Pagosa Springs in Archuleta County, Colorado — The American Mountains (Southwest)
Metropolitan Hotel
Historic Landmark
Photographed by Cosmos Mariner, July 13, 2025
1. Metropolitan Hotel Marker
A 1919 fire destroyed the original Archuleta Mercantile building at this site. From 1919 to 1920, Alexander Sullenberger, founder of the Pagosa Lumber Company, built the strictly modern Metropolitan Hotel and Star (Liberty) Theatre. The Hotel operated into the 1950s. Through the years the building was renamed the Sullenberger Hotel, the Rumbaugh Hotel and the Pagosa Hotel.
Erected 2002 by Pagosa Springs Historic Preservation Board.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Architecture • Industry & Commerce. A significant historical year for this entry is 1919.
Location. 37° 16.041′ N, 107° 0.634′ W. Marker is in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, in Archuleta County. It is on Pagosa Street (U.S. 160) just south of North 4th Street (Hot Springs Boulevard), on the right when traveling south. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 422 Pagosa Street, Pagosa Springs CO 81147, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is on Colorado’s Continental Divide. It is also in the American Mountain West and at the Four Corners. Globally, it is in North
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 7 other markers are within 6 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies: Liberty Theatre (a few steps from this marker); Goodman Building (within shouting distance of this marker); Hatcher Hardware (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Pagosa Springs (approx. 0.2 miles away); a different marker also named Pagosa Springs (approx. 5.9 miles away); Chimney Rock (approx. 5.9 miles away); The Old Spanish Trail (approx. 5.9 miles away).
Also see . . .
1. About The Metro Hotel.
Excerpt: Situated in the heart of Pagosa Springs, Colorado, the Metro Hotel 1919 is a historic landmark that reflects the towns rich heritage and enduring charm. Originally constructed in the early 1900s as the Archuleta Mercantile and Star Theatre, the building experienced a significant transformation following a fire in 1919. Local entrepreneur A.T. Sullenberger led the reconstruction efforts, resulting in the establishment of the Metropolitan Hotel. This revitalized venue featured modern rooms, hot baths(Submitted on February 21, 2026, by Cosmos Mariner of Cape Canaveral, Florida.)for guests, and a motion-picture theatre, becoming a central hub for both travelers and locals.Photographed by Cosmos Mariner, July 13, 20252. Metropolitan Hotel MarkerThe marker is mounted on the right side of the Pagosa Hotel Offices entrance, which is at the center of the front/southeast facade of the hotel.
An intriguing feature of the original structure was its swimming pool located in the basement, facing Pagosas main street. This amenity added a unique touch to the hotels offerings, enhancing the guest experience during its time.
In recent years, the Metro Hotel 1919 has been revitalized under the ownership of Christine and Bruce Jones, who have preserved its historic charm while adapting it for modern use. Today, the 16,000 sq ft building serves multiple purposes: professional office spaces for local businesses; nightly rentals for visitors seeking a unique lodging experience; and commercial spaces.
2. Pagosa Hotel (Society of Architectural Historians).
(by Thomas J. Noel) Excerpt: The town's large old two-story hotel now houses a cinema and shops in the ground-floor storefronts, with a central staircase entry leading to upstairs offices. A low, arched parapet distinguishes this otherwise plain brick hotel overlooking the river.(Submitted on February 21, 2026, by Cosmos Mariner of Cape Canaveral, Florida.)
Photographed by Cosmos Mariner, July 13, 2025
3. Metropolitan Hotel Main Lobby Entrance
The marker is visible beside the Hotel Offices entrance in the left background.
Photographed by Cosmos Mariner, July 13, 2025
4. Metropolitan Hotel
Looking northwest across Pagosa Street (US Highway 160).
Credits. This page was last revised on February 21, 2026. It was originally submitted on February 20, 2026, by Cosmos Mariner of Cape Canaveral, Florida. This page has been viewed 70 times since then. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on February 21, 2026, by Cosmos Mariner of Cape Canaveral, Florida.
