Back around 2007 Wyatt and I were walking around Bend, OR. I was craving chocolate cake and a glass of wine but it was pretty late and most places were already closed for the night. We decided to ask some locals if they knew of a place still serving and they pointed us towards McMenamin's Old St. Francis School. I definitely got my chocolate cake and wine that night. We also tried their beers and cajun tots. That was all that was needed to start our love affair with McMenamins!
We have eaten at many McManamins over the years and even bought kegs of their beer and lugged them all the way up to our wedding in Friday Harbor. We never stayed at one though, until 2019.
We frequently visit family in Oregon and we had seen a hotel being built in Kalama during a few of our trips. When we found out it was a McMenamins, we decided we would stay there the first chance we got!
We got that chance in August of 2019 and even though it was just 1 night, we were thoroughly impressed. If you have ever been to Lahaina, you might notice the resemblance to the Pioneer Inn there.
This hotel is located at the Port of Kalama and sits right on the water. Our room was a corner room and overlooked both the amphitheater and water; the perfect place to relax, enjoy a beer and watch the sunset.
The rooms themselves are unique and like nowhere we ever stayed before. Definitely not the stuffy, bland hotel rooms you stay at other hotels. This room had character and we were excited to check everything out.
We found so many special unique features in the room: handpainted murals and trim, log furniture, crazy light fixtures and more. The bathrooms were stocked with shampoos, bodywashes, soaps and more.
After we explored all the room (and balcony) had to offer, our tummies were growling so we were off to explore what food options they had onsite. We turned to the Front Desk to inquire about options and when we learned that the Pub had outdoor seating, we bee-lined it to the Pub. It was a gorgeous, warm afternoon and we were excited to dine outside.
*Note: the Front Desk staff did tell us about the Cloud Bar located on the top floor and of the Harbor Lounge (where we went for dessert later).
Dining outdoors with a view of the water was amazing. We ordered their beer flight to taste the new beers of the season while also ordering our favorite beers. If you ever eat at any McMenamins, you MUST try their Ruby Ale and Terminator Stout. If you are feeling adventurous, combine the two for a Rubinator, YUM! Pair them with some cajun tots with ranch dressing and you will not be disappointed! The restaurant staff was attentive and friendly despite our crazy kiddos and the food was delicious as always.
After dinner, we made our way to the Amphitheater since we booked our stay in accordance with a live concert. The ampitheater is adjacent to the play structure so it was a good time for all. Our oldest favored the play structure while our youngest and I listened to the music and danced a bit. They do offer beer for sale while listening to the concert as well, and the best thing: the music is free (sorry, the beer is not).
After relaxing for a while at the amphitheater, we wanted to explore the hotel and grounds some more, so off we went.
We walked their waterfront path and found a small gathering area and fire pit. The staff already had the fire going so we took the opportunity to relax for a while more and take in the last of the sunset.
After a bit of relaxing we all decided it was time for a McMenamins dessert so we made out way to the Harbor Lounge to check it out. Decked out with eclectic lamps, lighting fixtures, chairs and sofas, this place was like walking into Alice in Wonderland. Dave chose the King and Queen chair for us to enjoy dessert, and enjoy we did.
We were then off for more exploration. We went to the top floor to check out the cloud bar. When we were up there, I noticed a group of people in a hallway clustered together, talking and laughing. The next thing I know, I looked back and they were gone. Poof, disappeared. There was nowhere to go in the hallway; no doors, no rooms, and they didn't walk past me. I was perplexed. 3 minutes later, they reappeared from nowhere. Was I going insane? I swore I wasn't. I mentioned it to Wyatt and we decided to investigate. (The group did give us a few clues though and reassured me I wasn't insane). That experience led us on an adventure to find hidden rooms....yes, hidden rooms! This was right up Dave's alley. Boy, was he excited.
We found the first one straight away since the disappearing guests gave us a clue. We were amazed when we walked in. We have never experienced anything quite like it. Handpainted black light artwork, crazy light fixtures, it was so other-wordly, not something you would ever expect to see in a hotel!
We ended up finding the second as well. I don't want to spoil the suprise by telling you where they are and how to find them, so I will just say there are 2 and you and your kids will have a great time trying to find them. (Especially after a few delicious beers).
During our explorations, we also found their brewery, gift shop, and a crazy bathroom like nothing I have ever seen before.
The next morning, we woke up and made our way to the Kalama Pub for breakfast. On the way, we noticed a sign mentioning a photo hunt. We decided we would go for it after breakfast.
The hallways of McManamins Kalama are filled with crazy and beautiful artwork. Each one unique, making this a bit of a challenge.
We did eventually find it and we had a great time trying. We also decided to purchase a McMenamins passport. If you have been to more than one McMenamins or plan on visiting more than one, a passport is a fun way to experience all that McMenamins has to offer. If you aren't sure what the passport is, find out information here.
For only staying 1 night, we sure had such a crazy fun-filled adventure. Hidden Rooms, Photo Scavenger Hunts, free concerts, collecting passport stamps, and more. We loved the feel of the hotel, the professionalism and friendliness of the staff, and all the extra experiences they provide for their guests. It was truly an amazing stay. It quickly turned into Dave's favorite hotel and he often asks when we can go back to the hotel with the hidden rooms. If you are planning a trip to (or through) the area, this is one hotel you want to check out. If you live nearby, this is the prefect getaway for a relaxing fun-filled weekend. It's a wonderful place to stay whether traveling with the kids or without. This is one place memories will definitely be made! We will definitely be back once Covid-19 passes. We are counting the days!
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