San Francisco, a city steeped in history and mystery, offers an intriguing blend of the past and present. For those seeking an unforgettable stay with a touch of the supernatural, the haunted hotels of San Francisco beckon with tales of ghostly apparitions, mysterious occurrences, and a sense of the unknown. From elegant historic establishments to charming boutique inns, these hotels provide a truly unique experience for guests who are curious and adventurous. Whether you’re a believer in the paranormal or simply intrigued by the stories, these haunted hotels in San Francisco promise a stay that transcends the ordinary and captures the city’s rich and enigmatic past.
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Queen Anne Hotel
1590 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA 94109
Brief History:
The Queen Anne Hotel was built in 1890 as the Mary Lake School for Girls, a prestigious finishing school for young women. It was named after its founder and headmistress, Miss Mary Lake. The school aimed to provide young ladies with a proper education in etiquette, manners, and other refined skills of the era. The hotel features ornate detailing, turrets, gables, and a striking Victorian design, which has contributed to its historical charm.
In the early 1900s, the Mary Lake School for Girls closed its doors, and the building underwent several transformations. Eventually, it was converted into a hotel, taking on the name “The Queen Anne Hotel.” Over the years, it has been renovated and restored while preserving its Victorian architectural elements.
Today, the Queen Anne Hotel operates as a boutique hotel known for its Victorian charm, historical ambiance, and the intriguing possibility of ghostly encounters. It offers guests a unique opportunity to experience a blend of San Francisco’s history and a touch of the supernatural.
Hauntings:
Miss Mary Lake, the original headmistress of the Mary Lake School for Girls, is believed to be the most prominent ghost at the Queen Anne Hotel. Guests have reported feeling as though someone tucked them into bed at night, much like a caring headmistress might have done for her students. Others have mentioned the sensation of a gentle touch or the rustling of a long skirt.
Given the hotel’s history as a girls’ school, some guests have reported hearing the laughter and footsteps of children running in the hallways. These ghostly sounds are often attributed to the spirits of former students.
There have been reports of piano music coming from the hotel’s parlor, even when there is no one playing the piano. Some guests have claimed to hear classical music wafting through the halls late at night, as if the piano were playing itself. Items in guest rooms and common areas have been known to move on their own. Furniture has been rearranged, and objects have shifted inexplicably, leading some to believe that unseen hands are at work.
The Fairmont San Francisco
950 Mason St, San Francisco, CA 94108
Brief History:
The Fairmont San Francisco was built and opened in 1907. It was designed by architects James and Merritt Reid, and it was one of the first American hotels to use steel framing, which made it one of the few structures to survive the devastating 1906 San Francisco earthquake and subsequent fires that destroyed much of the city. The hotel underwent extensive renovations and upgrades over the years to maintain its status as one of the city’s premier luxury hotels while preserving its historic charm and architecture.
In its early years, the Fairmont quickly gained a reputation for luxury and opulence. It became a hub for the city’s high society and hosted numerous social events, including balls and galas. In 1945, the hotel introduced the Tonga Room and Hurricane Bar, a famous tiki bar and restaurant known for its tropical décor and indoor rainstorms. The Tonga Room remains a popular attraction at the Fairmont.
The Fairmont San Francisco has hosted numerous U.S. presidents and foreign dignitaries over the years. In 1945, it was the site of the drafting of the United Nations Charter, a historic event that played a crucial role in the formation of the United Nations.
Hauntings:
One of the most famous ghost stories at the Fairmont revolves around a young woman named Claudia. According to the legend, Claudia was a guest at the hotel in the 1940s and stayed in Room 1227. She was allegedly involved in a love affair gone wrong and tragically fell to her death from a window. Guests who have stayed in Room 1227 have reported strange occurrences, including cold spots, flickering lights, and an eerie feeling of being watched. Some guests have even claimed to have seen the ghostly figure of Claudia herself.
Another haunted room at the Fairmont is Room 224. Guests have reported unusual and unexplained experiences while staying in this room, including lights turning on and off by themselves and objects moving on their own. Some guests have felt an eerie presence in the room and even heard whispers or soft voices when no one else was present.
The Gold Room is a lavish event space within the Fairmont San Francisco, known for hosting weddings and other special events. Guests and staff members have reported witnessing phantom partygoers dressed in vintage clothing appearing and disappearing during events held in this room. These ghostly apparitions are said to resemble attendees from events held at the hotel in the early 1900s.
Some guests have reported encountering a mysterious woman dressed in clothing from the 1930s in one of the hotel’s elevators. She is said to appear for a moment and then vanish, leaving guests bewildered.
