Excelsior House Hotel
Texas's oldest hotel, offering a step back in time with antique-filled rooms and a charming courtyard in historic downtown Jefferson.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Excelsior House Hotel
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Texas's oldest hotel, offering a step back in time with antique-filled rooms and a charming courtyard in historic downtown Jefferson.
"A historic gem with a prime location, though some guests find room quality doesn't match the price."
🎯 Book a Courtyard Room
Rooms facing the courtyard may offer more sunlight and a quieter stay.
🚶♀️ Walk Everywhere!
Prime location in downtown Jefferson, perfect for exploring shops and dining on foot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Charm
Step back in time in uniquely decorated rooms filled with antiques. Experience Texas's oldest hotel.
Beautiful Courtyard
A relaxing oasis perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring Jefferson's historic sites.
Lobby Artifacts
Discover a fascinating display of artifacts and information about the hotel's rich past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History (and Quirks)
Location is Key, but Manage Expectations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Creepy places in Caddo Lake area
🎯 Book a Courtyard Room
Rooms facing the courtyard may offer more sunlight and a quieter stay.
🚶♀️ Walk Everywhere!
Prime location in downtown Jefferson, perfect for exploring shops and dining on foot.
A list of must see/do
Seeking Haunted or High-Strangeness Locations in East Texas – Respectfully and Curiously
🧐 Inquire About Room Condition
Some guests report cleanliness or comfort issues; ask about specific room details.
👻 Consider a Ghost Tour
Jefferson is known for its history, including ghost stories. Ask staff for recommendations!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book a Courtyard Room
Rooms facing the courtyard may offer more sunlight and a quieter stay.
🚶♀️ Walk Everywhere!
Prime location in downtown Jefferson, perfect for exploring shops and dining on foot.
🧐 Inquire About Room Condition
Some guests report cleanliness or comfort issues; ask about specific room details.
👻 Consider a Ghost Tour
Jefferson is known for its history, including ghost stories. Ask staff for recommendations!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests praise the Excelsior House Hotel for its incredible historic charm, prime downtown location, and beautiful courtyard. However, some find the room quality and cleanliness inconsistent with the price, citing issues like musty smells and worn furnishings.
"This is a historic hotel. Less expensive rooms on 2nd floor with no elevator. All rooms decorated and furnished in period style that I liked. Floors somewhat uneven due to age of building. Bathrooms are modern, individual (and effective) air conditioning. Very comfortable King sized bed.
Wonderful common areas in hotel, and a great outdoor courtyard. Helpful staff. Great location - walking distance to most everything in Jefferson. I will visit again on a future trip."
Clayton Nash
"Stayed two nights in the Lady Bird Room. Very large room with private bathroom. Our room was clean and quiet. We paid for breakfast one day. It was very good. We love the history of the hotel."
Donna Barnhill
"Beautiful historic hotel in downtown Jefferson. Walking distance from so much dining and shopping.
The room, while beautiful, left much to be desired. We stayed in the Jay Gould room. The beds were horrible and the bathroom towels left much to be desired (thin and very small). The room was dark and musty.
Pretty to look at but not to stay in. For the price, I expected much more."
Elaine Revell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Excelsior House Hotel is located in downtown Jefferson, Texas. It's easily accessible by car. If you're coming from a distance, the nearest major airport is typically in Shreveport, Louisiana (SHV), which is about an hour's drive away. From there, you can rent a car or arrange for a shuttle service to Jefferson.
Parking availability can vary. It's best to contact the hotel directly to inquire about their parking options for guests, especially if you are driving.
Absolutely! The Excelsior House Hotel boasts a prime location in downtown Jefferson, making it a short walk to many historic sites, boutiques, and eateries.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your stay in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak seasons or weekends, as the hotel is historic and popular.
Standard check-in and check-out times apply. It's advisable to confirm these directly with the hotel when making your reservation or a few days before your arrival.
