Saving the Hotel of Terror — 2023 Walkthrough & 2025 Petition Effort

In 2023, On The Scene conducted an exclusive private tour and interview at the historic Hotel of Terror in downtown Springfield, MO — an iconic local haunted attraction facing claims from the city that the building is “dangerous” and should be demolished. At the time, many in the community questioned the city’s justification, believing the real motivation was the redevelopment of nearby property rather than true safety concerns. Now in December 2025, the Springfield City Council has voted to begin the eminent domain process to acquire the Hotel of Terror property for public infrastructure and redevelopment purposes, most notably to replace the Main Street bridge. This has reignited community efforts to Save the Hotel of Terror. Today (Sunday, December 21, 2025), from 12 PM to 6 PM, supporters are gathering signatures at Dungeons of Doom (701 W. Wall Street) to oppose the city’s action and preserve this beloved local attraction. Watch our 2023 walk-through interview with the owner to understand more about this unique place and why so many in Springfield want to see it preserved. If you’re here to support the cause, please sign the petition and share this video to raise awareness. Original video footage courtesy of On The Scene.