Haunted Hotels in Missouri You Can Stay In
Discover the most haunted hotels in Missouri with real ghost stories and paranormal activity
Cities in Missouri with haunted hotels
21 Haunted Hotels Found in Missouri
Grand Avenue Bed and Breakfast
1615 Grand Ave, Carthage, MO 64836, United States
The Grand Avenue Bed and Breakfast is housed in a Victorian mansion dating back to the late 1800s. Mansions of this era often become associated with stories of their former occupants. While specific highly publicized hauntings are not readily detailed, homes of this grandeur and age, particularly in areas with Civil War history like Carthage, often have local whispers of residual energies. Guests might report subtle occurrences such as doors creaking open, faint smells of perfume or cigars associated with past eras, or a sense of being observed. These are usually attributed to former owners who may have had strong attachments to their stately homes.
Lehmann House Bed and Breakfast
10 Benton Pl, St. Louis, MO 63104, United States
The Lehmann House, a beautiful Victorian mansion built in 1893, stands in Lafayette Square, an area of St. Louis rich with history. Like many homes of its era that have been preserved, it comes with tales of potential residual energies from past residents. While not as infamously haunted as the Lemp Mansion, properties in historic districts like this often have anecdotal reports from guests and staff. These might include feeling unseen presences, particularly on upper floors or less-trafficked areas, unexplained faint odors (like perfume), or doors found ajar. These are often attributed benignly to former owners or long-term residents attached to the home.
Lula Belle's Bed and Breakfast
111 Bird St, Hannibal, MO 63401, United States
Lula Belle's, set in historic Hannibal, is primarily known for its Victorian charm. While specific documented ghost stories are less prominent than some larger haunted hotels, properties of this age (built in the late 1800s) frequently have anecdotal accounts of paranormal activity. Given Hannibal's rich and sometimes tumultuous history related to river trade and the Civil War, local legends often suggest residual energy throughout older parts of the town. Reports associated with such historic homes might include faint whispers, items seeming slightly moved, or a general feeling of being watched, often attributed to former owners or residents.
Main Street Inn Bed and Breakfast
127 S Main St, Sainte Genevieve, MO 63670, United States
Ste. Genevieve is one of the oldest European settlements west of the Mississippi River, established in the 1700s. The town itself is rich with history and stories of early French settlers, Native American presence, and periods of hardship. The Main Street Inn, situated within this historic district and housed in an old building, is naturally subject to local tales of spectral activity. While specific famous ghosts tied to the Inn are not widely documented, buildings in such ancient towns are often said to retain 'imprints' of past inhabitants. Visitors might report feelings of unseen presence, muffled sounds from bygone eras, or objects slightly askew, consistent with the gentle haunting profiles of historic homes.
The Historic Morgue
400 E Brick St, Ozark, MO 65721, United States
As the name suggests, 'The Historic Morgue' leans into its theme. Located in Ozark, MO, this establishment likely occupies a building that genuinely served as a morgue or funeral home, or is meticulously themed to be so. Buildings with such pasts are often ripe for ghost stories, naturally associated with death and transition. While specific detailed historical narratives may vary or be part of the curated experience, guests book expecting and often reporting paranormal activity. This can range from cold spots, disembodied voices/whispers, unexplained equipment malfunctions, and feelings of being touched or watched – experiences amplified by the building's known (or advertised) history.
Garden House Bed & Breakfast
328 N 3rd St, Hannibal, MO 63401, United States
Situated in Hannibal, Mark Twain's boyhood town rich with 19th-century history, the Garden House Bed & Breakfast occupies an old home dating back to that era. Like many historic structures in Hannibal, it's rumored to have lingering energies. While specific ghost identities are not widely publicized, guests occasionally report mild experiences characteristic of old homes: unexplained creaks, temperature fluctuations not related to HVAC, or a feeling of being watched when alone. These subtle occurrences are often attributed to the general historical atmosphere of Hannibal and the many lives lived within such old walls.
Garth Woodside Mansion
11069 New London Rd, Hannibal, MO 63401, United States
Garth Woodside Mansion, built in 1871, has strong historical ties, notably its connection to Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain), who was a frequent guest. The mansion's primary ghostly legend centers around Helen Garth, one of the daughters of the original owner. She died relatively young, reportedly of tuberculosis. Guests and staff have reported smelling phantom pipe smoke (associated with John Garth, Helen's father or Mark Twain), seeing apparitions in period clothing, particularly a woman believed to be Helen, and hearing unexplained footsteps or music. Activity is often noted in specific rooms thought to be Helen's or guest rooms Twain frequented.
