Haunted Hotels in Salt Lake City, Utah You Can Stay In
Discover the most haunted hotels in Salt Lake City with real ghost stories and paranormal activity
2 Haunted Hotels Found in Salt Lake City
Holiday Inn Express Salt Lake City Downtown
206 South West Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
The building currently operating as the Holiday Inn Express Salt Lake City Downtown (formerly Shilo Inn and International Dunes Hotel) is linked to a tragic event from 1978. Rachel David, reportedly influenced by religious extremism, threw six of her seven children from an 11th-floor balcony before jumping herself. Rachel and six children perished; one daughter survived. Since this mass murder-suicide, visitors and staff have reported paranormal activity. Claims include hearing children crying, laughing, or running in hallways, especially near the pool area. A pinball machine was also said to operate on its own. Maintenance staff have reported tools being moved and light bulbs being unscrewed on the 13th floor (equipment area).
The Peery Hotel
110 W Broadway, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, USA
The Peery Hotel, built in 1910, is one of Salt Lake City's historic landmarks and is claimed to be haunted by several spirits. A frequently mentioned ghost is that of a woman in a long, dark dress, sometimes seen wandering the hallways, particularly on the second floor. Another story tells of mysterious occurrences in the elevator, where it reputedly stops on floors for no reason or moves between floors seemingly on its own. Some accounts attribute these hauntings to past guests who met untimely deaths or had strong attachments to the hotel during its long operational history.
Haunted History of Salt Lake City, Utah
Founded in a remote desert valley as a refuge for Mormon pioneers, Salt Lake City's history is one of immense faith, hardship, and perseverance. The struggle to build a thriving community from scratch in such a harsh environment left a deep spiritual imprint on the land. The folklore of the city is rich with tales of these early settlers, whose spirits are said to still watch over the valley they transformed, their presence felt in the historic homes, churches, and cemeteries they left behind.
As the "Crossroads of the West," Salt Lake City quickly grew beyond its pioneer roots, attracting miners, railroad barons, and a cast of colorful Old West characters. This influx of new people and new energy brought with it stories of tragedy, heartbreak, and unsolved mysteries. From the ghostly "Woman in Purple" at the old train depot to the mischievous spirits of historic theaters, the ghosts of Salt Lake City are a diverse group, representing every chapter of its unique and fascinating past.
Other Haunted Attractions in Salt Lake City, Utah
- Rio Grande Depot: This beautiful and historic train station is famously haunted by the "Woman in Purple." Legend says she was killed on the tracks after her fiancé threw her engagement ring during an argument. Her heartbroken spirit is now seen wandering the platforms and the building's grand hall, with staff reporting phantom footsteps, flickering lights, and an overwhelming sense of sadness. More Info
- Salt Lake City Cemetery: This is one of the largest city-operated cemeteries in the nation and the final resting place of thousands of Utah pioneers. Its most famous legend is "Emo's Grave," the headstone of Jacob E. Moritz, which features a spooky, sculpted face that some claim changes expressions. Visitors also report seeing the apparitions of pioneer children and feeling strange cold spots near the oldest graves. More Info
- Capitol Theatre: Like many grand old theaters, this 1913 masterpiece has a few spectral residents who never left. The most well-known ghost is a helpful usher who guides late patrons to their seats before vanishing into thin air. A mischievous boy who died in a fire in the 1940s is also blamed for unexplained noises and pranks in the balcony. Official Website
- Fort Douglas Military Museum: Overlooking the city, this historic fort has been an active military post since the Civil War. The museum and grounds are said to be haunted by a friendly but prank-loving ghost named "Clem," a soldier from the 1860s. Staff and visitors have reported tools being moved, doors opening and closing, and hearing the disembodied sounds of marching feet. Official Website
Travel Tips for Haunted Hotel Stays in Salt Lake City, Utah
- Take a Walking Ghost Tour: Salt Lake City's haunted history is best experienced on foot. A guided tour through the historic downtown and the Avenues district will introduce you to the city's oldest buildings and darkest secrets.
- Explore Temple Square at Night: While not officially "haunted," the beautifully lit Temple Square has a profound and powerful spiritual energy, especially on a quiet night. It's an atmospheric experience that connects you to the city's unique origins.
- Visit the Cemetery Respectfully: The Salt Lake City Cemetery is a beautiful and historic site. If you decide to go looking for Emo's Grave or other legendary spots, remember to be respectful of the final resting places of the city's founders and residents.
- Stay Hydrated: The high-desert climate of Salt Lake City is very dry. Be sure to drink plenty of water, especially if you're doing a lot of walking on your ghost hunt, to avoid feeling light-headed for non-paranormal reasons.
FAQ about Haunted Hotels in Salt Lake City, Utah
Are haunted hotels in Salt Lake City, Utah safe to stay in? Yes, of course! They are reputable and often beautiful historic hotels that meet all modern safety standards. Their spectral guests are part of the city's unique pioneer heritage and are more charming than chilling.
What is the most haunted hotel in Salt Lake City, Utah? Salt Lake City has several historic hotels with long-standing reputations for paranormal activity. Each one offers its own unique stories and spectral residents, from the ghostly laughter of children to the elegant spirits of the city's early high society.
Do haunted hotels in Salt Lake City offer ghost tours? The city's haunted hotels are often the main event on local ghost tours. Companies like Grimm Ghost Tours are experts in the city's folklore and will lead you right to the most paranormally active locations.
Can kids stay in haunted hotels in Salt Lake City, Utah? Most historic hotels are very family-friendly. The local ghost stories are deeply connected to the city's fascinating pioneer history, which can make for a fun and spooky educational adventure for older kids and teens.
What time of year is best for haunted hotel stays in Salt Lake City, Utah? Autumn is a fantastic time, with crisp, cool weather and local Halloween events creating a perfectly spooky atmosphere. A winter visit also offers a unique experience, with the historic city blanketed in snow, creating a beautiful and hauntingly quiet scene.