GARDNER HOTEL & HOSTEL, El Paso

Gardner Hotel & Hostel - A historic 1922 downtown landmark with vintage rooms and an underground 1920s bar

Operating since 1922, this historic El Paso hotel stands as the city's oldest continuously running accommodation, famously hosting bank robber John Dillinger in room 221 during 1934. The 2-star Gardner Hotel & Hostel features private rooms with ensuite or shared bathrooms, plus dormitory-style hostel accommodations added in 1984. Rooms maintain original antique furniture and vintage-styled bathrooms, equipped with ceiling fans and individual heating/cooling controls. A self-service kitchen designed by HGTV's Britney Simon, coin-operated laundry, and games room with pool table serve guest needs. The property includes an underground 1920s-themed bar and provides complimentary refreshments. Located in Downtown El Paso, the hotel sits within 0.5 miles of El Paso Museum of Art, El Paso Museum of History, and the Scottish Rite Temple. Two free parking spaces are available on a first-come basis, with metered street parking free from 6 PM to 8 AM on weekdays.

Pros

Historic building where author Cormac McCarthy wrote several books in the 1970s-80s

Walking distance to downtown restaurants, bars, and the Saturday farmers market

Original 1920s architectural features and antique furnishings preserved

Front desk staff knowledgeable about both El Paso and Juarez attractions

Cons

No elevator access to upper floors

Limited on-site parking with only two free spaces