History

Located on Cortez Hill in Downtown San Diego, this historic Building originally named  
Travolator Motor Hotel was constructed as an addition to The El Cortez Hotel which has been San Diego’s leading landmark since its first grand opening in 1927.   

In 1951, wealthy businessman Harry Handlery bought the El Cortez and quickly made some distinctive additions of his own. According to the San Diego Historical Society, Handlery added a moving walkway (later removed) as a connector to another of his new Travolator Motor Hotel, which catered to a new kind of client, the business traveler coming in for Convention or Sales Meetings. 

Recently undergoing a multimillion dollar renovation the Holiday Inn Express San Diego Downtown carries history and tradition while it’s guests have all the comfort and amenities of the modern era.