You can’t miss the historic Marcus Whitman hotel on a trip to Walla Walla. Literally or figuratively.
For starters, there’s the massive size. Built at the corner of Second Avenue and Rose Street at a central downtown corner in 1928 as the grandest hotel for at least 150 miles, it towers over nearby buildings. At the time of its construction, a city ordinance declared no other structure could be built taller than the 13-story hotel. That ordinance continues today.

But it also serves as the lodging cornerstone of Walla Walla’s tourism industry — reopened at the start of the 21st century with a massive revitalization effort as Walla Walla was becoming known as a destination for world-class wines. It has hosted dignitaries and celebrities on their trips to town.
As another renovation nears completion, the refined elegance and luxury of the hotel’s 1920s roots blend with up-to-the-minute technology for a stay that aims to offer the best of the past and present.
The location is walking distance to all things downtown — the seasonal Downtown Farmers Market, shopping, tasting rooms, restaurants and live music, plus events and performances at Walla Walla Motor Co. and Gesa Power House Theatre.

Enter the hotel from any side of the building but check in through the grand lobby. The jaw-dropping space is designed for gathering around conference-style tables, on custom couches or in intimate nooks for quieter conversations. While you’re there, be sure to look up. The plaster and woodwork has been restored to the hotel’s original colors, and the detail of the original ceiling and trim harken to craftsmanship of a bygone era. Behind the front desk remain vestiges of the hotel’s history, including its original clock and key cubbies, as well as nearby phone booths.

The hotel’s 133 rooms are spread between the tower, which was part of the original hotel, and the west wing, added decades later and attached to the 13,000 square feet of conference space. Rooms include queens, kings, double queens, junior suites with dual entrances — perfect for those traveling with pets — suites and two-bedroom studios. The 1920s décor continues throughout the rooms, including down to old-fashioned phones. The spaces are all appointed with workstations, refrigerators and 52-inch television sets.

Start the mornings with the in-room pour-over coffee system with Walla Walla Roastery coffee or a handcrafted drink at The Buzz Espresso Bar off the lobby. Full breakfast service is offered at The Marc Restaurant until 11 a.m.

After a day on the golf course, pickle ball court or exploring local shops, plan to return to the dining room for a farm-to-table dinner that centers seasonal, local ingredients. For a slightly more casual experience, head to The Marc Bar for elevated cocktails and nibble on cheese and charcuterie or a number of other shareable dishes. For an even more intimate experience, as well as private events, retreat deeper to the Fireside Lounge. Like to engage as your food is being prepared? Treat yourself to a meal at The Chef’s Table in the private dining space at the hotel’s kitchen.
If wine tasting is on your itinerary, check out the main floor. The lobby space is anchored by tasting rooms for Lodmell Cellars, L’Ecole No 41, Nine Hats Wines and Beekeeper by Abeja.
With Tesla charging stations, a fitness center, parking and airport shuttle service, you’ll have everything you need for a Walla Walla experience without ever having to leave the hotel.
To book your stay at the Marcus Whitman Hotel, 6 W. Rose Street, visit the hotel website.