Madonna Inn Owner and Local Icon

Phyllis Madonna and her husband, who were married 55 years, first met in a small café near San Luis Obispo. While Phyllis played a little hard to get at first, the two eventually married and relocated to San Luis Obispo. Shortly after, the two built the Madonna Inn, a small 10-room hotel.

Today, the Madonna Inn has grown to become world famous for its 110 elaborately decorated rooms, pink exterior, steakhouse, pastries, a spa, a waterfall in the men’s bathroom and the hotel’s welcoming charm. “Alex was very romantic,” says Phyllis. “He had a dream of creating a hotel modeled after a Swiss Chalet that everyone can enjoy. “

Since the day the Inn opened in 1958, Phyllis has helped ensure that visitors to San Luis Obispo feel like family. “We want this hotel and this city to feel like a home away from home” said Phyllis. To prove it, Phyllis personally decorates the hotel lobby, gift shops and coffee shop for major holidays. “People call and ask if we have the decorations up yet, because they are so anxious to see them.”

Phyllis and several family members also enjoy entertaining out of town hotel visitors. “I grew up playing the accordion” says Phyllis. At her annual fashion show, which she has hosted for 23 years, Phyllis and a variety of musical acts play music and sing. The show is a fundraiser for a local woman’s shelter, but also brings locals and visitors together for a fun evening.

Having lived in San Luis Obispo for many years, Phyllis has met many people and has many fond experiences with guests and locals. “The people here are all so friendly,” says Phyllis. She’s always eager to meet new faces, share a few stories and give guests insider tips on what to do. While some things about San Luis Obispo have changed since the Madonna Inn first opened, local residents like Phyllis Madonna continue to make visitors feel like family.

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