Stanley Hotel

Stephen King began writing The Shining shortly after his stay in room 217 at the Stanley Hotel, in Estes Park, Colorado. Built by F.O. Stanley (of Stanley steam engine fame), the hotel opened in 1909, featuring 138 guestrooms and underground tunnels.

Room 217 is not the only haunted room at the Stanley. Reports of paranormal activity come from Room 418 and the entire fourth floor, which originally housed servant quarters. People claim to hear children playing in halls that are empty. F.O. Stanley also haunts the hotel. He plays the piano and visits the billiards room and lobby.