A once-shuttered East Colfax icon is getting a second life—and a fresh shot of espresso. The historic La Vista Motel, originally built in 1956 and known for its vintage charm, is set to reopen with a modern twist. Closed for years and sitting dormant at 5500 E Colfax Avenue, the 23-room boutique motel is being revived by Denver developer Nathan Beal, who purchased the property in 2022 and kicked off renovations in 2024.
Beal says the revamped La Vista Motel will offer guests a hybrid experience—something between a traditional motel and Airbnb—by using a touchless check-in model that blends flexibility with affordability. The rooms will keep their retro feel, but the amenities are getting a 21st-century upgrade.
One of the biggest additions is El Piñon, a new coffee shop and cocktail bar opening on-site. Run by Weston Scott, the founder behind Denver’s Ephemeral Rotating Taproom, El Piñon will serve up locally roasted coffee and original craft cocktails, giving the neighborhood a fresh gathering spot.
The restored motel remains a 23-room boutique property and will also include a small event space. While there’s no official opening date yet, the new La Vista Motel is expected to open its doors to guests and neighbors sometime this fall.
