In this special Halloween episode of Curiosity Overload, we dive into the eerie history of one of America's most famous haunted locations — the Stanley Hotel. From mysterious footsteps and ghostly figures to chilling tales of Stephen King's inspiration for The Shining, we explore why the Stanley has captivated imaginations for decades.

But is the hotel truly haunted, or could it be something else? We'll unpack the idea of social contagion, where shared beliefs and spooky stories spread through communities, influencing what people think they’ve experienced. Is it all in our heads, or are there real spirits lingering in the halls?

As someone who leans toward skepticism, I share my own thoughts on the Stanley's haunted reputation — while also embracing the fun and thrill of ghost stories during the Halloween season. So grab your flashlight, settle in, and join us for a spine-tingling exploration of the Stanley Hotel!

In This Episode, We Cover:

The haunted history of the Stanley Hotel, from its origins to the stories that make it famous.

Stephen King's stay in Room 217 and how it inspired The Shining.

Paranormal hotspots within the hotel, including the eerie 4th floor and the grand staircase.

The concept of social contagion and how it explains why people believe in hauntings.

Personal reflections on ghost stories and the fun of embracing Halloween spookiness.

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave us a review and follow us for more curious explorations of the world around us!

References:

Uncover Colorado

Denver Gazatte

TripSavvy