Gardner Hotel & Hostel

In the heart of the historic center of El Paso lies a unique place where time seems to have stood still for over a century. The Gardner Hotel and Hostel is more than just a place to stay—it is a true legend of the state of Texas in the USA. Opened in 1922, it holds the proud title of the city's oldest continuously operating hotel, preserving the authentic look of the "Roaring Twenties."

The building is a majestic three-story brick structure with a steel frame, which was considered the pinnacle of engineering and a guarantee of safety at the beginning of the last century. However, the main treasures are hidden inside. Upon crossing the threshold, visitors enter a veritable museum: the lobby displays rare artifacts, such as a replica of the death mask of famous gangster John Dillinger, original wanted posters, and even a handwritten letter by Leo Tolstoy.

The hotel's interiors are filled with antique furniture, vintage typewriters, sepia photographs, and a working 1930s telephone exchange. Today, the Gardner offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern comfort, dividing its space between classic hotel rooms and a budget hostel that has been attracting backpackers from around the world since 1984.

To contact the administration and clarify booking details, you can use the official contact information. The hotel maintains the tradition of personal communication, which emphasizes its historic status.

A visit to this place is, first and foremost, a journey back in time. Start your visit in the lobby, which looks more like a museum exhibition hall. Here, you can spend hours examining the details: from a wooden telephone booth, nearly as old as the building itself, to a collection of vintage clocks and antique photographs. Don't forget to take a photo with the famous John Dillinger exhibits—it's a must-do ritual for all guests.

For those who aren't afraid of mysteries, the hotel offers a special experience. The building has a reputation as a haunted abode, and themed tours dedicated to paranormal phenomena and secrets of the past are held periodically. If your visit coincides with festive events, you might catch 1920s-style parties with live music, where the "Great Gatsby" atmosphere is felt most vividly.

Guests can relax in the cozy breakfast bar, which has been masterfully integrated into the space of the historic building. Since the hotel is located just a few hundred meters from the border, it is very convenient to plan walks to the international bridge or explore the reviving downtown El Paso with its authentic Mexican restaurants and shops.

Finding the Gardner Hotel and Hostel is easy, as it is located in the heart of the city at 311 E Franklin Ave. If you are traveling by car, head for the central blocks; parking zones are available nearby in downtown. For those who prefer public transport, a convenient option is the Sun Metro bus system, with stops within walking distance of the building.

Travelers arriving at El Paso International Airport (ELP) can use taxis or rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. The trip to the hotel usually takes about 15–20 minutes (the distance is approximately 10 km). The property is also located just 800 meters from the Paso Del Norte International Bridge and near Union Depot, making it extremely convenient for those arriving by train or crossing the border.

If you are already in the center, the best way to get there is on foot. The area around the hotel is actively developing and filled with interesting locations, so the walk to the hotel will allow you to enjoy the authentic atmosphere of revitalized El Paso.

The history of this place began in May 1922, when attorney Preston E. Gardner opened the doors of his elegant three-story hotel. The building was designed by the famous architect Henry Trost. At that time, fires were a major concern, so the hotel was built using an all-steel frame, making it practically fireproof—a rare and valuable feature for the early 20th century.

One of the most exciting chapters in the hotel's history occurred on January 9, 1934. In room 221, under the pseudonym John D. Ball, the legendary bank robber John Dillinger was hiding with his gang. Interestingly, the local police knew of his presence but did not make an arrest immediately, as Dillinger had not broken any El Paso city laws at that time.

The hotel's cultural significance is further highlighted by the fact that the famous writer Cormac McCarthy lived here in the 1970s and 80s. It is believed that the walls of the Gardner inspired some of his works in "The Border Trilogy," and the hotel itself is even mentioned in his books. Since the 1940s, the Nehban family has owned the building, carefully preserving the spirit of olden times, managing the business personally, and not allowing modern trends to erase its historical uniqueness.

In 2022, the hotel celebrated its 100th anniversary with a grand 1920s-style block party. This event once again confirmed the establishment's status as a living icon of downtown, capable of transporting guests into the past without a time machine.

For those visiting the Gardner Hotel and Hostel out of curiosity to touch history, 30 to 60 minutes will suffice. This is enough time to explore the museum display in the lobby, take some atmospheric photos with antique objects, and feel the spirit of the 1920s.

If you plan a deeper immersion—for example, taking a "ghost tour" of the building or relaxing at the bar—it's worth setting aside about 2–3 hours. For travelers who choose this place for accommodation, the hotel becomes a full-fledged base for 1–2 days, allowing them to leisurely explore all its hidden corners and enjoy the proximity to other city attractions.

The Gardner Hotel and Hostel is hospitably open to visitors 24/7. The reception desk is staffed 24 hours a day, allowing guests to check in or request information at any convenient time, whether it's early morning or the middle of the night.

However, if you plan to visit specifically to view the museum exhibits or want to check the timing of special tours, it is recommended to visit the official website in advance or contact the administration by phone to ensure that private events do not restrict access to public areas.

The downtown location offers travelers excellent opportunities to explore the surroundings. A walk through downtown will allow you to see not only historic architecture but also modern entertainment centers, parks, and unique museums that will complement your understanding of this border region's culture.

Below are some interesting sites that can be reached from the hotel: