McMenamins Kennedy School
Stay in a former elementary school with themed bars, a movie theater, and a soaking pool. A truly unique Portland experience!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
McMenamins Kennedy School
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Stay in a former elementary school with themed bars, a movie theater, and a soaking pool. A truly unique Portland experience!
"This is the type of location that you stay for the charm and ambiance, which you will get plenty of."
🎯 Book Soaking Pool Ahead
Reservations are required for the soaking pool! Book online to guarantee your hour-long relaxation session.
🎬 Movie Theater Seating
Enjoy movies from comfy couches, loveseats, or recliners. It feels like watching a film in a giant living room!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Themed Bars & Lounges
Various classrooms and spaces
Explore unique bars like 'Detention' and 'Honors' for craft cocktails and local brews in a nostalgic school setting.
Outdoor Soaking Pool
Courtyard
Relax in a heated outdoor pool surrounded by lush bamboo and banana trees. A perfect escape, even on cooler days.
Historic Auditorium Theater
Old Auditorium
Catch a movie in a beautifully restored auditorium with unique seating like couches and recliners.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Quirky Charm
Plan for Entertainment & Relaxation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Soaking Pool Ahead
Reservations are required for the soaking pool! Book online to guarantee your hour-long relaxation session.
🎬 Movie Theater Seating
Enjoy movies from comfy couches, loveseats, or recliners. It feels like watching a film in a giant living room!
🚶 Explore the Art & History
Wander the halls and admire the artwork and historical photos that transport you back in time.
🚗 Consider Public Transit
The school is accessible by public transit, making it a convenient option for exploring Portland.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Soaking Pool Ahead
Reservations are required for the soaking pool! Book online to guarantee your hour-long relaxation session.
🎬 Movie Theater Seating
Enjoy movies from comfy couches, loveseats, or recliners. It feels like watching a film in a giant living room!
🚶 Explore the Art & History
Wander the halls and admire the artwork and historical photos that transport you back in time.
🚗 Consider Public Transit
The school is accessible by public transit, making it a convenient option for exploring Portland.
🏨 Rooms are Unique
Rooms are themed and lack TVs. Embrace the novelty! Housekeeping is by request.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests love the unique charm and ambiance of McMenamins Kennedy School, praising its historic setting, themed bars, and entertaining amenities like the movie theater and soaking pool. While some find the rooms basic for the price and housekeeping by request, the overall experience is highly valued for its novelty and the friendly, proud staff.
"This is the type of location that you stay for the charm and ambiance, which you will get plenty of.
There’s lots to do on and around the property. Unique themed bars leading you to honors or detention, and even the boiler room. We often found ourselves in the Cypress Room as we loved the tropical spin on the beverages in this space.
We had a large family reunion as well and folks enjoyed getting lunch in the courtyard, going for a dip in the pool, or hangout in the Community room (reserved for our guests but typically host community activities).
The property is really cool, being a historic elementary school, but it isn’t the best hotel for the price point. Housekeeping is by request, you won’t find a TV in your room, but there is a theater, and there’s only a central thermostat so we were a bit chilly in our room.
Over all we have always enjoyed coming here for a drink and it was a unique location for our family event. Staff were all super helpful and friendly and clearly very proud of their school.
We found the passport activity to be a fun introduction into the McMenamin world and look forward to visiting more of their locations."
Hayley Di Naso
"Used the soaking pool midday Saturday. There were as many kids as adults. Some kids had toys. Others were jumping in or swimming.
Not the vibe I was seeking.
The check-in clerk was not helpful.
The pool is in a lovely outdoor setting with bamboo and banana trees. The water is a great temperature (although the jets are too high)"
Erin Neff
"The soaking pool was so relaxing. Even when it got a little busy, it still relieved stress. The staff were all professional and cordial. With lots of nooks and hiding spots, there's room for you and yours wherever you prefer. Nearby dining and shopping was great!"
Paco Gonzal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
McMenamins Kennedy School is easily accessible by public transportation in Portland. The TriMet bus system has stops nearby, making it a convenient option if you're looking to avoid driving and parking. Many visitors also opt for ride-sharing services or biking, as Portland is a very bike-friendly city.
