The haunted history of 1886 Crescent Hotel in Eureka Springs, Arkansas
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If you’re a fan of supernatural tales and eerie encounters, the 1886 Crescent Hotel in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is a destination that shouldn’t be missed. This historic hotel has gained a reputation as the most haunted hotel in America, captivating visitors with its ghostly tales and mysterious occurrences. Let’s delve into the spine-chilling stories and intriguing history of this renowned establishment, where guests have reported encountering apparitions, unexplained phenomena, and a host of otherworldly experiences. But let’s not forget the most important asset of 1886 Crescent Hotel: its cats. 😺

Welcome to the 1886 Crescent Hotel, where some guests check in… but never leave!

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This is a guest post by Kat Robinson and Grav Weldon.

Haunted history of 1886 Crescent Hotel

Once you step foot inside the 1886 Crescent Hotel, you may find yourself immersed in a world where the line between the living and the dead blurs. Numerous guests have shared spine-tingling encounters, ranging from sightings of black figures in mirrors to witnessing orbs and ghostly mists taking the form of a little girl. Eerie voices echo through the halls, books levitate through the air, and electromagnetic field (EMF) meters go haywire, beeping and flashing in response to unseen forces.

The tales of haunting and otherworldly occurrences at the Crescent Hotel were well-known to Marty and Elise Roenigk when they purchased the property in 1997. Recognizing the hotel’s reputation, they enlisted the help of two certified mediums to conduct a reading of the building. The mediums discovered that the hotel served as a portal, a connection to another dimension inhabited by the spirits of the departed. This portal could be accessed by those attuned to the same frequency as the ghosts. Interestingly, the supposed portal is located on the site of a former morgue, a chilling reminder of the building’s dark past.

crescent hotel cats

The resident cats of 1886 Crescent Hotel

While the spirits may steal the spotlight, it’s important not to overlook the feline residents who have left their pawprints on the history of the Crescent Hotel. Cats have played an integral role in the hotel’s ambiance, providing both comfort and companionship to guests throughout the years.

The legacy began with Morris, a ginger tabby who arrived at the hotel in 1979 and remained a beloved member of the staff until his passing in 2000. So cherished was Morris that a cat door was installed in the back side of the lobby exclusively for his use. Even today, visitors claim to catch glimpses of his ghostly form wandering the hotel’s halls.

ghost cat

Following in Morris’s furry footsteps, a succession of cats has taken up residence at the Crescent Hotel. Frisco and Shadow were born on the premises, with Frisco earning a reputation for cozying up to guests in their rooms. Known as a polydactyl cat due to his six toes on each front foot, Frisco had a knack for making visitors feel at home. In contrast, Shadow was more reclusive but no less loved by staff and visitors alike. Another notable feline was Rufus, with his distinctive crooked tail. Rufus seemed to have a particular affinity for attending weddings at the Crescent, adding a touch of charm to the special occasions.

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Presently, the hotel is home to Casper and Jasper, the current feline residents who arrived on Halloween 2009. Casper, true to his name, enjoys stalking dogs that accompany their owners to the hotel, while Jasper prefers to playfully swipe at passing individuals’ shoelaces. The presence of these enchanting felines adds a delightful touch to the hotel’s atmosphere, providing a unique charm that sets the Crescent Hotel apart from other establishments.

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Embracing the haunted hype

With its haunted history and resident feline companions, the 1886 Crescent Hotel has embraced its supernatural reputation and transformed it into a captivating experience for guests. The hotel now offers ESP weekends and ghost tours, allowing visitors to explore the paranormal side of the establishment firsthand. These tours, which commence at 08:00 pm every evening and last for 75 minutes, offer a chance to uncover the mysteries of the hotel and potentially witness the unexplained. While not every tour guarantees a ghostly encounter, the allure of the hotel’s haunted reputation remains an enticing draw for enthusiasts of the supernatural.

On Halloween night, those seeking a deeper connection with the other side can participate in a seance. Illusionist and medium Sean-Paul, along with Juliana Fay, return to the Crystal Ballroom of the 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa. Their aim is to communicate with the ghostly spirits that frequent the hotel’s rooms and roam its hallways. This special event promises an evening of intrigue and potentially hair-raising encounters as attendees attempt to bridge the gap between the living and the dead in “America’s Most Haunted Hotel.”

The 1886 Crescent Hotel invites you to embrace the paranormal and embark on a journey into the unknown. Whether you choose to explore its haunted history through ghost tours or join a seance on Halloween night, prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience filled with mystery, intrigue, and the possibility of connecting with the spirits that reside within the hotel’s storied walls.

crescent hotel cats

How to Reach the 1886 Crescent Hotel in Eureka Springs

If you’re ready to embark on a thrilling adventure to the 1886 Crescent Hotel, located at 75 Prospect Ave in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. Here are some helpful directions to guide you to this iconic haunted destination:

By car

From nearby cities:

  • From Fayetteville, Arkansas: Take Highway 16 East to US-412 East, and then continue onto AR-23 South. Follow AR-23 South until you reach Eureka Springs. Once in Eureka Springs, follow the signs to the Crescent Hotel.
  • From Springfield, Missouri: Head south on US-65 South. After crossing the state border into Arkansas, continue on US-62 West. When you reach Eureka Springs, follow the signs to the Crescent Hotel.
  • From Little Rock, Arkansas: Take I-40 West to US-65 North. Follow US-65 North until you reach AR-23 North. Continue on AR-23 North until you arrive in Eureka Springs. From there, follow the signs to the Crescent Hotel.

Parking at the Crescent Hotel:

The Crescent Hotel offers complimentary parking for guests. You will find a designated parking lot on the premises where you can safely leave your vehicle during your visit.

