Vintage Inn
The ivy-covered exterior
Written by Caitlin White
Photography by isle of film
The tiny enclave of Los Alamos has increasingly become a can’t-miss Central Coast destination, and the latest addition to the town of less than 2,000 is the rebirth of one of its oldest hostelries. The 1880 UNION HOTEL, located on central Bell Street, officially reopened this spring with nine distinct guest rooms, while it continues to host private events and weddings.
Built 145 years ago, the original structure served as stagecoach stop, general store, lodging house, and telegraph office. It was rebuilt after a fire in 1915, then renovated in 1972. During the 1950s, legend has it, Johnny Cash played the saloon, and its lore only deepened when the property served as a backdrop for Paul McCartney’s and Michael Jackson’s “Say Say Say” music video in 1983.
Vintage lighting, furniture, and artwork define chic guest rooms in this Los Alamos landmark
Now officially a California historic landmark, the estate includes a vintage saloon, rose garden, lawn, gazebo, and brick patio. Rooms boast atmospheric amenities like clawfoot tubs, four-poster beds, and antique chandeliers, as well as plenty of Wild West charm. 362 Bell St., Los Alamos, 1880union.com
