McMenamins Group

Later in the day, we went to a place owned and developed by the McMenamins in Troutdale, Oregon. The McMenamins group had bought this property and like they usually do, they renovated it into restaurants, a hotel, entertainment, and more. Other places that they have renovated have movie theaters and places to shop, and other forms of entertainment. McMenamins places can be found throughout Oregon and Washington.

The place we visited was an old renovated farm that used to be a poor farm and housed the poor.  It dated back to the early 1900s. It used to accommodate the poor from all walks of life, who helped and stayed under one roof together. They would be nurses, loggers, sea captains, business types, homemakers and builders, slaves, slave owners. They were a melting pot of nationalities as well. In all of their differences, they had one thing in common…they needed help. They would supply the much needed labor for the 300+ acre farm.

Now the McMenamins renovated the the big hotel. They have included restaurants, bars, and the nearby Ruby’s Spa, which is within walking distance from the hotel. They also make their own beers and wines. There is also an area that accommodates huge outdoor concerts.

We walked around the lush, well landscaped ground, through the outdoor eating area. Then we entered into the wine tasting area before going into Jerry’s Bar for a drink, to listen to the music, and take more photos. Hanging on the walls were paintings and posters of the Grateful Dead.

 

We ate dinner in one of the hotel restaurants. Later on the ride back home, I was totally content from my meal and with the music of the Grateful Dead, playing in my mind.

Another interesting day spent with my daughter and her husband.