Shoshone Inn

This hotel is celebrated as a unique desert oasis, offering a surprisingly modern and comfortable stay in the historic, tiny town of Shoshone. Its signature feature is the access to a natural spring-fed pool, providing a relaxing retreat after a day of exploration. The hotel serves as an ideal base for Death Valley visitors, offering a more affordable and tranquil alternative to accommodations within the park. It also appeals to sightseers, solo female travelers, and cyclists looking for a quiet, well-equipped stop. To enhance your stay, it is advisable to pack some food and water due to limited local dining options, and be aware of the pool's specific hours and location.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests highly value the unique natural spring-fed pool, which is heated and provides a rustic yet clean experience, though it requires a short walk from the hotel and guests need a key for access. While some found the pool a bit far or noted its cleaning schedule (closed Wednesday mornings), many enjoyed its warm waters. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi, which is particularly crucial as cell service is often non-existent in the area, allowing guests to stay connected. Other appreciated amenities include a communal fire pit for evening relaxation and the convenience of ice machines and vending machines on the property.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently praise the cleanliness of the rooms, describing them as spotless, fresh, and well-maintained. The rooms, despite the motel's exterior, are noted for their modern renovations and tasteful decor, often featuring a mini-fridge, microwave, and Keurig or coffee maker. Many guests found the beds comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, though some mentioned pillows being too hard or beds being small. The bathrooms are frequently highlighted as sparkling, updated, and spacious, with good water pressure. While the overall ambiance is quiet, a common concern is the thin walls, which can lead to noise from neighboring rooms being easily heard.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers a complimentary, light breakfast typically consisting of bagels, fruit, yogurt, and coffee, served in the office or lobby. Most guests found this breakfast adequate and a pleasant surprise, given the remote location, though some wished for more substantial options or noted that the 8 AM start time could be late for early adventurers. The Crowbar Cafe or Saloon located directly across the street is frequently mentioned as a convenient and good dining option, offering tasty food and service. However, guests should be aware that dining options in the immediate town are very limited, and the restaurant may have temporary closures for renovation, making it wise to bring some of your own food.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location in the tiny, historic town of Shoshone is a major draw, serving as an excellent and more affordable base for exploring Death Valley National Park, which is about an hour's drive away. The town itself, with its population of 31, is described as unique, quiet, and remote, offering a true "off-the-grid" experience. Guests appreciate the proximity to essential amenities like a general store, gas station, and a museum, all within walking distance. The area also boasts charming walking trails, a pupfish sanctuary, and a tortoise sanctuary. Parking is ample and free, though some guests noted that spots can be tight or limited during peak times.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight their welcoming demeanor and their willingness to provide detailed information about the town's unique history and local attractions. The check-in process is described as smooth and efficient, even for late arrivals, with staff often having backup plans in place. Guests appreciate the staff's commitment to ensuring a positive experience, from maintaining clean rooms to accommodating specific requests. Overall, the personalized and caring service provided by the team significantly contributes to the hotel's positive reputation.

Additional Information
A notable aspect of staying here is the almost complete lack of cell service in the area, making the hotel's reliable Wi-Fi a crucial amenity for communication, though some international IP addresses might experience restrictions. The hotel does not offer luggage storage before or after a stay, which is an important detail for guests planning their travel logistics. Many guests were delighted by the thoughtful welcome gifts provided in the rooms, such as spa-level toiletries, pillow spray, lip balm, and eye cream. Despite its exterior resembling an older roadside motel, guests are consistently surprised by the modern, renovated, and well-appointed interiors, highlighting the hotel's unique charm as a hidden gem.