Address: 30 Main Street, Stockbridge, MA 01262
Phone: (413) 298-5545
Website: www.redlioninn.com
In the Berkshires of western Massachusetts, the Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge has stood for centuries as one of New England’s most iconic lodging houses. With roots stretching back to 1773, the inn is celebrated for its Colonial charm, expansive front porch, and storied guest list of presidents, authors, and celebrities. But it’s also one of the state’s most famously haunted places, drawing countless stories of ghostly activity from both guests and staff.
A Brief History of the Inn
The Red Lion Inn began as a tavern run by Silas and Anna Bingham in 1773. It quickly became a gathering place during the Revolutionary era and an essential stagecoach stop along the Boston–Albany post road. After a devastating fire in 1896, the inn was rebuilt in 1897 and has remained in operation ever since.
The inn’s long history has made it a cultural landmark and, perhaps, a resting place for those who never truly left.
Reported Hauntings at the Red Lion Inn
The Red Lion Inn has earned a reputation as one of the most haunted hotels in Massachusetts, with ghost stories tied to particular rooms and hallways. Here are the most well-documented encounters:
Room 301
This is the inn’s most famous haunted room. Guests staying here often report waking to find a woman in a white dress standing at the foot of the bed. She’s sometimes described as carrying flowers or simply staring silently at the occupant. Cold spots, flickering lights, and a strong feeling of being watched are also common. Several paranormal investigators have chosen Room 301 specifically, hoping for an encounter.
Room 255
Another hot spot for paranormal activity is Room 255, where visitors have reported hearing mysterious knocks on the walls, items moving on their own, and even the sound of someone walking across the room when no one is there. Some guests have woken to the sensation of the blankets being tugged from their bed.
The Fourth Floor
The fourth floor corridors are said to be especially active. Staff members and guests alike report hearing children laughing and running in the hallways, though no children are present. Doors have been known to open and close on their own, and shadowy figures have been spotted near the stairwells.
The Spirit of a Former Owner
Some employees believe that a former innkeeper still lingers in the building, keeping watch over the property. Cold drafts with no source, unexplained footsteps, and the sense of being followed have all been attributed to this spirit.
Can You Ghost Hunt at the Red Lion Inn?
Unlike some historic inns that host organized ghost tours or investigations, the Red Lion Inn does not officially allow ghost hunting on the property. Guests, however, frequently book stays in haunted rooms such as 301 or 255 in hopes of experiencing something paranormal. While you won’t find public ghost hunts here, staff are aware of the inn’s reputation and many will share stories with curious visitors.
If you want to explore its haunted side, the best way is to book a room and experience the inn as a guest.
Paranormal Investigations and Media
The inn has been featured on ghost documentaries and in paranormal books. YouTube videos and independent investigations often highlight Room 301 and the fourth floor. Many visitors bring their own equipment—EMF meters, voice recorders, or cameras—and some have claimed to capture unexplained voices and shadow figures.
Visiting the Red Lion Inn
Today, the Red Lion Inn remains a luxurious yet historic getaway, offering 82 guest rooms, multiple dining options, and its iconic rocking chairs lined up on the front porch. For travelers who want both a slice of American history and a brush with the supernatural, few places in Massachusetts are as intriguing as this legendary inn.
Always remember: never trespass on property that isn’t yours without permission, and ghost hunting should be done responsibly and with caution.
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