By air

If you’re traveling from a distance and prefer to fly to Eureka Springs, the closest major airport is Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) in Highfill, Arkansas. From the airport, you have a few options for reaching the Crescent Hotel:

  • Rent a car: Multiple car rental companies are available at the airport. Renting a car will provide you with the flexibility to explore Eureka Springs and easily reach the Crescent Hotel. Follow the driving directions mentioned earlier from Fayetteville to Eureka Springs.
  • Shuttle service: Some shuttle services operate between the airport and Eureka Springs. These services offer convenient transportation directly to your destination. It’s advisable to book your shuttle service in advance to ensure availability.

Getting around Eureka Springs

Once you’ve arrived in Eureka Springs and checked in at the 1886 Crescent Hotel, you’ll find that the town is relatively small and easily walkable. The hotel’s central location allows you to explore many attractions, shops, and restaurants on foot.

However, if you prefer alternate modes of transportation or want to venture further out, options such as taxis and trolleys are available in Eureka Springs. The Eureka Springs Trolley is a popular choice for getting around town and visiting various points of interest. The trolley system operates on designated routes and offers a convenient and scenic way to explore the area.

With these travel directions, you’re well-equipped to make your way to the 1886 Crescent Hotel and immerse yourself in its hauntingly intriguing atmosphere. Enjoy your visit to this historic landmark and prepare for a spine-tingling experience you won’t soon forget!

1886 crescent hotel

Discover other haunted attractions in Eureka Springs

Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is not only home to the infamous 1886 Crescent Hotel but also boasts several other haunted attractions that are sure to captivate those with a fascination for the supernatural. If you’re seeking more spine-tingling experiences during your visit, here are some other haunted attractions worth exploring:

Basin Park Hotel

Located in the heart of downtown Eureka Springs, the Basin Park Hotel is another historical landmark with a ghostly reputation. Built in 1905, the hotel is said to be haunted by several spirits, including a young girl named Theodora. Guests and staff have reported encounters with her apparition, strange noises, and unexplained movements of objects. The hotel offers ghost tours, providing a deeper insight into its haunted history.

St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church

St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church is a beautiful Gothic-style church that has stood in Eureka Springs since the late 1800s. It is believed to be haunted by the spirit of a former priest, Father Francis. Visitors have reported seeing his ghostly figure roaming the church and have experienced cold spots and unexplained phenomena during their visits.

Intrigue Theater

For a different kind of ghostly encounter, consider attending a show at Intrigue Theater. This intimate and immersive theatrical experience combines magic, mind-reading, and contact with spirits from the past. The performances are held in an atmospheric Victorian-style building, creating an eerie ambiance that adds to the overall enchantment.

The Aud Spirit Adventure

For those seeking a unique and interactive ghost hunting experience, the Aud Spirit Adventure is a must-visit attraction. The Aud, short for the Auditorium, is a historic building in downtown Eureka Springs that is said to be haunted. Visitors can join paranormal investigators on guided tours and use specialized equipment to communicate with the spirits that reside within the building.

Eureka Springs Historical Museum

While not explicitly focused on the supernatural, the Eureka Springs Historical Museum provides valuable insights into the town’s intriguing history, including stories of hauntings and paranormal occurrences. The museum houses artifacts and exhibits that shed light on Eureka Springs’ past, offering a fascinating perspective on the area’s ghostly legends.

Eureka Springs is a town rich in history, folklore, and eerie tales. Whether you choose to explore the haunted halls of the Basin Park Hotel, witness a performance at the Intrigue Theater, or join a ghost tour at the Crescent Hotel, these attractions offer a thrilling glimpse into the paranormal side of this charming town. So, embrace your curiosity, keep an open mind, and prepare for an unforgettable journey into the supernatural in Eureka Springs!

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A haunted haven for cat and ghost enthusiasts

Whether you’re a fan of ghostly tales, a lover of feline companions, or simply seeking a unique and immersive experience, the 1886 Crescent Hotel is a destination that promises to leave an indelible mark on your memory. As you embark on a tour through its historic halls, keep your eyes peeled for apparitions, listen closely for spectral whispers, and take a moment to appreciate the mischievous charm of Casper and Jasper, the resident feline duo. Even if you don’t encounter any otherworldly beings, the allure of the Crescent Hotel’s haunted past and the comforting presence of its furry friends create an unforgettable experience that lingers long after your visit.

P.S. If you’re fascinated by haunted locations and their resident felines, don’t miss our post on the cats in the most haunted town in England. Discover the tales of supernatural encounters and the feline companions that call these eerie places home.

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About the author

Kat Robinson is an esteemed food historian and avid traveler based in Little Rock, Arkansas. She is known for her expertise in Arkansas food history and her extensive knowledge of the state’s restaurant culture. Kat is the host of the popular show Make Room For Pie: A Delicious Slice of The Natural State and a committee member for the Arkansas Food Hall of Fame. As an accomplished author, her books include Arkansas Food: The A to Z of Eating in The Natural State and Another Slice of Arkansas Pie: A Guide to the Best Restaurants, Bakeries, Truck Stops, and Food Trucks for Delectable Bites in The Natural State. Kat’s work has been featured in notable publications such as Food Network and Forbes Travel Guide. She is renowned for her dedication to exploring Arkansas’s diverse cuisine and documenting its food history. Kat resides in Little Rock with her daughter Hunter and her partner, Grav Weldon. Grav, an artist and photographer, shares Kat’s passion for documenting the food, culture, and history of the American South. Together, they form a dynamic duo dedicated to preserving and showcasing the richness of Southern cuisine.

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