Have you ever wondered what it feels like to step across a threshold and directly into the pages of history? In the heart of downtown historic Jefferson, Texas, you don’t have to imagine.

Since its doors first swung open in 1858, The Excelsior House Hotel has stood as a beacon of timeless Southern hospitality. Holding the proud title of the oldest hotel in Texas, our storied halls have spent more than a century and a half serving as a luxurious home-away-from-home for weary travelers, visionary dreamers, and some of the world’s most influential icons.

A Century and a Half of Legendary Guests

When you walk through our doors, your footsteps echo alongside those of leaders, artists, and innovators from both the 19th and 20th centuries. Built in the mid-19th century by riverboat captain William Perry, the Excelsior has been meticulously preserved and cared for since 1961 by the dedicated ladies of the Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club. Because of their passion, when you visit today, you are seeing the hotel in its true, authentic glory—complete with period-inspired decor, striking oil paintings, and elegant rosewood, cherry, and mahogany furnishings.

Over the decades, our 15 historic guest rooms have hosted an incredibly eclectic mix of world-famous figures:

• Ulysses S. Grant: The Civil War General and 18th U.S. President once graced our historic halls.
• Rutherford B. Hayes: Another early American leader who found comfort and hospitality under our roof.
• Oscar Wilde: The legendary Irish poet and playwright brought his quick wit and eye for aesthetic beauty to Jefferson.
• Lady Bird Johnson: The elegant former First Lady of the United States brought her signature Southern grace and warmth to the property.
• Steven Spielberg: Even modern Hollywood royalty has sought creative solace and relaxation within our historic walls.

Old-World Charm Meets Modern Luxury

While our guest rooms exude a charming antiquity and an authentic 19th-century ambiance, we don’t expect you to live like it’s 1858. We believe true Southern hospitality means pairing vintage charm with the contemporary comforts today’s traveler expects.

Every room is uniquely decorated with genuine period antiques, yet fully equipped with upscale modern amenities:

• Private bathrooms and plush bedding dressed in fine linens.
• Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the property to keep you connected.
• Flat-screen cable TVs and telephones for your evening entertainment and convenience.
• Breathtaking views of West Austin Street, William Perry Park, or our serene, New Orleans-style fountain courtyard.

The Excelsior Connection: Sleep in a Historic Masterpiece

Why just read about history when you can sleep in it? At The Excelsior Hotel, you have the rare opportunity to book the exact suites where legends once rested their heads. Each room tells its own unique story and holds immense historical significance.

The Grant Presidential Room

Reflecting the timeless grandeur befitting a former commander-in-chief, this room offers a stately, magnificent atmosphere that transports you straight back to the 19th century.

The Lady Bird Johnson Room

Exuding the pure elegance, warmth, and charm of its namesake, this beautifully appointed space is a long-standing favorite for couples seeking the ultimate romantic getaway or honeymoon destination in Texas.

The Diamond Bessie Suite

Named after a famous local legend, this fascinating suite offers guests a unique glimpse into the intriguing, colorful past of old Jefferson.

Whether you choose a presidential suite or one of our other distinct rooms—like the Blalock, Dolly Bell, Torrans, or Jay Gould rooms—your stay is a direct contribution to the community. Because the hotel is managed in partnership with the Excelsior Foundation as a non-profit entity, booking a room directly supports the ongoing preservation of this magnificent Texas landmark.

Complete Your Journey Through Time

Your step back in time isn’t fully complete without experiencing our culinary traditions. On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings, pull up a chair in our charming dining room or on the sun porch for our famous Excelsior Southern Breakfast, overlooking the picturesque courtyard.

From 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., you can wake up to the mouth-watering aroma of freshly brewed coffee, fluffy scrambled eggs, savory ham, creamy Southern-style grits, a refreshing fruit cup, Snuff Can biscuits, and our renowned, signature Orange Blossom muffins. This delectable experience is priced at $24.95 per person (plus tax), and because everything is prepared fresh, reservations are essential.