La Concha Hotel is located in the vibrant and bustling city of Key West. La Concha Hotel stands tall and proud as one of the oldest and most haunted attractions in the area. The hotel was built in 1926. This historic landmark has captivated visitors with its fascinating past and ghostly stories. It is situated on Duval Street, just around the corner from famous Key West landmarks such as Mallory Square, the Hemingway House, and the Key West Aquarium.
The history of La Concha Hotel dates back to the 1920s when the booming tourism industry in Key West called for the construction of a luxurious and iconic hotel. In the late 1800s, Key West was the largest and richest city in Florida, accessible only by sea. In 1912, Henry Flagler extended the Florida East Coast Railway down through the Keys, spurring growth in the local economy. People began building their private getaways and vacation homes in the city, spawning the beginnings of the Conch Republic.
In the 1920s, Carl Aubuchon decided to capitalize on the increasing popularity of Key West as a vacation destination. He began work on La Concha Hotel, hoping to open the beauty of Key West to people who wanted to have some fun in the sun. La Concha opened in 1926 as the first luxury hotel on the island.
The Crowne Plaza Key West – La Concha isn’t just a historic hotel; it’s a living tale of intrigue and haunting history. Steeped in stories ranging from accidental deaths to mysterious circumstances, this hotel has earned a reputation for hosting the lingering spirits of guests long gone. Guests often swap chilling stories of sudden cold gusts, mysteriously disappearing chardonnay, and the quiet whispers of unknown spirits.
Explore Old Key West to uncover its rich history by visiting iconic landmarks such as Mallory Square, known for lively Sunset Celebrations; the Hemingway House, preserving the legacy of the famous author; and the family-favorite Key West Aquarium. For a deeper dive into the city’s rich stories and chilling secrets, consider hopping aboard the Old Town Trolley Tour for an immersive experience bringing the tales of Key West’s past to life.
Key West, famous for its haunted history, smoothly incorporated La Concha into its ghostly narrative upon its construction. Both guests and staff often share experiences of odd cold spots, an eerie feeling of being watched, faint whispers without a visible source, and unexplained mysterious figures in their rooms after dark. Many also report ghost encounters with mysterious figures at the foot of their beds. The ghosts of lost souls are believed to be the source of the reported hauntings at La Concha, with sightings commonly mentioned on the rooftop, once a bar, and now transformed into a peaceful spot to witness the breathtaking sunrise.
But perhaps the most intriguing theory is that this ghost is none other than the famous writer Ernest Hemingway. It’s said that he frequented La Concha and even wrote parts of his novel “For Whom the Bell Tolls” within its walls. Regardless of the truth, the ghosts of La Concha Hotel continue to fascinate and mystify guests who visit this haunted attraction in Key West. So, if you find yourself staying at La Concha, keep an eye out for any ghost encounters with the mischievous ghost that still roams its halls. Who knows? Maybe you’ll even catch a glimpse of Ernest Hemingway’s ghostly figure, reliving his love for this historic hotel.
Important: The Ghosts & Gravestones tour does not stop at this site. The stories on this page are provided for your interest.
La Concha Hotel & Spa in Key West boasts a total of 160 guest rooms and suites. Each room is designed to provide guests with the ultimate comfort and luxury while blending the hotel’s historic charm with modern amenities. The rooms provide a serene, tranquil atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring Key West.