The Haunting of the Queen Anne Hotel, San Francisco
History, Legends, and Paranormal Accounts
The Queen Anne Hotel in San Francisco is widely regarded as one of the city's most famously haunted locations, with reports centering on the lingering presence of its former headmistress, Mary Lake. Built in 1890, this historic Victorian building served as a girls’ boarding school before being converted into a hotel, and many believe the past is never far from the present within its ornate halls.
Guests and staff alike have reported unexplained occurrences, especially in Room 410—known as the Mary Lake suite—where visitors claim to feel a warm, comforting presence, and some even recount stories of being gently tucked into bed. Whether one is a skeptic or a believer, the Queen Anne Hotel’s reputation for paranormal activity has made it a unique destination for those curious about ghostly encounters.
History of the Queen Anne Hotel
The Queen Anne Hotel stands as a notable example of San Francisco's Victorian heritage. Its origins, distinctive design, and evolving roles provide insight into its lasting significance.
Establishment and Early Years
The Queen Anne Hotel was constructed in 1890 and originally functioned as Miss Mary Lake’s School for Girls. Located in the Pacific Heights neighborhood, the building was part of a period of rapid growth in San Francisco.
Miss Mary Lake, a respected educator, managed the establishment with a focus on providing education and refined manners to young women. The school operated during a time when women’s education was beginning to receive greater recognition in America.
After its tenure as a school, the property underwent several transitions, including private residence and boarding house. By the mid-20th century, it was converted into a hotel, retaining much of its original charm.
Architectural Significance
The Queen Anne Hotel is a classic example of the Queen Anne architectural style. It features ornate woodwork, decorative trim, and a distinctive painted lady color scheme, all hallmarks of late 19th-century San Francisco architecture.
Key features of the design include:
Asymmetrical facades
Turrets and gables
Stained glass windows
Intricate interior detailing
The building survived the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, an uncommon feat that has preserved its historic elements. Its architecture draws both visitors and architecture enthusiasts looking for authentic Victorian-era details.
Role in San Francisco Society
Throughout its existence, the Queen Anne Hotel has been intertwined with local culture and social gatherings. In its early years as a school, it contributed to the upbringing and education of San Francisco’s young women, many of whom came from prominent families.
After becoming a hotel, it hosted travelers from across the country and played a part in the city’s hospitality industry. The building’s reputation for elegance attracted notable guests, and its reported hauntings have since become part of its allure.
The hotel’s ongoing presence makes it a recognized landmark, regularly featured in historic tours and ghost stories about San Francisco. Its layered history offers a window into the changing fabric of the city.
Origins of the Hauntings
The Queen Anne Hotel in San Francisco is known for its reputation as a haunted hotel. Central to its mystery are reports of ghostly encounters, the story of Miss Mary Lake, and the building’s transformation over time.
The Story of Miss Mary Lake
Miss Mary Lake served as the headmistress of Miss Mary Lake’s School for Girls, which originally occupied the building that is now the Queen Anne Hotel. Born in 1849, she led the school until her death in 1904. Many believe her deep attachment to the school is the reason her spirit lingers.
Guests most frequently report encounters in Room 410, also known as the Mary Lake Suite. Experiences often described include unexplained cold spots, gentle tucking in of bedcovers, and sudden feelings of peacefulness. Witnesses claim the ghost of Mary Lake appears as a friendly, watchful presence rather than a menacing one.
Reported manifestations rarely involve fear or disturbance. Instead, visitors describe a sense of calm and even gratitude, attributing minor, helpful incidents—such as misplaced items appearing—directly to Mary Lake's ghost.
Transformation Into a Haunted Hotel
The structure was built in 1890 and functioned first as a refined girls’ boarding school. Following the closure of the school, it underwent several uses, including a brief stint as a gentlemen’s club, before falling into disrepair.
