascinatingly dark past.
Other Haunted Attractions in Florida
- St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum: This iconic lighthouse is famous for its paranormal activity. The most heartbreaking spirits are said to be the young Pittee sisters, who drowned during the lighthouse's construction. Visitors on ghost tours frequently report hearing the sounds of children playing and seeing the ghostly figure of a former lighthouse keeper on the stairs. You can book a Dark of the Moon tour on their official website.
- Fort East Martello Museum (Key West): This Civil War-era fort is home to one of the world's most haunted objects: Robert the Doll. This creepy, life-sized doll is said to be cursed and is blamed for car accidents, broken bones, and a host of other misfortunes. Visitors must ask Robert's permission before taking his photo, or risk becoming the next victim of his curse.
- Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp: This unique community is a town populated by psychics, mediums, and healers. The entire area is said to have incredibly high spiritual energy, and visitors report strange phenomena, from feeling unseen hands to capturing apparitions in photos. The Cassadaga Hotel and the local cemetery are considered particular hotspots for encountering spirits who have gathered in this spiritual vortex.
- The Tampa Theatre (Tampa): This majestic 1920s movie palace is as famous for its ghosts as it is for its films. The most well-known spirit is "Fink," a projectionist who died in the booth and is said to still watch over the theater. Other reported ghosts include a lady in white and a man in a fedora, who are often seen in the theater's mezzanine and balconies. Learn more at the Tampa Theatre's website.
Travel Tips for Haunted Hotel Stays in Florida
- Start in St. Augustine: Begin your haunted journey in the nation's oldest city. A ghost tour through its ancient streets and cemeteries is an essential part of any paranormal trip to Florida.
- Respect the Doll: If you visit Robert the Doll in Key West, follow the rules. Be polite, ask for permission before taking photos, and say thank you. You don't want to bring a curse home as a souvenir.
- Explore Maritime Haunts: Florida's history is tied to the sea. Focus on haunted lighthouses, forts, and coastal towns to connect with the spirits of pirates, sailors, and shipwreck victims.
- Pack for Heat and Haunts: Florida's climate is humid year-round. Pack light clothing for your ghost hunts, but maybe bring a light sweater—you never know when a spectral cold spot might appear.
FAQ about Haunted Hotels in Florida
Are haunted hotels in Florida safe to stay in? Absolutely! Haunted hotels in Florida are beautiful resorts and historic inns that prioritize guest safety. The ghost stories are a fun, spooky part of the state's rich history and are not a threat to visitors.
What is the most haunted city in Florida? St. Augustine is without a doubt the most haunted city in Florida, and one of the most haunted in the entire United States. Its history, dating back to 1565, has left it with countless historical sites and a dense population of spirits.
Are there hauntings related to pirates in Florida? Yes, pirate lore is a huge part of Florida's haunted history. Coastal areas like St. Augustine and Amelia Island have numerous legends of phantom pirates like Blackbeard and José Gaspar, who are said to still guard their buried treasure.
What is Robert the Doll? Robert the Doll is an early 20th-century doll, formerly owned by artist Robert Eugene Otto, that is said to be cursed and haunted. He is now on display at the Fort East Martello Museum in Key West and is a world-famous paranormal icon.
What time of year is best for ghost hunting in Florida? The fall and winter months (October through February) are ideal. The weather is milder and less humid, and the crowds are smaller, making it the perfect time for a late-night ghost tour without the oppressive summer heat.