Some travelers to Austin, Texas may find their accommodations a bit more crowded than they planned. According to hotel employees and former guests, several of Austin's best known hotels are also haunted. From the sounds of laughter by invisible children to ghostly images that disappear as quickly as they appeared, it seems these spirits in the Longhorn State are quite comfortable in their surroundings and have no plans on checking out any time soon.
The Omni Hotel, located in the heart of downtown Austin, provides guest amenities that may rival some hotel chains including spacious, two-bedroom suites, heated roof top swimming pool and complementary guest robes. However, according to housekeepers of the Omni Hotel Austin, the hotel also has a darker side that is well hidden by its luxurious surroundings. Some of the hotel's staff have reported seeing the ghostly image of a former guest who tragically committed suicide by throwing himself from a balcony and landing on the concrete surface below. The man has reportedly been seen many times by staff and guests alike and frequently makes appearances around the anniversary of his death. Typical rates as of September, 2010 averaged $199, although they were subject to change based on date and length of stay.
Omni Hotel Austin
700 San Jacinto at 8th St.
Austin, Texas 78701
512-476-3700
omnihotels.com
The Inn at Pearl Street is known for its luxury rooms and is located in the historic region of Austin's uptown cultural district. The inn commonly is used for wedding ceremonies due to its location and romantic decor. However, guests may experience more than southern charm while visiting the Inn at Pearl Street. According to former guests of the inn, as well as several employees, the Inn at Pearl Street is haunted by the inn's original owner, Stella Snider. Based on eyewitness accounts, the image of Ms. Snider has been known to appear and then vanish as quickly as she came. Guests have also reported such paranormal phenomenon as flickering lights and objects being moved on their own. While rates vary based on date and length of stay, as of September, 2010, typical nightly rates averaged $155 for a standard room.
The Inn at Pearl Street
1809 Pearl St.
Austin, TX 78701
512-478-0051
innpearl.com
The Driskill Hotel is sometimes referred to as Austin's most luxurious hotels. According to some former guests and employees, it is also the most haunted. The hotel, which is located in Austin's downtown business district provides its guests with more than just luxury surroundings that include marble flooring and glass domed ceilings. Witnesses have reported hearing the sounds of children at play, complete with the sounds of laughter and the bouncing of a ball, only to find an empty hallway when they investigate. Also common at the Driskill Hotel is the smell of cigar smoke when no one in the area is smoking and lights that turn themselves on and off by themselves. While rates vary, as of September, 2010 rooms averaged $249 per night.
The Driskill Hotel
604 Brazos St.
Austin, Texas 78701
800-252-9367
driskillhotel.com