In 1980, the building was restored and opened as the Queen Anne Hotel, with the owners choosing to preserve many Victorian design elements. The transformation allowed both guests and staff to begin experiencing the hotel’s haunted reputation firsthand.
Columns, mirrors, and original woodwork remain, creating an atmosphere that some say attracts spirits. Staff maintain logs of reported paranormal activity, particularly focusing on the rooms and corridors where Miss Mary Lake’s presence has been felt the most.
Historic Events Linked to Paranormal Activity
Over the decades, interviews with guests and hotel workers reveal a pattern of incidents. Cold drafts, sudden changes in room temperature, and faint footsteps are common experiences. Several accounts specifically note events occurring around significant anniversaries tied to the life of Mary Lake.
There have also been claims of seeing shadowy figures in period attire and hearing soft voices in unoccupied halls. Paranormal investigators who visited the hotel reportedly captured unusual sounds and unexplained electromagnetic readings.
The long history of the building, from Victorian-era school to haunted hotel, has fueled local folklore. Events from the past remain intertwined with present-day stories, as visitors continue to report experiences they attribute to the lingering spirits.
Notorious Haunted Rooms
Queen Anne Hotel in San Francisco is best known for its ghostly activity tied to specific rooms and common areas. Alleged paranormal events often focus on unexplained sensations, mysterious phenomena, and reported sightings.
Room 410: The Most Haunted Room
Room 410, also called the Mary Lake Suite, stands out as the most haunted room in the hotel. It is strongly associated with Miss Mary Lake, the building's former headmistress when it was a girls’ school in the late 1800s. Many guests claim to have experienced odd activity here, such as sudden chills or a feeling of a gentle, unseen presence.
Reports often mention personal belongings inexplicably moved overnight and beds being mysteriously tucked in more neatly after guests leave the room. The suite’s mirrors have also drawn attention—some visitors describe catching brief glimpses of a figure resembling the headmistress. Staff routinely hear stories about affectionate but unmistakable ghostly encounters.
A quick summary of phenomena commonly reported in Room 410:
Experience Description Cold spots Sudden temperature drops Moved belongings Items shifting or being tidied unexpectedly Unexplained images Brief sightings in mirrors or reflections
Other Haunted Rooms and Hotspots
Paranormal claims at the Queen Anne Hotel are not limited to Room 410. Guests and employees have described strange sensations in other rooms and hallways. Cold spots frequently appear in various parts of the hotel, especially on upper floors.
Some visitors report hearing faint footsteps in empty corridors late at night. In certain suites, there have been claims of disembodied voices and soft whispers. A few believe these are the ghosts of former staff or students who once occupied the building.
The lobby and staircase are additional hotspots where guests mention odd drafts, flickering lights, and the sense of being watched. While Room 410 attracts the most attention, these recurring incidents suggest that hauntings may extend beyond a single room.
Supernatural Encounters and Reported Phenomena
The Queen Anne Hotel is known for its ghost stories and reported supernatural incidents. Guests and staff describe experiences that have made the hotel a point of interest among ghost hunters and those fascinated by haunted places.
Common Paranormal Activity Reported
Several types of paranormal activity have been consistently reported at the Queen Anne Hotel. Unexplained movement of objects, doors mysteriously opening and closing, and unusual noises like footsteps are among the most frequent claims.
Witnesses have described sudden fluctuations in room temperature, particularly in specific areas. There are also reports of whispering voices and the sound of soft music with no clear source. Guests sometimes notice items—such as clothing or small personal effects—being rearranged without explanation.
Paranormal investigators have set up equipment in Room 410, known for heightened activity. While no definitive scientific evidence has been found, many say their devices occasionally register unusual electromagnetic fields.
Ghostly Manifestations
Apparitions at the hotel are reported primarily as fleeting glimpses rather than prolonged encounters. Guests claim to see translucent figures at the end of hallways or passing by their rooms late at night. The sightings often involve indistinct human-like shapes that vanish upon closer inspection.
