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Are you a Colorado native on staycation or a tourist looking to make your Centennial State vacation legendary? I would be the latter! And fortunately for us all, there are plenty of unique places around Colorado. But the infamous Stanley Hotel CO is considered to be one of the most legendary of them all. Get to know just how awesome this hotel from The Shining (Stephen King based his book on his unforgettable stay at this hotel) really is.

First things first: Can you stay at the Stanley Hotel in Colorado? The answer is yes and if you ever find yourself in the position to be able to do it, I highly recommend it.
Carol M. Highsmith/Wikimedia Commons
Aside from the building's beauty, backdrop, and history, its connection as the hotel from The Shining has drawn so many people to visit to check into the place that scared Stephen King so much that he wrote a book about it.
Flickr/John Reese
For real movie buffs, note that Stanley Kubrick's 1980 movie was not actually filmed at the Stanley Hotel CO. The interiors were done on a stage and a hotel in Oregon was used for the exteriors.
edward stojakovic from chicago, United States, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Located in Estes Park, the Stanley Hotel in CO has a reputation that precedes itself, thanks to not only the Stephen King classic but also the hospitality, world-class amenities, and jaw-dropping views you will find at the hotel.
Flickr/Kent Kanouse
Opened in 1909, the hotel from The Shining is a 140-room Colonial Revival resort that features not only luxurious accommodations but also restaurants and bars, special events, and close proximity to Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. But you might be like me and your biggest question remains to be, "is the Stanley Hotel haunted?"
Flickr/Robin Kanouse
Well, maybe. Or maybe not....

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Don't care for the paranormal? This is no problem, as most rooms are somewhat innocent. Minus Room 217 (where a housekeeper was allegedly electrocuted in 1912).
Management/Trip Advisor
You can also stop by the Whiskey Bar & Lounge, which has an impressive collection of spirits.
Rachel Raimondi/OnlyInYourState
We were certainly in awe and it took quite awhile to make a choice.
I'm also a big fan of the outdoors, so I really enjoyed taking in the stunning views from the hotel.
Rachel Raimondi/OnlyInYourState
My absolute favorite was this one right from the front door.
Rachel Raimondi/OnlyInYourState
The Stanley Hotel and Estes Park are truly magical places to visit in Colorado.
To learn more about this historical place - or to book your stay - please visit the website for The Stanley Hotel.
Flickr/xroper7

So what do you think? Is the Stanely Hotel haunted? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!

Looking for something else to do in this area? See what activities Viator has nearby.

If you are going to be in and around Estes Park, be sure to visit the Rocky Mountain National Park.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Get To Know Estes Park

Rachel Raimondi | January 01, 1970

What are some local favorite restaurants in Estes Park?

After you’ve learned all about the hotel from The Shining, head out to some of the best restaurants around Estes Park:

Bird & Jim: You’ll find this eatery on Moraine Avenue. They are best known for their meats, such as the cowboy steak and carnivore. Be sure to also try the mushroom ravioli or mountain Jim burger.

Ed’s Cantina: For some of the best tacos around, head to this spot on East Elkhorn Avenue. The barbacoa tacos are well known and the fajitas and bowls are also pretty popular.

What are the most beautiful hikes in Estes Park?

With the 265,807-acre Rocky Mountain National Park right near The Stanley Hotel CO, there are a ton of beautiful hikes in Estes Park:

Alberta Falls Trail: You’ll find this trail within Glacier Gorge. The total length is 1.6 miles, so it is doable by virtually anyone. And the lovely 30-foot falls are definitely worth the effort.

Sandbeach Lake: For a bit of a challenge, try this 8.4-mile hike to Mount Meeker from Wild Basin. If you do attempt this, be sure to give yourself enough time to get back before dark and bring food and your poles along.

What are the best places to shop in Estes Park?

Bring home a memory of your trip here from some of the best places to shop in Estes Park:

The Grey House: Located on Elkhorn Avenue, here, you can pick up some wearable memorabilia for men and women as well as babies, too. Be sure to grab a tee shirt or hat to remember your trip here!

Rocky Mountain Majesty: Head to this shop for an assortment of delicious goodies. Fan favorites are caramel crackle corn and jerky. You can also get some great rubs and coffee here.

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Featured Addresses
Stanley Hotel, 333 E Wonderview Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517, USA