If you’re a Phoenix local, you probably know about all the myths and legends behind Hotel San Carlos downtown. Is it really haunted? This is the story behind its creepy reputation.
Hotel San Carlos: The most famous haunted hotel in Phoenix
Hotel San Carlos was built in 1928 and quickly became the go-to boutique hotel for some of the world’s most prominent stars. Their guest list usually included celebrities like Clark Gable, Marilyn Monroe, and Mae West.
Sadly, it is said it’s been haunted almost since its opening, when just after weeks of its inauguration on May 27th, 1928, a 22-year-old woman jumped to her death on the street below. The woman is said to have been identified as Leone Jensen, who checked into room 720 and jumped to her death from the rooftop.
Since its grand opening, guests have reported ghostly sightings and horrific apparitions, including seeing the spirit of a blonde woman, believed to be Jensen. Many have said they see a woman in white standing ad the foot of their beds, seeing the ghost of a little girl sitting and crying and the voice of children running through the hallways or laughing at night.
Paranormal believers have also connected the sightings of the children to the place where this hotel was constructed, as history says that many years ago, settlers erected one of the city’s first schools on its grounds in 1874. The school closed in 1916.
While many other haunted hotels around the country typically hide their paranormal reputation, the San Carlos Hotel embraces it and welcomes any visitor looking to have a mysterious encounter.
Don’t think twice if you’re planning a trip to Phoenix and would like to spend the night at a unique place. Hotel San Carlos has been recognized as an Arizona State Historic Landmark since 1974 and a member of the Historic Hotels of America.
You can listen to a vlogger’s experience here.
Where: Hotel San Carlos📍 202 N Central Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona
Featured image by Paul McKinnon from Shutterstock.