The Birth of
a Landmark
In 1904, Ralph Granger, a prominent banker and influential figure in San Diego, established his grand vision for the city by constructing the Granger Building. He enlisted William Quayle, a renowned architect, to design this architectural gem, which soon emerged as a symbol of progress and sophistication in America’s Finest City. Among its first tenants was Merchant’s National Bank, a precursor to today’s Bank of America, underscoring the building’s role in fostering economic growth in the great city of San Diego.
Sanctuary
for the
Exotic
By 1917, the Granger Building had taken on an unexpected and thrilling new role — Host to animals of the World Famous San Diego Zoo. Dr. Harry Wegeforth, inspired by the roars of lions from the Panama-California Exposition, proposed creating a zoo for the city. With limited resources, the Granger Building transformed into a sanctuary for the exotic, housing tigers, bears, monkeys, & more.
With community-wide fundraising and financial backing from the City of San Diego, the animals were able to roam in what is now the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, arguably the finest zoo in the world.
The Granger Building, once a cornerstone of San Diego’s economic growth, became the heartbeat of a world-renowned zoological institution. This chapter in its history is a testament to San Diego’s creativity and community spirit, transforming a place of commerce into a cradle of wild dreams and extraordinary adventures.
Modern Revival
Today, the Granger Hotel stands as an endlessly elegant and playfully nostalgic retreat in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, fully equipped for the modern explorer. Just steps from San Diego’s finest restaurants, boutiques, and nightlife, our hotel serves as an inclusive home base for all of our guests. We’re focused on providing a seamless and enriching experience that connects you to the heart of America’s Finest City.