There are also accounts of ghostly hands gently touching guests’ shoulders or the sensation of someone sitting at the foot of the bed. Staff have mentioned seeing or sensing presences in empty rooms during nightly checks.
A list of commonly reported ghostly manifestations:
Shadowy figures in corridors
Unexplained reflections in mirrors
Faint, unexplained laughter or soft cries
The Lady in White
The most famous spirit at the Queen Anne Hotel is often referred to as "the Lady in White." She is believed by some to be the ghost of Mary Lake, a former headmistress when the building served as a girls’ boarding school. Descriptions typically mention an elegantly dressed woman in period clothing, drifting quietly through hallways.
The Lady in White is usually associated with Room 410, thought to have been her personal quarters. Many guests claim to wake and find their blankets neatly tucked around them, supposedly by her protective presence.
Unlike more frightening hauntings, encounters with the Lady in White are described as gentle or even comforting. Hotel staff and regular visitors say she seems to watch over the property rather than cause harm, leading to her reputation as one of San Francisco’s friendliest ghosts.
Cold Spots and Strange Sensations
Sudden cold spots are frequently reported throughout the hotel, particularly in hallways, stairwells, and, notably, Room 410. These areas will often feel significantly colder than surrounding spaces, even when no drafts or mechanical explanations can be found.
Guests and ghost hunters alike describe a tingling sensation on their skin when passing through certain parts of the building. Some have mentioned a prickling feeling on the back of the neck or a sudden heaviness in the air.
The staff sometimes note these temperature drops even on warm days, and thermal cameras used during paranormal investigations have occasionally picked up unaccounted-for “cold patches.” Such sensations are among the most common reasons the Queen Anne Hotel is listed among San Francisco's most haunted places.
Famous Investigations and Media Attention
The Queen Anne Hotel has long attracted both professionals and enthusiasts interested in the paranormal. Its reputation as a haunted hotel in San Francisco has led to documented visits, widespread media coverage, and steady tourism interest.
Visits by Ghost Hunters
Paranormal investigation groups have made the Queen Anne Hotel a frequent destination in San Francisco. Organizations such as Bay Area Ghost Hunters and other regional teams have reported investigating the site multiple times since the early 2000s.
Investigators typically focus on Room 410, which is associated with Mary Lake, the former headmistress suspected to linger as a spirit. Tools often used include EMF meters, voice recorders, and thermal cameras. Some teams claim to have recorded unexplained cold spots and audio anomalies, although no evidence has been universally accepted by the scientific community.
A few teams have posted their findings online, with written reports and video logs documenting their overnight stays. The consensus among many ghost hunters is that, while much activity is anecdotal, Queen Anne Hotel remains one of San Francisco’s most popular sites for amateur and professional paranormal research.
Television and Documentary Features
The hotel has appeared on several national television shows and web-based documentaries profiling haunted locations. Notably, it was featured on Travel Channel’s “Haunted Hotels”, as well as episodes of ghost-themed series such as “Ghost Adventures” and independent YouTube investigations.
Television crews often highlight reported phenomena such as the sensation of unseen hands tucking guests in, or the sound of footsteps in empty hallways. Most shows interview both hotel staff and previous guests, who recount personal experiences.
These segments have contributed to the hotel's renown, introducing it to audiences across the United States and internationally. Some documentaries include expert commentary from historians and parapsychologists, offering additional analysis of local legends and the history tied to the property.
Public Interest and Tourism
Due to its haunted reputation, the Queen Anne Hotel draws a wide variety of visitors each year. Many seek to book Room 410, hoping for a supernatural experience or simply to stay at one of San Francisco’s most famous haunted hotels.
The hotel is regularly included on haunted walking tours and ghost-themed sightseeing itineraries. In peak seasons, bookings associated with its haunted status noticeably increase.
