The Stanley Hotel is a historic hotel located in Estes Park, Colorado that is best known as being the inspiration for Stephen King's horror novel "The Shining." Built in 1909 by Freelan Oscar Stanley of Stanley Steamer fame, the hotel features Georgian architecture and has hosted many famous guests over the years. With its remote mountain setting and tales of hauntings, the Stanley Hotel became the backdrop for King's story about the supernatural events that befall the winter caretakers of an isolated hotel.