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    McMenamins Kennedy School

    3.9 (1.6k reviews)
    ModerateHotels, Cinema, Pubs
    Open 7:00 am - 12:00 AM (Next day)

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    Services - McMenamins Kennedy School

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    MCMENAMINS KENNEDY SCHOOL ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Classy
    Casual
    Live music
    Moderate noise

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    Recommended Reviews - McMenamins Kennedy School

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    Soaking pool
    Ellie K.

    I came here for a soak in the soaking pool and a drink at the bar. Both were fantastic. The soaking pool is like an Italian villa dream. The staff is beyond friendly, and the drinks (pricey) but make the ambiance even better.

    McMenamins Kennedy School Hallway
    Reyanna K.

    My wife and I decided to go on a mini "staycation" and checked ourselves in at the Kennedy School. When we arrived the service was phenomenal and we were upgraded to a larger suite. The room was clean and the ambience really teleports you to an old historic schoolhouse. We ordered dinner from the restaurant and it was brought to our room. The soaking pool felt incredible and wasn't as crowded as I anticipated. We found the secret room and were blown away by the art. If you stay the night you get a complimentary ticket to the onsite movie theater. We enjoyed the movie, snacks, and the overall vibe.

    outdoor patio fireplace
    Beth G.

    We went for lunch , and my friends gave me a tour. The food was real good, reasonably priced for lunch, service was excellent, and it's a fun place to eat- indoors or on the patios. They also have a small public soaking pool. I hope we get to go back again to this historic, quirky, charming place.

    Inside
    Stephen W.

    We wanted to show the kid this cool school that is also a restaurant, hotel, and bar. Well, we did not want to show her the bar, but the hotel and restaurant were cool. The kid said she could feel ghosts and some of the paintings in the hallway of the school are in fact creepy, So that added to the fun. We had breakfast here. The kid had pancakes and said they did not taste good. The wife tried them and agreed. I had the schoolhouse breakfast--two eggs, toast, meat, and potatoes. The eggs were cooked as I requested. Tasted fresh and had good flavor. The toast with fresh blackberry jam was outstanding. The potatoes looked burnt but were not and had good flavor. I asked for ketchup and got "Portland ketchup" which is a delicious organic product that I liked so much that I bought a bottle in the gift shop. The meat order was incorrect but was quickly corrected. The wife loved her biscuits and gravy and I tried a bite; it was delicious. Our server was friendly and efficient. The ambiance is outstanding. It's just a fun place to eat. Not only in the restaurant a throwback to previous history, you can walk the halls of the school afterward. The bathrooms are original from the school (founded in 1915) and still have showers. Plus, if that is not ambiance for you, while we were there the music was Grateful Dead circa 1971. I mean, how much more Portland can you ask for?

    Seasonal menu
    Jetiya S.

    One of my favorite places in Portland! I love their fun decor and variety of seating types. The service was great, friendly and attentive. There were more from food menu as well as drink menu. We ordered Ahi sandwich with soup of day (butter squash and pumpkin), fish and chips, and Ruben sandwich and paired with my favorite Ruby beer. We also took home the Ruby cans. Happy time!!

    Boiler room bar
    Jake H.

    I have been here before, but just to eat, and always with a big group. I get my family together when I'm in Portland, and this spot has always been accommodating and awesome. This is the first time I've gotten a room, and I'm glad I did. Coming for lunch or dinner is great, but you really don't get the full experience at all. First things first, thank you to megan at the front desk, fantastic service, hope you love your sticker! All the bartenders and servers were incredibly genuine and real, and I appreciate that. You're not putting on an act, you're just at work. Chelsea, Sarah and Jacob at the courtyard: thank you specifically! Jacob, love the earrings! Thanks for a great stay everyone, and if you're ever in Sedona, come say hi!

    Menu
    Ja'Nelle S.

    Had a great visit to McMenamins Kennedy School. We dined a one of the restaurants and took advantage of their brunch menu. I had the Communication Breakdown burger with fries and also a side of cheese and jalepeño grits. The food was good, but the burger was not very flavorful. I think it needed some salt. The fries were good and the grits were delicious!! The restaurant was clean and I loved the decor. The service was great. We were seated immediately and the server was attentive and helpful.

    June S.

