McMenamins Old St. Francis School

Spend the night in a former classroom or nuns’ cottage at this renovated 1936 elementary school, located in downtown Bend. No worries about disrupting class here! Have a scotch and some spirited conversation at O’Kanes Pub, settle in the outdoor courtyard to enjoy a pint in the central Oregon sunshine, take in a movie in the theater, rest your bones in our soaking pool after a day spent on the links or the slopes.

Quirky and surprisingly vast original hotel

An unforgettable place to stay. Real character and charm. A surprisingly vast little complex with two buildings housing the rooms, a number of bars each with their own distinctive offering (loved the Broom Cupboard and the cigar house looked very inviting). Large and comfortable room. Flies in bathroom a bit disconcerting. We took the beer package which was great fun but the bar staff didn’t seem to know what it included and didn’t communicate this offering very well so that could do with improvement. Good food in the bar, both dinner and breakfast. Spot on location. It’s pricey to stay here but a truly memorable and special place with what they’re doing.

Eclectic, charming and comfortable property and rooms

We spent one night here after seeing a concert in Bend. The remodeled and repurposed property was formerly a Catholic school. It is without a doubt the most eclectic, whimsical and unique choices of hotels in the central Oregon area. Our room was historically interesting and comfy! Just the right size for the 2 of us! The property repurposed a number of buildings into an art gallery, a cigar bar, the “Broom Closet” Bar that serves AM coffee and pastries, too, and some “secret” hallways and passages to explore. Do NOT miss the relaxing, warm soaking pool with skylight and the incredible tiled murals of St. Francis of Assisi and his animals there!! Even if you don’t have time for soak, be sure to see the murals and fountain. The restaurant has delicious pub food, local brews and liquor, and is decorated with unique pieces of art, stained glass windows, and wood carvings that are photo-worthy and not to be missed! If you are looking for a unique “hotel” experience, much different than your typical “name brand” hotels, book a stay at the Old St. Francis School (hotel)!

The best of all of the properties

This McMenamins carries the same "coolness" as all the rest, but St Francis had a special something to it. Secret rooms, a speakeasy and of course, a soaking pool. I would ask to stay in the school itself just because it's older, but I stayed in the portable. It was a new addition and so clean and coffee was served in each hallway in the morning. Very fun.. don't expect a tv in the rooms and plan on lots of eating and drinking.

Great hotel

My wife and I stayed here for two nights while in Bend. A great place. Nice rooms, amazing outdoor patios. O’Kanes bar and patio was our favorite. Numerous fire pits, which were repeatedly replenished by the staff. Great service and great drinks. We had a room in the Ed house with a patio. If you have a choice, ask for a quiet one on the street. The other patios abut the outside O’Kanes patio. Can get loud at night. Take some time to look for the secret rooms, a fun experience. No coffee in rooms, but they set out delicious coffee in the hallway every morning.

Great location the rest, so so.

Room was great, amenities top notch as well but the location of my particular room was right next to the stairs which resulted in the irregular thumping noise which is not pleasant. I'd made the reservation to include myself and a single dog and upon checking in the front desk attendant did not know of said dog until I mentioned it. Then, as if he was doing me a favor he says "Oh, I'll take care of that for you". Oh, I guess he meant adding $15 per night for doing absolutely nothing, nada, zippo. Most dog-friendly hotels will add something for this "nominal" fee (biscuits, bowls for food/water, bed, etc.) but McMenamin's, NOTHING. Maybe they ought to add a category - dog unfriendly?!?

TripAdvisor Ratings & Reviews

Quirky and surprisingly vast original hotel

Eclectic, charming and comfortable property and rooms

The best of all of the properties

Great hotel

Great location the rest, so so.