Every time we search for the real Overlook Hotel from The Shining, the Stanley Hotel in the Rocky Mountains is most likely the first to come up. However, some of us may expect a different hotel—especially those who remember the Overlook Hotel from the iconic 1980 horror movie The Shining, directed by Stanley Kubrick.
The Stanley Hotel is indeed the original inspiration for the Overlook Hotel. It was where Stephen King stayed with his wife and found the inspiration to write The Shining novel. However, neither the exterior nor the interior of the Stanley Hotel resembles the Overlook Hotel seen in Kubrick’s film.
To find the perfect hotel for his movie, Kubrick and his crew looked to the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite National Park and the Timberline Lodge in Oregon. Interestingly, both hotels were designed by the same architect, Gilbert Stanley Underwood. While The Shining didn’t film at either location, the Overlook Hotel set was built, drawing inspiration from both of these architectural landmarks.
Nothing like the eerie atmosphere of the novel or the movie, these hotels actually offer some of the best hospitality, unique discoveries, and exciting night activities. We found these hotels to be best for leisure and peaceful staycation.
Stanley Hotel in Rocky Mountain – Classy and Warm Macabre Leisure
Image Source: Visit Estes Park
Stephen King once remarked that Kubrick’s interpretation of The Overlook Hotel is colder, whereas he originally wrote The Shining as a horror story with a warmer, cozier tone. This warmth and coziness are reflected in the Stanley Hotel in the Rocky Mountains.
Its interior blends early 20th-century elegance with modern amenities, featuring grand staircases, vintage furniture, and ornate woodwork. Guest rooms range from modernized suites to more traditional ones, complete with antique furniture and vintage artwork.
Popular Suites: The hotel’s mysterious reputation leaves stories lingering in its corners and suites, such as Room 321, The Elizabeth Suite, named after Elizabeth Wilson, the Head Housekeeper who was injured in an explosion while lighting lanterns in Room 217 in 1911. You can also experience The Stephen King Suite in Room 217, named after the author himself, which gained the hotel indirect fame through his novel.
Image by The Stanley
Quirky Activities: For couples seeking a unique blend of horror, macabre, and quirky elegance, the Stanley Hotel offers an unforgettable supernatural experience. Immerse yourself in its spine-chilling atmosphere with events like The Seance at The Stanley, the Shining Tour, and the eerie Night Tour.
For those intrigued by strange history, the Frozen Dead Guy Tour delves into the science of cryonics at the International Cryogenics Museum. Don’t miss the macabre-themed dance ball for a night of hauntingly stylish fun.
Perfect For: Whether you’re a horror enthusiast or simply looking for something unconventional, the Stanley Hotel offers the perfect blend of thrills and class. While it’s not forbidden to bring children, many special events are not suitable for those under 12 years old. Therefore, we think it’s ideal for a couple’s vacation.
🛎️ Book a suite for your next classy horror experience here!
The Ahwahnee in Yosemite National Park – The Real Overlook Hotel from The Movie
Image by Ahwahnee Hotel
The Ahwahnee Hotel tops the list for those seeking a visual resemblance to The Overlook Hotel from The Shining. Here, you’ll find iconic lobbies with fireplaces, red elevator doors, and rustic hotel hallways. Even today, the hotel retains its nostalgic charm by using creaking manual door keys for its suites.
Iconic Interior: The interiors feature hand-woven Native American tapestries, stained glass windows, and massive stone fireplaces. The Ahwahnee Dining Room, a centerpiece of the hotel, boasts exposed wooden beams and cozy seating areas, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The Ahwahnee Dining Room is one of the hotel’s most iconic spaces, with 34-foot-high ceilings and grand architecture. While it doesn’t quite evoke The Shining, it has a similar ambiance to the spacious dining hall of Hogwarts from the Harry Potter series.
Image Source: Rogue Trip
Famous Guests: Unlike the classy yet activity-packed atmosphere of The Stanley, The Ahwahnee offers tranquil and serene accommodations amidst the natural beauty of Yosemite National Park. Constructed to attract affluent visitors, it has hosted notable guests such as Queen Elizabeth II, John F. Kennedy, and Charlie Chaplin.
Perfect For: With limited activities and low internet connectivity, The Ahwahnee is an ideal retreat for writers seeking solitude. It’s the perfect place to read, rest, and focus on writing your next book.
🛎️ Explore the real Overlook Hotel and find your tranquility time in The Ahwhnee by booking here!
Timberline Lodge in Oregon – Lodging for Food & Outdoor Enthusiast
Image by Timberline
In Stephen King’s novel The Shining, the haunted room is known as Room 217, whereas in the movie adaptation, it was changed to Room 237. This alteration was requested by Timberline Lodge, the inspiration for the exterior of The Overlook Hotel. Concerned that guests might avoid staying in a room with a horror reputation, the lodge asked director Stanley Kubrick to use a different room number.
Outdoor Paradise: Timberline Lodge stands out as the most contrasting destination on this list, offering an atmosphere that is the opposite of horror or macabre. It is an all-season paradise, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. In winter, the lodge boasts some of the best skiing and snowboarding in North America, while summer brings hiking, biking, and scenic chairlift rides. After a day of adventure, guests can relax in the outdoor heated pool, surrounded by breathtaking views of Mount Hood’s natural beauty.
Image Source: Counsilman Hunsaker
Food & Drink Enthusiasts: Timberline Lodge is also a haven for food lovers, featuring a variety of restaurants and bars. The Cascade Dining Room and Ram’s Head Bar provide cozy, warm cabin-like atmospheres, ideal for enjoying delicious meals. For skiers and sports enthusiasts, Phlox Point Cabin and Mt. Hood Brewing Co. Govy are popular spots to unwind with friends over drinks. Additional options like the Blue Ox Bar, Y’Bar, and Wy’East Café ensure there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re craving outdoor thrills or cozy retreats, Timberline Lodge offers an unforgettable experience where nature and comfort meet.
Whether you’re drawn to the haunting charm of The Stanley, the serene elegance of The Ahwahnee, or the adventurous allure of Timberline Lodge, each destination offers a unique experience that brings the real Overlook Hotel to life in its own way.