The article explores the history of hotels and motels in the St. Cloud metropolitan area, highlighting various establishments over the years. Key highlights include:
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Breen Hotel: Opened in 1921, it was initially connected to the Sherman Theater. After closing in 1980 for non-compliance with fire codes, it was renovated and repurposed as Germaine Towers, a senior apartment complex.
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Central Hotel: Originally Central House in the 1880s, it evolved into the Grand Central Hotel in 1898, later transformed into the Radisson Hotel in 1990, renamed Le Saint-Germain in 2012.
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Sunwood Inn: Established in 1977 along Highway 23, it faced foreclosure and is now the Best Western Kelly Inn.
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Grand Stay: Opened in 2000, built on the site of a former gas station and car dealership.
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Holiday Inn: Launched in 1977, it expanded significantly in 1994.
- Other establishments mentioned include the Royal Court Motel (now Knights Inn), Comfort Inn (formerly Quality Inn), Econo Lodge (now Salvation Army), and AmericInn, which operates under Wyndham Hotel today.
The piece emphasizes the evolution and transformation of lodging options in St. Cloud, showcasing the community’s hospitality history.