Rivercene Mansion
15151 MO-87, New Franklin, MO 65274, United States
Rivercene Mansion, built in 1869 by Captain Joseph Kinney, carries tales characteristic of old estates with significant family histories. Legend has it that members of the Kinney family may still reside within its walls. There are reports centered around Captain Kinney himself, or possibly other family members who experienced life's dramas within the home. Guests and staff have reported phenomena such as hearing voices or conversations from empty rooms, seeing fleeting shadows, feeling unexplained temperature changes, and objects being moved. The presence is often described as watchful rather than menacing.
Walnut Street Inn Bed and Breakfast
900 E Walnut St, Springfield, MO 65806, United States
The Walnut Street Inn comprises several historic Victorian homes, primarily dating back to the late 1890s and early 1900s. As with many preserved Victorian properties, there are resident ghost stories. One recurring tale speaks of a lady dressed in vintage clothing, sometimes seen looking out of windows or wandering the halls, believed to be a former resident. Other reported phenomena include lights turning on/off by themselves, doors opening or closing unexpectedly, and faint sounds like footsteps or music. These are often considered gentle manifestations, possibly from individuals deeply connected to these once-private homes.
Historic Castle House
3203 State Rd Y, Brumley, MO 65017, United States
The 'Historic' Castle House, while architecturally old-world, is a more contemporary construction. However, stories and local interest suggest potential paranormal connections, possibly related to the land it's built on near the Lake of the Ozarks (an area with its own rich history before the lake's creation). Some visitors and paranormal groups have explored it, seeking activity. Reports might stem more from the evocative, medieval atmosphere encouraging belief, rather than deep historical trauma tied to THIS specific building. Experiences reported could include feelings of presence, unexplained noises typical of large, unusual buildings, or atmosphere-induced unease.
Saint George Hotel
500 Main St, Weston, MO 64098, United States
The Saint George Hotel, established in 1845, has seen much history, including fires and serving various roles throughout Weston's development. It's reputed to host several spirits. One common story revolves around 'Charlie,' a former worker or guest who supposedly met an untimely end. Guests and staff have reported objects moving on their own, doors opening and closing, disembodied footsteps especially in the hallways and near the dining areas, and occasional ghostly apparitions. The atmosphere is often described as active but not malevolent, typical of places with long and varied histories.
Drury Inn & Suites Creve Coeur
11980 Olive Blvd, Creve Coeur, MO 63141, United States
The Drury Inn & Suites in Creve Coeur is believed to be built near or on the site of two tragic deaths in the area's past. One story involves a young woman named Mary who supposedly died in a car accident nearby in the 1930s. Guests and staff have reported hearing strange noises, feeling cold spots, and witnessing flickering lights, particularly on the upper floors. Some claim to have seen an apparition of a woman in vintage clothing. Another local legend speaks of a Native American burial ground in the vicinity, potentially contributing to the unsettling atmosphere.
The Lemp Mansion Inn
3322 Demenil Pl, St. Louis, MO 63118, United States
The Lemp Mansion holds one of the most well-known and tragic haunting stories in St. Louis. The Lemp family, builders of a vast brewery empire, suffered numerous suicides within the mansion throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, including William Lemp Sr., his wife Julia, William Lemp Jr., his sister Elsa, and Charles Lemp. Due to this tragic history, the mansion is considered intensely haunted. Reported phenomena are vast, including apparitions of family members, phantom footsteps, disembodied voices, feelings of sadness or despair in certain areas, doors locking/unlocking, and objects moving. Paranormal tours and investigations are regularly held due to the high level of reported activity.
Hotel Bothwell
103 E 4th St, Sedalia, MO 65301, United States
Hotel Bothwell, opened in 1927, has accumulated decades of stories within its walls. It's listed on the National Register of Historic Places and local lore suggests some former guests and residents have never truly checked out. Reports often speak of unexplained noises, like disembodied voices or phantom music echoing from the ballroom or hallways. Some staff and guests claim to have felt cold spots or seen shadowy figures, particularly on the upper floors or in specific rooms. These occurrences are often attributed to individuals who had significant life events or connections to the hotel during its long operational history.
