Stanley Hotel

The Stanley Hotel is one of Colorado's most iconic properties — a grand colonial revival hotel built in 1909 by F.O. Stanley, overlooking Estes Park from a hillside perch with panoramic mountain views. Its fame rests largely on its role as the inspiration for Stephen King's The Shining, which King wrote after a stay here in 1974, but the hotel is a genuine landmark in its own right.

The main building has been meticulously preserved, with a music room, ballroom, and dining room that retain their Edwardian grandeur. The hotel offers ghost tours, an escape room in the underground tunnels, a film festival, and regular concerts in the ballroom. Rooms range from classic hotel rooms in the historic building to newer lodge rooms and a modern Concert Hall building.

The Stanley is the rare hotel that's genuinely worth visiting even without staying — the Sunday brunch, ghost tours, and events draw visitors from across the region. Room 217, where King stayed, is permanently in demand.

It suits travelers who appreciate historic character and cultural resonance over modern amenities. Horror fans and history buffs have obvious reasons to stay, but the setting and atmosphere win over everyone. Book far ahead, especially for Room 217.