Haunted Hotels in Boston, Massachusetts You Can Stay In
Discover the most haunted hotels in Boston with real ghost stories and paranormal activity
2 Haunted Hotels Found in Boston
Omni Parker House
60 School Street, Boston, MA, USA
The Omni Parker House, Boston's longest continuously operating hotel, is famed for multiple spectral residents. Founder Harvey Parker is frequently reported on the 10th floor, sometimes appearing as a concerned apparition checking on guests, particularly noted around rooms 1078 and 1012. Mysterious orbs, disembodied voices, and phantom rocking chair sounds also pervade this floor. The 3rd floor exhibits paranormal activity too, with elevators frequently stopping there unbidden, possibly linked to former resident Charles Dickens or actress Charlotte Cushman, who died on that floor. Room 303 gained notoriety for unexplained smells of whiskey and cigars and ghostly laughter, leading to its conversion into a storage closet; it's rumored, though unconfirmed by Stephen King, to be an inspiration for '1408'. Adding to its dark history, John Wilkes Booth stayed nearby and practiced shooting before assassinating Lincoln.
The Liberty, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Boston
215 Charles St, Boston, MA 02114, United States
Before becoming a luxury hotel, The Liberty Hotel used to be a prison housing some of Boston's most notorious criminals. Although many years have passed since it was a prison, both guests and members of staff have occasionally reported seeing fleeting figures looking outside of the windows, apparitions of guards and prisoners appearing mostly in the kitchen area, or even hearing the sound of heavy boots stomping and cell doors slamming shut.
Haunted History of Boston, Massachusetts
As one of America's oldest and most influential cities, Boston is a place where history and hauntings are one and the same. Every cobblestone street, ancient burial ground, and colonial-era building holds stories of revolution, tragedy, and the spirits left behind. The city was the crucible of the American Revolution, and the spectral energy of patriots, soldiers, and spies is said to linger near landmarks along the Freedom Trail, forever replaying the nation's dramatic birth.
Beyond its revolutionary past, Boston has a darker, more mysterious side. Its history is filled with tales of public hangings on the Common, strange deaths during the Great Molasses Flood, and the shadowy deeds of figures like the Boston Strangler. The city’s ancient cemeteries, holding the remains of figures like Paul Revere and John Hancock, are hotspots for paranormal activity, where shadowy figures are seen flitting between the centuries-old tombstones. In Boston, the past is never far away, and its ghosts are always ready to share their stories.
Other Haunted Attractions in Boston, Massachusetts
- The Granary Burying Ground: This historic cemetery on Tremont Street is the final resting place of Revolutionary War heroes like Samuel Adams, Paul Revere, and John Hancock. It is also one of Boston's most haunted sites, where visitors report seeing spectral figures in colonial garb, feeling cold spots, and capturing strange orbs in photographs near the old tombstones.
- Fort Warren on Georges Island: A short ferry ride from Boston, this imposing Civil War fort is home to the legendary "Lady in Black." She is said to be the ghost of a Confederate prisoner's wife who was executed as a spy. Her dark, spectral figure is often seen wandering the fort's parapets, and her sorrowful presence has been felt by countless visitors. You can plan your visit through the Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park website.
- Boston Common: As America's oldest public park, Boston Common has a long and grim history. It was once used for public punishments and hangings, and the spirits of those who met their end on the "Great Elm" are said to still wander the grounds. Visitors have reported hearing disembodied whispers and seeing ghostly apparitions near the Central Burying Ground.
- Ghosts & Gravestones Tour: For a guided trip through Boston's dark side, the Ghosts & Gravestones tour is a must. This "trolley of the doomed" takes you to the city's most haunted sites while storytellers share chilling tales of murder, mayhem, and the ghosts that resulted from it all.
Travel Tips for Haunted Hotel Stays in Boston, Massachusetts
- Walk the Freedom Trail at Night: While historic by day, the Freedom Trail takes on a much spookier atmosphere after dark. A moonlit stroll past the silent cemeteries and colonial buildings is a great way to connect with the city's spectral side.
- Take a Day Trip to Salem: If you're a true paranormal enthusiast, you can't be in Boston and not visit nearby Salem. Just a short train ride away, it's the epicenter of witch trial history and another of America's most haunted cities.
- Explore the North End: Get lost in the narrow, winding streets of Boston's oldest residential neighborhood. The area is packed with history, and its tight alleyways and centuries-old buildings feel haunted even in broad daylight.
- Be Respectful in Burial Grounds: Boston's ancient cemeteries are incredible, but they are also final resting places. Be mindful and respectful while exploring, and you might be rewarded with a paranormal experience.
FAQ about Haunted Hotels in Boston, Massachusetts
Are haunted hotels in Boston, Massachusetts safe to stay in? Yes, absolutely. Boston's haunted hotels are historic, beautiful, and completely safe. The ghost stories are part of their unique charm and history, offering a thrilling experience for guests, not a threat.
What is the most famous haunted hotel in Boston, Massachusetts? The Omni Parker House is widely considered Boston's most haunted hotel. With its long history of famous guests and resident spirits, including its founder Harvey Parker, it has a legendary reputation for paranormal activity, particularly on the third and tenth floors.
Are Boston's hauntings related to the American Revolution? Many of them are! The spirits of colonial-era soldiers, patriots, and even British redcoats are said to haunt the locations of famous events like the Boston Massacre and the Battle of Bunker Hill, as well as the taverns where they once planned the revolution.
Do any ghost tours in Boston focus on the cemeteries? Yes, several ghost tours, including the Ghosts & Gravestones tour, make the city's historic burial grounds a central part of their experience. They combine chilling ghost stories with the fascinating history of the people buried there.
What time of year is best for a haunted visit to Boston, Massachusetts? Autumn, especially October, is the perfect time. The crisp New England air, fall foliage, and proximity to Halloween create an unforgettable spooky atmosphere for exploring Boston's many haunts.