Beacon Grand (formerly The Sir Francis Drake Hotel)
450 Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94102
Brief History:
Reopened in 2022, the Beacon Grand Hotel pays tribute to the history of this iconic establishment by adopting a new name, honoring all those who have contributed to the greatness of San Francisco and this remarkable hotel. Where Sir Francis Drake once held the spotlight, we now celebrate the countless pioneers who have made this city and hotel exceptional. Our focus remains on progress and the potential that has always drawn diverse individuals to Union Square, where history continually unfolds.
Journey back to the spirited ambiance of 1928 San Francisco—a time of prosperity, Prohibition, and technological advancements like radio, television, cars, and phones. The Sir Francis Drake Hotel emerged as a beacon of progress, redefining hotel standards and captivating San Francisco. Opening to acclaim as “a dazzling testament to the city’s hospitality,” it offered modern amenities such as in-room radios and innovative Servidor systems. A $5 million construction cost, extravagant opening festivities, and the allure of ice water on tap in every room made it a symbol of luxury.
The Beacon Grand ushers in a new chapter while preserving the legacy of this iconic San Francisco hotel. It remains a place where locals and visitors gather in Union Square’s vibrant social scene, dedicated to enhancing life in one of the world’s premier cities.
Hauntings:
One of the most famous ghostly apparitions at the Sir Francis Drake Hotel is said to be a beautiful woman in a 1930s-style gown. She is often seen on the 19th floor of the hotel, known as the “19th Floor Lady.” Guests have reported encountering her in the hallways or seeing her reflection in mirrors before she vanishes.
Another eerie occurrence reported by guests involves the hotel’s elevators. Some guests have claimed that the elevators seem to have a mind of their own, moving between floors without being called and opening and closing their doors inexplicably. This has led to speculation that the elevators might be operated by unseen forces.
Room 1219 in the Sir Francis Drake Hotel is said to be one of the most haunted rooms. Guests have reported hearing strange noises, such as footsteps and whispers, and some have even claimed to have seen apparitions in this room.
The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square
335 Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94102
Brief History:
The Westin St. Francis was originally constructed and opened in 1904. It was designed by Bliss and Faville, a prominent architectural firm of the time. The hotel’s location on Union Square made it a prominent and prestigious destination in the heart of San Francisco.
The hotel played a significant role in San Francisco’s history when it miraculously survived the devastating 1906 earthquake and subsequent fires that ravaged much of the city. The hotel served as a place of refuge and a makeshift headquarters for relief efforts during the aftermath of the disaster.
Over the years, the Westin St. Francis underwent several renovations and expansions to keep up with the changing times and maintain its status as one of San Francisco’s premier hotels. These renovations preserved the hotel’s historic charm while updating its amenities and services.
The hotel has hosted several U.S. presidents and world leaders over the years, including President Woodrow Wilson and Queen Elizabeth II. Its central location and luxurious accommodations have made it a preferred choice for dignitaries and celebrities visiting San Francisco.
The Westin St. Francis is not only known for its luxurious accommodations but also for its historical significance. It has witnessed numerous important events, including the founding of the United Nations in 1945 when delegates stayed at the hotel during the conference.
Hauntings:
Al Feiss was a former employee of the hotel who worked as a banquet waiter during the 1940s and 1950s. Legend has it that he was deeply devoted to his job and the hotel. After his passing, some guests and staff members have claimed to see a ghostly figure in a banquet uniform, believed to be Al Feiss, who continues to diligently attend to his duties. He is often seen setting up tables or arranging chairs in the banquet halls.
Another common ghostly encounter reported by guests involves an elevator operator dressed in old-fashioned attire. Guests have described interactions with an elevator operator who seems out of place in the modern era. Some have reported that the operator disappears or vanishes mysteriously before their eyes.
In one of the hotel’s suites, there is a mirror that is said to be haunted. Guests have reported seeing ghostly apparitions or strange reflections in this mirror. Some believe that the mirror may have absorbed the energy of past guests and their experiences.
That’s A Wrap!
In a city that thrives on its diverse and captivating history, staying in one of San Francisco’s haunted hotels is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of intrigue and fascination. Whether you encounter a spectral presence or simply appreciate the ambiance of these historic establishments, these hotels offer a window into a bygone era. As you explore the bustling streets, iconic landmarks (like Alcatraz Island), and vibrant culture of San Francisco during the day, the prospect of encountering the unknown within the hallowed halls of your chosen haunted hotel adds an extra layer of excitement to your visit.
So, whether you come for the ghostly tales or the unique charm, these haunted hotels ensure that your stay in San Francisco will be an unforgettable journey through time, blending the past and the present in a way that is both hauntingly beautiful and undeniably captivating.
Disclaimer: Links in this page are meant to help you find relevant information and book attractions easier by linking directly to specific pages on partner websites (i.e. TripAdvisor, Vegas.com). If you click a link, we may earn a small commission on transactions. This helps support the cost of running our website, and it adds absolutely no extra cost to you as the consumer. Thank you, we appreciate your support! You can read more on our disclosure policy.
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