Haunted Hotels in San Antonio: A Journey Through the Spookiest Stays

San Antonio, a city rich in history and culture, is known not only for its vibrant downtown and historic missions but also for its haunted hotels. As one of the oldest cities in Texas, San Antonio has no shortage of ghost stories and paranormal activity, particularly in its historic hotels. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a history buff, spending a night at one of these haunted hotels is sure to provide an experience you won’t forget. Here’s a look at some of the most haunted hotels in San Antonio.

1. The Menger Hotel
Located next to the Alamo, the Menger Hotel is perhaps the most famous haunted hotel in San Antonio. Built in 1859, it is steeped in history and has hosted a variety of famous guests, including Teddy Roosevelt and Babe Ruth. However, the hotel is also known for its numerous ghost sightings. The most famous ghost is Sallie White, a chambermaid who was murdered by her husband in 1876. Guests and staff have reported seeing her spirit wandering the hallways, dressed in a maid’s uniform, often carrying towels. The Menger Hotel is said to house over 30 different spirits, making it one of the most haunted places in Texas.

2. The Emily Morgan Hotel
Once a medical building in the early 1900s, the Emily Morgan Hotel is now considered one of the most haunted hotels in the country. Located near the Alamo, this Gothic Revival-style building was originally a hospital and later a medical office. Guests staying at the hotel have reported hearing unexplained noises, strange odors, and witnessing apparitions in the hallways. Some say the 12th and 14th floors, which once housed the hospital’s surgical and psychiatric wards, are particularly active with paranormal activity. The Emily Morgan Hotel’s eerie history and proximity to the Alamo only add to its haunted reputation.

3. The St. Anthony Hotel
The St. Anthony Hotel, built in 1909, is another historic gem in downtown San Antonio that is said to be haunted. Known for its luxurious décor and classic elegance, this hotel has hosted many high-profile guests over the years. However, it is also home to a few resident ghosts. Guests have reported seeing the apparition of a woman in red, who is believed to be the spirit of a jilted bride. Others have heard footsteps in empty hallways and felt cold spots throughout the hotel. Despite its spooky history, the St. Anthony Hotel remains a popular destination for both travelers and ghost hunters alike.

4. The Crockett Hotel
Just across the street from the Alamo, the Crockett Hotel is another location with a haunting past. Named after the famous frontiersman Davy Crockett, who died at the Battle of the Alamo, this hotel is said to be haunted by the spirits of soldiers who fought in the battle. Guests have reported hearing phantom footsteps, seeing shadowy figures, and experiencing sudden temperature drops. The eerie atmosphere and proximity to the historic battlefield make the Crockett Hotel a must-visit for those interested in the paranormal.

5. The Gunter Hotel
Opened in 1909, the Gunter Hotel is not only known for its grandeur but also for a dark and mysterious event that occurred in 1965. In Room 636, a gruesome murder took place when a man killed a woman and disposed of her body in an unknown location. Despite extensive cleaning, guests have reported seeing ghostly figures and hearing unexplained noises in and around the room. The Gunter Hotel’s history and the tragic event that took place there have contributed to its reputation as one of San Antonio’s haunted landmarks.

6. Hotel Gibbs
Located just steps away from the Alamo, Hotel Gibbs has a rich history dating back to 1909, when it was originally the first high-rise office building in San Antonio. Converted into a hotel, the building’s proximity to the Alamo has led to various reports of ghostly encounters. Guests have claimed to hear disembodied voices and footsteps, especially at night. Some visitors even report seeing apparitions, including figures dressed in old-fashioned clothing, which could be linked to the building’s early 20th-century roots. The combination of its historic architecture and its haunted reputation makes Hotel Gibbs a compelling stop for those interested in the paranormal.

Final Thoughts
San Antonio’s haunted hotels offer more than just a place to rest your head—they provide a glimpse into the city’s eerie past. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the stories behind these haunted hotels add an extra layer of intrigue to any visit. For those brave enough to spend the night, these historic hotels offer a unique blend of luxury, history, and the paranormal. Whether it’s the ghost of Sallie White at the Menger or the eerie atmosphere of the Emily Morgan, San Antonio’s haunted hotels are sure to leave a lasting impression.

So, are you ready to check in?

—

This article explores some of the most haunted hotels in San Antonio, providing readers with a mix of history and spooky tales that highlight the city’s paranormal legacy.