Stanley Hotel’s Renovation Aims to Become a Horror Industry Hub

The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado, known for inspiring Stephen King’s iconic novel The Shining, is undergoing a major renovation aimed at establishing the hotel as a central figure in the film industry, particularly within the horror genre. The new owners have revealed plans to invest nearly US$300 million into transforming the hotel’s facilities, ensuring it remains a prominent destination for both film enthusiasts and tourists alike.

The renovation project, which has been in the works for over a decade, is a collaborative effort between the hotel’s new owners, state officials, and cultural and film organizations. The goal is to boost regional tourism by making the Stanley Hotel a key player in Colorado’s growing film scene, especially as the Sundance Film Festival prepares to move to Boulder in 2027. The expansion will include a new event center designed to attract more film events and provide a space for film-related gatherings, cementing the hotel’s position as a hub for the industry.

The Stanley Hotel, which opened its doors in 1909, is an independent 196-room hotel listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Situated on a sprawling 40-acre property near the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, the hotel features a variety of amenities including outdoor pools, a spa, restaurants, and a concert hall. It is also the only full-service hotel in the area, making it an important destination for visitors to the region.

Stephen King’s connection to the Stanley Hotel began in 1974 when he and his wife stayed there for one night. At the time, the hotel was preparing to close for the winter, and the couple was the only guests. This eerie experience would go on to inspire King’s The Shining, which became one of the most famous horror novels of all time, and later, a landmark film.

With its deep ties to horror history, the Stanley Hotel has long been a must-visit for fans of the genre. The upcoming renovations aim to enhance its cultural significance while expanding its offerings to a broader audience, ensuring it remains a key destination for tourists and film lovers alike for years to come.

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