The Citizen Hotel - Sacramento, CA

Step into the historic elegance of The Citizen Hotel, where 1920s grandeur meets whispers from the past. Nestled in downtown Sacramento, this beautifully restored landmark isn’t just known for its luxurious accommodations—it’s also famed for unexplained footsteps, shadowy figures, and the lingering presence of guests who never quite checked out. Perfect for thrill-seekers and paranormal enthusiasts, a stay here promises a night of refined comfort… with a side of spectral intrigue.

History of The Citizen Hotel

• The building was constructed in 1924–1925 as the headquarters for the California‑Western States Life Insurance Company (often called “Cal‑West”).

• Architect: George C. Sellon, California’s first State Architect. He designed many noteworthy buildings, and this one is among his high‑profile works.

• It is 14 stories tall and rises ~216 feet. Upon completion, it was the tallest building in Sacramento.

• Architectural style: a mix of Chicago School verticality with Renaissance Revival ornamentation. The top of the building includes a French‑Chateauesque peak/roof. Exterior materials include brick and tile (Gladding‑McBean tile). The lobby was richly adorned, with marble, ornate plaster, etc.

• Over time, the building housed office tenants—lawyers, doctors, insurance work. It also was used during WWII as an observation post, where volunteers watched skies at night.

• In the 1960s, the original insurance company moved out, the building’s ownership changed, and maintenance suffered. Some internal changes were made (fire escapes, doors) to meet safety standards.

• In 2008, the building was restored and converted into a hotel, now known as The Citizen Hotel.

• The restoration was recognized by the Sacramento Art Deco Society in 2011 for preservation efforts.

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Reported Haunted Activity / Paranormal Activity

While there is no well‑documented historical record of a death or major tragedy tied directly to “ghosts” in the building, there are a number of local stories and staff reports of odd/creepy phenomena. These are more in the realm of local lore and anecdote. Here are the reported haunted or paranormal features:

• Staff and guests have reported seeing spirits (or presences) wandering around the narrow, dim or dark hallways. These apparitions are said to not try to communicate; rather, they appear to wander “aimlessly” or seem to be “searching for a purpose.”

• Dark shadows and disembodied footsteps are commonly reported in the hotel’s hallways when they are empty.

• Some employees mention that the ghosts are more of a presence than something interactive: noises, shadows, movement felt peripherally rather than direct interaction.

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