The Peaks of Otter area has long been a favorite stopover for travelers. Benjamin Wilkes and his son, Leyburn, opened the Hotel Mons on this site in 1857. The hotel became a popular vacation resort, and Wilkes expanded his operation as public demand grew. By the 1920s, the complex included two main buildings, cottages, and other outbuildings. Visitors came from all across the United States to enjoy this mountain resort. Requests for reservations continued for years after the hotel closed its doors in the 1930s.