Shanley Hotel

Located at 56 Main St, Napanoch, NY 12458, USA, the Shanley Hotel is far more than just a place to stay; it is a living, breathing piece of history, famously known as one of the most haunted locations on the East Coast. For local users Browse the "Hotels Near Of Me" category, the Shanley Hotel offers a truly distinctive and thrilling experience, particularly for those with an interest in the supernatural. Easily reachable at (845) 417-9927 or +1 845-417-9927, this historic establishment, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, promises an unforgettable journey into the paranormal. Guests consistently rave about their "amazing experience," highlighting the dedicated staff and the profound sense of safety and comfort, even amidst eerie phenomena.

The Shanley Hotel's history dates back to 1845 when it was first built as Ritch's Hotel. Over the decades, it transformed, enduring a devastating fire in 1895 before being rebuilt and eventually acquired by James Shanley in 1906, after whom it is now named. Under his ownership, the hotel became a luxurious destination, boasting a bowling alley, billiard room, and even a barbershop, attracting celebrities and political figures of the era. However, its past is also intertwined with tragedy, including multiple family deaths, ties to the Mafia, Prohibition-era speakeasy activities, and even operating as a bordello. These layers of history and human experience are believed to have contributed to the hotel's prolific paranormal activity. Visitors today often describe it as a "must visit," with many stating it could "turn any skeptic into a believer."

The Shanley Hotel is nestled in the quiet town of Napanoch, New York, in the foothills of the Shawangunk Mountains, providing a scenic yet secluded backdrop. The environment within the hotel itself is key to its allure. As a preserved historic building, it retains its original charm, from the architecture to the period details, creating an atmosphere that immediately transports visitors back in time. This authentic historical setting enhances the paranormal experience, as guests are immersed in the very spaces where its past residents lived, worked, and, in some cases, tragically perished. The "minimalistic yet elevated" design often found in modern hotels is starkly contrasted here with a rich, lived-in feel, allowing the history to speak for itself.

The very fabric of the building seems to hum with residual energy. Reports of unexplained phenomena are abundant and varied, contributing to its reputation as "one of the most haunted locations on the East Coast." Guests have reported hearing rocking chairs moving on their own, mysterious clock chimes, disembodied voices, whistling (often attributed to James Shanley himself), footsteps in the halls, and the laughter of children. Apparitions and shadows are frequently sighted, and guests report feeling sudden cold or hot spots, or even the aromas of cooking when no food is being prepared. The bordello rooms, in particular, are noted for their intense activity, with visitors experiencing lightheadedness, shortness of breath, and sudden shifts in emotion. This immersive, eerie environment is the primary draw for many.

Unlike conventional hotels, the Shanley Hotel's core services are centered around its paranormal offerings. While traditional overnight stays are available, they are often intertwined with ghost hunting experiences. The staff, led by individuals like Kelly and Tracy, are consistently praised as "absolute gems," "great hosts," "so accommodating," and "very knowledgeable." Their professionalism and dedication to making guests feel "safe" and "comfortable" are crucial, especially for first-time paranormal investigators.

The primary services include:

• Public Overnight Investigations: These are the signature experience. Guests check in, participate in a history presentation and evidence review, followed by a staff-led paranormal investigation in key areas of the hotel. After the structured investigation, guests typically have "free time" to explore designated areas on their own, using their own equipment or some of the limited equipment provided by the hotel. Accommodations are included in the price, which is typically per room based on double occupancy, with additional fees for extra persons.

• Private Ghost Hunts: For groups or individuals seeking a more exclusive experience, private investigations can be arranged. These allow for more personalized access and deeper exploration of the hotel's haunted hot spots.

• Day Tours: For those not ready for an overnight commitment, the Shanley Hotel offers shorter day tours. These typically include a history and evidence presentation, a guided walk-through of the hotel with tales and stories, and a "small taste" of a paranormal investigation with equipment demonstrations.

• Guest Amenities: While the focus is on the paranormal, the hotel provides essential amenities. Continental breakfast, coffee, sodas, and water are complimentary. Guests are permitted to bring their own snacks and food, with the expectation of cleaning up afterward. The hotel also has a gift shop where paranormal equipment can be purchased.

