4136 NM Highway 68
The El Cortez Theatre in Ranchos de Taos is more than just a building, it is a portal into one of the most magical and creatively charged chapters of Taos history. Originally reimagined by the community in the 1940s as a neighborhood cinema for Spanish-language films, the adobe structure stood quietly at the corner of the Ranchos de Taos Plaza, evolving alongside the community it served. By 1969, it was recognized as a theatre in the documents that placed the Ranchos Plaza on the National Register of Historic Places. In 1970, fresh off the success of Easy Rider and while editing his groundbreaking film The Last Movie, Dennis Hopper purchased the theatre and infused it with a new purpose. Alongside his brother David Hopper and a talented group of local craftsmen and artists, the El Cortez was transformed into something far greater than a cinema, a place for gathering, dreaming, creating, and sharing ideas. Its hand-plastered adobe walls, intricate woodwork, and design became a reflection of the artistic energy that defined Hopper's years in Taos. Many other well known talented artist and musicians have played and painted in this incredible space. Today, that same spirit lives on within the 3,290 square foot space. The theatre's unparalleled acoustics and expansive open floor plan create endless possibilities, whether envisioned as a performance venue, private residence, dance hall, studio, gallery, or event space. Many well known talented artist and musicians have graced it’s halls in recent years. Fifty original theatre seats remain as a tribute to its cinematic roots, while the vast open floor provides room for a substantial dance floor, creative workspace, or gathering area. Upon entering the home, nothing prepares you for the soaring 20' ceilings and grand space of the theatre once you walk through the double wood doors. No modern amenity is forgotten as the property features a well appointed kitchen, two bathrooms, and an upstairs primary suite overlooking the theatre below. From this unique vantage point, the suite captures the grandeur of the space while offering a private retreat complete with a walk-in closet, private rooftop terrace, and kiva fireplace. The El Cortez has been cemented in history as a meeting place for creativity, conversation, transformation, and beauty. The laughter, music, art, and ideas that once filled the theatre seem to linger within its adobe walls. Rarely does a property come to market that so beautifully blends architectural character and rich history. The El Cortez remains what it has always been: a place where imagination thrives beneath New Mexico's wide and enchanted sky. For those who are boldly seeking something different, this is your opportunity.
Building Details
- Building Area Total Sq. Ft.: 3290
- Architectural Style: Pueblo
- Flooring: Other, Tile, Wood
- Construction Materials: Adobe, Stucco
- Roof: Bitumen, Flat
- Heating: Forced Air, Fireplaces
- Fireplaces: 2
- Has Carport?: Yes
- Carport Spaces: 1
- Living Area Sq. Ft.: 3290
- Sewer: Community Coop Sewer
- Water Source: Public
Rooms
- Bedrooms: 1
- Half Bathrooms: 0
- Full Bathrooms: 2
- Bathrooms: 2
Lot and Land Information
- Lot size, acres: 0.08 acres
- Lot Features: Xeriscape
- Vegetation: Other
Amenities and Features
- Appliances: Dryer, Dishwasher, Freezer, Gas Oven, Gas Range, Gas Water Heater, Refrigerator, Washer
- Porch and Patio Features: Covered, Porch
- Parking Features: Attached Carport
Agent: Gabriel Traister, Coldwell Banker Mountain Properties
The data relating to real estate for sale in this web site comes in part from the Internet Data exchange (“IDX”) program of TCAR MLS, Inc. Real estate listings held by brokers other than Taos Properties are marked with the IDX Logo. All data in this web site is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed.