Iconic Idaho Falls Hotel To Stay

An iconic Idaho Falls hotel has switched management and people are wondering what the future will hold.

The Red Lion and formerly known as the Westbank years ago, severed ties with the Red Lion franchise last month citing economic problems.

It is perhaps one of the oldest and most uniquely designed buildings in the Idaho Falls skyline. Although the hotel has jumped from franchise to franchise, many consider it an iconic hotel.

“Everybody knows the Westbank. Even growing up, everybody knew what the Westbank was,” said Brady Kraupp, an Idaho Falls native.

Kraupp has been with the hotel for over a decade. Kraupp started out working in the banquet hall and eventually worked his way up to a managerial position. Through his career journey, he said the hotel has been on a journey of its own too.

“I’ve seen a lot of changes … a lot of changes, but growth too,” said Kraupp.

The hotel is set to face even more growth. Since purchased by an Oregon-based management company, the hotel has been re-named and re-marketed.

“After I heard of the history of this property, it is for the community that I want this tower and beautiful hotel to be the best that it can for the community and the best place in town,” said Shirish Patel, new owner.

Patel said apart from the name change to The Hotel on the Falls, the only other change they plan to make is to re-paint the building’s exterior and they’re looking for input from the community in selecting a color.

If you would like to make a suggestion on the building’s new paint job, call the hotel at 208-523-8000.