Inspector Picks: Our Favorite Hotels Said to Be Haunted
Updated: October 18, 2023
AAA Travel Editor, Sherry Mims
Follow along as AAA’s team of professional travel inspectors unveils some of the spookiest hotels (that also happen to be AAA Inspector Picks). From a AAA Diamond hotel rumored to be haunted by the former owner to a property said to have The Lady in Blue, these legendary places to stay are sure to scare up a good time. (Don't forget to pack your ghost-hunting gear.) They include the Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans, Jekyll Island Club Resort on Georgia's Jekyll Island, Omni Parker House in Boston, The Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville, and The Seelbach Hilton Louisville.Although there are plenty of (allegedly) haunted hotels in America, let's just say these hotels are a cut above the rest. They're known for everything from "Scenic Views" to "Wow Effect" in addition to their ghostly reputations. However, AAA inspectors say there's nothing to fear at these historic properties — they're all clean, well-maintained and ready to serve travelers (well, so to speak). So if you're looking for a few extra chills and thrills on your next trip, be sure to check out one of these spooky AAA Diamond hotels.
Hotel Monteleone
New Orleans, Louisiana
AAA Inspector 373: Enjoy downtime in style at the infamous Carousel Bar and Lounge. It actually spins, and it provides guests a fun, memorable experience.
AAA Inspector Pick: Wow Effect
The 14th floor is where to find a scary good time (allegedly).The beautifully appointed, classic hotel offers rooms that vary in size and design; some are smaller. The inviting lobby area offers guests plenty of downtime space, and the rooftop pool is a draw. The hotel is nicely situated on a popular street in the French Quarter and is surrounded with upscale antique shops and boutiques as well as numerous fine-dining choices. Book Now
Jekyll Island Club Resort
Jekyll Island, Georgia
AAA Inspector 621: This is my favorite destination for the natural beauty of this storied historic hotel and the "cottages" from the gilded age, shops and tours.
AAA Inspector Pick: Wow Effect
The second floor is where to get an unexpected knock from a bellhop said to still be on the job; the late president/founding member might take a sip of coffee and open a newspaper.Offering a rare glimpse of the Gilded Age, this restored hotel and its annexes offer a variety of rooms and suites in five historic buildings, each unit is decorated in period furnishings. Some rooms have private glass porches with rocking chairs. Located in the heart of the historic district, guests can enjoy a stroll around the many on-site restored "cottages" that once belonged to the country's most powerful individuals. Book Now
Omni Parker House
Boston, Massachusetts
AAA Inspector 87: Steeped in reverent history and where the Parker House Roll and Boston Cream Pie originated. It’s a special Boston landmark.
AAA Inspector Pick: Personal Favorite
From apparitions and orbs to elevators getting called to the third floor, this hotel offers unexpected thrills.Built in 1855 by Harvey Parker, this is reputed to be Boston's oldest hotel and the birthplace of the Boston cream pie. Its opulent lobby exudes elegance and grace of the gilded age. The location is convenient to the theater district, the ‘T’, and is one block to Boston Common. The furnishings and style honor the hotel's design in its heyday. Rooms vary in size, from quite small to comfortable; and, each with plush super-soft white bedding, robes and thick oversize towels. Many historical events and famous guests have stayed at this hotel. Take a peek at the press room where JFK announced his candidacy for Congress or request table number 40 in the main dining room where he proposed to Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Charles Dickens resided here for more than two years while he wrote and performed 'A Christmas Carol' for the first time. He would rehearse in front of a large gilded mirror that is now on display near the press room. As with many old hotels, this one has its fair share of ghost stories. Those interested in the supernatural may want to wander the halls of the 10th floor where it has been said that the ghost of the original owner still roams. Book Now
The Omni Grove Park Inn
Asheville, North Carolina
AAA Inspector 621: I am always mesmerized by the view from Sunset Terrace, looking out over the terraced hill and grottos toward the Carolina mountains.
AAA Inspector Pick: Scenic View
Locals love to tell about the "Pink Lady," reportedly a ghostly young woman. Many guests have sought out spooky guestroom 545.This historic 1913 resort is an attraction unto itself with massive stone fireplaces and terraces with truly stunning mountain views. Rooms feature many Craftsman-style period furnishings. The local landmark is perched high on the hilltop, constructed from granite with a distinct clay-tiled thatched roof. Numerous dining options, a beautiful golf course, extensive luxury spa and a large health club facility make this a complete resort experience. Guest rooms range from small to spacious; some of the rooms in the original historic section offer less space but more character. Book Now
The Seelbach Hilton Louisville
Louisville, Kentucky
AAA Inspector 597: The elegant staircase from the mezzanine to the lobby, reminds me that Tom and Daisy, characters in The Great Gatsby, were married here.
AAA Inspector Pick: Meetings/Events
Travelers have reported cold spots and even perfume, allegedly from The Lady in Blue.This restored 1905 hotel is the epitome of ornate, historical elegance. Rooms are beautifully appointed with mahogany furniture and high-thread-count linens but some rooms are on the smaller side. Check out the Rathskeller Room in the basement. Appointed with ornate Rookwood tiles, intricately tooled leather decorations and ceramic tile images of storks, the room exudes an almost mystical, brooding Teutonic atmosphere. This hotel is an indescribably beguiling little nook nestled in downtown Louisville.Book Now
The Read House Hotel
Chattanooga, Tennessee
AAA Inspector 564: There are so many beautiful and interesting things to look at in the lobby that I’m surprised they don’t charge admission!
AAA Inspector Pick: Wow Effect
There are many who believe Room 311 is haunted by the ghost of Annalisa Netherly — a guest allegedly beheaded in her bathtub in 1927 by a jealous lover. Guests have reported paranormal activity including unexplained noises, flickering lights, running water, apparitions and more. Many of the original elements from Netherly’s time remain, including a vintage clawfoot tub and an AM radio.This historic property has been restored to its original elegance. The public areas and the rooms hearken back to the Roaring '20s with plush furnishings and movie star art. The cushy lobby theme continues to the lounge with a backlit bar and leather seating groups. A secret billiard room is in the rear of the lounge, and the library nook has built-in, backlit bookcases full of titles guests can borrow.Book Now
AAA Travel Editor, Sherry Mims
Sherry is an experienced #AAAEditor and former journalist who enjoys writing informative travel articles and reviews. Her commitment to making meaningful connections with people and places fuels her work for AAA. Favorite activities range from skiing to backpacking abroad and taking ghost tours.