Standing proudly in the heart of historic Buffalo, Wyoming, the Historic Occidental Hotel has welcomed travelers since 1880, making it one of the oldest continuously operating hotels in the American West. Built during the final years of the frontier, the Occidental quickly became a gathering place for ranchers, cattle barons, lawmen, outlaws, politicians, and some of the most famous figures in Old West history.

Guests such as Buffalo Bill Cody, Theodore Roosevelt, Calamity Jane, Butch Cassidy, The Sundance Kid, Owen Wister, and Tom Horn all passed through its doors, leaving behind a legacy unlike almost any other historic hotel in America.

Today, visitors come not only for its beautifully restored Victorian rooms and authentic Western hospitality but also for the stories that refuse to fade with time.

Guests and employees have reported unexplained footsteps, phantom voices, mysterious shadows, objects moving on their own, and encounters with what many believe are former residents who never truly checked out. Among the most famous legends is that of Emily, a young girl whose spirit is said to remain inside the hotel.

While these reports remain based on eyewitness accounts, local tradition, and paranormal investigations rather than scientific proof, they have earned the Occidental Hotel a reputation as one of the most fascinating haunted hotels in the United States.

Whether you’re searching for authentic Old West history, legendary ghost stories, or simply an unforgettable overnight stay, few places capture the spirit of frontier America quite like the Historic Occidental Hotel.

Why Stay at the Historic Occidental Hotel?

The Occidental Hotel offers an experience that cannot be replicated by modern accommodations.

Guests enjoy:

• Historic hotel operating since 1880
• Beautifully restored Victorian guest rooms
• National Historic Landmark district location
• Original Old West saloon
• Authentic period furnishings throughout the property
• Restaurant featuring classic Western cuisine
• Rich frontier history connected to famous outlaws and lawmen
• One of Wyoming’s best-known haunted hotels
• Walking distance to Buffalo’s historic downtown

Every hallway, guest room, and staircase tells part of Wyoming’s remarkable frontier story.

CHECK AVAILABILITY 

The History Behind the Hauntings

The Historic Occidental Hotel opened its doors in 1880, just as Buffalo was becoming one of Wyoming Territory’s most important frontier communities. Positioned along major cattle trails and stagecoach routes, the hotel quickly became the preferred lodging for travelers crossing the rugged American West.

Unlike many frontier hotels that disappeared as boomtowns faded, the Occidental survived because Buffalo became a thriving center for Wyoming’s cattle industry. Wealthy ranchers, military officers, politicians, businessmen, hunters, and adventurous travelers all gathered beneath its roof.

During the famous Johnson County War of 1892, tensions between large cattle companies and local settlers reached a breaking point. Buffalo found itself at the center of the conflict, and the Occidental became an important meeting place for many individuals connected to one of the most significant range wars in American history.

The hotel’s guest register eventually included many legendary figures of the Old West.

Buffalo Bill Cody stayed here while traveling through Wyoming.

Future President Theodore Roosevelt visited during his western adventures.

Outlaws Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid reportedly spent time inside the hotel before becoming two of America’s most infamous fugitives.

Calamity Jane, Tom Horn, Owen Wister, and numerous cattle barons, lawmen, and military officers also became part of the hotel’s remarkable history.

Unlike recreated Western attractions, the Occidental remains largely authentic. Original woodwork, antique furnishings, historic photographs, period décor, and carefully preserved architectural features allow guests to experience much of the same atmosphere that greeted visitors nearly 150 years ago.

Today, the hotel continues operating as both a historic landmark and one of Wyoming’s premier destinations for travelers interested in history, architecture, and the paranormal.

Why Paranormal Enthusiasts Visit

The Historic Occidental Hotel has developed one of the strongest haunted reputations in Wyoming.

Guests, employees, paranormal investigators, and local historians have reported experiences including:

• Heavy footsteps in empty hallways
• Apparitions wearing Victorian or frontier clothing
• Shadow figures
• Children’s laughter
• Doors opening or closing unexpectedly
• Furniture moving without explanation
• Mysterious knocking
• Voices heard in vacant rooms
• Sudden cold spots
• Feelings of another presence

These accounts come primarily from guest experiences, employee recollections, regional folklore, and independent paranormal investigations. While none have been scientifically verified, the consistency of reports over many decades has made the Occidental Hotel a favorite destination for ghost hunters from around the world.

Spirits Said to Haunt the Historic Occidental Hotel

Emily

The hotel’s most famous spirit is a young girl commonly known as Emily.

According to local legend, Emily died many years ago under circumstances that remain uncertain. Numerous guests have reported hearing the laughter of a child, small footsteps running through upstairs hallways, or briefly seeing what appears to be a young girl wearing old-fashioned clothing.

Some visitors describe toys moving unexpectedly or sensing a child’s presence inside certain guest rooms.

Although no historical records have conclusively identified Emily or confirmed the events associated with the legend, her story has become one of the hotel’s defining pieces of paranormal folklore.

