In 1911, Rytkonen partnered with August Allen to build and operate the Star Theater, located a short distance from the current site of the Vista.

[3] Rytkonen hired architect David E. Anderson of Iron River to design the Vista, and construction began in the spring of 1925.

[4] The Vista Theater Advisory Board began working to stabilize the walls and clean the interior before the start of winter.

The purchase would take advantage of grant funds, and would involve the cooperation of the city, the county Land Bank Authority, the state, and the Peninsula Arts Appreciation Council.

A narrow metal classical cornice runs across the top of the facade, arching above the central third floor windows to match their curve.

The first floor of the facade was modernized in the 1940s, and now contains banded salmon and maroon enameled metal paneling, with a V-shaped marquee projecting above the entrance.