Having grown up in Merced prior to moving away as an adult, I was aware of the hotels that were around town but did not have experience staying at any of them. When I saw the reviews for El Capitan, it was an easy decision to give it a try when traveling back with my wife and kids.
I was pleasantly surprised by how well done the renovations were! Our room was incredibly spacious, clean, and had several design touches that created a comfortable yet chic atmosphere. After staying here, I have no desire to stay at any of the chain hotels! The staff was professional and knowledgeable, our rooms were actually cleaned thoroughly (which cannot be said of some chain hotels), and it was a very calm, quiet atmosphere. The hotel restaurant had very fresh, delicious breakfast items at a reasonable price. This isn’t the place to stay if your criteria includes a free continental breakfast, but I’d much rather pay for some fresh scrambled eggs than some free reconstituted powdered eggs.
The only downside was the parking garage being a bit of a walk from the hotel lobby, but there is a valet service available to mitigate that. Again, well worth the short walk to stay at such a nice hotel. Will be recommending this place to any family and friends who are looking for accommodations!