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ROOMS & SUITES That MAKE A FINE RETREAT

  • Nature meets modern interiors at El Capitan, one of the best hotels in Central California. A better translation of a road trip pit stop, our boutique hotel offers guest rooms and suites designed with comfort in mind, featuring spacious layouts, chic furnishings, and modern amenities. Whether you're looking for luxury hotels in Central California or cozy stays in the Central Valley, El Capitan provides the perfect blend of style and comfort, all set against a stunning California landscape. Discover the best places to stay in Central Valley California, where your next adventure awaits.

  • Come as you are.

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El Capitan Hotel Room

ARBOR QUEEN

302 square feet of charm, this Arbor Lane room offers a comfy queen bed, work table anchored by a woven hanging light, and historic touches like a record player and vintage-style phone. You’ll love the layers of natural textures and custom-illustrated wallpaper.

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King hotel room

ARBOR KING

This 302-square-foot room is enveloped in custom-illustrated wallpaper and layers of rich natural textures that create a wholly contemporary vibe. Kick up your feet on your plush kind bed while you listen to your favorite sounds on the in-room record player.

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Main Street double queen

MAIN STREET DOUBLE QUEEN

  • This well-appointed room includes two plush queen beds and 350 square feet. A convenient table is accented by a hanging lamp richly woven in natural fibers, while a modern bath takes on elements of the building’s origins with rich greens, black and white octagonal tiles.

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Boutique hotel room

MAIN STREET KING

The 350-square-foot Main Street King room is enveloped in custom-illustrated wallpaper and layers of rich natural textures that create a wholly contemporary vibe.

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Junior Suite

JUNIOR SUITES

Sophisticated and spacious with 430 square feet, the Junior Suite features a lush king bed and a calming deep green ceiling. Its seating area with couch and comfy ottomans tastefully merges leathers, dark woods, organic patterns and earthy textures.

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Suite

SUITES

Hardwood floors, area rugs, and an expansive 560 square feet mark this King Suite. Its one-of-a-kind bathroom includes a clawfoot tub, while the seating area is punctuated by original artwork, views of the landmark Tioga building, and the warmth of rich woods.

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ROOMS & SUITES

record player
bathroom
Hotel room details
Suite
Guest room details
ice bucket
hotel room bathroom
tv stand
Junior Suite
record player
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AMENITIES

  • HOTEL:
  • All day café, Native Son
  • Seasonal gourmet dining, Rainbird
  • Diner & live entertainment, Mainzer Theatre
  • Lobby bar, Native Son
  • Gourmet dining & outdoor bar, El Capitan Courtyard
  • 24-hour fitness center
  • 5,429 square feet of event space
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • 24-hour business services
  • We love dogs – pet stays are always free
  • IN-ROOM:

    49” flat-screen TV

  • Individually controlled heat & AC
  • Blackout curtains
  • Hair dryer
  • Premium bath products
  • Hot kettle and pour-over coffee service
  • Steamer in room, iron, and board available upon request
  • Laptop-sized safe
  • Concierge Services

AMENITIES

FAQs

Q: What time is check-in and check-out? A: Check-in begins at 3:00 PM, and check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Q: What dining options are available at the hotel? A: We offer three on-site food and beverage outlets: Native Son, Rainbird, and the Lobby Bar & Courtyard. Additionally, guests can enjoy the nearby Mainzer restaurant.

Q: What services does the hotel provide? A: Our services include valet parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, concierge assistance, and meeting facilities.

Q: Is there a gym at the hotel? A: Yes, our gym is equipped with Peloton bikes and offers virtual fitness classes led by world-class trainers.

Q: Does the hotel feature any art? A: Absolutely! Our hotel showcases a curated collection of artwork from both local and global artists, displayed throughout the property.

Q: Can I take a self-guided art tour of the hotel? A: Yes! Just ask the front desk for an art map and book (yours to keep) to enjoy a self-guided tour of our art collection.

Q: Are pets allowed at the hotel? A: Yes! We love dogs – pet stays are always free. Your furry friend is welcome to join you for your stay at no extra charge. Just let us know in advance so we can prepare for their arrival.

Q: What airports are near the hotel? A: Our hotel is conveniently located within driving distance of several airports:

Merced Regional Airport (MCE): 10 minutes away

Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT): 1 hour 15 minutes away

Sacramento International Airport (SMF): 2 hours away

San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC): 2 hours 10 minutes away

Oakland International Airport (OAK): 2 hours away

San Francisco International Airport (SFO): 2 hours 20 minutes away

Whether you’re flying in locally or from a major hub, we’re easily accessible by car.

Photography Sessions at El Capitan Hotel

Our historic property and beautifully designed spaces are more than a place to stay — they’re a backdrop for unforgettable memories. From portraits and engagements to professional shoots and creative content, El Capitan Hotel and its sister venues offer timeless settings in the heart of Merced.

Available Spaces

Your session includes access to the following spaces, based on availability:

  • El Capitan Hotel Lobby

  • Outdoor Courtyard

  • The Drawing Room

  • Native Son

  • Mainzer

All spaces are subject to availability.

Rates

Our photography session fee is $50 per hour and includes access to all of the spaces listed above. This allows you the flexibility to capture multiple looks and backdrops during your shoot, all within one booking.

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