We may be standing on the shoulders of giants—and, if some legends are believed, that phrase might be shockingly literal.

Alcatraz was only in operation for less than 30 years, but in that time it gained the reputation as one of the most notorious prisons in American history.

Some hotels offer luxurious rooms, beautiful views, and a peaceful night's sleep. Others come with ghost stories so famous that visitors actually hope something strange happens after dark. Behind many of these legends are real historical events, including mysterious deaths, devastating fires, and scandals that made headlines. From grand American resorts to centuries-old European castles, these hotels prove that sometimes the most memorable part of a vacation is the story you take home.

Plenty of famous landmarks promise apparitions, phantom footsteps, and unexplained voices after dark. But at some places, the documented history is disturbing enough without anything supernatural at all.