Hotels are often seen as places of rest and relaxation, but in the world of horror cinema, they can transform into nightmarish labyrinths of terror. This curated list of the 10 best horror movies set in hotels offers a thrilling journey through haunted corridors, mysterious disappearances, and supernatural occurrences. Whether you're a fan of psychological horror, supernatural scares, or just love the eerie atmosphere of a haunted hotel, this collection promises to deliver chills and thrills in equal measure.

The Haunting (1963)
Description: Although not set in a hotel, the film's setting in Hill House, which was once a hotel, provides a similar atmosphere. It's a classic tale of psychological horror where the house itself seems to be alive.
Fact: The film was directed by Robert Wise, who also directed "The Sound of Music."


The Shining (1980)
Description: Stanley Kubrick's adaptation of Stephen King's novel is a masterpiece of psychological horror. The Overlook Hotel becomes a character in itself, with its eerie atmosphere and the famous "Here's Johnny!" scene that has become iconic in horror cinema.
Fact: The film was shot at the Timberline Lodge in Oregon, but the interiors were sets built in England. Stephen King famously disliked Kubrick's interpretation of his novel.


The Dead Zone (1983)
Description: While not exclusively set in a hotel, significant scenes occur in one, where Johnny Smith has visions of a future disaster. The film's chilling atmosphere and David Cronenberg's direction make it a memorable horror experience.
Fact: Stephen King wrote the screenplay for this adaptation of his own novel, marking one of his few screenwriting credits.


Session 9 (2001)
Description: Set in the abandoned Danvers State Hospital, which was once a hotel, this film explores the psychological unraveling of an asbestos cleaning crew. The eerie setting and the slow build-up of tension make it a unique horror experience.
Fact: The film was shot in the actual Danvers State Hospital, which adds to its authenticity and eerie atmosphere.


Identity (2003)
Description: A group of strangers are brought together at a remote motel during a storm, only to find themselves being killed off one by one. The twisty plot and the eerie setting make it a standout in the genre.
Fact: The film's ending was kept secret from the cast until the last day of shooting to ensure genuine reactions.


The Skeleton Key (2005)
Description: A hospice nurse takes a job at a plantation house turned into a hotel, where she uncovers dark secrets involving hoodoo magic. The film's setting and its exploration of voodoo practices make it a compelling watch.
Fact: The film was shot in New Orleans, which adds to the authenticity of the voodoo elements.


1408 (2007)
Description: Based on a Stephen King short story, this film focuses on Room 1408 at the Dolphin Hotel, known for its high death rate. Skeptical writer Mike Enslin checks in, only to face his worst nightmares. The film blends psychological horror with supernatural elements.
Fact: The film was originally planned as a segment in the anthology movie "Creepshow 3," but was expanded into a feature film due to its potential.


The Dark and the Wicked (2020)
Description: While not entirely set in a hotel, the farmhouse where the story unfolds has a hotel-like feel due to its isolation and the number of rooms. It's a bleak, atmospheric horror about a family dealing with a malevolent force.
Fact: The film was shot in a real farmhouse, enhancing the feeling of isolation and dread.


The Innkeepers (2011)
Description: Ti West's film follows two employees of the Yankee Pedlar Inn, which is about to close down. They decide to investigate the hotel's supposed hauntings, leading to genuinely creepy encounters.
Fact: The film was shot in the real Yankee Pedlar Inn, which is reputed to be haunted.


The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016)
Description: Set in a morgue, which could be considered a hotel for the dead, this film delves into supernatural horror as a father and son uncover the dark secrets of a mysterious corpse.
Fact: The film was shot in a real morgue, adding to its chilling authenticity.