    One of the most unique spots we visited during our trip to Portland Oregon in June was Kennedy School. The historical elementary school circa 1951 has been renovated by McMenamins into a hotel, restaurant/bar, brewery and so much more. It was great walking around the hallways, looking at original artwork and historical photographs on the walls, ceilings, and even the doors. It was like walking through history. We went there for lunch at their Courtyard Restaurant. As the name suggests, Courtyard Restaurant have nice courtyard, which seemed to be very popular. For us, it was a bit too hot on that day, so we decided to sit inside. There were not many sitting indoor, seems the outdoor seating was more popular. We ordered Flagship Brewery Flight so we can try some of their beers made in their brewery. we chose six different types of beers; some dark, some fruity, and some light ones. Each one had distinctive flavors, and we enjoyed them all. For food, I ordered Agnes' Breakfast Sandwich, which was a nice sandwich, good size and all, but the price felt a bit high since it doesn't come with any side. Overall, it was very satisfying. Our friend ordered a burger with side of fries or tots, and she went with tater tots. Their tots are quite good! We did add an order of their Cajun Tots to share, with peppercorn ranch. It had a nice kick to it, and was quite addictive! My hubby went with JR's Jumbo Deluxe and substituted the side with a soup, since we already had a additional order of tots to share. The soup was comforting, and the burger came loaded with protein. It was juicy and tasty. We had a fun lunch, but unfortunately, the service was almost nonexistent. We felt like they focused more on the customer sitting outside, and we were completely forgotten. Due to this issue, the lunch took a very long time, causing us to cancel the next appointment we had on schedule. The server did apologize at the end when we talked to her about it, and gave us a few of discounts by giving us Happy Hour pricing on a couple of items we ordered. If it wasn't for the lack of service, we would've enjoyed the experience much more.

    Principals Special
    Greg C.

    Came in after a day at the coast with the family. Ordered a pizza and the food was great. Service was good but slow and forgetful. Place was great for ambiance. Overall would love to come back and explore this great location.

    Boiler room
    Cassie B.

    I came to McMenamins about 10 years ago and I specifically remember Kennedy school. This place is so cool!! Seeing all the different rooms and bars is amazing, plus you can book a room here?! How cool! We ended up going to the boiler room bar where they had a special Halloween menu, my family ended up ordering drinks. Seeing the soaking pool was really cool as well. I still can't believe this was a real school at one point. I can't wait to check out more McMenamins next time I visit Portland

    Shellie T.

    Loved our stay. Alot of the restaurant were closed and we were able to attend drag bingo, but the overall experience was pleasant

    Fancy cocktails during special catered events, this one was Mardi Gras themed
    Bronwyn E.

    I have been here a handful of times for some epic events. I went to the Kennedy School prom twice, seen the Portland Cello Project perform as well here, been to the harvest celebration, dined out at the restaurants and done my time at the "School". Most recently a few weeks ago, - one of my friends had her 50th birthday party celebration at the Kennedy School. Wow, it was impressive. Fancy and way cooler than some weddings. They had live music, a cocktail drink bar, and a Mardi Gras themed buffet. The food was amazing. Some of my friends at the party thought it tasted way better than the food they had in New Orleans. It was so fun. One of the best parties I ever went to. The Jambalaya, beinets, and croquettes were so good. Just an impressive event with amazing planning by everyone. I will always remember it. The food was magnificent. The drinks were spectacular. I thought everything was amazing. Would definitely recommend them for a place to host an event. Always park in the parking lot. Years ago I made the bad decision to park in front and a drunk driver hit the back side of my car and kicked my wheels out of alignment. Be careful.

    Jen W.

    Went to see "Elio" at the theater. It was a complimentary invitation event for McMenamins email recipients, with a creator Q & A after. There's a theater bar with a good array of food options like popcorn, sandwiches & pizza. Went for popcorn (super salty!) and a cider. The room is full of mismatched couches and cozy chairs. Found a loveseat toward the front with a table. Settled in for what turned out to be a very entertaining not-just-for-kids flick. The talk after was an enlightening session on how graphics and AI are used. Almost forgot my theater bar stamp but went back, finished up that page and collected a really cute Coffee Roastery Cat mug as a prize.

    Left: Apple a Day Right: High Council Furnace

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    6 months ago

    The food is very average and bland. It's clear they use cheap ingredients. Burger was overcooked and the tomatoes had zero flavor.

