The Excelsior Hotel – The Oldest Hotel in Texas — Est. 1858
Experience timeless elegance in the heart of Jefferson, Texas. Stay where history lives, and create your own story.
Are you looking for the perfect hotel in Jefferson, Texas? Look no further than The Excelsior Hotel! Our stunning, historic property offers a unique blend of classic charm and modern amenities, making it the ideal choice for your next getaway or business trip. Click to read more.
The Excelsior House Hotel is a true Texas treasure, rich in history, character, and Southern hospitality. Located in the heart of downtown Jefferson, the hotel has welcomed travelers since 1858 and is recognized as the oldest continuously operating hotel in Texas.
Over the years, many notable guests have walked its halls, including Ulysses S. Grant, Oscar Wilde, Rutherford B. Hayes, Lady Bird Johnson, and Steven Spielberg. Their visits are part of the remarkable story that continues to make The Excelsior House one of Jefferson’s most distinctive landmarks.
The hotel features 15 individually appointed guest rooms, each furnished with beautiful antiques and old-world charm. While the atmosphere reflects another era, guests can still enjoy modern conveniences, including cable television and complimentary Wi-Fi.
The grand ballroom and peaceful fountain courtyard provide elegant settings for weddings, receptions, reunions, celebrations, and romantic getaways. The Excelsior House Hotel is also well suited for business meetings, retreats, and small conventions, offering groups a quiet and memorable alternative to a traditional meeting venue.
Guided Hotel Tours
Discover the stories, architecture, and traditions that have made The Excelsior House Hotel a Jefferson landmark for generations.
Guided hotel tours are offered every Friday and Saturday at 2:00 p.m.
Please contact the hotel in advance for additional information and to confirm tour availability.
Preserving a Texas Treasure
Since 1961, this nonprofit hotel has been owned and operated by the ladies of the Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club in association with the Excelsior Foundation. Through their dedication and stewardship, this historic property has been carefully preserved for future generations.
80th Annual Historic Jefferson Pilgrimage
Mark your calendar for the 80th Annual Historic Jefferson Pilgrimage, April 29–30 and May 1–2, 2027, hosted by the Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club.
This celebrated annual tradition offers visitors the opportunity to tour historic homes, attend special events, and experience the architecture, culture, and heritage of Jefferson.
For tickets, schedules, and additional information, visit the
Historic Jefferson Pilgrimage website.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, planning a romantic escape, attending a special celebration, or simply searching for a unique Texas getaway, The Excelsior House Hotel offers a warm welcome and an unforgettable stay in the heart of historic Jefferson.
English Afternoon Tea
Experience the Grace and Elegance of the Gilded Age
Join us at the historic Excelsior House Hotel on
Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 3:00 p.m.
Seating is limited, and advance reservations are required.
Vintage Artisan Markets
Jefferson, Texas
Shop handcrafted goods, artisan creations, and unique finds from talented vendors during Jefferson’s seasonal events.
Interested in becoming a vendor?
View market dates, requirements, and application details.
Guest Rooms
Located in the heart of downtown historic Jefferson, all accommodations feature views of West Austin Street, William Perry Park or our New Orleans style courtyard. All rooms have private bathrooms, beds dressed in fine linens, high speed Wi-Fi internet access as well as a flat screen TV. Our property is perfect for the ultimate romantic getaway or honeymoon in Texas. Our Excelsior Southern Breakfast is served Friday – Sunday, and is $24.95 plus tax per person. Click below to check one of many options for your stay at The Excelsior House Hotel for availability.
Meetings & Events
The Excelsior House Hotel is the perfect gathering place for productive meetings of small business groups, boards, directors, planners and managers.
Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club Historical Tours
Experience Gilded Age Luxury! Tour Jay Gould’s Private Rail Car.
Step into the opulence of the Gilded Age with a tour of Jay Gould’s private rail car, “The Atalanta.” See how this influential (and controversial!) railroad magnate traveled in style. From “robber baron” to empire builder, Gould’s impact is undeniable, especially considering Jefferson rejected his railroad, earning his legendary curse! Now meticulously maintained by the Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club, this “trophy car” offers a unique glimpse into history.
Purchase your tickets in the lobby of the historic Excelsior Hotel. Knowledgeable members will guide you through, sharing captivating stories of Gould, the car’s history, and the women who saved it. Don’t miss this chance to see period furnishings and experience a piece of Jefferson’s storied past!
Tour the Ruth Lester Memorial House, and the Jefferson Playhouse
On April 22-23, 1955, the Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club, founded in 1939, held the first performances of the Diamond Bessie Murder Trial in the former synagogue. The garden club purchased the property and both structures in 1966. Renovations began in 1970, and the home was dedicated as the Ruth Lester Memorial in memory of Ruth Graham Lester, a long-time member of the garden club and an energetic promoter of Jefferson. The synagogue is now known as the Jefferson Playhouse.
Tours can be booked by reservation for school and other organized groups
The Excelsior Hotel
The Oldest Hotel in Texas — Est. 1858
Experience timeless elegance in the heart of Jefferson, Texas.
Stay where history lives, and create your own story.
Are you looking for the perfect hotel in Jefferson, Texas? Look no further than The Excelsior Hotel! Our stunning, historic property offers a unique blend of classic charm and modern amenities, making it the ideal choice for your next getaway or business trip. Click to read more.
Steeped in history, this venerable establishment holds the distinction of being the oldest hotel in Texas, having welcomed guests since 1858. Its storied halls have been graced by illustrious figures including Ulysses S. Grant, Oscar Wilde, Rutherford B. Hayes, Lady Bird Johnson, and Steven Spielberg.