Guests and tourists often share their stories via online reviews and social media, describing anything from quiet nights to alleged paranormal encounters. These accounts reinforce the public’s fascination with the Queen Anne Hotel and further strengthen its reputation as a unique historic and supernatural landmark.
Comparing the Queen Anne Hotel With Other Haunted Locations in San Francisco
San Francisco has a long history of reported hauntings and paranormal activity that extends well beyond the Queen Anne Hotel. Each location features its own stories, unique atmosphere, and notable legends, offering different experiences for those interested in the city’s haunted sites.
Alcatraz and Its Hauntings
Alcatraz is one of San Francisco’s most recognized haunted places. As a former federal prison, it housed some of America’s most notorious criminals, including Al Capone and Robert Stroud, the “Birdman of Alcatraz.” Many visitors and staff have reported eerie sightings, unexplained sounds, and sudden cold spots in cell blocks.
The D-Block, also known as the isolation block, is infamous for reports of voices, screams, and even ghostly apparitions. Some say the spirits of former inmates linger, possibly due to the harsh punishments and tragic events that happened there. Unlike the Queen Anne Hotel, where a friendly spirit is said to reside, Alcatraz’s hauntings often convey a sense of unease and discomfort.
The Sutro Baths Mystery
The ruins of the Sutro Baths attract both history enthusiasts and paranormal investigators. Built in 1896, the Sutro Baths complex was once a grand public bathhouse, now left in ruins after a devastating fire in 1966. Today, people frequently report a haunting presence at the site.
Sightings include shadowy figures, unexplained footsteps, and sudden changes in temperature, mostly reported around dusk or after dark. Some believe restless spirits linger here because of mysterious drownings and the site’s tragic history. Unlike the Queen Anne Hotel’s intimate, interior spaces, the Sutro Baths’ open environment and crumbling architecture amplify the eerie atmosphere.
Stow Lake Legends
Stow Lake in Golden Gate Park is closely tied to one of San Francisco’s oldest ghost stories. Legend has it that a woman, sometimes called the “White Lady,” wanders the area searching for her lost child. Sightings commonly describe a pale, ghostly woman near the water or along park paths late at night.
Some visitors claim that vehicles near the lake suddenly stall or that they’ve felt chills without explanation. Reported experiences range from brief glimpses of the woman to longer, unsettling encounters. Unlike the Queen Anne Hotel’s reportedly benevolent ghost, the Stow Lake haunting focuses on loss and searching, and is firmly rooted in decades of urban legend.
Donaldina Cameron House and The Chapel
Donaldina Cameron House, originally a mission and safe haven for Chinese immigrant women, is another well-known haunted place in San Francisco. The basement, sometimes referred to as “The Chapel,” is said to be the most active area, with staff and visitors sharing accounts of mysterious whispers, moving objects, and oppressive feelings.
People report cold drafts, unexplained noises, and the occasional sighting of shadowy forms. Many attribute the phenomena to the building’s history of trauma and protective secrecy, especially during its years of sheltering women from trafficking. Paranormal activity here stands in contrast to the Queen Anne Hotel, as the Cameron House spirits are often described as both protective and sorrowful, representing the site’s layered and somber past.
Cultural Impact and Local Lore
The Queen Anne Hotel in San Francisco has developed a distinct reputation not just for its alleged hauntings, but also for the traditions and stories that have become woven into local culture. Residents, tourists, and historians continue to discuss personal encounters, guided tours, and persistent rumors tied to the property’s past.
Local Beliefs and Traditions
Many San Francisco residents consider the Queen Anne Hotel to be one of the city’s most haunted locations. Reports of ghost sightings, particularly those believed to be the spirit of Mary Lake—the former headmistress—are widely discussed.
It is common for visitors to describe gentle touches or feelings of an unseen presence, which are often interpreted as signs of a lingering, protective spirit. Some guests leave small tokens or notes for Mary Lake, hoping to make a respectful connection. These acts have grown into quiet rituals among those who believe the building harbors more than just history.
