FEATURED HISTORIC BRAND : MCMENAMIN'S

[D. MARQUIS]

Photo Credits: Chat GPT / Kat Wilkins Photography

McMenamins: Where Historic Hotels, Restaurants, Breweries, Movie Theaters, and Spas Create Unforgettable Experiences



If you're planning a trip through Oregon or Washington and want something far beyond an ordinary hotel or restaurant, McMenamins should be at the top of your travel list. Known for transforming historic buildings into vibrant destinations filled with art, music, handcrafted beverages, restaurants, hotels, spas, and movie theaters, McMenamins has become one of the Pacific Northwest's most beloved hospitality brands.

Every McMenamins property tells a unique story. Whether you're staying in a renovated schoolhouse, watching a classic film in a restored theater, enjoying a locally brewed craft beer, or relaxing in a soaking pool after a spa treatment, you'll quickly discover that no two locations are alike.

 The History of McMenamins

Founded in 1983 by brothers Mike and Brian McMenamin, the company began with a vision of creating neighborhood gathering places that celebrated local history and culture. What started as a small pub has grown into dozens of distinctive destinations throughout Oregon and Washington.

Rather than constructing generic hotels or restaurants, the McMenamin brothers focused on preserving historic buildings that might otherwise have been lost. Former schools, churches, hotels, theaters, lodges, and civic buildings have all been lovingly restored and transformed into immersive hospitality experiences while maintaining their original architectural character. 

 Historic Preservation Meets Modern Hospitality

One of the most remarkable aspects of McMenamins is its dedication to historic preservation.

Many of its properties are listed on the National Register of Historic Places or occupy buildings with deep regional significance. Instead of erasing history, McMenamins embraces it through carefully restored architecture, colorful murals, handcrafted artwork, and informative displays that tell each building's unique story.

Guests often feel as though they're stepping into a living museum—one where they can also enjoy excellent food, locally brewed beer, live music, and comfortable accommodations. 

 Unique Hotels Unlike Any Other

McMenamins hotels are far from ordinary.

Rather than standardized rooms and predictable décor, guests enjoy themed accommodations filled with original artwork, antiques, and architectural details that celebrate each property's past.

Popular hotel destinations include:

* Edgefield in Troutdale, Oregon  Book Your Stay
* Kennedy School in Portland  Book Your Stay
* Grand Lodge in Forest Grove  Book Your Stay
* Crystal Hotel in Portland  Book Your Stay
* Gearhart Hotel on the Oregon Coast  Book Your Stay
* Old St. Francis School in Bend  Book Your Stay
* Elks Temple in Tacoma, Washington  Book Your Stay

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Many locations also feature hidden bars, secret passages, gardens, courtyards, and whimsical artwork that encourage guests to explore every corner of the property. 

 Restaurants with Character

Every McMenamins restaurant reflects the personality of its building.

Menus typically feature:

* Gourmet burgers
* Fresh salads
* Artisan sandwiches
* Northwest seafood
* House specialties
* Vegetarian options
* Scratch-made desserts

The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and family-friendly while maintaining an unmistakably artistic flair.

Local artwork, stained glass, murals, vintage photographs, and handcrafted décor create dining spaces that are every bit as memorable as the food.

 Award-Winning Craft Breweries

Craft beer has always been central to the McMenamins experience.

The company helped pioneer Oregon's craft brewing movement and continues producing a wide selection of handcrafted beers, seasonal brews, ciders, wines, and spirits.

Visitors can sample:

* Ruby Ale
* Hammerhead Ale
* Terminator Stout
* Seasonal IPAs
* Hard cider
* Small-batch whiskey
* House-distilled spirits

Many locations even allow guests to watch the brewing process while enjoying a meal. 

 Historic Movie Theaters

Long before dinner-and-a-movie became trendy, McMenamins was restoring classic theaters into community entertainment hubs.

Guests can enjoy current films, independent movies, documentaries, and classic cinema while relaxing with pizza, burgers, beer, cocktails, or popcorn delivered directly to their seats.

These beautifully restored theaters preserve architectural details that transport moviegoers back to Hollywood's golden age.

 Relaxing Spas and Soaking Pools

Several McMenamins destinations feature luxurious soaking pools and spas designed to help visitors unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Spa services may include:

* Massages
* Facials
* Body treatments
* Wellness therapies
* Outdoor soaking pools

Combined with historic surroundings and peaceful gardens, these amenities create an unforgettable retreat.

 Live Music and Entertainment

Music is woven into the McMenamins experience.

Many locations regularly host:

* Local musicians
* National touring artists
* Outdoor concerts
* Comedy shows
* Cultural festivals
* Community events

Properties like Edgefield have become iconic concert venues, attracting thousands of visitors each year. 

 Public Art Everywhere

One hallmark of every McMenamins property is its extraordinary artwork.

Local artists create murals, paintings, sculptures, stained glass, and whimsical illustrations that celebrate regional history, folklore, and community legends.

No two locations feature the same artistic style, making every visit a unique visual experience.

## Why Travelers Love McMenamins

Visitors often return because McMenamins offers something increasingly rare in modern hospitality—personality.

Instead of identical rooms and chain restaurants, guests enjoy:

* Historic architecture
* Local history
* Original artwork
* Craft beverages
* Comfortable lodging
* Great food
* Entertainment
* Community atmosphere
* Relaxing spas
* Family-friendly activities

Each visit feels like discovering a hidden treasure.

## Tips for Visiting McMenamins

To get the most from your experience:

* Stay overnight to fully explore the property.
* Visit multiple locations during your trip.
* Enjoy a locally brewed craft beer or cider.
* Catch a movie or live performance.
* Schedule a spa treatment or soak.
* Take time to appreciate the artwork and historical exhibits.
* Explore hidden rooms and architectural details.



McMenamins has created a hospitality experience unlike any other in America. By blending historic preservation, locally crafted food and beverages, distinctive hotels, movie theaters, spas, live entertainment, and community gathering spaces, the company has transformed forgotten landmarks into destinations full of life and creativity.

Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, a road trip through the Pacific Northwest, or simply looking for an unforgettable place to dine or relax, McMenamins offers an experience that celebrates history while creating new memories.

Once you've visited one McMenamins property, you'll likely find yourself planning your next adventure to discover another.

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*We'd like to extend a very special thanks to our Member KAT WILKINS of KAT WILKINS PHOTOGRAPHY for introducing us to this creative entity we were happy to feature in this article.