Hotel El Capitan

The restaurant was busy on Saturday evening, so I'd arrive early. Service ran a little slow, but our server was very nice and the food was so good that we didn't mind. The ground prime rib cheeseburger was the best burger I've ever had, and the fries were outstanding. I also loved the El Capitan Old Fashioned. Breakfast is self-serve, with a decent range of waffles, eggs, bacon, sausage, pastries, cereal, breads, juices, and more. We stayed at this charming old building on both legs of our trip to visit family, who had recommended it as a halfway stop. It's been remodeled beautifully while keeping its old west character. The welcome was friendly and accommodating, and we loved that dogs are allowed. Our king suite was very clean, with an ultra-comfortable bed and quality bedding. We'd definitely come back.

The clean, comfortable room gave me a good place to sleep and a nice breakfast the next morning. What really impressed me was arriving to find the courtyard and lobby so inviting. They made me want to settle in and stay awhile. If I hadn't been short on time, I'd have stayed another night to relax by the fireplace and eat at the restaurant. I absolutely loved the El Capitan.

Van Horn's highlight for me, by far. My company had booked me at a different hotel while I was passing through, but I walked about a mile to El Captain for dinner and wasn't disappointed. I had the fresh kale and apple salad at the bar, then the house burger with all the trimmings. Both were delicious. On my way out I stopped by the washroom and found a cute little gift shop in the hotel reception selling local goods. If you want to go where locals go while you're in the area, this is the place.

We were glad we stayed for the historic hotel experience and dinner. The public spaces are great, the restaurant and bar have a solid menu, and the service was terrific. In this stretch, there isn't much beyond cheap roadside hotels. I just wish we'd slept longer. The room doors slam loudly, so once one or two guests get up, it seems like everyone is awake.