La Vista Motel Now Open in Denver, Bringing Retro Charm and Modern Comfort
Historic Boutique Motel with On-Site Coffee Shop and Bar Revive the Spirit of 1960s Colfax
DENVER, CO — Denver developer Nathan Beal announces that La Vista Motel, a historic boutique motel along East Colfax Avenue, is officially open to guests. Originally built in 1956 and now listed on the National Register of Historic Places by the United States Department of the Interior, the motel has been fully restored to capture the charm and style of 1960s Colfax, while providing modern, touchless amenities.
Says Nathan Beal, “We are thrilled to welcome guests to La Vista Motel. Our goal was to create a space that honors the past while delivering a completely unique and modern experience. We like to say, ‘A little bit motel. A whole lot of mood.’ We can’t wait for the community and travelers to experience the restoration.”
El Piñon: A Retro-Modern Coffee Shop and Cocktail & Wine Bar
Opening alongside the motel, El Piñon offers specialty coffee drinks made with locally-roasted Servant Coffee, alongside craft cocktails, beer, an extensive wine program, and bubbly on tap. Operated by Weston Scott, founder of Denver’s Ephemeral Rotating Taproom, El Piñon blends the atmosphere of a neighborhood bar and coffee shop with a retro-modern aesthetic.
At El Piñon, guests can also take advantage of Grandma’s Basement, a downstairs space decorated to evoke the nostalgia of a 1960s basement, available to book for private events and meetings or as a quiet place to work and enjoy a morning coffee.
The coffee shop and bar is open Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Historic Details and Local Craftsmanship
The motel’s interiors, including all guest rooms as well as El Piñon, were designed by Melissa Friday of Xan Creative, known for Snooze, Ginger Pig, and Steuben’s, blending retro-inspired touches with modern comfort to create a cohesive and welcoming aesthetic. The design incorporates salvaged pieces from antique stores and resellers throughout Denver, further emphasizing the vintage-inspired character.
The motel’s exterior was restored by Sopher Sparn Architects, preserving the building’s original character, while a vibrant mural by Denver artist Emma Friday (@artbyfriday) adds a unique artistic touch. The iconic neon sign was restored by Morry’s Neon, a Denver business with over 30 years of experience, highlighting the motel’s commitment to preserving its history.
Now Booking
The motel’s 23 guest rooms are available to book at lavistadenver.com and feature self-entry and self-check-in for a seamless stay. Each room is uniquely decorated with original artwork and vintage-inspired furniture; equipped with a mini fridge, TV, and free Wi-Fi. Room options range from a king suite with a kitchenette to a single queen, ensuring a comfortable stay for every type of traveler.
Grand Opening Celebration — December 6
La Vista Motel will host its grand opening celebration on Friday, December 6, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. The all-day event will include food trucks, live DJs in Grandma’s Basement, and additional programming to be announced next week. The celebration is open to the community.
NOW OPEN
La Vista Motel
5500 E Colfax Ave
Denver, CO 80220
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About La Vista Motel
Originally built in 1956, La Vista Motel is a 23-room boutique property located on historic Colfax Avenue in Denver, Colorado. Recognized as an official Denver historic landmark and restored in its original 1960s vintage style, the motel offers guests a nostalgic and charming yet comfortable stay. El Piñon, a coffee shop and bar located on site, complements the motel’s retro theme while providing a welcoming space for both local and visiting guests. Visit lavistadenver.com.
About El Piñon
El Piñon is a coffee shop and cocktail bar located on site at the historic La Vista Motel on Colfax Avenue in Denver, Colorado. El Piñon blends the charm of 1960s Colfax with a vintage style, a modern menu of thoughtfully crafted cocktails, café beverages and a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere. Downstairs, Grandma’s Basement offers a relaxed, wood-paneled lounge where guests can unwind and spin some vinyl.
