What Makes This Hotel Stand Out
It's a fully converted historic elementary school offering a variety of themed bars, a restaurant, a movie theater, and a soaking pool, creating a lively and immersive experience.
Parent Pro Tip
Book rooms away from the soaking pool and bar areas if you're concerned about noise, and be prepared for a unique, converted schoolhouse room rather than a standard hotel room.
“movie theater was fun and the bed oh-so comfortable”
“Enjoyed the uniqueness of the rooms. They were clean and refurbished”
“We didn't get to enjoy the soaking pool but next time!”
“Lots of activities/social gathering areas around the property too”
“The soaking tub was amazing and the theater quite large.”
“This is another gem in the McMenamins line of fun, historical establishments”
Families love this hotel for its unique schoolhouse theme, on-site movie theater, fun soaking pool, and vibrant atmosphere. It offers a quirky and engaging experience beyond a typical stay.
McMenamins Kennedy School offers a highly unique and entertaining stay for families, leveraging its historic schoolhouse setting. While it may not offer luxury, its charm, amenities like the soaking pool and theater, and vibrant atmosphere make it a memorable option.
Best for: Families seeking a unique, themed hotel experience with multiple on-site entertainment options.
Offers good value for the unique experience and amenities provided, especially considering the multiple entertainment op...
Rooms are converted classrooms, offering a unique experience.
The heated outdoor pool (soaking pool) is a significant draw for families, offering a unique and relaxing experience.
The hotel features multiple restaurants and bars, with food generally described as delicious and fresh.
The hotel is located in a residential area of Portland, which is described as a 'cool residential and arts area'.
5736 NE 33rd Ave, Portland, OR 97211-7302
While the hotel has unique amenities, the lack of dedicated toddler-friendly activities and potential for noise might make it less ideal for very young children.
Our AI has analyzed 50 family reviews to give you detailed insights about what makes this hotel great for families.
McMenamins Kennedy School offers a highly unique and entertaining stay for families, leveraging its historic schoolhouse setting. While it may not offer luxury, its charm, amenities like the soaking pool and theater, and vibrant atmosphere make it a memorable option.
Rooms are converted classrooms, offering a unique experience. While some reviews mention rooms are basic, they are generally clean and comfortable. "Schoolhouse rooms are huge!" one reviewer noted, though others mentioned smaller rooms, so booking directly to clarify might be wise for families needing extra space.
The heated outdoor pool (soaking pool) is a significant draw for families, offering a unique and relaxing experience. The on-site movie theater with unique seating is also a hit. While there isn't a dedicated kids' club or playground, the overall quirky environment provides ample entertainment.
The hotel features multiple restaurants and bars, with food generally described as delicious and fresh. While no specific kids' menus are highlighted, the variety of offerings and the unique atmosphere make dining an experience. One reviewer did note that breakfasts were 'horrible' except for potatoes.
The majority of reviews indicate that the hotel is clean, with rooms described as 'extremely clean' and well-maintained. Housekeeping is a listed amenity, suggesting regular service.
The hotel is located in a residential area of Portland, which is described as a 'cool residential and arts area'. It's not directly adjacent to major tourist attractions but offers proximity to local neighborhoods and amenities. Some reviewers mentioned it's 'not very close to many attractions'.
Free parking is available, and the 24-hour front desk is helpful. Staff are frequently described as friendly and accommodating. However, some guests noted issues with room temperature control, particularly in colder weather, and one family experienced a discrepancy with a waived fee upon checkout.
While the unique atmosphere is a draw, noise can be an issue, especially around the soaking pool which some described as 'boozy and SO LOUD'. Temperature control in rooms can also be inconsistent, with some finding rooms too cold in winter and others too warm. Some guests also found the surrounding area 'sketchy'.
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AI summaries and family ratings are generated by Hotels for Families. Always verify details directly with hotels before booking.