The hotel’s reputation as a spiritual hotspot continues to attract people interested in the supernatural. Local legends have become a significant part of storytelling traditions, passed down by tour guides and longtime neighborhood residents.
Role in San Francisco Ghost Tours
The Queen Anne Hotel is a staple on several San Francisco ghost tours, frequently listed among the city’s top destinations for paranormal activity. Guided tours often feature the hotel as a primary stop, recounting stories of unexplained phenomena recorded by both guests and staff.
Tour operators highlight the hotel’s preserved Victorian architecture and its connection to ghost lore. Anecdotes about objects mysteriously moving, unexplained cold spots, or the soft closing of doors are common talking points.
Participation in ghost tours brings in a steady stream of curious visitors. This attention boosts the hotel’s profile, making it a recognized landmark for those seeking an authentic haunted experience.
Stories of Human Sacrifices and Suicides
Rumors about human sacrifices and suicides at the Queen Anne Hotel have circulated for decades, often blending fact and fiction. There are no credible sources that confirm any human sacrifices ever took place on the property. Such theories are widely dismissed by local historians.
The topic of suicides is handled with more caution. While some stories mention deaths by suicide on the premises, public records do not substantiate these claims. Still, the presence of ghost stories—especially those centering on tragic spirits—feeds speculation about the hotel’s history.
Despite the lack of verified evidence, both locals and ghost enthusiasts continue to share these legends as part of the hotel’s haunted identity, ensuring their place in San Francisco’s urban folklore.
Visiting the Queen Anne Hotel Today
Visitors find the Queen Anne Hotel offers a blend of Victorian charm and unique history. This historic San Francisco hotel is not only known for its comfort, but also its stories of a friendly haunting and proximity to major city landmarks.
Guest Experiences and Reviews
Staying at the Queen Anne Hotel provides guests with ornate, antique-filled rooms and attentive service. Many visitors note the quiet atmosphere, especially considering its central Pacific Heights location. Some guests specifically request rooms that are associated with the famous haunting, hoping for a mild paranormal experience.
Reviews often mention the hotel's welcoming environment and carefully preserved architecture. Online feedback highlights that even those who were skeptical about haunted hotels leave with memorable stories, sometimes describing odd noises or a sense of peaceful presence, particularly in the reputed Room 410.
Table: Common Guest Highlights
Aspect Comments Atmosphere Historic, quiet, Victorian charm Paranormal Encounters Mild, often described as friendly or heartwarming Location Convenient for exploring San Francisco Staff Service Helpful, attentive
Guidelines for Haunted Room Stays
Guests interested in haunted room stays should book early, as these rooms are in high demand. Room 410 is particularly noted in visitor accounts for paranormal activity. The hotel encourages respectful behavior and provides information about the history of the haunted rooms at check-in.
Visitors should remain considerate of other guests’ experiences and avoid causing unnecessary disturbance. The hotel does not permit unsanctioned séances or ghost-hunting equipment. Photography is allowed, though tripods and large lights may be restricted.
Haunted Room Stay Tips:
Request haunted rooms (like Room 410) when booking
Read hotel-provided literature on hotel history
Keep noise to a minimum late at night
Report any unusual occurrences to the front desk
Nearby Notable Sites: Golden Gate Park and Columbarium
The Queen Anne Hotel is located within easy reach of several notable San Francisco attractions. Golden Gate Park, one of the city's most famous landmarks, is a short drive or transit ride away, offering gardens, museums, and recreational space for visitors.
The historic San Francisco Columbarium is also nearby. Known for its impressive architecture and tranquil setting, this site appeals to those with an interest in local history and unique San Francisco landmarks. Both destinations can be conveniently visited without needing a car.
Staying at the hotel places travelers at a crossroads of history, culture, and easy access to both vibrant city life and serene, reflective sites.