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    6 months ago

    To say it's unusual would be an understatement. It's like nowhere I've ever been. Great place for a sandwich and a beer or glass of wine.

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    Page 1 of 41

    McMenamins Kennedy School Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - McMenamins Kennedy School

    Is there a photo booth at this property?

    There is not.

    Is the pool hot enough to use around Xmas time?

    Yes, it is good all year round.

    What age do u higher?

    Hello, The youngest age we can hire is 14. You can apply online at mcmenamins.com or come in for a… Read more

    Is there a place to change and dry off for public soakers? Thinking of a movie after.

    Hello, There are 3 changing rooms in the soaking pool area, and there are restrooms across the hall with showers.… Read more

    Is the soaking pool heated?

    Yes it is, and it is very relaxing. Not sure if the exact temp but probably close to 100. Could lower as kids are allowed to be in the soaking pool.

    We want to take our 4 year old to a movie at 6:30 in the theater... which restaurant would be beat to eat in before the movie?

    Hello, Either the courtyard restaurant or the cypress room allow minors. Enjoy the movie!… Read more

    What is parking like?

    Hi, We have a parking lot, and generally, even if the lot is full, you can get within a block or… Read more

    Are the bars kid friendly? Have a 2 year old I want to bring during the afternoon.

    HI Mike, The Courtyard Restaurant, Cypress Room, Theater, and all common areas (where you're welcome to take your beer with you as you wander and enjoy the art) are kid friendly.… Read more

    Does the hotel offer cribs? We are going to a wedding in March and will be staying with a toddler. Too small for a roll away but too big for the baby travel beds.

    Hi, We don't have a crib, but we have a pack-and-play, which is kind of like a foldable… Read more

    I have been invited to a birthday dinner at your portland location. My problem is i have celiac disease! ANY gluten whatsoever will send me to the hospital! Are there any gluten free options? Or a direct number for me to call for more information?

    ask for this.... McMenamins Kennedy SchoolGluten Free Menu it is available online to view in PDF format.

    Is there a bar in the McMenamins Portland area bars that has dancing for the older crowd? We are looking for dinner and dancing for anniversaries of a few couples. Thank You

    we have 90's video dance attack on Saturday nights at Lola's Room (Crystal Ballroom) which can be super fun for any age crowd. Or every night in the Winery at the Edgefield we have live music that is generally acoustic and more mellow. On Thursday… Read more

    I will be staying at the Kennedy School for a business trip in September and do not plan to rent a car. Are there any food and beverage options nearby or will I need to settle for the on property options? Thanks!

    Hi George, We are looking forward to your visit in September. With many options on property from pizza, salads, sandwiches, burgers and steaks as well as many different atmosphere's to enjoy them in, I'm confident you will enjoy the options… Read more

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    Review Highlights - McMenamins Kennedy School

    Grab a drink at detention or any of the quant bars and walk around the property and take in all the history.

    Mentioned in 137 reviews

    Read more highlights

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    Workers Tap & Cafe

    4.8
    (18 reviews)
    3.2 mi

    Workers Tap is one of those places I knew I'd love within about thirty seconds of walking in. The…read moreatmosphere is just dialed in, warm lighting, comfortable seating, and that lived-in feel of a spot that actually has a soul. It is genuinely cozy in a way that's hard to fake The reading rooms are such a great touch. Having tucked away spaces lined with books to actually sit and read, talk, or hang out in is so rare in a bar setting. It makes it feel more like a community space than just another tap house. At the same time, it works really well for large groups, we've rolled in deep before and never had an issue finding room to spread out. The beer selection is excellent. Thoughtful and rotating enough to keep things interesting without being overwhelming. Whether you want something hoppy, something dark, or something easy drinking, they've got you. And the left wing vibe is the cherry on top. It's refreshing to spend time in a space that wears its politics on its sleeve, pro-labor, pro-community, unapologetically itself. It feels like a place built for the people who actually live in the neighborhood.

