El Capitan Hotel, Merced

El Capitan Hotel - A historic downtown Merced hotel with free parking, on-site dining, and valley-inspired rooms

Located in downtown Merced's heart at Main and M Street, El Capitan Hotel welcomes guests with 114 rooms featuring natural materials and hand-crafted textures inspired by the Central Valley landscape. This 4-star Merced hotel integrates architectural elements from a 19th-century train depot, celebrating the city's transportation heritage. Guest accommodations include flat-screen TVs, tea/coffee makers, and air conditioning, with corner rooms offering Main Street views. The property houses a fitness center, three restaurants, and a bar, serving American breakfast daily. Business travelers benefit from 5429 square feet of event space and 24-hour business services. El Capitan Hotel sits just 0.5 miles from Merced Amtrak station and 2 miles from the nearest airport. The University of California campus is 5.5 miles away.

Pros

Free WiFi and private parking available for all guests

Pet-friendly accommodations with specialized amenities

Historic theater with full stage and sound system

Multiple dining venues serving local cuisine

Cons

5.5 miles distance from University of California campus

50 miles from Yosemite National Park