As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.
New England has a reputation for being home to a bevy of spooky inns and historic hotels full of spirited guests (and staff… and owners…) that have long overstayed their welcome. Fortunately, for fans of ghostly supernatural sightings and all things paranormal, Maine’s haunting season stretches far beyond All Hallow’s Eve. And with our lengthy East Coast history – filled with tales of unnatural shipwrecks, mysterious Civil War apparition sightings, and more – you can bet that The Pine Tree state has plenty of haunts to choose from! From former convents and institutions to hotels that are neighboring ancient battlegrounds, we’re pretty convinced that our haunted places are – well, a little extra haunted.
But of all the centuries-old establishments that fill our state, few are as active and as filled with inexplicable presences as the long-standing, iconic Herbert Grand Hotel in Kingfield. Not a believer? Spend a night or two at this storied hotel, and you might just change your mind.
In the tiny mountain community of Kingfield, Maine, ask anyone in town and odds are they will have an eerie tale to share about the Herbert Grand Hotel on Main Street.
The history of the hotel is one that is familiar to many of America's oldest buildings: a large, ornate piece of architecture, a devastating fire, a rebirth within the community… but with an extra presence or two in tow.
When the original boarding house burned to the ground in 1871, the Kingfield House Hotel was built on the ashes of the former building. Construction of the Herbert Grand Hotel began just a few years later, setting the stage for a multitude of hauntings.
According to local lore: built upon luckless or "cursed" ground, the new stately hotel was remodeled and reimagined by Herbert S. Wing, a local lawyer and businessman with a reputation for wooing politicians with the hotel's Prohibition-era "bathtub gin" and women of ill repute. There was even a speakeasy in the basement with a convenient escape route.
After nearly a century of tumultuous history - including estranged management, shady private dealings, fraud, and even reported mob involvement - the Herbert settled into its role in the Sugarloaf gateway community as a comfortable place to stay for visiting skiers and all-seasons passerby… But with a few spiritual remnants left over from its former days.
Advertisement
Many of the stories surrounding the hotel revolve around the Herbert's former political guests, their rendezvous, and their female counterparts - but especially around Room 318.
There have been reports of children appearing bedside, mysterious women haunting their former rooms, inexplicable shadows passing by windows, and even floating objects around the bar and front desk.
There's also a rumor of a forgotten murder taking place in the basement speakeasy - a tale that only adds to the hotel's haunted potential.
Every corner of the Herbert Grand Hotel is a homage to the past and a nod to its haunted reputation, each detail meticulously maintained and authentic to its original time period.
It makes sense why long-gone visitors would want to remain here past their checkout!
From the art deco stylings and vintage artwork to the antique furniture and rich colors and fabrics, the Herbert was made for nostalgia. Which seems to include its former inhabitants.
In fall, the mist rolls in off the water and creates a chilling atmosphere that could be the backdrop for a suspenseful movie. In winter, the unsettling silence - a product of the heavy snowfall - is reminiscent of The Shining.
Advertisement
The hotel has been courted by many supernatural organizations, including Maine Ghost Hunters and the National Paranormal Association.
This vintage charmer and its historic mountain setting makes for a lovely place to rest after a long day of skiing, hiking the Appalachian, or exploring this small town nook in Maine.
The waterfront views and lovely community vibes are an added bonus!
History buffs, roaring 20s fans, and Great Gatsby-lovers alike will find the décor endlessly appealing! But even modern inn-hoppers will find comfort in any of the 26 rooms.
And the haunted bar? Fully stocked with local (and legal!) Maine beverages. You'll have to judge for yourself whether or not the ghostly rumors are true, however,
While continued tales of spectral activity and the unique historic authenticity of this hotel draws visitors from all around the state, rest assured – the Herbert isn’t just for those hoping for a supernatural encounter! This mountain getaway has a historic charm that is undeniable and well worth a visit all on its own. No ghosts needed! You’ll also want to follow the Herbert Grand Hotel’s Facebook page for special events and updates.
