The St. Elmo Hotel in Ouray, Colorado, has been a cherished landmark since it was built in 1898 by Catherine “Kittie” Heit, a local entrepreneur and restaurateur. Known affectionately as “Aunt Kitty,” she ran the Bon Ton Restaurant in the hotel’s basement and opened her doors to miners and travelers alike. More than just a business owner, she was known for her generosity—often offering food and lodging to those in need.

The hotel served as a gathering place for the community, including labor unions like the Western Federation of Miners. After Kittie’s death in 1915, the hotel passed through various owners and underwent updates. A major restoration in the 1980s brought back its Victorian charm.

Today, the St. Elmo Hotel is a cozy ten-room inn offering vintage charm, modern comfort, and a deep connection to Ouray’s mining-era past.

Visit Website