Hotel Savoy
219 W 9th St, Kansas City, MO 64105, United States
Originally opened in 1888 as the Hotel Savoy, this building is one of Kansas City's oldest continuously operating hotels. Rebranded as part of 21c Museum Hotels, it retains much historical architecture. One famous ghost story involves room 505, where a guest named Betsy Ward allegedly died under mysterious circumstances in the late 1800s; people report feeling her presence, experiencing electrical issues, or hearing unexplained noises in or around that room. Another spirit is said to be Fred Lightner, a former owner. General activity reported includes disembodied voices, elevator activity, and items moving.
Kansas City Marriott Downtown
200 W 12th St, Kansas City, MO 64105, United States
The Kansas City Marriott Downtown complex incorporates several buildings, including the historic Muehlebach Hotel (connected via walkway). The Muehlebach, opened in 1915, is the primary source of haunted tales. It hosted many famous figures and historical events. One notable spirit is known as 'The Blue Lady,' believed to be an actress from the 1920s-30s searching for a lost love. Guests, particularly in the Muehlebach tower/section, have reported seeing her apparition, hearing unexplained noises, or experiencing flickering lights. While the modern Marriott structure itself isn't the focus, its connection to the Muehlebach often leads to combined ghost stories.
Morse Mill Hotel
100 Old Morse Mill Rd, Dittmer, MO 63023, United States
Morse Mill Hotel has a varied and dark history, originally built in the 1800s. It has served various purposes, but its reputation is steeped in local legends involving murder, nefarious activities, and tragic events throughout its history, including rumored connections to satanic cults in more recent decades past. It is considered highly active paranormally. Reports include aggressive spectral encounters, shadow figures, disembodied screams and voices, physical sensations like pushing or scratching, and intense feelings of dread in certain areas, particularly the attic and basement. It's primarily marketed towards paranormal enthusiasts and investigators.
The Elms Hotel & Spa
401 Regent St, Excelsior Springs, MO 64024, United States
Two devastating fires destroyed The Elms in 1898 and 1910. Though no fatalities ever occurred in either fire, rumors have persisted that one of the spirits was involved in one of the fires. Some of the ghost legends purport that the lap pool area entertains the spirit of a gambler involved with illegal activities during the speakeasy days of Prohibition. Another story says the housekeeping staff has a spiritual adviser in the form of a ghost wearing a 1920s-style uniform. One thing everyone seems to agree on is the friendliness of the spirits. These gracious ghosts may act as spiritual guides to the next adventures that await the grand hotel.
Wine Valley Inn
400 E 1st St, Hermann, MO 65041, United States
Hermann, Missouri, is a town steeped in German heritage dating back to the 1830s. The Wine Valley Inn, located within this historic context, comprises buildings with considerable age. While not having one single famous ghost story dominating its reputation, establishments in historic Hermann are often part of local lore discussing residual energies from its long past. Guests occasionally mention experiences consistent with old structures: faint noises, feelings of presence, or minor unexplained electrical behavior. These are typically attributed generally to former residents or the collective history of the area, rather than specific tragic events tied to the Inn itself.
University Plaza Hotel
333 S John Q Hammons Pkwy, Springfield, MO 65806, United States
The University Plaza Hotel in Springfield has local stories suggesting it might have some resident spirits. One prevalent tale involves the ghost of a former maintenance worker or long-time staff member who remains dedicated to the hotel, reportedly seen in service areas or making checks. Another common area for reported activity is near the swimming pool, with accounts of feeling watched or hearing splashing when no one is present. As a large convention hotel, it sees many guests, and some attribute feelings or minor disturbances to the sheer volume of transient energies passing through.
Holiday Inn St. Louis West At Six Flags
4901 Six Flags Rd, Eureka, MO 63025, United States
While primarily known for its proximity to Six Flags, this Holiday Inn location has some local lore suggesting potential haunting. The area around Eureka has history dating back before European settlement and has seen development over centuries. Some anecdotal reports mention unexplained occurrences typical of hotels, like strange noises in hallways, items moving slightly in rooms, or uneasy feelings in certain areas. It's less about specific named ghosts and more attributed to the general turnover of people and energies in a hotel setting, possibly amplified by the varied history of the land in Eureka.
