Opened in 1920, the Drake Hotel has a storied history that includes hosting a plethora of celebrities, dignitaries, and even royalty from around the globe. The hotel’s opulent design, characterized by its grandiose architecture and lavish interiors, coupled with its prime location along the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan, makes it a sought-after destination for travelers seeking both luxury and a touch of history. However, it is the tales of paranormal activity and ghostly encounters that have captured the imagination of many visitors, adding an air of mystery to the hotel’s otherwise glamorous reputation.
The legend of the Lady in Red is steeped in tragedy and romance, said to be the spirit of a woman who met an untimely and tragic end within the hotel’s walls. Various accounts suggest that she was a guest who experienced profound heartache, perhaps due to a lost love or a sudden demise that left her spirit wandering. Here are some key elements of her haunting story that have been passed down through generations:
Appearance: Numerous guests have reported sightings of a strikingly beautiful woman adorned in a stunning red gown, often described as flowing and elegant. Witnesses claim to have seen her gracefully wandering the ornate halls of the hotel or gliding through the grand ballroom, creating an ethereal presence that captivates all who catch a glimpse.
Unexplained Events: Many visitors have recounted eerie experiences, including sudden cold spots that seem to appear out of nowhere, flickering lights that dance unpredictably, and an unsettling feeling of being watched when in proximity to her presence. These occurrences have contributed to the hotel’s reputation as a hub of supernatural activity.
Interactions: Some brave souls who have ventured close to the Lady in Red claim to have felt a gentle, almost tender touch, or heard soft whispers that seem to echo through the air. These interactions often leave guests with a sense of awe and a chilling reminder of the mysterious forces that may linger within the hotel.
The legend of the Lady in Red has significantly contributed to the Drake Hotel's allure, attracting ghost hunters, paranormal investigators, and curious tourists who are eager to experience the supernatural for themselves. The hotel has embraced its haunted reputation, often sharing spine-tingling stories of the Lady in Red with guests and featuring her prominently in guided ghost tours that explore the hotel’s haunted history. This has not only enriched the guest experience but has also established the Drake Hotel as a must-visit location for those intrigued by the paranormal.
The ghost of the Lady in Red remains a captivating and enduring part of the Drake Hotel's history, intertwining tales of love, loss, and the supernatural in a way that continues to enchant and mystify. Whether one is a firm believer in the existence of ghosts or a skeptic, the stories surrounding this iconic figure add an enchanting and haunting layer to the experience of staying at this historic hotel. The Lady in Red serves as a reminder of the hotel’s rich past and the lingering echoes of those who once walked its halls, forever immortalized in the fabric of its history.
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Chicago Hauntings: The halls of The Drake Hotel - CBS Chicago
- Chicago Hauntings: The halls of The Drake Hotel - Information about the lady in Red, the lady in Black, and the Franks who reportedly haunts the Drake.
Chicago's most haunted hotels | Choose Chicago
- Information about the hauntings at the Congress Plaza and the Drake
Spirits of New Year’s Eve - US Ghost Adventures
- Contains information about the haunting.
The Woman in Red at the Drake Hotel
- Information about the haunting. 
