McMenamins Kennedy School
What Makes This Hotel Stand Out
It's a meticulously converted elementary school offering a multi-faceted entertainment venue with a hotel, multiple bars, restaurants, a theater, and a soaking pool.
Parent Pro Tip
Book a room on a higher floor if possible, and bring extra layers as some rooms can run cold, especially during winter months.
Why Families Love This Hotel
Families love McMenamins Kennedy School for its unique schoolhouse theme, on-site entertainment like a movie theater and pool, and quirky atmosphere. Parents appreciate the ample parking and the blend of historical charm with modern amenities.
McMenamins Kennedy School offers a highly unique and memorable stay for families, particularly those who appreciate historical conversions and a quirky atmosphere. While most experiences are positive, potential issues with temperature control and noise should be considered.
Best for: Families seeking a unique, historical, and entertainment-filled stay in Portland.
At a Glance
The hotel offers good value for families looking for a unique experience and extensive on-site entertainment, despite so...
Room Setup
Rooms are converted classrooms, offering a unique historical feel.
Kids Features
The hotel features a heated outdoor pool that is a highlight for many families.
Family Dining
The hotel offers multiple dining options, including the Courtyard Restaurant.
Location
The hotel is located in a residential neighborhood of Portland, which is described as quiet by some but also 'sketchy' by others.
Map Location — McMenamins Kennedy School
5736 NE 33rd Ave, Portland, OR 97211-7302
The hotel's unique environment and entertainment options are best suited for older children and adults. Infants may find the rooms and general atmosphere less accommodating, and the lack of specific infant amenities is a factor.
Detailed Family Analysis for McMenamins Kennedy School
Our AI has analyzed 50 family reviews to give you detailed insights about what makes this hotel great for families.
🏆 Overall Family Assessment
McMenamins Kennedy School offers a highly unique and memorable stay for families, particularly those who appreciate historical conversions and a quirky atmosphere. While most experiences are positive, potential issues with temperature control and noise should be considered.
🏨 Room Setup & Space
Rooms are converted classrooms, offering a unique historical feel. While some rooms are described as large with king-sized beds, others can be on the smaller side. Families may want to inquire about room size and specific bed configurations when booking.
🎯 Kids' Amenities
The hotel features a heated outdoor pool that is a highlight for many families. While not explicitly a children's amenity, the unique movie theater and the overall quirky environment are engaging for all ages.
🍽️ Family Dining
The hotel offers multiple dining options, including the Courtyard Restaurant. Food is generally praised as delicious and fresh, though one review mentioned it was not a place to eat for breakfast. A kids menu is not explicitly mentioned, but the variety of offerings would likely cater to most.
✨ Cleanliness & Safety
Cleanliness reviews are generally positive, with guests noting comfortable beds and very clean rooms. However, a few recent reviews mention dust and less-than-ideal cleanliness in some areas, suggesting occasional inconsistencies.
📍 Location & Attractions
The hotel is located in a residential neighborhood of Portland, which is described as quiet by some but also 'sketchy' by others. It is not particularly close to major tourist attractions, requiring driving or public transport to reach them.
💡 Practical Tips
Free parking is available, which is a plus. The staff is frequently described as friendly and helpful, with quick service to resolve issues. Check-in was noted as accommodating even for late arrivals.
⚠️ Things to Consider
Some guests have reported issues with room temperature control, finding rooms too cold, especially in winter, and the provided heaters insufficient. Noise from adjacent rooms or from the hotel's popular bars has also been a concern for some.
Hotel Amenities
✨Other Amenities(26)
🛎️Services(6)
🏊Pool & Water(3)
Browse more family hotels by amenity
Family Activities Near McMenamins Kennedy School
Kid-friendly attractions and things to do nearby
Oregon Zoo
A popular zoo with a wide variety of animals and exhibits, offering a fun day out for all ages.
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)
Interactive science exhibits, planetarium, and a retired submarine make this a captivating experience for curious minds.
Powell's City of Books
The world's largest independent bookstore, offering a unique browsing experience with sections for all ages.
Lan Su Chinese Garden
A beautiful and serene traditional Chinese garden offering a peaceful escape and cultural insight.
Washington Park
Home to the Oregon Zoo, International Rose Test Garden, and Japanese Garden, offering diverse outdoor activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from families about McMenamins Kennedy School
Is the soaking pool family-friendly?▼
Are the rooms suitable for families?▼
What family-friendly activities are available on-site?▼
Is parking available for families?▼
Can I bring my pet?▼
More Family Hotels in Portland
Explore other top-rated family-friendly hotels nearby
Embassy Suites By Hilton Portland Tigard
Spacious suites, free breakfast & evening reception, and a great location near shopping make this a family favorite. Some rooms may need updating, but overall a solid choice for families.
Based on 50 reviews (21 family reviews)
The Benson Portland, Curio Collection By Hilton
Families love this hotel for its historic charm, exceptional staff, and central location. The festive holiday decorations and live jazz add a special touch, making it a memorable experience for all ages.
Based on 50 reviews (34 family reviews)
Oxford Suites Portland - Jantzen Beach
Families rave about the spacious suites, complimentary breakfast and evening reception. The secure parking, friendly staff, and kid-friendly pool make it a great choice for a comfortable and convenient stay.
Based on 50 reviews (14 family reviews)
Residence Inn by Marriott Portland Downtown/RiverPlace
Spacious suites with kitchenettes, complimentary breakfast, and great riverfront location make this hotel a family favorite. Staff are exceptionally helpful, and kids enjoy the comfortable rooms. Minor concerns about parking costs and occasional maintenance issues.
Based on 50 reviews (24 family reviews)
Hotel Lucia
Families appreciate Hotel Lucia for its friendly staff, central location, and unique artistic atmosphere. The complimentary hot cocoa and coffee are a hit, and the hotel's proximity to downtown attractions makes it convenient for exploration.
Based on 50 reviews (5 family reviews)
The Hotel Zags Portland
Families love Hotel Zags for its unique amenities like s'mores and games, exceptionally friendly staff, and central location. This trendy urban retreat offers a fun atmosphere for all ages.
Based on 50 reviews (7 family reviews)