Looks can be deceiving. However, that’s not the case with Maribel Caves Hotel. Ravaged by fire and exposure to the elements, the dilapidated structure looks as if it came straight out of a horror movie, which is fitting since it’s often revered as one of Wisconsin’s most haunted locales – and rightfully so. Ghostly sightings, witchy gatherings, and a portal to hell are just a few of the eerie tales associated with the historic hotel, which has since been dubbed Hotel Hell. Take a look, if you dare.
Now in ruins, it’s easy to see why the Maribel Caves Hotel is shrouded in legend and lore - but it wasn’t always that way.
Michael Steeber/Flickr Built in the 1900s, Maribel Caves Hotel was more of a therapeutic spa than a hotel. Natural spring water was pumped directly into the hotel, so guests could drink and bathe in the water, which was believed to possess healing powers.
In 1985, the historic hotel mysteriously caught fire – the cause of which remains unknown to this day.
Royal Broil/Flickr
Tragedy struck again in 2013, when a tornado swept through the area, further damaging the hotel.
Beth T/TripAdvisor
Though destroyed quite some time ago and closed for even longer, Maribel Caves Hotel has not been forgotten.
Michael Steeber/Flickr
If anything, tales involving strange happenings at the abandoned inn have become more prevalent over the years, earning it the nickname Hotel Hell.
Christian Thumbs/Google
Disembodied voices, phantom footsteps, floating objects, and a light that chases those who get too close are just a few of the eerie occurrences said to have taken place at the hotel.
Michael Steeber/Flickr
Then there’s the ghostly guest, who many have seen standing in one of the hotel’s windows.
James Stutzman/Flickr
The photographer of the picture below claims to have captured a ghost – look at the 2nd window from the top left. (It does look like something, but it’s hard to say. What do you think?)
Shanna/Flickr
But the terrifying tales don’t end there. Some say that a coven of witches used the abandoned ruins to perform rituals.
cooley25/TripAdvisor
The story goes on to say that the witches performed a ceremony, which opened a portal to hell in the front yard fountain.
James Stutzman/Flickr
Remember, Maribel Caves Hotel is located on private property, so visiting requires consent from the owner. However, you can view the hotel from afar at Maribel Caves Park.
Michael Steeber/Flickr
Check out the video below to learn more about Hotel Hell as well as other notorious haunts in the Badger State.
Michael Steeber/Flickr
Built in the 1900s, Maribel Caves Hotel was more of a therapeutic spa than a hotel. Natural spring water was pumped directly into the hotel, so guests could drink and bathe in the water, which was believed to possess healing powers.
Royal Broil/Flickr
Beth T/TripAdvisor
Christian Thumbs/Google
James Stutzman/Flickr
Shanna/Flickr
cooley25/TripAdvisor
Did you know about the Maribel Caves Hotel? Ever experienced anything strange at the infamous site? Know of another notorious haunt? Tell us in the comments section.
Not scared enough yet? Read about another Wisconsin haunt here.
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Address: 15401 County Rd R, Maribel, WI 54227, USA