    Take a beautiful original Portland house and turn it into a hang out space with awesome beverages…read moreon tap or brewed with a food cart out back for when you and your friends get peckish. Outstanding! This space suits so many purposes: studying, catching up over a drink, planning/researching, etc. There's even a conference room with seating for 11 that you can reserve. You can play board games here if no one's home is big enough for your group (their website says they no longer book the conference room for board games, but you can game there if it's not reserved). There's a few games in the upstairs green room closet. On a Sunday afternoon, there were plenty of spots open, but it is not dead either. Theres a variety of seating to suit all body types and preferences. First floor is wheelchair accessible. The upstairs bathroom has ducks on the ceiling so that's worth a visit alone. The blueberry rooibos iced tea is delicious and you add your own sweetener at the drink station. It literally feels like hanging out at a friend's house. Worth popping in if you haven't been. You can check the current drink selection on their website. You order in the entryway and then carry your items to your seat. Bus your dishes back to the entryway when you leave.

    Photos
    A good cider and a good book in the upstairs library
    A good cider and a good book in the upstairs library
    Back room with five two-seater tables and a restroom
    Back room with five two-seater tables and a restroom
    Upstairs bathroom with duck ceiling

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    Upstairs bathroom with duck ceiling
    The Record Pub

    The Record Pub

    5.0
    (10 reviews)
    6.0 mi

    Great pub. nice place to chill & have a great beer…read more They rotate their taps. On day Sunday mimosas $5.00 woo hoo Great wine choices as well as Great vinyl music .

    I'm super excited to see that The Record Pub opened last Friday in the southern part the Historic…read moreIron Horse building that was once occupied by The Iron Horse Restaurant. The Record Pub is your one-stop shop for new and used rock-based records and tapes, vintage stereo equipment and Northwest-focused beer, cider, wine and assorted beverages served in our pub area or taken to-go. I dropped in today on my daily walk and I'm so impressed with what I saw! They the layout of the store is fantastic and easy to find and browse the records. So many records store have the records jampacked and it's incredibly time-consuming to go through to find what you're looking for or just browsing is a pain. That is not the case here as you will see by my pictures! There are so many records to choose from and they are constantly adding to their inventory. Today they have six beers on tap, one cider and they offer wine by the glass. I also have a case where you can pick up beard to go or drink it in house for a small corkage fee. I had a nice chat with the owners and look forward to chatting with them again soon. I wish The Record Pub an abundance of success and plan on stopping after work to have a refreshing drink!

    Photos
    Turntables, speakers and The Record Pub swag for sale
    Turntables, speakers and The Record Pub swag for sale
    The Record Pub
    Bar area and cute glass

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    Bar area and cute glass
    The Observatory

    The Observatory

    4.3
    (2.6k reviews)
    3.9 mi
    $$

    Had an awesome time at The Observatory the other weekend. Unlike a lot of places, they run their…read moreHappy Hour on the weekend, which is what drew my partner and I in. You can absolutely smell the fish and vinegar as soon as you walk through the door, which I think gives the place a very homey pub feel. I ordered a spiked peach Arnold Palmer, which I enjoyed (and it was pleasantly strong) and a glass of the house white, which was good for the price. Our server was very fast and attentive. To eat I got the tomato soup with a grilled cheese, which was absolutely fantastic. The soup was so creamy and flavorful, and I cannot imagine a better meal after spending all day walking outside in the rain. The fries were super crispy and I liked the batter. My partner and I shared some of their breadsticks, which were deliciously baked (fresh!) and came with a super refreshing basil crema and a nice tomato-y dip. Wonderful all. My partner ordered fish and chips, and was surprised to find that it is one large fillet of fish, not multiple pieces like you would typically expect. He said the fish was fine, but a little tough. Overall, a wonderful experience. I definitely hope to return. I highly recommend this place as a refuge during the cold winter months!

    You know what I will admit that my ardor for The Observatory has cooled over time. I do still count…read moretheir rosemary pear martini as my favorite cocktail in town - and really their cocktail menu overall is still excellent. But the last few times I've stopped in for a meal, it feels like the food isn't quite as impressive as it used to be. Could be all in my head. Not sure. But it's always a nice spot to hang out and chat with friends, you can get seated quicker if you enter through Over & Out, which basically functions as an extension of the main Observatory, with it's own bar and pool tables.

    Photos
    Love the decor and ambiance
    Love the decor and ambiance
    Sesame Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken Wings ($12)
    Sesame Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken Wings ($12)
    Buffalo chicken salad (instead of a wrap)

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    Buffalo chicken salad (instead of a wrap)

    McMenamins Kennedy School - hotels - Updated June 2026

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