The Monte Vista Hotel opened on New Year's Day, 1927. It was originally named the Community Hotel, "in honor of the townspeople who contributed to its existence". However, following a competition won by a 12-year-old winner, the name 'Monte Vista' - meaning 'mountain view' - was chosen to rename the building.

The hotel has featured in two Hollywood Greats movies - Casablanca and Forest Gump. It has also hosted famous guests including, Bing Crosby, Freddie Mercury, Bob Hope, John Wayne and Anthony Hopkins. Some of these legends have even claimed to have had a brush with the spectral occupants whilst at the hotel!

It is reputedly haunted by a number of apparitions, including a phantom bellboy which was reportedly seen by John Wayne. Other ghosts include a transparent couple dancing in the Cocktail Lounge, a young boy wandering the halls of the hotel and an Elevator Attendant.

Room 305 is said to be the most active, with an old woman seen sitting in a rocking chair. This chair also allegedly moves on its own. Other guests report a feeling of being watched or being touched in some other rooms.

Audible phenomena include a baby crying from the basement, and an anonymous voice saying "Good Morning!" in the bar area, where barstools and drinks move on their own.

Pictured left is the Monte Vista Hotel courtesy of Waterless Cloud.