Perched on the pristine shores of Lake George in upstate New York, the Sagamore Hotel is as legendary for its luxurious accommodations as it is for its rich and eerie history. With stunning Victorian architecture, a reputation for world-class hospitality, and whispers of ghostly guests long past their check-out dates, the Sagamore blends the old-world charm with an air of mystery that makes it irresistible for both history buffs and paranormal investigators. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a historical deep dive, or a ghost hunt under the Adirondack moonlight, this haunt-worthy hotel promises an unforgettable stay. Welcome to the Sagamore Hotel—where elegance and the unexplained meet in one of New York’s most picturesque settings.
The History
A Gilded Age Gem
Built in 1883 by Myron O. Brown, the Sagamore Hotel was designed to cater to wealthy vacationers from New York City, Boston, and Philadelphia who sought refuge in the natural beauty of the Adirondacks. Named after a Native American term meaning “chief” or “leader,” the hotel quickly established itself as an elite lakeside retreat for America’s upper class. With sweeping views of Lake George and opulent amenities, the Sagamore epitomized the extravagance of the Gilded Age.
The original structure stood until 1893, when it was devastated by a fire. Fortunately, backers with serious capital—including some names from New York’s elite—saw to its resurrection. The new, grander version of the hotel opened in 1894, only to suffer another fire in 1914. Again, the Sagamore rose from the ashes, reopening stronger, more luxurious, and, as some would say, more haunted than ever before.
Notable Guests and Historic Significance
Over the decades, the Sagamore became synonymous with old-money luxury. Famous guests, including Presidents Benjamin Harrison and Ulysses S. Grant, were known to frequent the hotel, as were legendary writers and wealthy entrepreneurs of the era. Its secluded but accessible location made it a perfect escape from the city—and a prime location for grand events, secret meetings, and whispered stories.
In the 20th century, the hotel went through various ownership changes, and even temporarily closed during the 1980s due to disrepair. But like all good stories, the Sagamore had a revival. Millard and Gloria Morris bought and renovated the estate in the mid-1980s, modernizing the facilities while carefully preserving its vintage grandeur. Today, the Sagamore Hotel stands as a member of the Historic Hotels of America, a testament to its timeless appeal and colorful past.
The Haunt
Reputation as One of New York’s Most Haunted Hotels
The Sagamore Hotel isn’t just a place for relaxation—it’s a magnet for paranormal activity. Staff and guests alike have reported a wide array of ghostly encounters over the years, some charming and some downright chilling. The combination of a long history, past fires, and decades of patrons creates a perfect storm for spectral phenomena. It’s no surprise that paranormal teams have flocked to the resort with their EMF detectors and infrared cameras in tow.
The Ghostly Caddy
Perhaps the most well-known spirit at the Sagamore is the ghost of a young boy believed to be a former golf caddy. This playful yet mischievous apparition reportedly appears near the hotel’s famed golf course, sometimes pelting unsuspecting guests with pinecones or golf balls before vanishing into thin air. While he doesn’t appear malevolent, his presence is persistent and memorable, often making for the most relatable — yet eerie — ghost story of all.
The Woman on the Stairs
Another frequently experienced entity is that of a lady in 19th-century garments who descends the grand staircase late at night. Witnesses describe a cold breeze and an overwhelming sense of sadness whenever she appears. Some psychics believe she may have been a bride-to-be who met a tragic end at the hotel—though no historical record confirms this, the legend persists, and so does her ghostly walk.
The Dining Room Apparitions
The hotel’s main dining room, with its magnificent windows and elegant chandeliers, is also said to house spectral guests. Several employees have reported seeing late-night diners seated at tables, only for them to disappear upon closer inspection. Clinks of glasses, phantom footsteps, and whispers have all been experienced in the otherwise empty room. Paranormal enthusiasts claim the dining area is one of the hotel’s most active hotspots, especially during the quieter months when the hotel is less crowded.
Children’s Laughter and Footsteps
Some of the most unsettling occurrences involve disembodied laughter and footsteps of children echoing through hotel corridors—especially on the second and third floors. Despite no children being present at the time, these sounds often occur in the dead of night. One guest even reported hearing a game of tag being played in the hallway, only to find it completely empty upon investigation.
Modern-Day Paranormal Investigations
The Sagamore Hotel has attracted the attention of ghost hunters and television paranormal shows. Although the management keeps a relatively quiet profile about the hotel’s haunted reputation, they do not deny the extensive reports of hauntings. This has only added to its allure for late-night ghost hunters and believers in the supernatural.
Plan Your Paranormal Getaway
If you’ve got a passion for the paranormal, the Sagamore Hotel should be high on your haunted bucket list. Book a stay during the off-season for better odds at a quiet—and possibly ghost-filled—experience. Don’t forget to bring your ghost hunting gear: EMF meter, EVP recorder, and perhaps even thermal imaging. And with its old-school charm and jaw-dropping scenery, even a lack of spectral sightings won’t diminish the experience.
As you lounge in the hotel’s elegant common rooms or stroll along the moonlit lakefront, know that you may not be alone. The Sagamore Hotel is a rare blend of beauty and mystery, history and haunt—perfect for ghost hunters, history enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a unique adventure in New York State.
So go ahead: check in, unpack, and listen closely. The next unexplained creak or cold spot just might be a resident from another realm, welcoming you to one of the most luxurious haunted locations on the East Coast.