Right off the highway in San Luis Obispo sits the Madonna Inn, a colorful, over-the-top getaway that never shies away from eccentric decoration. The inn is marked by a large pink sign and a retro-fairytale-inspired building that looked like it dropped straight out of the Swiss Mountains (with gleaming white paint and bright pink trim). If that’s not tempting enough, the inn sits on a sprawling estate complete with horses, trail rides, hiking, and more.
Bathed in shades of pink, the hotel is known for its eye-catching aesthetic. The main restaurant, a traditional steakhouse, features bright pink booths and ornate flower ornaments, and even the tablecloths are pink. A cocktail lounge fitted with equally ornate furnishings, stained glass windows, and plenty of pink seating perfect for guests to enjoy a kitschy cocktail. In the morning, the Copper Cafe serves classic breakfast starting at 7:00 am and continuing all day.
Madonna Inn sits on a stunning 1,000 acres, which are utilized for activities like horseback riding and hiking. Pink tennis, pickleball, and basketball courts fit with the rest of the estate’s aesthetic, and the large pool perched on a hilltop offers beautiful views. Plus, nightly live music performances often lead to a full dance floor.
The main event for the iconic inn is the guest rooms. Each of the 110 rooms has its own theme, from pastel suites featuring spiral staircases to a pioneer-inspired room; no two are the same. Several rooms come with a rock shower or a rock waterfall shower; guests can also book ADA rooms. A room inspired by Yosemite’s Half Dome features massive rock walls and a fireplace, while the ” San Francisco” room transports you to the 1850s with its bright red and gold furnishings. No matter your taste, you’ll find a room that piques your interest, especially if you love a good theme.
The now iconic inn originally opened in 1958 with just 12 rooms by Alex and Phyllis Madonna. More rooms were quickly built, and by 1960, construction on the main inn had started. Throughout the years, the inn has become a staple in California, attracting visitors for its unique design alone.
The inn’s eccentric style makes it worth a stop, especially if you’re looking for a fun weekend getaway near San Francisco. Plus, the surrounding area includes a quiet downtown with many dining options, and nearby wineries are just a short drive away. Beautiful immersive light meadows are a short drive away, plus sprawling coastal sand dunes are just south of the inn.