• Expert Guidance: The staff, many of whom are experienced paranormal investigators themselves, offer invaluable guidance and support. They facilitate activities like the "Estes Method," making even nervous participants feel secure enough to engage. Their expertise adds significant value to the overall experience.

It is important to note that the Shanley Hotel maintains strict policies to ensure guest safety and the integrity of the investigations. This includes a strict "no alcohol or drugs permitted" policy, and no one under the influence is allowed. There is also a minimum age requirement of 13 for entry, with guests under 18 requiring adult supervision. A waiver must be completed by every guest before participating in activities, acknowledging the unique nature of the experience.

The Shanley Hotel's most prominent feature is its reputation as a paranormal hotspot, drawing enthusiasts and curious visitors from across the globe. This has led to its inclusion in numerous paranormal TV shows, including "Ghost Lab" and "Ghost Hunters," further cementing its status. The hotel itself is almost a character in these investigations, with specific rooms and areas known for particular phenomena:

• The Bordello: Widely considered one of the most active rooms, offering intense emotional and physical sensations.

• The Gentleman's Quarters: Another highly active area, often used for group investigations.

• The Basement and Third Floor: Frequently cited for apparitions and strong presences, including a male entity believed to be connected to the central staircase.

• Children's Activity: Many investigators, particularly parents, report significant activity from child spirits, with toys lighting up or disembodied laughter heard.

• The Waiver: A unique feature, guests must sign a waiver acknowledging the potential for paranormal encounters, underscoring the hotel's commitment to transparency about its haunted nature.

• "The Best Time Ever": As per customer reviews, the overall atmosphere and the thrilling nature of the investigations contribute to an exceptionally memorable and enjoyable experience.

For those considering a visit, the Shanley Hotel offers various booking options and events designed to cater to different levels of interest in the paranormal. As a key listing in "Hotels Near Of Me" for a very niche experience, the hotel promotes its unique identity.

• Public Ghost Hunts: These are regularly scheduled and include an overnight stay, staff-led investigations, and free time for personal exploration. Pricing varies, typically based on double occupancy, with options for additional guests. It's crucial to note the "no refund" policy, though rescheduling may be possible with a fee for emergencies.

• Special Events: The Shanley Hotel frequently hosts special events with renowned paranormal investigators and mediums, such as "Cindy Kaza & Scotty the Medium" or "Dalen Spratt (from the Ghost Brothers) and Scotty the Medium." These events often have specific pricing and booking requirements.

• Day Tour Packages: The Shanley Hotel offers a "Shanley Hotel Only Tour" and a "Shanley Hotel & The Pine Bush UFO Museum Tour Package." The latter provides a combined experience of the hotel's paranormal history and a visit to a nearby UFO and Paranormal Museum, complete with a discount coupon for a local eatery. This offers a broader appeal for day visitors.

• "Worth Every Penny": As highlighted by customer reviews, the experience is considered a significant value for its cost, especially for those seeking genuine paranormal encounters. The immersive nature and dedicated staff contribute to this sentiment, making it "WORTH EVERY PENNY."

• "Sam and Colby Fans": The hotel is a recognized location for popular paranormal content creators, drawing fans who are eager to experience the phenomena documented by their favorite influencers. This specific mention by a reviewer underscores its appeal to a younger, digitally native audience.

• "Interesting Date Night": One reviewer specifically recommended it for an "interesting date night," suggesting a unique and thrilling alternative to traditional evening outings.

Given its popularity, especially for weekend events and special investigations, it is highly recommended to book well in advance. All bookings typically require 24-hour advanced notice. The hotel emphasizes that while an experience is highly likely, paranormal activity cannot be guaranteed on demand, as it is a genuine, unpredictable phenomenon. However, the consistent positive reviews about the staff's efforts to facilitate and ensure a comfortable environment underscore why guests "loved every minute" of their time here and plan to "for sure be back again" and "might even dare to sleepover." The Shanley Hotel truly offers a daring yet welcoming opportunity for anyone looking to delve into the mysteries of the unseen world.