Haunted Hotels in Hudson Valley & Catskills: The Most Haunted Hotels in New York

Ryan Jones
Sep 17
5 min read

The Hudson Valley and Catskills are known for breathtaking fall foliage, charming inns, and stunning landscapes—but they also carry a chilling side. Nestled among historic towns and scenic mountains are some of the most haunted hotels in New York, where ghostly encounters, unexplained sounds, and centuries-old legends still linger. These haunted hotels invite visitors not just for a cozy stay, but also for a brush with the supernatural.

Whether you’re a believer in the paranormal or simply love a good ghost story, the haunted hotels of the Hudson Valley and Catskills offer a rare blend of history and mystery. From Revolutionary War inns to sprawling Gothic resorts, these places have been the backdrop for ghost sightings, strange noises, and chilling guest experiences for generations.

Why the Hudson Valley and Catskills Are Hotspots for Haunted Hotels

The Hudson Valley and Catskills are steeped in centuries of history. The region has seen everything from Native American legends to bloody Revolutionary War battles, making it fertile ground for ghostly lore. Many of the inns and hotels in the area date back hundreds of years, often serving as stagecoach stops, family homes, or even hospitals during their long histories.

Because of this, it’s no surprise that paranormal investigators and curious travelers flock to the area each fall. With fog rolling over mountain lakes, abandoned barns tucked into forests, and centuries-old estates, the Hudson Valley and Catskills provide the perfect setting for haunted hotels and chilling encounters.

The Most Haunted Hotels in New York: Hudson Valley & Catskills Edition

The Shanley Hotel – Napanoch, NY

A dimly lit, old wooden house at night, with glowing windows and a streetlamp nearby, creates a mysterious and eerie atmosphere. — Photo Courtesy of The Shanley Hotel

Often called the most haunted hotel in New York, the Shanley Hotel has a reputation that attracts paranormal enthusiasts from across the country. Built in the mid-19th century, it has seen everything from family tragedies to mysterious deaths, cementing its eerie legacy. Guests have reported hearing phantom footsteps echoing through empty hallways, rocking chairs moving on their own, and even the faint sounds of piano music when no one is playing.

Paranormal investigators often book overnight stays here, with many claiming to capture strange voices, shadows, and unexplained temperature drops. Whether you come for the history or the hauntings, the Shanley Hotel is a place where the line between past and present feels thin.

King House Mansion – Tarrytown, NY

Elegant white mansion with grand columns, surrounded by trees and flowers under a twilight sky. Lit windows add a warm glow.

The King House Mansion in Tarrytown carries both elegance and an unsettling energy. The mansion is most famously haunted by the spirit of Sybil Harris King, whose presence is felt most strongly in Room 293. Guests have described seeing faint shadows drifting across their rooms, hearing footsteps in the hallways, and even waking up to the unnerving sensation of being watched.

The mansion’s long history, tied to the wealthy families of the Hudson Valley, gives it a stately charm during the day—but by night, its grand halls take on an eerie, watchful quiet. For visitors drawn to haunted hotels in the Hudson Valley, King House Mansion is a must.

Bird & Bottle Inn – Garrison, NY

Yellow house with white trim and American flag, set against vibrant autumn foliage. Warm lights illuminate the porch, creating a cozy feel.

Dating back to 1761, the Bird & Bottle Inn in Garrison is as rich in history as it is in ghostly whispers. Once a bustling stagecoach stop during the colonial era, the inn is rumored to be haunted by spirits from the Revolutionary War period. Guests have long claimed to sense an unexplained presence moving throughout the building, as though travelers from centuries ago never truly checked out.

Despite its haunted reputation, the inn retains a warm, cozy charm that keeps visitors coming back. Guests describe the experience as “hauntingly beautiful,” making the Bird & Bottle Inn one of the Hudson Valley’s most unique overnight stays.

Mohonk Mountain House – New Paltz, NY

Grand historic hotel with red roofs nestled among lush trees overlooking a serene lake and distant mountains. Bright, peaceful setting.

If Gothic novels could come to life, they would look like Mohonk Mountain House. Perched high above Lake Mohonk, this sprawling Victorian resort exudes both grandeur and ghostly energy. Its long corridors and historic rooms have inspired stories of shadowy figures moving at night, strange noises, and an atmosphere that makes visitors feel as though they’re not alone.

The setting is particularly powerful in autumn, when the crisp air and colorful leaves create a surreal backdrop. While Mohonk Mountain House is celebrated for its luxury and natural beauty, it is equally famous as one of the most haunted hotels in New York.

The Beekman House – Middleburgh, NY

Hallway with peeling wallpaper, two oval portraits, and a large painting. Red rugs cover wooden floors. A room with a red chair is visible.

The Beekman House is another historic gem that has earned its place among New York’s haunted hotels. This inn frequently appears on haunted travel lists because of guest reports of unexplained sounds, heavy atmospheres, and sightings that suggest a ghostly presence lingers within its walls. Built in the early 1800s, the home’s long history makes it a natural magnet for eerie tales.

Travelers who have stayed here often describe feeling watched or hearing noises in the night that defy explanation. For those seeking both history and a touch of the paranormal, the Beekman House delivers.

Other Haunted Hotels in Catskills & Hudson Valley Worth Exploring

Beyond these famous locations, the Hudson Valley and Catskills are full of smaller inns, historic taverns turned boutique hotels, and B&Bs with ghostly reputations. Many towns also host seasonal ghost tours, where you can dive deeper into local legends and haunted history. Exploring these lesser-known spots offers a chance to uncover new ghost stories—and maybe even encounter a spirit of your own.

Planning Your Haunted Getaway in Hudson Valley & Catskills

If you’re ready to plan a haunted adventure, here are some quick tips:

Best Time to Visit: Fall is the most atmospheric, especially September through November.
What to Pack: Comfortable walking shoes, a flashlight, and maybe even a camera for paranormal evidence.
Tips for Ghost Hunters: Stay overnight if you can—most encounters happen late at night or in the early morning hours.

Conclusion – The Allure of Haunted Hotels in Hudson Valley & Catskills

The Hudson Valley and Catskills aren’t just destinations for scenic views and cozy getaways—they’re also home to some of the most haunted hotels in New York. From the unsettling halls of the Shanley Hotel to the Gothic beauty of Mohonk Mountain House, these locations offer a rare mix of history, luxury, and ghostly encounters.

Whether you’re planning a haunted road trip or just love a good ghost story, these haunted hotels will leave you with memories you’ll never forget—no matter how hard you try.

FAQ – Haunted Hotels in New York

What is the most haunted hotel in the Hudson Valley?

The Shanley Hotel in Napanoch is often called the most haunted hotel in New York.

Can you stay overnight at the Shanley Hotel?

Yes! The Shanley offers overnight stays, particularly for paranormal investigators.

Are there haunted hotels in the Catskills open to the public?

Yes, several—including Mohonk Mountain House and Bird & Bottle Inn.

Which haunted hotels in New York are best for ghost hunters?

The Shanley Hotel, King House Mansion, and the Beekman House are favorites among ghost hunters.