Imagine this: It’s a crisp morning in 1988 in the quiet town of Antonito, nestled in Colorado’s San Luis Valley. Residents step outside to an unexpected sight—cameras rolling, actors rehearsing, lights flashing, and crews bustling around town. Hollywood had arrived to transform Antonito into the backdrop for what would become one of the most iconic films of the 20th century.
The opening scenes of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade were filmed right here, with the action centered on the historic Cumbres & Toltec Railroad and the charming Victorian building at 502 Front Street, now known as the Indiana Jones Bed & Breakfast.
Built in 1888, Indiana Jones’ boyhood residence was originally the Carroll family home and one of the first houses constructed in Antonito. The Carrolls moved to the area to support local miners and ran a business selling horses and mules. Over the years, the house has remained privately owned, with the current owner acquiring it in 2017 and transforming it into a charming bed and breakfast. Guests can stay in one of three cozy upstairs bedrooms and explore a fascinating museum on the main floor dedicated to Indiana Jones and the rich local history of Antonito and the San Luis Valley.
Unfortunately, the foundation of the home is failing, and the building is beginning to sag and shift. Nevertheless, the 136-year-old adobe home retains most of its historic integrity, with small repairs made as needed. However, all rehabilitation rests on the need for a new, solid foundation before work on the windows and stucco can begin.
CPI is excited to work with the current owner and other partners to spotlight the rich cinematic history tied to Colorado, particularly through this iconic site. The Indiana Jones Bed & Breakfast offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the intersection of movie history and heritage preservation. By leveraging this significance, CPI hopes to help secure funding for restoration efforts, ensuring the home’s historic charm and cultural relevance endure for generations.