A Midweek Getaway at McMenamins Old St. Frances

We took a midweek break and checked into McMenamins Old St. Francis School in downtown Bend Oregon. We’ve been there before for drinks and events, but staying the night? That gave us a whole new appreciation for the place.

Check-in was easy. The staff were friendly, relaxed, and genuinely welcoming. What stands out immediately is how much of the old school’s history you can still feel. This was Bend’s first Catholic school, built back in 1936. And walking the halls, it’s clear McMenamins didn’t cover that up—they leaned into it.

The long corridors still have the bones of a school, but now they’re filled with murals, old photos, and hand-painted stories. Every hallway feels like part of a living museum.

Our room was in the Art House, which is across the courtyard from the main building. It’s got this quiet, almost tucked-away vibe. Wood-paneled walls, warm lighting, artwork everywhere—it’s more like a creative hideaway than a hotel room.

We started exploring and realized there are actual secret rooms in the Art House. You’ll notice a door that doesn’t look like anything special, push it open, and suddenly you’re in a hidden lounge. It made the whole building feel playful and full of surprises.

One of our first stops was the Broom Closet. It’s a bar on the third floor, completely hidden behind a door that just says “Broom Closet.” Inside, it’s like this moody English pub, dimly lit with vintage decor. We had a cocktail and a Hammerhead Ale and just soaked in the vibe for a bit.

Then it was time to soak. We grabbed a beer from the Fireside Bar—it’s in the same building as the pool and theater—and walked over to the saltwater pool. That whole area is beautifully tiled, with an open skylight that lets the light pour in. We met someone from Portland while we were in the water and ended up chatting for a while. It felt peaceful. Unhurried.

Afterward, we went out for dinner—just a short walk. One of the best things about staying here is that you’re right in downtown Bend. It’s easy to wander to a restaurant, check out the river, then head back without ever needing your car.

That night, we played shuffleboard at the Fireside Bar. The space feels relaxed and warm, with just enough people around to keep it lively, but never loud.

Back in the room, we slept like rocks. The bed was incredibly comfortable and the room was quiet, even though the property has so much going on.

The next morning? Another soak, obviously. The pool was calm and quiet again. Just us and the sound of water.

We had breakfast at the Old St. Francis Pub. Copper bar, vintage stove, tons of plants and art. It feels more like a cabin than a restaurant. We ordered the Eggs Benedict, and it hit the spot—simple, well-executed, just what we needed.

Before checking out, we wandered a bit more. We peeked into the little movie theater, which has actual couches instead of theater seats. There’s an on-site brewery, too—right downstairs from the pub. And outside the Art House is O’Kane’s, the cigar bar with outdoor fireplaces and salvaged stained glass.

It’s wild how much there is to do here, without ever needing to plan anything. You can just follow your curiosity from one space to the next—eat, soak, discover a hidden bar, watch a movie, sit by the fire. It’s all right there.

We only stayed one night, but it felt like a full getaway. Not rushed. Not over-planned. Just a perfect midweek escape, right here in Bend.