The Cowboy

Several guests have reported seeing what appears to be a cowboy dressed in late nineteenth-century clothing quietly walking through hallways or standing near staircases before disappearing moments later.

Some believe this figure represents one of the countless cattlemen who once made the Occidental their home away from home during Wyoming’s great cattle drives.

The Lady in Victorian Dress

Another frequently reported apparition involves an elegantly dressed Victorian woman who has reportedly appeared in upper hallways and near guest room doors.

Witnesses often describe feeling calm rather than frightened during these encounters.

Her identity has never been confirmed.

Unseen Guests

Employees occasionally report hearing conversations, footsteps, or doors opening after all registered guests have retired for the evening.

Despite careful searches, no one is ever found.

Most Haunted Areas of the Historic Occidental Hotel

Second-Floor Hallways

Many reported experiences occur throughout the upstairs corridors.

Guests have described:

• Heavy footsteps
• Shadow figures
• Whispering voices
• Children’s laughter
• Sudden cold spots

Emily’s Reported Area

Several guest rooms associated with the legend of Emily have generated recurring stories involving:

• Children’s voices
• Gentle knocking
• Objects changing position
• Brief sightings of a young girl
• Unexplained laughter

The hotel does not officially designate a specific “Emily room,” and many of these stories remain part of local folklore rather than documented history.

Historic Saloon

The Occidental’s famous saloon has welcomed generations of cowboys, ranchers, miners, and travelers.

After closing hours, employees have occasionally reported:

• Phantom footsteps
• Voices
• Glassware sounds
• Unexplained movement

Grand Staircase

The original staircase is among the hotel’s most photographed architectural features.

It is also associated with reports of:

• Apparitions
• Shadow movement
• Sudden temperature changes
• Unexplained footsteps

Historic Guest Rooms

Guests have reported:

• Doors opening unexpectedly
• Furniture creaking
• Whispered conversations
• Lights behaving unusually
• Feeling another presence while alone

While none of these experiences have been independently verified, they have contributed to the Occidental Hotel’s enduring reputation as one of the American West’s most legendary haunted hotels.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Best Rooms to Request for a Haunted Stay

The Historic Occidental Hotel does not officially designate any guest room as haunted, and its focus remains preserving Wyoming’s rich frontier heritage. However, based on decades of guest experiences, local folklore, and stories shared by employees, several areas of the hotel have become favorites among paranormal enthusiasts.

Historic Second-Floor Rooms

Many of the reported paranormal encounters have originated from guest rooms on the second floor of the original hotel. Guests interested in the Occidental’s haunted reputation often request accommodations in this historic section, where stories involving footsteps, unexplained voices, and shadow figures are most commonly shared.

The Original Victorian Rooms

Rooms that retain their original nineteenth-century architecture provide the most immersive historical experience. Antique furnishings, period décor, hardwood floors, and preserved woodwork allow guests to experience the same surroundings enjoyed by frontier travelers more than a century ago.

Rooms Near the Grand Staircase

Several paranormal reports have centered around the hotel’s original staircase. Guests staying nearby have occasionally described hearing footsteps late at night or catching glimpses of movement in otherwise empty hallways.

Historic Corner Rooms

Corner rooms overlooking Buffalo’s historic downtown provide beautiful views while offering some of the hotel’s most authentic Old West atmosphere. These rooms remain popular with history lovers and photographers alike.

Booking Tip

When making your reservation, ask whether your room is located within the oldest section of the hotel. The original 1880 structure preserves much of the character that has made the Occidental one of Wyoming’s most celebrated historic hotels.

BOOK A ROOM

BestHauntedHotels.com Investigation Notes

Our Ghost Rating system evaluates every property using a consistent set of criteria, including historical significance, preservation, documented history, recurring eyewitness reports, guest experiences, and the overall appeal for paranormal travelers.

The Historic Occidental Hotel scores exceptionally high in every category.

Unlike many haunted hotels where ghost stories overshadow history, the Occidental’s greatest strength is its authentic connection to the American frontier. This is not a recreated Western attraction—it is an original Old West hotel where ranchers, politicians, lawmen, outlaws, and famous historical figures actually stayed.

Its paranormal reputation has developed gradually over many decades through consistent reports from guests, employees, and investigators rather than a single famous ghost story. While Emily remains the hotel’s best-known legend, many visitors report subtle experiences involving footsteps, voices, shadows, and unexplained sensations throughout the building.

Even visitors who never experience anything paranormal frequently describe the hotel as possessing an atmosphere unlike any modern property—a place where the history of Wyoming’s frontier feels remarkably close.

Recent Guest Reviews & Reported Paranormal Mentions

Guests consistently praise the Historic Occidental Hotel for its authenticity, beautifully restored rooms, friendly staff, outstanding restaurant, and rich Western history.

Representative guest comments include:

“It truly feels like stepping back into the Old West.”

“The history throughout the hotel is incredible.”

