The Ranch at Death Valley

If you want to stay in Death Valley, you have three choices: The Ranch, the nearby (and pricey) Inn, or bring your camping gear. My room was "OK" - but the daily cleaning was poor. There was a Pringles lid on the balcony when I arrived, and it was still there when I left three days later. Based on the way the bed was (not) made, and linens were tossed, it was evident that the cleaning person spent less than a couple of minutes in there. Worst of all was my experience dining in their restaurant - Last Kind Words Saloon. After waiting an hour for my "medium" ($48) filet mignon, it arrived very well done. After sending it back, and waiting another 45 minutes (the restaurant was emptying out by this time), I got a stringy sirloin steak (not a filet mignon) that was more rare than medium. (Yes, it cost $48). I would definitely avoid eating at this place. Instead, try the much nicer dining room at the Inn. Read less

Average plus probably captures the current lodging amenities a bit better. Stayed at the Ranch at Death Valley, formerly Furnace Creek Ranch, in one of the Deluxe Rooms overlooking the pool area for four nights Jan 2 thru 6. Not bad, but considering the recent years long renovations, could be better. Pros, the room was clean, well appointed with mini-refrigerator but no microwave and no hair dryer. Cons, found no soap in the shower dispenser (they do not provide bar soap at all), the pillows are like foam blobs, no give whatsoever, very uncomfortable (so bring your own), and the room phone did not work. Bathroom is also a bit small and bathroom entryway is somewhat narrow. Not handicapped friendly at all, no bars, regular tub and shower. The "resort" has been under extensive renovation for the last couple of years or so, and while renovations are supposedly nearly complete they are still working on exterior landscaping and a new cottage complex some distance away from the main lodging so there will be some minimal noise, in our experience that was after 8AM and not particularly intrusive. The overall location is central to Death Valley and nearby many popular Valley attractions. I booked with a senior discount and found that a satisfactory price, again, due to location. But the bottom line is, the place is pricey because, well it's Death Valley and it's far from anywhere else. Regarding the restaurants, I found the Ranch 1949 Buffet passable but admit I only had breakfast. Note, if some item is out ask staff to get it replenished and they will. Also ate at the The Last Kind Words Saloon (and Steak House), reservations are a must and in our group's experience it was great with great service. Finally, also had lunch at the Inn and it was reasonable enough considering the surroundings and view and the food was good with good service. The General Store is stocked with basics, sandwiches, beverages, fruits and snacks but is over priced as one would expect. Bottom line is, bring your own favorite snacks and food items, drinks, etc. Overall the location is pricey, absolutely pricey, did I say it was pricey? But was worth it in my estimation after along day of running around sightseeing. Plan your day's sightseeing so you can get through Beatty NV (limited) east of the park or Pahrump NV (gas, grocery stores, basic restaurants) in the south for a dinner or lunch there. Gas is also dramatically lower in price in Beatty and Pahrump. Better yet, if you want a bargain, camp. The NP Service Furnace Creek campgrounds are pretty nice. Cell service is spotty or nonexistent in and around the Ranch and nonexistent in many Valley areas. But I found the WiFi functional and had no problems from my room. I will be staying at the Ranch again with the bring your own options in mind. Read less

Stayed at Ranch in a deluxe room for3 nights. My first stay since the renovation. New paint and rug. Bathroom poorly redone w limited space on sink for bathroom articles Refrigerator dirty requiring me to clean it. Upscale price for Motel 6 quality. apparently Xanterra put much more emphasis on the grounds and out buildings than on guest rooms. Work was being done right outside our door causing dust and noise. I do however love DV and will return as I have done countless times since for the past 30+ yrs. prices for food and lodging are through the roof so bring lotsae money Read less