Geiser Grand Hotel

"Grand Experience"

The discovery of gold in 1889 resulted in the construction of this luxurious 3-story hotel listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  This hotel was one of the first hotels in the west to offer electricity, and it boasts the third elevator available west of the Mississippi River.  The Geiser Grand Hotel preserves history, and maybe even a few ghosts, within its walls.   Here, families can step back in time and experience old-fashioned luxury.

A GRAND BUILDING

The Geiser Grand sits on Baker City’s historic main street surrounded by other nineteenth century structures built during eastern Oregon’s gold rush.  This hotel, with its tall clock tower and stone façade, is by far the grandest of all of main street’s old-fashioned buildings.   Upon entering through the Geiser Grand’s heavy wooden entry doors, my kids twirled around in amazement staring at the foyer’s high ceilings, intricate woodwork, and elegant Victorian-style chandeliers.  

ROOMS

My family of five spent one night in a Geiser Grand Parlour Suite.  Our room entered in to a short hallway leading to a living room with queen-sized pull out sofa bed, fireplace and television.  Beyond the living room was a curtain draped master bedroom with tall Victorian-draped windows, a king-sized bed, desk area, and television.  The restroom had a tub/shower combination, tile floor, and new bathroom fixtures.  My family of five was able to squeeze in to this suite, which normally only sleeps 4.  However, a larger family may not be able to fit in just one room at the Geiser Grand.

AMENITIES

• Complimentary tours of the historical hotel
• Complimentary games and movies available for check-out
• Complimentary tea and coffee each morning
• Use of the YMCA fitness center across the street from the hotel during your stay
• Complimentary wireless internet
• Special events, such as “ghost hunting” tours
• Two in-house restaurants; the Geiser Grill, and the 1889 Saloon

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

• Although some claim that there are ghosts in the Geyser Grand, it’s probably best not to mention this to kids.  I happened to mention ghosts to my kids, and discovered that they were a bit scared roaming the halls of this historical place.  Luckily, we didn’t run in to any paranormal activity during our stay.
• The Parlour Suites accommodate the most guests of all of the rooms at the Geyser Grand, but only sleep 4.  If you have a particularly large family, you may need to opt for 2 suites, and the downside is that rooms are not interconnected.
• The in-house restaurants offer reasonably priced kids menus.  Due to time constraints, we were unable to dine at the hotel.  However, the dining rooms were a sight to behold.
• This hotel appeals to couples celebrating honeymoons and anniversaries.  Although kids are warmly invited to experience this grand hotel, you may need to request that overly exuberant kids tone it down and respect the environment.
• Although grand and luxurious, rates at this hotel are actually quite reasonable; comparable to many of the chain hotels in the area.  

BOTTOM LINE

I give the Geiser Grand hotel a 5 star rating for being grand, luxurious, and historical.  I must deduct a star for family friendliness since I do believe the hotel needs larger suites to accommodate larger families, and the hotel’s atmosphere seems better suited for couples.  However, if your family is looking for a unique lodging experience, I would highly recommend a stay at the historic Geiser Grand Hotel.  Just be sure to look out for ghosts!

Disclosure: Although I received complimentary lodging, my opinions are always my own and not influenced by staff or affiliates.