EL CAPITAN HOTEL
Historically known as the “Gateway to Yosemite”, Merced is situated in the understated yet beautiful Central Valley of California.
Originally built in 1892, the El Capitan Hotel was located adjacent to the Central Pacific Railroad tracks and Depot. Completed the same year as the railroad lines, this original El Capitan Hotel was the first substantial building erected in Merced, CA.
Inspired by the golden warmth of the valley, the public spaces showcase natural, hand-crafted materials and textures to evoke the surrounding landscape and draw the outside in. Art deco and Spanish Revival influences are found throughout the property, as well as architectural elements inspired by a 19th century train depot, underscoring the history of Merced as a transportation hub.
F&B DESIGN
The El Capitan Hotel includes three restaurants: Native Son, Rainbird, and the Courtyard.
The design of Native Son took inspiration from the connection that the hotel, and Merced itself, has always had to the railroad, with details like corrugated metal panels cladding the bar, and references to the design of old train stations. The space is designed to transition from a coffee shop in the mornings to cocktail bar at night.
Rainbird, opening Fall 2021, will bring fine dining experience featuring locally grown produce to Merced, and the design
MODERN GUESTROOMS & SUITES
The newly built Main Street Wing houses eighty-one guestrooms that were designed with a focus on Yosemite’s natural beauty. Deep green ceilings and forest-inspired murals create a relaxed and cozy atmosphere, while the eclectic furnishings feel as though they have been collected & curated over time.
HISTORIC GUESTROOMS
Thirty-three of the rooms from the original El Capitan Hotel make up the Arbor Lane Wing. These rooms feature custom toile wallpaper displaying pictures of historic landmarks in Merced, including the old Merced County Courthouse and The Mainzer Theatre.
