The newly revived boutique lifestyle hotel in Merced offers 114 stylish guestrooms and three distinctive dining experiences near Yosemite National Park.

Located at the heart of the state’s lush Central Valley, El Capitan fuses approachable sophistication and modern comfort in a turn-of-the-century heritage property.

A historic site is reborn

Taking up a site that was originally built to serve train passengers travelling to Yosemite National Park, the reborn El Capitan pays tribute to the spirit of exploration. Guests can expect to find three locally driven dining spots onsite, plus entertainment at the local Mainzer theatre and easy access to the city’s downtown area, open spaces and farms.

Design elements take inspiration from the nearby 19th-century train depot, which underscores Merced’s history as a transportation hub, and artwork celebrates the agricultural and cultural traditions of the region.

“We are thrilled to welcome guests to experience the JdV by Hyatt brand’s inclusive spirit and joy-driven service through this new chapter in the hotel’s history,” said Robin Donovan, managing director of El Capitan and Mainzer.

“There is so much to discover in Merced from the charm of the town’s classic American Main Street to the surrounding farms and vineyards. We’re opening during a unique time, but El Capitan has been a beacon in this community offering access to comfort and adventure for more than 100 years and that is a tradition we’re excited to expand upon.”

An immersion into the local area

The hotel houses 114 guestrooms, including three one-bedroom suites and nine junior suites, which span the restored Arbor Lane Wing and newly constructed Main Street Wing. Interiors, meanwhile, showcase the frontier spirit and golden warmth of the Central Valley.

El Capitan’s three restaurants pay tribute to the bounty of the Central Valley. The casual 30-seat dining spot Native Son transitions from a café during the day to a bar by night. The open-air Courtyard then provides a relaxed dining and drinking experience centred around a custom bar taking over a retrofitted horse trailer.

The hotel’s signature restaurant, Rainbird, is to open in the summer, with a culinary offering from chef Quentin Garcia. Prior to that, Bobby’s Market will open in late spring with a curated Central Valley artisan experience.

The property is also home to more than 3,000 sq ft of event space, spread across three indoor areas, and one outdoor venue.

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