Yes, there is parking available at McMenamins Kennedy School. However, it can get busy, especially during peak times. If you're visiting on a weekend or during a special event, arriving early or considering public transit might be a good idea.
Absolutely! Kennedy School offers a unique lodging experience in a historic elementary school. It's a great base for exploring Portland, with many on-site amenities and attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you'll need to purchase tickets to watch a movie in the historic auditorium theater. It's recommended to book these in advance, especially for popular showtimes, as seating is unique and can fill up.
The soaking pool typically costs around $10 per person for an hour-long session. Kids aged 2 and under are free. Reservations are required and can be made online.
The bars at McMenamins Kennedy School are generally for guests 21 and over. However, the property also has family-friendly areas like the Courtyard Restaurant and the movie theater.
Yes, you can absolutely visit McMenamins Kennedy School without staying overnight. You can enjoy the restaurants, bars, movie theater, and soaking pool as a day guest.
The soaking pool is typically open daily from 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM, but it's closed for maintenance on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
There's a lot! You can stay in themed rooms, enjoy drinks at unique bars like 'Detention,' catch a movie in the auditorium, relax in the soaking pool, and dine at the Courtyard Restaurant. 
The vibe is playful, nostalgic, and a bit quirky. It's a restored elementary school with lots of art, history, and themed spaces that encourage exploration and fun.
While some visitors report a 'ghostly' atmosphere due to the historic nature of the building, it's not explicitly marketed as a haunted hotel. The 'haunted' aspect is more about the unique, atmospheric charm. +1
The school is filled with original artwork, historical photographs, and unique decor that reflects its past as an elementary school and its transformation by McMenamins.
Yes, the soaking pool is family-friendly, but it can get busy with both kids and adults. Some visitors have noted it can be more of a lively pool scene than a quiet, relaxing spa, especially on weekend afternoons.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can dine at the Courtyard Restaurant for lunch or dinner, which offers a pleasant outdoor seating option. There are also various bars serving food, including the popular 'Cajun Tots.'
The Courtyard Restaurant offers a diverse menu with American classics and some unique options. Reviews suggest the food is wonderful and the waitstaff are professional and nice.
Absolutely! Kennedy School features multiple themed bars, including the 'Detention Bar,' 'Honors Bar,' and the 'Cypress Room,' offering a wide selection of craft beers, cocktails, and other beverages.
While specific menus can change, McMenamins establishments typically offer a range of options. It's best to check the current menu at the Courtyard Restaurant or inquire with the bar staff about vegetarian or vegan choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, Kennedy School is incredibly photogenic! The unique architecture, vintage details, vibrant artwork, and themed spaces provide endless opportunities for interesting shots.
Don't miss the hallways lined with historical photos, the unique bar interiors, the restored auditorium, and the lush outdoor soaking pool area. The 'Detention' and 'Honors' bars are particularly popular for their distinct themes.
You can take photos inside the movie theater, but be mindful of other patrons enjoying the film. The unique seating and vintage decor make for great shots before or after the movie.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, professional photoshoots or commercial filming may require special permission. Always be respectful of other guests' privacy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🥂 Couples & Date Nights
Consider booking a room for an overnight stay to extend the romantic, nostalgic getaway.👻 Travelers Seeking the Unique
+1 Embrace the quirky decor, the themed bars, and the chance to sleep in a former classroom. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Night at the Schoolhouse: Lodging Experience
+1For those seeking a bit of adventure, the 'haunted' aspect of the school is often mentioned, adding an extra layer of intrigue to your stay.
Beyond the Classroom: Entertainment & Dining
The school's hallways are dotted with themed bars, each with its own distinct personality. You can grab a drink in 'Detention,' 'Honors,' or the 'Cypress Room,' enjoying craft beers and creative cocktails.
+1 The outdoor soaking pool is another major draw, providing a relaxing escape surrounded by lush greenery. Reservations are essential for this popular amenity, and it's a great spot for both families and couples. +1For dining, the Courtyard Restaurant offers a pleasant atmosphere and a diverse menu, with reviewers praising the food and service.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit