Edhat Staff
A landmark property with a rich history, the 1880 Union Hotel in Los Alamos, is listed for sale at $5.5 million.
Sotheby’s International Realty highlights the property’s fascinating journey from its days as a stagecoach stop in California’s Wild West era to its recent use as a popular filming location for music videos featuring renowned artists like Michael Jackson, Paul McCartney, and Jon Bon Jovi.
Currently operating as a wedding venue, the 1880 Union Hotel offers a range of amenities including eight hotel rooms, a commercial kitchen, ballroom, saloon, and game room. Throughout its various incarnations, the property has served as a private residence, restaurant, bar, and hotel.
While the interior of the historic building has been updated with modern luxuries, including the beautifully preserved saloon and ballroom, the exterior has retained its authentic Old West charm.
The town of Los Alamos, located in northern Santa Barbara County, was established in 1876 as a stagecoach line, and the 1880 Union Hotel was originally constructed as a stagecoach station with a store and lodging. After a fire destroyed the structure in 1893, it was rebuilt in 1915 as a hotel and saloon.
In 1972, a dedicated cabinetmaker meticulously restored the property to its original condition. He painstakingly recreated a replica of the hotel’s 1880 façade. Further extensive renovations were undertaken in 2016, focusing on electrical, plumbing, air conditioning, and cosmetic upgrades, all while maintaining the property’s vintage authenticity. The owners invested several million dollars in these refurbishments, according to the listing.
Although the interior space has undergone creative improvements, the exterior has been preserved in its Wild West character due to its designation as a historic building. The hotel’s potential new owner may have the opportunity to tap into Santa Barbara County’s vibrant wine and food scene, which could further enhance the appeal of the property. Actors Kurt Russell and his daughter Kate Hudson recently held a wine tasting at the saloon.
With its captivating history and association with both the Wild West and popular music culture, this piece of California history presents a unique opportunity for buyers looking to own a significant piece of the state’s cultural heritage.
The listing agent for the 1880 Union Hotel is Micah Brady of Brady Group, Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Ynez Valley Brokerage.
