McMenamins Elks Temple brings a grand old downtown building back to life as a hotel with plenty of personality. It stands in the heart of Tacoma, close to the theatre district, the Pacific Avenue museums and the Union Station area, and it follows the McMenamins approach of restored architecture, original artwork, historic details and places to eat and drink on site. It suits couples, history lovers and anyone who would rather sleep somewhere memorable than somewhere generic. Rooms and public areas vary in character, so check the room types and current facilities when you book.
Tacoma is a city that rewards visitors who look past the freeway and into its old buildings, and this hotel is a good way to do that. McMenamins is a Pacific Northwest company with a long habit of rescuing historic properties, from theatres and schools to lodges, and filling them with murals, mosaics, local history and good-natured oddities.
The Elks Temple follows that pattern, so expect a stay that feels closer to a gallery or a clubhouse than to a standard chain hotel. Take time to walk the public areas, because much of the charm lies in the details you notice on the second or third pass.
The location is a real strength. Downtown Tacoma is compact, and from here you can reach the Broadway theatres, the Tacoma Art Museum, the Washington State History Museum and the Museum of Glass on foot or by a short ride on the local transit lines. Restaurants and cafes are within a few blocks, and the evening scene is livelier than many visitors expect.
If you are arriving by train or bus, the central position makes getting started easy. Drivers should ask about parking, which in older downtown buildings may be limited or charged by the day.
On-site food and drink is a big part of the appeal. McMenamins venues typically offer pub-style meals, house beers, cider and a menu that leans toward comfort food with Northwest touches. Many guests plan an evening around the bars and lounges, then wander upstairs to a room that feels worlds away from a business hotel. Live music, film nights or special events may be scheduled, so check the calendar when you book. If you prefer a very quiet night, ask about rooms away from the main social spaces.
Rooms in historic conversions are rarely identical. Some are compact and cosy, others more generous, and layouts can reflect the age of the building. That is part of the pleasure, but it is also worth knowing before you book if you need a specific bed type, a bath rather than a shower, or step-free access. Confirm accessibility features, elevator access and what is included in the rate, since these details differ between properties and can change over time. Light sleepers should request a room on a quieter side.
Choose McMenamins Elks Temple if you want atmosphere, a central address and the sense of sleeping inside a piece of local history. Pair it with a day at the museums, a walk along the waterfront and an evening of live music. Consider a modern chain hotel nearby if you prioritise a pool, a large room or predictable corporate comforts. Either way, it deserves a place on your list of the most distinctive places to stay in Tacoma.
Why stay here
- ✓Historic downtown building
- ✓Original art and local history
- ✓Pub and bar on site
- ✓House beer and cider (check when you book)
- ✓Walk to the museums
- ✓Near the theatre district
- ✓Events and live music (check the calendar)
- ✓Character rooms that vary in layout
Good questions
Is it close to the museums?+
Yes. The Pacific Avenue museums and the Museum of Glass are within a short walk or a quick ride.
Are all the rooms the same?+
No. Rooms in a historic building vary in size and layout, so check the room type when you book.
Is there food and drink on site?+
McMenamins hotels typically have pubs and bars on site. Check when you book for current venues and hours.
