McMenamins Old St. Francis School
Historic former schoolhouse turned quirky hotel with unique art, hidden rooms, pubs, and a relaxing soaking pool.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
McMenamins Old St. Francis School
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic former schoolhouse turned quirky hotel with unique art, hidden rooms, pubs, and a relaxing soaking pool.
"It was a magical place, highly recommend this resort. It may have ruined me for all other hotels."
🎯 Hunt for Hidden Rooms
Wander the halls and keep an eye out for clues to discover the school's secret rooms and art!
🏊♀️ Relax in the Soaking Pool
Don't miss the 105°F indoor soaking pool with its stunning tilework and skylight.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Soaking Pool
Indoor pool area
A beautifully tiled, semi-enclosed pool heated to 105°F, featuring a skylight and stained glass. Pure relaxation!
Hidden Rooms & Art
Throughout the property
Embark on a treasure hunt to find secret rooms and discover the school's eclectic, often whimsical, art installations.
Theaters & Pubs
On-site
Catch a movie at the charming theater or enjoy craft beers and unique pub fare at one of the several on-site bars.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Quirky Charm
Explore Beyond Your Room
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Hunt for Hidden Rooms
Wander the halls and keep an eye out for clues to discover the school's secret rooms and art! 
🏊♀️ Relax in the Soaking Pool
Don't miss the 105°F indoor soaking pool with its stunning tilework and skylight.
🍺 Explore On-Site Dining
Enjoy diverse food and drink options at the pubs and brewery; great for families too.
🚗 Walkable Location
Conveniently located downtown, perfect for exploring Bend on foot.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Hunt for Hidden Rooms
Wander the halls and keep an eye out for clues to discover the school's secret rooms and art!
🏊♀️ Relax in the Soaking Pool
Don't miss the 105°F indoor soaking pool with its stunning tilework and skylight.
🍺 Explore On-Site Dining
Enjoy diverse food and drink options at the pubs and brewery; great for families too.
🚗 Walkable Location
Conveniently located downtown, perfect for exploring Bend on foot.
🖼️ Appreciate the Art
The entire property is a canvas; take time to admire the unique and sometimes eerie artwork.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests rave about the unique, historic atmosphere and the abundance of on-site amenities like the soaking pool and multiple pubs. The walkable downtown location is a major plus, though some dining experiences have received mixed reviews regarding service and food quality.
"Highly recommend this resort. It may have ruined me for all other hotels. The family suite was roomy and did not feel stuffy although it was located in an attic area. Friendly staff and the food/drink sites were efficient without compromising quality. The soaking pool was beautiful and relaxing. It is kid friendly per rules, but the vibe seemed for adult/calm. The brewery and patio were very kid friendly. I would stay there again in a heartbeat. It was a magical place."
Kari Forseth
"Charming, Convenient, and a Bit Creepy (in a Good Way)
McMenamins Old St. Francis is a unique and memorable stay in the heart of Bend. The location is fantastic — just a short walk to great restaurants, breweries, and the river. Whether you’re exploring downtown or heading out to enjoy the natural beauty of Central Oregon, it’s a super convenient base.
The front desk staff were genuinely warm and helpful, creating a welcoming vibe from the moment we arrived. The historic schoolhouse setting adds plenty of character, and the property is full of hidden nooks and surprises. That said, the artwork and decor throughout the halls and rooms can definitely lean toward the eerie side — think vintage portraits, shadowy murals, and unusual lighting. It’s intriguing and atmospheric, but not for the faint of heart!
Mornings include complimentary coffee, which is plentiful, though perhaps a bit overdone (overly strong or scorched at times). Still, it gets the job done and is much appreciated before heading out for the day.
All in all, Old St. Francis delivers a one-of-a-kind experience with charm, convenience, and a little oddball edge. If you’re into history, quirk, and walkable access to Bend’s best, this place is worth a visit."
Mac Minor
"This place is really cool! Lots of food and beer options on the grounds. Each room is a little different, some rooms have a wardrobe, some rooms just have hooks for jackets, and some rooms have both. None of the rooms have refrigerators so any left overs are going to be left out while you are there.
Overall fun good experience while there the staff are really nice and helpful. This place is very pet friendly. My friend brought her cat and when they changed in the room had a food and watering bowls as well as a bag for the litter box ( can be used as a dog poop bag as well. My friend and i decided to stay an extra day the staff were really accommodating and found a new room for the next night. The staff let us check out late of our first room to immediately check us in early to our new room, this was a big help to let us adventure bend in the morning while the cat was safe in the existing room."
Trevor wagner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
McMenamins Old St. Francis School is located in downtown Bend, Oregon. It's easily accessible by car, and parking is available on-site. If you're flying in, the nearest major airport is Roberts Field (RDM) in Redmond, about a 25-minute drive away. Many visitors find it convenient to walk to nearby shops and restaurants from the hotel.
Yes, there is parking available at McMenamins Old St. Francis School. It's generally ample, but can fill up during peak times or special events.
Absolutely! The Old St. Francis School is in a prime downtown location, making it incredibly walkable to many of Bend's popular spots like breweries, restaurants, and Drake Park.
Given its central location, walking is a great option for exploring downtown. For venturing further, consider ride-sharing services, local buses, or renting bikes, which are popular in Bend.
Yes, McMenamins Old St. Francis School is very pet-friendly! They even provide food and water bowls, and litter bags for cats and dogs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You don't need tickets to enter the property, explore the common areas, or dine at the restaurants and pubs. However, if you wish to see a movie at their theater, you'll need to purchase tickets for the show. Hotel guests have access to amenities like the soaking pool.
The hotel operates 24/7 for guests. The pubs, restaurants, and movie theater have their own specific operating hours, which can vary. The soaking pool is generally accessible to hotel guests. It's best to check the official McMenamins website for the most up-to-date hours for each venue.