“One of the most unique places we’ve ever stayed.”

“Beautifully restored while keeping its original character.”

While most online reviews focus on the hotel’s history, dining, and hospitality, some guests mention hearing footsteps during the night, noticing unexplained noises in empty hallways, or simply describing the hotel as having an unusual presence.

More detailed paranormal stories are most commonly shared through local historians, guided tours, employee recollections, regional folklore, and paranormal investigators rather than mainstream travel review websites.

Haunted Attractions Near the Historic Occidental Hotel

Extend your haunted Wyoming adventure by visiting these nearby historic destinations.

Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum

Located just a short walk from the hotel, this outstanding museum preserves Buffalo’s frontier history and includes exhibits related to the Johnson County War and Wyoming’s early settlers.

Fort Phil Kearny State Historic Site

Approximately 30 miles north of Buffalo, Fort Phil Kearny played a significant role during Red Cloud’s War and is associated with numerous legends and stories connected to the soldiers stationed there.

Crazy Woman Canyon

One of Wyoming’s most scenic drives, Crazy Woman Canyon is surrounded by local legends, mysterious stories, and centuries of frontier history.

Historic Downtown Buffalo

Walking Buffalo’s beautifully preserved downtown district offers visitors an authentic glimpse into Wyoming’s cattle boom, complete with nineteenth-century storefronts, historic buildings, and local ghost lore.

Trail End State Historic Site

The former mansion of Governor John B. Kendrick showcases Wyoming’s early twentieth-century elegance and is occasionally mentioned in regional ghost stories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Historic Occidental Hotel really haunted?

The Occidental has earned one of Wyoming’s strongest haunted reputations through guest experiences, employee stories, local folklore, and paranormal investigations. Reports include footsteps, apparitions, shadow figures, mysterious voices, and unexplained activity. These experiences remain anecdotal and have not been scientifically verified.

Who is Emily?

Emily is the hotel’s most famous legendary spirit. She is commonly described as a young girl whose laughter, footsteps, and occasional apparition have reportedly been experienced by guests over many years. No historical records have conclusively identified her or confirmed the legend.

What is the most haunted area?

Many reports involve the second-floor hallways, historic guest rooms, the grand staircase, and the original saloon.

Does the Occidental offer ghost tours?

The hotel primarily focuses on its remarkable Old West history and hospitality. While staff may occasionally discuss local legends, the property is not operated as a dedicated paranormal attraction.

When is the best time to visit?

Autumn offers one of the most memorable experiences. The cooler weather, changing seasons, and quieter evenings complement the hotel’s historic atmosphere while making Buffalo an ideal base for exploring northeastern Wyoming.

👻 Overall Ghost Rating: 10 / 10

Why We Awarded a 10/10

The Historic Occidental Hotel earns one of the highest Ghost Ratings on BestHauntedHotels.com because it offers an extraordinary combination of authentic frontier history, exceptional preservation, and a longstanding reputation for reported paranormal activity.

Few hotels in America can claim documented connections to so many legendary historical figures while remaining true to their original purpose. Guests sleep in the same building that once welcomed Buffalo Bill Cody, Theodore Roosevelt, Butch Cassidy, the Sundance Kid, Calamity Jane, Tom Horn, and countless cattlemen, ranchers, and travelers who shaped the history of the American West.

Its paranormal reputation has grown naturally through generations of guest experiences rather than sensational promotion. Reports involving Emily, phantom footsteps, mysterious voices, shadow figures, and unexplained nighttime activity continue to attract visitors who appreciate both history and the possibility of encountering something beyond ordinary explanation.

Although none of these experiences have been scientifically confirmed, the consistency of eyewitness accounts, combined with the hotel’s remarkable historical authenticity, makes the Historic Occidental Hotel one of Wyoming’s premier haunted destinations.

Why Ghost Enthusiats Should Stay Here

For paranormal enthusiasts, the Historic Occidental Hotel offers something increasingly rare—an opportunity to spend the night inside a genuine piece of Old West history.

Unlike themed accommodations or recreated frontier towns, the Occidental remains an original nineteenth-century hotel where legends of the American frontier unfolded. Every creaking floorboard, polished staircase, and historic guest room reflects nearly 150 years of continuous operation.

Whether your visit centers on history, photography, architecture, paranormal investigation, or simply enjoying one of Wyoming’s most iconic hotels, the Occidental provides an unforgettable experience that few historic properties can match.

BOOK A ROOM 

Explore More Haunted Wyoming Hotels

Continue your haunted Wyoming adventure by visiting these legendary historic properties:

• The Irma Hotel – Cody
• The Plains Hotel – Cheyenne
• Hotel Wolf – Saratoga
• The Historic Sheridan Inn – Sheridan
• The Occidental Hotel – Buffalo
• The Virginian Hotel – Medicine Bow

Each property offers its own fascinating blend of Wyoming history, reported paranormal experiences, and authentic Western hospitality, making them ideal destinations for travelers seeking both history and mystery.