The hotel itself is a living exhibit of history. The lobby features a display of artifacts and information about its past. Check with the hotel for any special events they might be hosting.
There is no admission fee to enter the public areas of the hotel, such as the lobby and common areas. However, you need to book a room to stay overnight.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Excelsior House Hotel is renowned as the oldest hotel in Texas, dating back to 1858. It has a rich history and is preserved to maintain its period charm.
Rooms are decorated and furnished in a period style, reflecting the hotel's historic nature. Some rooms feature clawfoot bathtubs and may have uneven floors due to the building's age.
Guests can enjoy the wonderful common areas and a great outdoor courtyard. Modern amenities like individual air conditioning are also available in the rooms.
The hotel has historic rooms on the second floor without an elevator, which may pose a challenge for some guests. It's best to inquire about accessible room options when booking.
The atmosphere is steeped in history, offering a unique glimpse into the past. It's a place for those who appreciate historic architecture and a bygone era.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Breakfast is typically offered but is not always included with the room rate. Some reviews suggest it's a good option, but it can be pricey.
The hotel offers a Southern breakfast. Guests have described it as very good.
Yes, the hotel is located in downtown Jefferson, which has numerous dining options within walking distance, from casual eateries to more formal restaurants.
While breakfast is a known offering, information on lunch and dinner services at the hotel itself is less common. It's best to check with the hotel directly for their current dining options.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic rooms, the beautiful courtyard, and the lobby with its artifacts are all excellent for photography. The exterior architecture also makes for great shots.
Generally, you can take photos in the public areas like the lobby. However, for photos inside guest rooms, you would need to be a registered guest.
While not explicitly stated, it's always good practice to be respectful of other guests' privacy and the historic nature of the property. Avoid intrusive photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Jefferson itself has activities that can appeal to families, such as exploring the town's unique shops and perhaps a boat tour on Caddo Lake. The hotel's central location makes it easy to access these attractions without extensive travel. Consider the hotel for families who appreciate history and are looking for a memorable, albeit potentially less conventional, lodging experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
If you're looking to experience the historic charm without the full hotel cost, consider visiting Jefferson and exploring the town's free attractions like walking the historic streets and browsing shops. For lodging, researching other options in or around Jefferson might yield more budget-friendly choices, though they may lack the unique historical ambiance of the Excelsior House.
👻 Ghost Hunters & Paranormal Enthusiasts
While the hotel's reviews don't explicitly detail paranormal experiences, the general atmosphere and historical context make it a compelling place for enthusiasts. Nearby Caddo Lake and other historic sites in the area are also known for their spooky reputations, making Jefferson a great base for a paranormal-themed trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm and Challenges of Historic Stays
However, as with many historic properties, there are inherent challenges. Some guests have noted that the floors can be uneven due to the building's age, and a faint 'musty' smell, often described as the 'scent of history,' can be present. While bathrooms have been modernized and air conditioning is available, the overall experience is one of stepping back in time, which may not appeal to everyone.
It's important for potential guests to understand that the 'historic charm' comes with its own set of quirks. Reviews sometimes mention issues with room cleanliness or the comfort of the beds, which can be a letdown given the price point. Managing expectations and perhaps inquiring about specific room conditions before booking can help ensure a more satisfactory stay.
Exploring Historic Jefferson from the Excelsior House
Beyond the immediate downtown area, Jefferson offers a wealth of historical experiences. Visitors can explore historic homes, take a bayou tour on Caddo Lake, or delve into the town's storied past, which includes tales of riverboats and Civil War intrigue. The hotel's proximity to these sites makes it convenient for day-trippers and those looking to fully immerse themselves in the local culture.
For those interested in the more 'creepy' or unusual side of the region, nearby Caddo Lake and the surrounding areas are often mentioned. While the hotel itself is historic, the broader region offers opportunities for ghost tours and exploring local legends, adding another layer of interest for curious travelers.
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