Denver’s history is full of stories that go far beyond the Wild West and gold rush days. Beneath its vibrant culture and scenic beauty lies a darker, more mysterious side—one filled with ghost sightings, unexplained sounds, and eerie occurrences. The Mile High City is home to some of the most spine-tingling haunted locations in the country, from historic hotels to hidden cemeteries. If you’re drawn to the supernatural or simply enjoy a good scare, exploring the haunted places in Denver offers a chilling adventure into the city’s ghostly past.
The Unsinkable Spirits of the Molly Brown House
Once home to Titanic survivor Margaret “Molly” Brown, the Molly Brown House Museum in Capitol Hill is as historic as it is haunted. Visitors and staff have reported hearing footsteps on empty staircases, doors opening and closing on their own, and strange cold drafts in locked rooms. Some say Molly herself still roams the halls, watching over her treasured home. The museum offers historical tours year-round, but during the Halloween season, they lean into the eerie with themed ghost tours and storytelling nights.
Phantom Guests at The Oxford Hotel
Located in LoDo, the Oxford Hotel is one of Denver’s oldest hotels—and it may also be one of its most haunted. Room 320 has a reputation for paranormal activity, with guests reporting the feeling of being watched, lights flickering, and even the bathtub filling itself. The hotel’s basement bar, The Cruise Room, is also said to be haunted by a man in an old-fashioned postal uniform, believed to be a spirit from World War II. Whether or not you encounter a ghost, the ambiance alone makes this a memorable stop on any haunted tour.
Paranormal Activity at Cheesman Park
Cheesman Park may be a serene urban green space today, but its history is anything but peaceful. Built on the grounds of a former cemetery, the park still holds hundreds of unmarked graves beneath its surface. Many visitors report feelings of unease, hearing whispers at dusk, or even seeing ghostly figures wandering the open fields. The Cheesman Park Ghost Stories have become legendary among paranormal enthusiasts, and it’s a favorite destination for ghost hunters and curious locals alike.
The Ghosts of the Brown Palace Hotel
A Denver institution since 1892, the Brown Palace Hotel is known for its luxurious accommodations—and its resident spirits. Staff and guests have described encounters with a former train conductor in uniform, a woman in a vintage bridal gown, and even strange phone calls from vacant rooms. One of the hotel’s most haunted areas is the service elevator, where unexplained malfunctions and shadowy apparitions are regularly reported. Ghost tours are occasionally offered to highlight the hotel’s haunted history in addition to its architectural splendor.
Creepy Encounters at Denver’s Capitol Building
Colorado’s State Capitol Building is an iconic part of Denver’s skyline, but some believe it holds more than just political power. Over the years, employees have shared stories of ghostly sightings in the dome and hearing voices echo through the marble halls when no one is around. Some believe these encounters are tied to historical events or even the building’s location near former burial grounds. Though not marketed as a haunted attraction, the building’s long history and nighttime ambiance can send a shiver down your spine.
Riverside Cemetery’s Restless Residents
As Denver’s oldest cemetery, Riverside Cemetery is the final resting place for many notable historical figures—and possibly a few restless souls. Founded in 1876, the cemetery’s weathered headstones and overgrown pathways create an undeniably eerie setting. Paranormal investigators have captured unexplained audio and photos here, and locals often report an overwhelming sense of being watched. It’s both a peaceful and haunting place to explore, especially for those interested in the city’s early history.
Ghostly Guests at the Lumber Baron Inn
The Lumber Baron Inn in Denver’s Highland neighborhood is a beautifully restored Victorian mansion with a tragic past. In the 1970s, the property was the site of a double homicide that remains unsolved. Since then, guests have reported flickering lights, cold spots, and strange voices in the Rose Room—where one of the victims was found. The inn embraces its haunted reputation by hosting murder mystery dinners and supernatural-themed events, making it a must-visit for ghost story lovers.
Book Your Denver Vacation Rental and Rest in Comfort
After exploring Denver’s most haunted landmarks and experiencing its eerie past, relax in comfort with a spacious and stylish Denver vacation rental. Whether you’re here for thrills or just to soak in the city’s rich history, you’ll appreciate having a peaceful retreat to return to each night. Choose JZ Vacation Rental for modern accommodations that let you enjoy Denver’s spooky sights without losing sleep.
