The History of the Omni Shoreham Hotel
The Omni Shoreham was originally built as a luxury hotel, designed by the architectural firm of W.C. and A.N. Miller, in the grand tradition of Washington’s finest buildings. Opening in 1930, the hotel became an immediate success, attracting high-profile guests, including politicians, diplomats, and even a few Hollywood stars. Over the years, the hotel has hosted several U.S. presidents, including Franklin D. Roosevelt and John F. Kennedy, as well as countless other dignitaries. It has been a site of major political events, important conferences, and countless social gatherings.
As the decades passed, the Omni Shoreham’s reputation for luxury and grandeur grew, but so did its reputation for being haunted. While it remains a popular destination for travelers, many who stay or work at the hotel have experienced strange phenomena, leading to rumors that the building is home to more than just its famous guests.
The Ghosts of the Omni Shoreham Hotel
The Omni Shoreham Hotel is said to be haunted by several spirits, many of whom are believed to be former guests or employees who never fully left. The most widely known ghost story is that of a former hotel worker, a woman dressed in black, who is often seen walking along the hallways and near the hotel’s ballrooms. According to local legend, she was a staff member who died tragically in an accident at the hotel. Since then, her spirit is said to linger, especially in the quieter areas of the hotel. Some guests and staff have reported encountering her while working late, with many claiming she seems to be going about her duties, as though continuing to work in the hotel even after death. When approached, she disappears into the shadows without a trace.
In addition to the “Lady in Black,” another frequently reported ghostly figure is that of a man in a top hat. Guests have reported seeing this mysterious figure standing in dark corners of the hotel, particularly in the lobby or near the elevator. Described as a well-dressed man with a tall top hat, he is often seen staring at passersby or standing silently in a corner before vanishing when someone attempts to approach. Some speculate that the man in the top hat could be a former guest, possibly a wealthy businessman or politician, who once frequented the hotel. His appearance has become so common that some hotel staff believe he’s simply another “resident” spirit.
Perhaps the most unsettling reports come from the hotel’s ballroom, where guests and staff have reported hearing the sound of footsteps, faint laughter, or even music playing when no events are taking place. Some guests who have attended social gatherings or worked late into the night have described feeling an eerie presence in the room, as though the space is filled with unseen figures. The hotel’s ballroom was a major social hub during its early years, hosting countless galas and political gatherings, so it’s no surprise that the spirits of the past might still linger in the area.
Unexplained Noises and Cold Spots
Other common paranormal phenomena at the Omni Shoreham include unexplained noises and cold spots that seem to appear out of nowhere. Guests have reported hearing doors creaking open or the sound of footsteps echoing through empty hallways, only to turn the corner and find no one in sight. Additionally, there are frequent reports of sudden drops in temperature, particularly in the older parts of the hotel. Some guests claim to feel as though they’re being watched, while others report hearing faint whispers or soft voices when they are alone in their rooms.
Paranormal Investigations
Due to its long-standing reputation for paranormal activity, the Omni Shoreham Hotel has been featured on several ghost-hunting programs and paranormal investigations. Many of the hotel’s ghost stories have been documented by both staff members and guests, and the hotel has become a popular spot for ghost tours in Washington, D.C. Some paranormal investigators have captured EVP (electronic voice phenomena) recordings and photographs of unexplained images, further fueling the belief that the hotel is home to more than just the living.
Visiting the Omni Shoreham Hotel
For those interested in experiencing the Omni Shoreham Hotel firsthand, it remains a premier destination in Washington, D.C. The hotel is located at 2500 Calvert Street NW, just a short distance from popular attractions like the National Zoo, the U.S. Capitol, and the Smithsonian Museums. Whether you’re visiting for a luxurious stay or simply for a special event, the hotel offers world-class amenities, including fine dining, a beautiful outdoor pool, and elegant rooms that reflect its rich history.
If you’re looking for a combination of historic charm and a touch of the supernatural, the Omni Shoreham Hotel offers both. With its luxurious atmosphere, historic significance, and ghostly residents, this grand hotel remains a captivating destination for those seeking a unique experience in Washington, D.C. And who knows? If you’re lucky—or perhaps unlucky—you might even encounter one of its lingering spirits during your stay.
