Alexander G.
Yelp
When we planned our trip this year, this was one of the first things we added to our must-visits and were thankful we did. It ended up being maybe the highlight of the entire trip, and made me a fan of wanting to try other McMenamins locations in the future.
For those who don't know, McMenamins is an older brewery that buys old properties for conversion into inns for travelers or places where people can expect a consistent quality each with its own touch.
This location in Downtown Bend used to be a Catholic School with many buildings, so it fit them perfectly. All the old exteriors look the same, with a mix of changed indoor décor but with an older vibe. It was cozy, every part of it we went to. The real draw for us was the heated indoor pool; it's $10 per person for an hour, locker rooms are provided and kept clean, bring your own towel. The pool was amazing, with old tile, fountain, open air ceiling I heard is amazing when it snows, and the freedom to bring your own drinks in to enjoy while you soak. It's for relaxing and talking, not swimming.
They also have a theatre for live performances and movies. The main section is the restaurant, with booths and bar seating a like. Downstairs under the bar is the brewery, a smaller set up but producing beers for on-site consumption. They also have beers on tap from other McMenamins locations.
At the back (and where you pay to use the pool) is the hotel check in desk - they also have rooms you can stay in, which I'm sure is fun.
On our visit after the heat of the pool, and being a sunny cool day, we opted to sit outside in the sunshine near a fire pit. Their tater tots are famous, so we got a big plate of those, plus hummus platter, and other foods. I had a flight of beers, trying one raspberry that was celebrating its birthday that day but wasn't my favorite. As far as beer goes, their stuff is average but not bad; but you really aren't coming here just for the beer anyway. It's also part of the Bend Ale Trail, code is near the lobby desk.
Simply, if you're visiting Bend, this is a must stop for anyone; have a meal, have a soak, have a drink.