Experience the Rich History of Jefferson, Texas
Jefferson, Texas, is a town steeped in history, and The Excelsior Hotel is proud to be a part of that legacy. Built in the mid 19th century, our hotel has been meticulously restored to its former glory, offering guests a glimpse into the past while providing all the comforts of the present.
Unparalleled Amenities and Services
At The Excelsior Hotel, we go above and beyond to ensure that our guests have an unforgettable stay. Our hotel in Jefferson, Texas, features:
– Elegantly appointed rooms and suites with plush bedding and period-inspired décor
– Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the property
– A delicious breakfast is served Friday, Saturday and Sunday in our charming dining room
– Flexible meeting and event spaces for weddings, conferences, and special occasions
The hotel boasts 15 guest rooms, each exuding a charming antiquity complemented by modern conveniences such as cable TV and reliable Wi-Fi. The grand ballroom and tranquil fountain courtyard are sought-after venues for various occasions, from weddings and receptions to business meetings and retreats.
Preserving History and Community
Since 1961, the Excelsior House Hotel has been overseen by the Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club. In partnership with the Excelsior Foundation, the **hotel**, along with other properties managed by the garden club, operate as non-profit entities under 501(c)(3) status. By choosing to stay at our hotel in Jefferson, Texas, you are supporting the preservation of this historic landmark and contributing to the local community.
Explore the Best of Jefferson, Texas
Our prime location in the heart of Jefferson, Texas, puts you just steps away from the town’s top attractions, including:
– Historic downtown district with unique shops, restaurants, and museums
– Scenic riverfront area perfect for picnics, fishing, and boat tours
– Nearby wineries and breweries offering tastings and tours
– Gorgeous parks and hiking trails showcasing the natural beauty of East Texas
Join Us for the Annual Historic Pilgrimage
Save the date for the 79th Annual Historic Pilgrimage scheduled from April 30th through May 3, 2026, a cherished event organized by the Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club. Immerse yourself in historic home tours and other engaging activities during this captivating celebration. Make The Excelsior Hotel your home base as you explore the fascinating history and charm of Jefferson, Texas.
Book Your Stay at The Excelsior Hotel Today!
Whether you’re visiting Jefferson, Texas, for business or pleasure, The Excelsior Hotel offers the perfect blend of sophistication, comfort, and convenience. Book your stay today and discover why we’re the premier choice among hotels in Jefferson, Texas!
To reserve a room, plan an event, or embark on a memorable getaway, kindly reach out to us for more information. Our friendly staff is dedicated to ensuring that your stay at The Excelsior Hotel is nothing short of extraordinary. Experience the timeless charm and warm hospitality of our historic hotel in Jefferson, Texas.
For reservations or more information, please click here or call us at (903) 665-2513. We look forward to welcoming you to The Excelsior Hotel and the charming town of Jefferson, Texas!
Celebrate July 4th in Historic Jefferson
Make your Fourth of July weekend special with a Saturday night stay at the historic
Excelsior House Hotel or the Ruth Lester Memorial House.
Book your Saturday night stay and receive a 2-for-1 Southern Breakfast
on Sunday morning.
Sunday Morning Southern Breakfast Includes:
- Scrambled eggs
- Ham
- Grits
- Biscuits
- Excelsior’s famous Orange Blossom muffins
- Fresh juice and coffee
Spend the weekend enjoying Jefferson’s historic charm, local shops, restaurants,
and Independence Day festivities, then start Sunday morning with a delicious
Southern breakfast.
Call (903) 665-2513
to reserve your room today, or visit
TheExcelsiorHouse.com.
Guest Rooms
Located in the heart of downtown historic Jefferson, all accommodations feature views of West Austin Street, William Perry Park or our New Orleans style courtyard. All rooms have private bathrooms, beds dressed in fine linens, high speed Wi-Fi internet access as well as a flat screen TV and telephone. Our property is perfect for the ultimate romantic getaway or honeymoon in Texas. Our Excelsior Southern Breakfast is served Friday – Sunday, and is $24.95 plus tax per person. Click below to check one of many options for your stay at The Excelsior House Hotel for availability.
Meetings & Events
The Excelsior House Hotel is the perfect gathering place for productive meetings of small business groups, boards, directors, planners and managers.
Historical Tours
Tour Jay Gould’s Private Rail Car
Experience Gilded Age Luxury!
Step into the opulence of the Gilded Age with a tour of Jay Gould’s private rail car, “The Atalanta.” See how this influential (and controversial!) railroad magnate traveled in style. From “robber baron” to empire builder, Gould’s impact is undeniable, especially considering Jefferson rejected his railroad, earning his legendary curse! Now meticulously maintained by the Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club, this “trophy car” offers a unique glimpse into history.
Purchase your tickets in the lobby of the historic Excelsior Hotel. Knowledgeable members will guide you through, sharing captivating stories of Gould, the car’s history, and the women who saved it. Don’t miss this chance to see period furnishings and experience a piece of Jefferson’s storied past!
Ruth Lester House / Jefferson Playhouse
On April 22-23, 1955, the Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club, founded in 1939, held the first performances of the Diamond Bessie Murder Trial in the former synagogue. The garden club purchased the property and both structures in 1966. Renovations began in 1970, and the home was dedicated as the Ruth Lester Memorial in memory of Ruth Graham Lester, a long-time member of the garden club and an energetic promoter of Jefferson. The synagogue is now known as the Jefferson Playhouse.
Tours can be booked by reservation for school and other organized groups
