Historic Anchorage Hotel named one of Alaska’s top haunted destinations

By AI, Created 4:51 PM UTC, June 03, 2026, /AGP/ – The Historic Anchorage Hotel in downtown Anchorage has been recognized as one of Alaska’s most prominent haunted destinations, adding fresh attention to a property that dates to 1916 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The honor could boost heritage tourism and ghost-travel interest as the hotel heads into fall and winter booking seasons.

Why it matters: - The recognition puts the Historic Anchorage Hotel in the spotlight as both a historic landmark and a paranormal tourism draw. - The designation could increase interest from heritage travelers and ghost enthusiasts during the autumn and winter seasons. - The hotel’s haunted reputation adds to the cultural value of a property that has anchored downtown Anchorage for more than a century.

What happened: - The Historic Anchorage Hotel was recognized as one of Alaska’s most prominent haunted destinations on June 4, 2026. - The hotel has operated in Anchorage since 1916 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. - The property is described as a cornerstone of Alaska hospitality with a reputation built on architectural heritage and local lore.

The details: - The hotel was originally established to serve pioneers in Alaska’s “Tent City.” - The haunted reputation is tied to guest reports and historical events recorded over the last 110 years. - One enduring story centers on Anchorage’s first Chief of Police, John J. “Black Jack” Sturgus, who was found mortally wounded near the hotel in 1921. - The Sturgus case remains officially unsolved. - Dr. Laura Koenig and Ghost Tours host Rick Goodfellow discussed a theory about the case on an episode of “The AnchorED City Podcast.” - Guests and staff have maintained a “Ghost Log” for the past 20 years. - The log includes reports of a “Lady in White,” unexplained corridor sounds, and stationary objects that appeared to move. - The hotel remains a luxury historic property in downtown Anchorage with 26 suites. - The suites retain the elegance of the 1936 Annex reconstruction. - The hotel’s history page is available here. - The hotel also shared a Facebook page at social media.

Between the lines: - The hotel is leaning into a mix of preservation and folklore that can help differentiate it in a crowded travel market. - The ghost story angle gives the property a seasonal hook without changing its core identity as a historic downtown hotel. - The reference to documented accounts and a long-running Ghost Log suggests the hotel is packaging its history as part of the guest experience.

What’s next: - The recognition is expected to draw more visitors interested in historic stays and paranormal tourism. - The hotel’s strongest audience may come in colder months, when Alaska travel and haunted-attraction themes often overlap. - The property is likely to keep emphasizing its history, preserved architecture, and reported hauntings as part of its brand.

The bottom line: - The Historic Anchorage Hotel is using its 110-year history, preserved architecture, and ghost lore to stand out as one of Alaska’s most distinctive places to stay.