The soaking pool is primarily for hotel guests. While some McMenamins locations offer day passes for pools, it's best to confirm directly with the Old St. Francis School if day access is available or if there are any public access times.
McMenamins often runs promotions, including discounts on hotel stays. Keep an eye on their website or social media for deals, especially around holidays or specific events.
You can book a room directly through the McMenamins website or by calling their reservations line. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for weekends and during peak seasons.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
There's a lot to explore! Enjoy the unique soaking pool, discover hidden rooms and art installations, catch a film at the movie theater, and dine or drink at the various pubs and restaurants. It's an experience in itself!
The vibe is quirky, historic, and a bit eerie in a fun way. It's a former Catholic schoolhouse, so expect unique art, themed decor, and a sense of stepping back in time. It can feel magical and atmospheric.
Yes, a major draw is hunting for the 'hidden rooms' scattered throughout the property. It's a fun treasure hunt that adds an element of adventure to your visit.
The soaking pool is generally considered kid-friendly according to rules, but the overall ambiance can feel more adult and calm. The brewery and patio areas are noted as being very kid-friendly.
The art is eclectic and often whimsical, with a touch of the eerie. Expect vintage portraits, murals, and unique installations that contribute to the school's historic and slightly spooky charm.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The schoolhouse boasts several dining and drinking establishments, including pubs and a brewery. They offer a variety of food and drinks, from casual pub fare to more unique offerings.
Reviews are mixed. While many praise the food and drinks, some guests have experienced long wait times and food that wasn't served fresh or cooked to order. It's recommended to check recent reviews for current feedback.
Typically, McMenamins establishments offer a range of options, often including vegetarian choices. It's best to check the current menu at the specific pub or restaurant you plan to visit for the most accurate information.
No, the rooms at McMenamins Old St. Francis School do not have refrigerators. Any leftovers will need to be consumed during your stay or left out.
Complimentary coffee is provided in the mornings. While not a full breakfast, it's a nice perk for guests before heading out to explore.
📸 📸 Photography
The soaking pool area with its tilework and skylight is a popular photo spot. Also, look for the unique art installations, themed bars, and the historic architecture of the schoolhouse itself. The hidden rooms can also offer intriguing photo opportunities.
Yes, taking photos to capture the unique atmosphere and art is generally encouraged. However, be mindful of other guests' privacy, especially in common areas or if you're in a private room.
During a movie screening, it's generally not permitted to take photos or videos to avoid disturbing other patrons. However, before or after a show, you might be able to capture some shots of the theater's interior.
As with most indoor venues and historic properties, drone photography is likely prohibited due to safety and privacy concerns. Always check with management if you have specific questions about photography equipment.
The blend of historic architecture, vibrant and sometimes quirky art, themed decor, and unique amenities like the soaking pool and hidden rooms make it highly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the soaking pool is a highlight, it's best enjoyed with an understanding that the general vibe can be more relaxed and adult-oriented. However, the sheer amount of unique art and the historic schoolhouse setting itself provide plenty of visual stimulation and conversation starters for younger visitors. The spacious family suites are also a plus for accommodating families comfortably.
couples
+1The historic setting, combined with the quirky art and hidden corners, creates a sense of shared adventure and discovery. It's a place where you can wander hand-in-hand, uncover secrets, and enjoy the distinct ambiance that sets it apart from standard hotels. The walkable downtown location also makes it easy to explore Bend's romantic side, from riverside strolls to cozy dinner spots.
Budget Travelers
Look out for promotional offers and discounts on hotel stays, which can make a significant difference. +1Consider visiting during weekday evenings when crowds are lower and the atmosphere might be more relaxed, potentially leading to a more personalized experience. The unique atmosphere and the sheer number of things to do on the property mean you can have a full experience without needing to spend extra on external activities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The McMenamins Experience: More Than Just a Hotel
+1The brand is known for its eclectic art installations, themed decor, and hidden gems like secret rooms and bars. This approach transforms a simple stay into an adventure. Visitors are encouraged to embrace the quirkiness and discover the unexpected. The Old St. Francis School, in particular, leans into its history with artwork that can be both whimsical and a little bit spooky, adding to its memorable atmosphere.
Beyond the visual and experiential aspects, McMenamins also emphasizes community and local flavor. Their pubs and breweries often feature local craft beers, and the overall atmosphere encourages lingering and socializing. Whether you're a solo traveler looking for an adventure or a couple seeking a unique getaway, the McMenamins experience offers a departure from the ordinary.
Uncovering the Secrets: Hidden Rooms and Art
+1The entire property is a canvas for unique and often eccentric art. From murals that adorn hallways to sculptures and paintings in various common areas and guest rooms, the art is a defining characteristic. Some reviewers note that the art can lean towards the 'eerie' or 'creepy' side, with vintage portraits and shadowy imagery, which contributes to the school's atmospheric charm.
Embracing this aspect means taking your time to wander and observe. Don't just stick to the main paths; peek into corners, look up at the ceilings, and let your curiosity guide you. The art and hidden rooms are integral to the historic schoolhouse's transformation, offering a glimpse into the creative vision that breathes new life into the old building.
The Soaking Pool: A Relaxing Oasis
+1While the pool is a highlight for many, its ambiance is noted as being more suited for a calm, adult experience, though it is considered kid-friendly according to posted rules. The combination of the warm water, the unique decor, and the spacious, high-ceilinged environment creates a truly special atmosphere, especially when the skylight is open.
It's an amenity that significantly enhances the stay, offering a luxurious escape within the historic schoolhouse. Many guests specifically mention the soaking pool as a reason they would return, highlighting its effectiveness in melting away stress and providing a memorable part of their visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit