Rooted in Downtown Douglas
Built for a Growing Wyoming Town
Hotel LaBonte began with a group of local business leaders who believed Douglas needed a first-class hotel. Construction started in 1913, and the hotel opened in January 1914 with modern conveniences such as electric lights, steam heat, telephones, and running water.
More than a place to stay, it quickly became part of downtown life.
What’s in a Name?
The Story Behind LaBonte
The hotel’s name connects it to the history of the surrounding region.
Historical accounts tie “LaBonte” to the LaBonte Pony Express and stage station along the Oregon Trail southeast of Douglas. The station itself was named for an early local hunter. The hotel’s original website also notes that the name was associated with the idea of bounty or abundance.
More than a century later, the name remains closely tied to both the building and downtown Douglas.
What’s in a Name?
A Century in Downtown Douglas
1913
Local business leaders form the Douglas Hotel Company and begin construction on a new first-class hotel for the growing community.
January 1914
Hotel LaBonte opens its doors, offering electric lights, steam heat, telephones, and hot and cold running water.
1924
A dramatic confrontation at the hotel becomes one of the most widely remembered events in its history and later contributes to the stories surrounding its haunted reputation.
Read the Stories & HauntingsGenerations of Guests
Through changing decades, Hotel LaBonte continues serving ranchers, business travelers, families, community members, and visitors to Douglas.
2008
Hotel LaBonte is added to the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its architectural significance and role in the development of downtown Douglas.
Today
Hotel LaBonte remains an active hotel, restaurant, bar, gathering place, and downtown landmark.
Ready to Visit Douglas?
Stay Somewhere With A Story
Book a comfortable room in the heart of downtown Douglas and experience more than a century of local history, hospitality, food, drinks, and Wyoming character.
