Reviews from guests who stayed at this hotel, shared by our hotel supplier. Score based on the latest 200 reviews.
Gregory
United States · Group of friends · October 2026
+I love the architecture and general aesthetic ("Spanish Revival," I think they call it?). I love the feeling of being in an old, historic building, not these cheap, modern, cookie-cutter hotels. I only wish the surrounding town was nicer. Those run-down shacks spoil your view. It would be worth while to put some pressure on the city of Van Horn to fix up the neighborhood, for tourist reasons.
Steven
United States · Couple · October 2026
“Great historic hotel”
+All good including the restaurant.
James B
United States · Couple · October 2026
“Hotel El Capitan - such a sweet experience”
+Naturally the history - pueblo motif 1930’s in Van Horn Texas - to the ups and downs and thanks to those that believed and helped the property be to where it is today (modern yet keeping with yesterday’s flair) - the hotel staff (from check-in to dinner to check-out) - the room was exceptional - (a ceiling fan each above two comfortable queen beds with a double door entry to a small courtyard) - delicious dinner outdoors with live music in a quaint courtyard filled with plants and flowers throughout - an interesting gift shop - partly in a hallway and a small room with books caps shirts candles magnets and such (open 24 hrs pay at the front desk) - so happy to have chosen Hotel El Capitan for my son and myself night’s stay before trekking to highest natural point in Texas just down the road (1 hour) to Guadalupe National Park - oh and one side note - chocolate chip cookie offered at front desk upon checking in - thanks again y’all for this sweet experience …
−N/A
Ernest
United States · Couple · October 2026
“If you are traveling along the I10, you have to stay in the Hotel El Capitan in Van Horn, TX. An absolute treat!”
+Wonderful old (built in 1930) Railroad Hotel. Completely modernized, beautifully restored, excellent staff, wonderful food! One of the best, if not the best places to stay in West Texas. Immediately off the I10. Breakfast and Dinner in a delightful courtyard full of birds. Usually has live music in the evenings.
−Everything was great.
steven
United States · Couple · September 2026
“I'd drive out of my way to stay there!!”
+Beautiful hotel. Great staff. Cleanliness
−Nothing
Alford
United States · Couple · August 2026
“Water was off. We were not able to shower or flush toilets.”
+Below average continental breakfast. Powered scrambled eggs. Waffle was nice. Sausage tasted old.
−More choices. Maybe boiled eggs. Bacon. Individual yogurt cups. Fruit of any kind.
dianettew2026
Solo · July 2026
“Absolute GEM!”
+Talk about an oasis in the middle of nowhere! I couldn’t make it to El Paso with my two dogs and with pure luck found this beautiful little hotel. Pet friendly (as I sit at their restaurant, Henry’s, waiting for the dogs’ chicken order to arrive…) Anita at the front desk couldn’t have been kinder. The room is beautiful. The hotel is an absolute gem. Highly recommend.
750russellt
Business trip · July 2026
“Historic Charm and Warmth”
+We are very happy that we discovered Hotel El Capitan and stayed there this past week. The historic feeling has been amplified by the thoughtful renovation the hotel had. The staff were terrific and the entire experience was memorable and appreciated.
Vickie
United States · Solo · July 2026
“Lovely, historic hotel. If only the town had a little more to offer of visitor.”
+The decor touches featuring old photos and framed items was neat. I loved the courtyard in the fountain. I found the restaurant lighting to be a little harsh/bright. Fabulous breakfast spread that I got to enjoy before departing the next morning.
−A little tricky navigating my luggage from the car using your luggage cart and having to go around uneven surfaces to the front of the building. Perhaps some ramps from the parking lot to the rear hotel door, could be a solution in the future.
“Front Desk Step Up”
+The hotel is great with lot of character, nothing but praise for the value of such a gem. The rooms are clean and comfortable. The restaurant is superb. The waitresses are friendly and accommodating. We had a great quality meals, thank you chefs. My one complain is the lack of approachability by the staff at the front desk. They do not smile or welcome you, they behave as if they are doing you a favor. They barely greet you and eye contact is minimal, its very unprofessional and uncomfortable. They set the standard for the experience we guest will have and they failed. If they do not want to welcome guest, they shouldn't be in the hospitality industry, more importantly, working the front desk of a hotel.