Haunted Hotels in Seattle, Washington You Can Stay In

Haunted History of Seattle, Washington

Seattle's haunted history is layered, both figuratively and literally. The city's paranormal landscape is dominated by the Great Seattle Fire of 1889, which consumed the entire central business district. When the city rebuilt, it did so on top of the old ruins, creating a network of subterranean passages and storefronts now known as the Seattle Underground. This dark, hidden city beneath the city is the source of many of Seattle's most famous ghost stories, with tales of spirits from the Klondike Gold Rush era, victims of the plague, and ladies of the night who still wander the subterranean corridors.

Beyond the famous Underground, the city's haunted lore is shaped by its deep Native American history and its often gloomy, rain-soaked atmosphere. The spirits of the city's founders, prospectors who struck it rich (or didn't), and heartbroken souls are said to linger in historic markets, grand theaters, and elegant hotels. The constant gray skies and misty air lend a natural gothic mood to the Emerald City, making it a place where it feels like a ghost could be waiting around any corner.

Other Haunted Attractions in Seattle, Washington

• The Seattle Underground: This is the quintessential Seattle haunt. A tour with a company like Bill Speidel's Underground Tour takes you below the streets of Pioneer Square into the city's original, pre-fire neighborhood. These dark, damp passageways are said to be haunted by the spirits of those who lived and died in the city's rough-and-tumble early days.
• Pike Place Market: One of the oldest and most famous farmers' markets in the country is also one of its most haunted. After the bustling crowds leave, the spirits of Pike Place Market are said to come out and play. These include Princess Angeline (the daughter of Chief Seattle), a mischievous ghost named Arthur, and many others who are seen and heard in the market's hallways after dark.
• The Moore Theatre: As Seattle's oldest operating theater, The Moore Theatre has had plenty of time to accumulate a few ghosts. The building is said to be watched over by the benevolent spirit of its founder, Mr. Moore, who is often sensed in the upper balconies. Other, less distinct entities are also reported, causing cold spots and strange noises throughout the historic venue.
• Kell's Irish Pub: This lively pub in Post Alley has a dark secret: it's located in the former Butterworth Mortuary, the city's first mortuary. The building handled thousands of bodies, including victims of mining disasters and the 1918 flu pandemic. Patrons and staff at Kell's Irish Pub report seeing apparitions, mirrors spontaneously shattering, and glasses sliding off shelves, making it one of the most active haunts in the city.

Travel Tips for Haunted Hotel Stays in Seattle, Washington

• Embrace the Gloom: Don't let Seattle's famous rain get you down. The drizzly, gray weather provides the perfect moody backdrop for a ghost hunt. Just be sure to pack a good raincoat and waterproof shoes.
• Go Underground: The one absolute must-do for any paranormal fan in Seattle is the Underground Tour. It's the best way to physically experience the city's most unique and haunted piece of history.
• Explore Pioneer Square: Seattle's oldest neighborhood is the epicenter of its paranormal activity. Spend an evening walking the cobblestone streets, visiting historic pubs, and soaking in the spooky atmosphere of the city's birthplace.
• Visit the Market After Hours: While you can't go inside after it closes, walking the now-empty arcade of Pike Place Market at night is a spooky experience. Peering into the darkened stalls, it's easy to imagine the spirits that are said to wander there.

FAQ about Haunted Hotels in Seattle, Washington

Are haunted hotels in Seattle, Washington safe to stay in? Yes, of course! Seattle's hotels are held to very high standards of safety and hospitality. The city's ghostly residents are part of its history, not a threat to its visitors.

What is the most haunted hotel in Seattle, Washington? Seattle is home to several famously haunted historic hotels, with the Sorrento Hotel often topping the list with its well-known ghostly resident. Browse our listings to discover the chilling tales behind the city's most spirited lodgings.

Do haunted hotels in Seattle, Washington offer ghost tours? While some hotels proudly share their paranormal past, the city's ghost tour scene is heavily focused on the Underground and the Pioneer Square neighborhood. Your hotel's concierge can easily point you toward the best local tours.

Can kids stay in haunted hotels? Yes, most Seattle hotels are family-friendly. However, the history discussed on ghost tours, especially the Underground Tour, often touches on adult themes like vice and disease, which may not be suitable for all children.

What time of year is best for haunted hotel stays in Seattle, Washington? Fall is an ideal time to visit. The crisp air, autumn colors, and Halloween season perfectly complement the city's naturally spooky, overcast vibe. The misty, atmospheric winters are also a fantastic time for a paranormal investigation.