The Lafayette Hotel & Club has been inducted into the Historic Hotels of America. An official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Historic Hotels of America recognizes, celebrates and promotes iconic historic hotels across the U.S.
A San Diego landmark, The Lafayette reopened its doors in July 2023. Built in 1946 by Larry Imig, the colonial-style property was the only hotel constructed in the U.S. during World War II, the hotel said in a statement. The hotel sits on a prime location on El Cajon Blvd, which served as a main thoroughfare through the city before the development of Interstate 8.
A favorite among Hollywood elite, such as Ava Gardner, Lana Turner, Lucille Ball and John Wayne, The Lafayette was a popular dining and drinking destination in the 1950s.
The hotel was acquired by Conrad Hilton a few years upon opening and changed hands ever since. Acquired by CH Projects in 2021, the hotel underwent a $31 million renovation and the first restoration in around 80 years.
“It is a true honor for The Lafayette to be recognized by Historic Hotels of America. This is not merely a hotel but a living piece of history that we are all a part of. Our recent renovation is intended to honor the history of The Lafayette while bringing it into a new age,” said Steve Slack, general manager, The Lafayette Hotel and Club.
The renovation, which was led by CH Projects and Brooklyn-based Post Co., has revitalized the 2.5-acre property. Original features — including the lobby’s plastered crown moldings, concrete cast clamshell stage and the pool designed by Olympic gold medalist swimmer and actor Johnny Weissmulller — have been retained.
Besides its 139 guestrooms and suites, the refurbished hotel offers seven F&B options featuring immersive elements, which includes a two-lane bowling alley and a late-night supper club with live entertainment.
The Lafayette Hotel joins over 300 hotels and resorts which are recognized by the Historic Hotels of America to preserve and maintain its historic integrity, architecture and ambience.
In order to be nominated and selected for membership in the Historic Hotels of America, a hotel has to be at least 50 years old; designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark or listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places; and recognized as having historical significance.
Out of over 300 historic hotels inducted into Historic Hotels of America from 44 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, all historic hotels faithfully preserve their sense of authenticity, sense of place, and architectural integrity.