The Vail Hotel in Pueblo, Colorado, was named after John E. Vail (sometimes cited as John F. Vail), a prominent local newspaperman and publisher of the Pueblo Star-Journal.
Pueblo Chieftain
When the hotel was built between 1910 and 1911, Vail contributed a significant $25,000 seed subscription to the fundraising campaign, which helped kickstart the $200,000 project. At the time of its opening, it was celebrated as the most modern hotel west of Chicago, featuring advanced amenities like flush toilets and hot and cold running water in every room.
It is important to note that the hotel is not named after the same person as the town of Vail, Colorado; the town was named after Charlie Vail, a highway engineer.
The Vail Hotel in Pueblo, Colorado, is a historic landmark that served as a premier luxury destination for decades before transitioning into its current role as subsidized senior housing.
Famous Guests and Visitors
During its heyday as “the most modern hotel west of Chicago,” the Vail hosted several world-renowned figures:
* Political Figures: Woodrow Wilson held a campaign reception in the lobby in 1912, accompanied by the U.S. Marine Band. Future Chief Justice Earl Warren also visited in 1948 while serving as Governor of California.
* Entertainment Legends: The hotel was a favorite for performers at the nearby Memorial Hall, including Clark Gable, Jack Benny, Tallulah Bankhead, and Danny Thomas.
* Sports Icons: Heavyweight boxing champion “Gentleman” Jim Corbett stayed for a week in 1913 while in town with fellow boxer “Battling” Nelson.
* Walt Disney Connection: Disney reportedly told stories about being tricked by a salesman into thinking the hotel was a bordello when he visited as a young man
This article was written by Keith Guerrero and published on his Facebook page on March 13, 2026