Haunted Hotels in Port Townsend, Washington You Can Stay In
Discover the most haunted hotels in Port Townsend with real ghost stories and paranormal activity
2 Haunted Hotels Found in Port Townsend
Ann Starrett Mansion
744 Clay St, Port Townsend, WA 98368
Built in 1899 as a labor of love by George Starrett for his wife Ann, the mansion is reportedly haunted by the couple and their nanny. Ann Starrett's spirit, often recognized by red hair and a flowing white gown, is seen floating in hallways and on the stairs. George Starrett's presence is also felt by guests and staff. A third distinct apparition is believed to be the Starretts' former nanny, typically seen in a black dress, observing guests within the home. Experiences described include flickering lights and a general sense of being welcomed or watched.
Manresa Castle Hotel
651 Cleveland St, Port Townsend, WA 98368
In Manresa Castle, the two rooms with the highest paranormal activity are reported to be 306 and 302. According to legend, room 306 is haunted by a young woman named Kate who threw herself from the window after hearing of her lover's death; guests report flickering lights and TVs turning on/off. Room 302 is said to be inhabited by the spirit of a monk who hanged himself in the bell tower, with guests claiming to hear footsteps in the attic. In the cafe, drinking glasses have allegedly shattered or turned upside down spontaneously.
Haunted History of Port Townsend, Washington
Known as the "City of Dreams," Port Townsend is a perfectly preserved Victorian seaport with a past as turbulent as the nearby Puget Sound. In the late 19th century, it was a bustling, prosperous city poised to become the largest harbor on the west coast. When the railroad unexpectedly bypassed the town, its economy collapsed almost overnight, leaving behind a stunning collection of grand, empty buildings and the unfulfilled dreams of its residents—a perfect recipe for a haunting.
The city's paranormal reputation is woven into its very fabric, from the ornate mansions on "uptown" bluffs to the brick-lined streets of its historic waterfront. Legends of heartbroken sea captains, shanghaied sailors, and spurned Victorian ladies are an inseparable part of Port Townsend's identity. Many of the most prominent buildings have resident spirits, and locals trade ghost stories as casually as they discuss the weather, making this one of the most famously haunted towns in the entire country.
Other Haunted Attractions in Port Townsend, Washington
- Fort Worden Historical State Park: This decommissioned military fort is a paranormal investigator's paradise. The massive, empty barracks, dark concrete batteries, and eerie hospital are all hotspots for activity. Visitors report hearing disembodied footsteps marching in unison, seeing strange lights in the Alexander's Castle landmark, and feeling an unsettling presence in the old jailhouse. Learn more at the Fort Worden website.
- Twisted History Tours: The best way to dive into the city's spectral side is with a guided ghost tour. Twisted History Tours leads brave guests through the most haunted streets and alleys, sharing chilling and well-researched tales of the city's most famous ghosts and cursed locations.
- Laurel Grove Cemetery: Established in 1871, this beautiful and haunting cemetery is the final resting place for the city's founding families. With its moss-covered tombstones and towering trees, it has a naturally spooky atmosphere. Local lore speaks of phantom mourners and strange mists that gather among the graves after dusk.
- The Rose Theatre: One of the oldest operating movie theaters in Washington, the Rose Theatre is said to have a few spectral patrons who never left. Staff have reported the ghost of a sea captain who materializes in the back row and the feeling of unseen hands brushing past them in empty hallways.
Travel Tips for Haunted Hotel Stays in Port Townsend, Washington
- Walk Everywhere: Port Townsend is a compact, walkable city. Strolling through the historic districts, especially at dusk or in the fog, is the best way to immerse yourself in its spooky, Victorian atmosphere.
- Take the Ghost Tour: A guided tour is essential for learning the specific stories behind the hauntings. You'll discover which windows to watch for ghostly faces and which alleys hold the darkest secrets.
- Bring a Jacket and an Open Mind: The weather on the Olympic Peninsula can be misty and chilling, which only enhances the ghostly mood. Be prepared for a physical and a spiritual chill!
- Explore the Underground: Ask local shopkeepers about the "shanghai tunnels" that run beneath the city. While access is limited, their history is a key part of Port Townsend's haunted lore.
FAQ about Haunted Hotels in Port Townsend, Washington
Are haunted hotels in Port Townsend, Washington safe to stay in? Absolutely! The hotels in Port Townsend are renowned for their Victorian charm and hospitality. The ghosts are considered part of the historic ambiance, and any reported activity is harmless and adds to the unique experience.
Why is Port Townsend considered so haunted? Its reputation comes from its "boom-and-bust" history. The city's sudden economic decline in the 1890s left a legacy of broken dreams and unfulfilled ambitions, which paranormal experts believe created a powerful spiritual residue.
What is the most famous haunted landmark in Port Townsend, Washington? Manresa Castle is arguably the most famous haunted location in the city. Originally a private home, it has served as a Jesuit monastery and a hotel, accumulating numerous ghost stories over the decades, including tales of phantom monks and a heartbroken woman.
Do hotels in Port Townsend offer ghost tours? While the hotels themselves don't typically offer formal tours, their staff are usually well-versed in the building's haunted history and are happy to share stories with curious guests. For a comprehensive tour of the town, it's best to book with a local ghost tour company.
What time of year is best for a spooky visit to Port Townsend, Washington? Autumn is the perfect time to visit, as the crisp air and foggy mornings amplify the town's gothic atmosphere. The city often hosts special haunted events and tours around the Halloween season.