What do Al Capone and Elvis Presley have in common? They’ve both bunked at the Gulf Hills Hotel. But they’re not the only recognizable names on the hotel’s former guest list. The hotel has played host to several celebs. Even better, it’s still open today, which means you can join the ranks of some of history’s most famous (and infamous) characters.

The Gulf Hills Hotel and Resort opened in Ocean Springs in 1927.

Surprisingly, it was nearly demolished in 2019. Luckily, the building was saved, It now has new owners, who plan on restoring it to its former glory.

Speaking of its “former glory,” it was, at one time, an upscale resort that was no stranger to celebrity guests.

The resort was the brainchild of the Branigar Brothers from Chicago.

A long time in the making, the brothers found the site for the resort during a visit to the Gulf Coast in 1901. (Remember, the resort opened in 1927.)

The brothers set out to build a “resort like no other on the Coast."

When opened, the resort had 66 guest rooms, 13 waterfront villas, an 18-hole golf course, clubhouse, and marina.

In the 1950s, the hotel was re-branded as the state’s “first working dude ranch.”

Bringing a taste of the West to the South, the ranch spanned 700 acres and offered activities, like horseback riding.

Between the abundance of amenities and secluded locale, the resort attracted a few famous faces.

It’s been speculated that the resort was actually built for Al Capone, who owned property on the Gulf Coast. Whether or not that’s true, he did frequent the resort.

After his initial visit in 1951, Elvis Presley became a regular at the resort. He enjoyed staying in villa #9.

And when he wasn’t taking in the views from his villa, the King could be found horseback riding, waterskiing, or playing the piano in the resort’s lounge.

Other famous guests include Judy Garland, Jayne Mansfield, and Marilyn Monroe.

Just like Elvis, they all preferred to stay in the resort’s waterfront villas.

Still a great stay, the Gulf Hills Hotel and Resort of today boasts comfy accommodations, a pool, 9-hole golf course, and on-site eatery, Capone’s Bar and Restaurant.

The eatery's name isn't the only nod to the resort's past, though. Historic photos cover the walls, serving as a reminder that it’s as legendary as some of the guests it’s hosted over the years.

Well, what do you think? Are you ready to book a stay at this iconic hotel? For more information, call Gulf Hills Hotel and Resort at (228) 875-4211. You can also visit the hotel’s website or Facebook page.

So, did you know about this hotel? What about its past? Ever visited? If so, what’d you think? Tell us!

This isn’t the only historic hotel in Mississippi. Click here to read about one of the state’s oldest.