2 Best Hotels in The Central Valley, California

Background Illustration for Hotels

Chain motels and hotels predominate, but there are upscale lodgings, small inns, and Victorian-style bed-and-breakfasts.

Bear Creek Inn

$$ | 575 W. North Bear Creek Dr., Merced, CA, 95348, USA

This 1931 neocolonial home stands regally along M Street; rooms are appointed with antiques and big, soft beds. All rooms have Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, and four have fireplaces. The immaculately landscaped 1½-acre property has fruit trees and grapevines. Breakfast is hearty and imaginative, featuring locally grown fruit and other ingredients. Across the street is a walking and bicycling trail that runs for a few miles beside the creek.

Pros

  • Historic charm
  • Good breakfast
  • Convenient to downtown and train station

Cons

  • Front rooms can be noisy
575 W. North Bear Creek Dr., Merced, CA, 95348, USA
209-723–3991
Hotel Details
4 rooms, 1 cottage
Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

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Whispering Pines Lodge

$$$ | 13745 Sierra Way, Kernville, CA, 93238, USA

On the banks of the Kern River, this 8-acre property has units that are motel-style or in duplex bungalows; all have fireplaces, king-size beds, Wi-Fi access, large-screen TVs, and traditional pine and oak furnishings. Most have private balconies, and some have full kitchens, extra twin or double beds, and whirlpool tubs.

Pros

  • Rustic setting
  • Big breakfasts
  • Great views
  • Very clean

Cons

  • Bungalows are pricey
  • Town is remote
13745 Sierra Way, Kernville, CA, 93238, USA
760-376–3733
Hotel Details
17 rooms
Breakfast

Quick Facts

Something incorrect in this review?