What's Happening?
Prime Investment Properties LLC has exclusively listed the Best Western Movie Manor and the adjoining Star Drive-In Theater in Monte Vista, Colorado. This unique property, offered on 41.47 acres, includes a 59-room Best Western hotel and two outdoor movie
screens. The Movie Manor, established in 1964, is renowned for allowing guests in a portion of its rooms to watch movies from the drive-in screen directly from their windows, with sound piped in. The Star Drive-In originally opened in 1955. The property has a rich history, having been run by the Kelloff family for over 50 years, and has garnered national media attention for its distinctive experiential appeal. Each guest room is named after a movie star, adding to its unique charm.
Why It's Important?
This listing represents a rare investment opportunity in the hospitality and entertainment sectors, offering a blend of established brand recognition (Best Western) and a unique experiential asset (the drive-in theater). The property's long history and multigenerational guest following provide a strong foundation for potential buyers, distinguishing it from new constructions. Its location on US 160, a primary east-west route in southern Colorado, benefits from diverse demand drivers including agriculture, highway travel, skiing (Wolf Creek Ski Area), national parks (Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve), wildlife refuges (Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge), and local events like the Ski-Hi Stampede. This combination of year-round demand and a unique attraction makes it a significant asset in the regional tourism economy.
What's Next?
Prime Investment Properties is inviting interested investors and owner-operators to contact them directly for full property details, financials, and showing requests. The sale includes the 59-room hotel, the twin-screen drive-in, a fully leased free-standing restaurant, multiple homes, and large storage warehouse space, with expansion opportunities for an RV park already in process. The property's established brand story and media presence are expected to attract a buyer who recognizes the value of its unique heritage and strong demand drivers. The acquisition will allow a new owner to capitalize on both the steady year-round hotel demand and the seasonal appeal of the drive-in theater, potentially enhancing and expanding its offerings.
Beyond the Headlines
The sale of the Best Western Movie Manor highlights the enduring appeal of nostalgic and experiential tourism in the U.S. It underscores how unique historical assets, when well-maintained and marketed, can continue to attract visitors in an increasingly competitive travel market. The property's integration of lodging and entertainment offers a model for innovative hospitality concepts. Furthermore, it reflects the economic vitality of rural areas that can leverage natural attractions and unique cultural offerings to draw tourists. The preservation and continued operation of such iconic establishments contribute to the cultural fabric and historical memory of American roadside attractions, offering a tangible link to past eras of travel and entertainment.
