McMenamins Historic Property: Edgefield Resort and Spa in Troutdale, Oregon

All photos by Allison Lamplugh

With a history as interesting as the grounds itself, the historical McMenamins Edgefield Resort and Spa is a one of a kind, must see attraction in the Portland area. Located just outside of downtown, the 74-acre property has something for everyone. The buildings, built in 1911, were restored to keep the essence of their past using original furnishings and decor from the once 300-acre "county farm."

During the Great Depression the property became a place where locals who lost their homes came to work in exchange for room and board. During those years the farm housed more than 600 people. The orchards, gardens, and animals fed the residents as well as the local county hospital and jail. After World War II the farm continued to operate but made another transformation in residency becoming a nursing home and rehabilitation center. In 1982 the farm was closed and abandoned.

In 1990 Portland brothers Mike and Brian McMenamin purchased the property and started its restoration. They hired a team of over a dozen artists to incorporate historical photos, murals, and artistic touches to the grounds. Art is painted on the walls of the rooms, hallways, and walkways, even on the exposed pipes overhead from original plumbing. The room doors are labeled with names of past residents of the farm or of past influential Portlanders. The vibe is understated yet classy, a great destination to entertain families on vacation or those simply enjoying a day overlooking the Columbia Gorge.

The main lodge has several choices of accommodations including a hostel for those traveling on a budget or private rooms and suites affordably priced from $50 to $160. The property stays true to its vintage feel with no phones or televisions in the quaint rooms with large windows and original furnishings. Edgefield has meeting halls, event venues, a library, and movie theatre. The resort has a community campfire nightly, weather permitting, where guests can gather to talk about their adventures of the day.

The 74-acre land is planted with a vineyard, an orchard, vegetable and herb gardens, flower gardens, and lawns. Visitors are welcome to walk among them. The on-site restaurants use seasonal goods from the gardens and specialize in organic growing practices. The entire property is beverage friendly, so guests are encouraged to take their drinks to and from any destination. There are outdoor concerts on the lawns in the summertime.

Edgefield has three restaurants and seven bars, including a pool hall and tasting room. On-site is a brewery, winery and distillery. The bars and restaurants feature fresh home brews, wines and spirits. Each has its own theme, such as a bar that only plays the Grateful Dead, a bar that only serves tea, and the Black Rabbit Bar (pictured) that has the feel of a low-lit speakeasy with a rich mahogany counters. 

Guests can enjoy a game of golf on the Par 3 courses. A 12-hole and 20-hole course are available with holes designed for any level golfer. Rounds are priced reasonably at $18. The course is open to the public and meanders around a pub and a hillside of blackberries.

Ruby's Spa and Salon is named after McMenamins Ruby Ale. The spa is exclusive to hotel and spa guests. It's designed as a one-stop-shop for brides-to-be with services ranging from manicures and pedicures, skin care and body treatments, hair and make-up, and massages. The outdoor heated saltwater soaking pool is chemical free and warmed at a therapeutic 102 degrees. Complete with a waterfall and trickling showers for a cool-down in the pool, it guarantees a day of relaxation.