Deep Ellum Hostel

I traveled alone and felt completely safe here, despite worrying about the area after reading reviews. There are loads of places to eat, plus cafes, ice cream shops, and vintage stores nearby. It’s about a half-hour walk to the main part of the city. I wish the hostel would post directions to Union Station and the bus stations on its notice board, since that would be really helpful. Inside, the downstairs seating area is huge and pleasant, and the kitchen is clean. The bathrooms were the best I’ve come across in a hostel. This is the best hostel I’ve ever stayed in.

It felt easy to settle in here. The staff are warm and welcoming, and it’s a great place to meet people. My room was clean and nicely decorated, and I felt comfortable throughout my stay, which isn’t always the case for me in hostels. The entrance has a welcoming but modern, cool atmosphere. I also loved that the bar is right there, with its door made from suitcases. I can’t wait to come back!

There’s a light and a personal fan at each bunk, plus AC and a larger fan in the room. You can lock your luggage and valuables in storage under the bed, though you need to bring your own lock. It was loud outside because of the nightlife, but I slept through the night without trouble. The hostel is clean and well run, with a great vibe. Restaurants and nightlife are just steps away, and there’s a late-night pizza place and a hostel bar right next door. I’d gladly stay again and recommend it.

We booked a private room with a bathroom, but there wasn’t a working lock on the door. When I raised it with the front desk, an employee sent a man upstairs. He fiddled with the lock for about 15 seconds, said there was nothing he could do, then asked if it was really a problem and said it probably hadn’t worked in about three years. I was stunned, so we checked out right away and asked for a refund. While we were checking out downstairs, that same man was in the common area being loud with guests. The staff seemed incapable and unprofessional. Even if everything worked, the private room price wouldn’t come close to justifying the rough neighborhood and bad experience. You can find cheaper, safer, better-quality places all over the city. I wouldn’t recommend booking here, and wish I could give it zero stars.