Haunted History of Missouri
Missouri's haunted history is born from its turbulent past as a deeply divided border state during the Civil War. The state was a hotbed of brutal guerrilla warfare, with neighbor turning against neighbor, leaving a legacy of violence and tragedy that still echoes today. The spirits of Confederate bushwhackers and Union soldiers are said to still roam the battlefields and haunt the historic homes that were once used as makeshift hospitals.
Beyond the Civil War, Missouri's identity as the "Gateway to the West" populated it with the ghosts of rugged pioneers, riverboat gamblers, and notorious outlaws like Jesse James. The state's dark past is also institutional, with some of the country's most infamous prisons leaving behind a legion of restless spirits. Add in the unique, spooky folklore of the Ozark Mountains, with tales of mysterious lights and "haints" in the hills, and you have a state rich with paranormal lore.
Other Haunted Attractions in Missouri
- The Lemp Mansion (St. Louis): This historic home of the tragic Lemp brewing family is considered one of the most haunted places in America. After losing their fortune, several members of the Lemp family took their own lives within the mansion's walls. Their sorrowful spirits are said to still linger, making the mansion a hotspot for paranormal activity, which you can experience on a haunted history tour.
- Missouri State Penitentiary (Jefferson City): Once known as "the bloodiest 47 acres in America," this formidable prison operated for over 160 years. Now decommissioned, it offers a variety of historical and paranormal tours that take you through its dark and oppressive cellblocks. The spirits of the thousands of inmates who lived and died here are said to still haunt the grounds, making it a terrifying destination for any ghost hunter.
- The Jesse James Farm & Museum (Kearney): The birthplace and original burial site of America's most famous outlaw is a must-visit for anyone interested in Wild West history and its ghosts. The spirit of Jesse James is said to still linger around his family home, with visitors reporting strange lights, disembodied voices, and the feeling of a strong, watchful presence on the property.
- The Ozark Spooklight (near Joplin): For a different kind of haunting, drive down the infamous "Spooklight Road" on the Missouri-Oklahoma border. For over a century, people have reported seeing a mysterious orb of light bobbing and weaving down this dark country road. Whether it's a natural phenomenon or the ghostly lantern of a long-dead miner, the "Hornet Spooklight" is one of the great paranormal mysteries of the Ozarks.
Travel Tips for Haunted Hotel Stays in Missouri
- Explore Civil War Haunts: Missouri's Civil War history is particularly violent and personal. Visit towns like Independence or Kansas City to learn about the brutal guerrilla warfare and the ghosts it left behind.
- Walk in Outlaw Footsteps: A trip to the Jesse James Farm in Kearney offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and afterlife of a legend. It's a unique opportunity to connect with the paranormal side of the Wild West.
- Brave a Prison Tour: For a truly intense experience, book a ghost tour at the Missouri State Penitentiary. Walking through a place with such a dark and violent history is not for the faint of heart.
- Go in Search of Mystery: Take a late-night drive down Spooklight Road near Joplin. Even if you don't see the mysterious light, the experience of participating in a century-old paranormal tradition is a thrill in itself.
FAQ about Haunted Hotels in Missouri
Are haunted hotels in Missouri safe to stay in? Absolutely. The haunted hotels and inns across Missouri are known for their hospitality and charm. The ghost stories are a celebrated piece of local history and are not a danger to guests.
What is the most famous haunted location in Missouri? The Lemp Mansion in St. Louis is arguably the most famous haunted destination in the state. The tragic story of the Lemp family's multiple suicides within the house has made it a world-renowned location for paranormal investigators and ghost hunters.
Are there hauntings in Missouri related to the outlaw Jesse James? Yes, the spirit of Jesse James is one of Missouri's most famous ghosts. He is said to haunt his family farm in Kearney, as well as other locations associated with his life and notorious criminal career.
What is the Ozark Spooklight? The Ozark Spooklight (or Hornet Spooklight) is a mysterious, unexplained "ghost light" that is regularly seen on a rural road near the Missouri-Oklahoma border. It has been a local paranormal legend for over 100 years and has defied all scientific explanation.
What's the best time of year for a haunted tour of Missouri? Autumn is the perfect time for a spooky adventure in Missouri. The crisp fall weather is ideal for walking tours and cemetery visits, and the state's beautiful foliage provides a perfectly eerie backdrop for exploring its haunted history.