McMenamins Kennedy School is a uniquely repurposed 1915 elementary school in the Concordia neighborhood of Northeast Portland, Oregon, converted by the McMenamins family into a destination hotel, entertainment venue, and community gathering place. Located at 5736 NE 33rd Avenue, the property sits in a residential pocket of Northeast Portland approximately five miles from the city center, offering guests a distinctly neighborhood-oriented alternative to downtown hotels. The original school building retains its institutional bones — wide hallways, gymnasium, and former classrooms — while McMenamins' signature hand-painted murals, quirky décor, and eclectic artistry cover nearly every surface. The 57 guest rooms, all converted from former classrooms, feature en-suite bathrooms and are themed with artwork referencing the school's history. The property operates multiple bars and dining venues under one roof: the Honors Bar, Detention Bar, Boiler Room bar, and the Restaurant in the former gymnasium each offer distinct atmospheres without requiring guests to leave the campus. A movie theater screens independent and classic films throughout the week for a nominal fee. The outdoor heated soaking pool is open year-round and available exclusively to overnight guests, while the beer hall draws neighbors and visitors for McMenamins' own craft brews. No traditional spa or fitness center is available, which suits the property's laid-back, entertainment-focused ethos. The Kennedy School experience is oriented more toward leisure and community than business or luxury travel. The property is approximately 5 miles from downtown Portland, accessible by the TriMet #75 bus line. Rates typically run USD 120 to USD 200 per night, making it one of the more affordable unique hotels in the Portland area.
Room types
- Converted classroom rooms (all en-suite)
Amenities
- Soaking pool (heated outdoor)
- Multiple bars and restaurants
- Movie theater
- Art throughout
- Beer hall
Location
5736 NE 33rd Ave, Portland, OR 97211
45.5587, -122.6353 View on map
Highlights
- Converted 1915 elementary school with guest rooms in former classrooms, each themed with local artwork
- Multiple bars and dining venues on campus, including the Honors Bar, Detention Bar, and Boiler Room
- On-site movie theater screening independent and classic films for a nominal ticket price
- Heated outdoor soaking pool open year-round, exclusively for overnight hotel guests
- McMenamins hand-painted murals and eclectic artwork covering nearly every surface of the building
Tips for visiting
- Book directly through the McMenamins website to browse available themed room options and compare décor styles.
- The movie theater admission is very low and often less crowded than commercial cinemas — check the schedule upon arrival.
- The soaking pool is available only to registered hotel guests and is most pleasant in the evening.
- Parking is available in the school's original lot; the #75 TriMet bus on NE 33rd Avenue also serves the property.
- The Kennedy School is popular for private events on weekdays — call ahead to confirm restaurant and bar hours.
Accessibility
McMenamins Kennedy School has limited accessibility due to its historic 1915 school building structure. Some public areas are accessible, but guest room hallways and certain bars may present challenges for guests with significant mobility limitations. Travelers with accessibility needs should contact the property directly before booking.
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Frequently asked questions
What is McMenamins Kennedy School?
Kennedy School is a 1915 elementary school converted by McMenamins into a hotel, restaurant, bar, and entertainment venue in the Concordia neighborhood of Northeast Portland. All 57 guest rooms are former classrooms.
Is the movie theater at Kennedy School open to non-guests?
Yes, the on-site movie theater is generally open to the public. McMenamins recommends checking the current screening schedule on their website as programming varies seasonally.
Does Kennedy School have a pool or spa?
The property features a heated outdoor soaking pool available exclusively to overnight hotel guests. There is no traditional spa or fitness center.
How far is Kennedy School from downtown Portland?
The property is approximately 5 miles northeast of downtown Portland. The TriMet #75 bus serves the area, and a rideshare to downtown takes roughly 15 to 20 minutes depending on traffic.