Swimming Pool
Sports Activity Location

McMenamins Kennedy School Soaking Pool

Pool, 5736 NE 33rd Ave, Portland, OR 97211, USA

108 Reviews

About

Heated saltwater pool for soaking featuring palms, bamboo and bananas.

The soaking pool is typically maintained at a warm temperature, generally ranging from 102 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit (39 to 40 degrees Celsius).

What are people saying (AI review summary)? The soaking pool offers a generally positive and relaxing experience, often highlighted by its beautiful landscaping and the ability to bring drinks from the on-site bar. Many visitors find it a worthwhile stop, encouraging exploration of the broader facility which includes restaurants and a movie theater. However, a common concern is the pool's crowdedness, particularly with noisy children, leading to requests for adult-only or designated family hours/sections, as some feel it's not family-friendly. Logistically, it's strongly advised to book pool spots in advance (up to a week by phone), bring $8 cash, and bring your own towel. While staff reviews are mixed, public access hours are limited, and the pool can be busy even on weekday mornings.

Location

Gallery

Amenities

  • Accepts Credit Cards
  • Accessible Entrance

Reviews

Listing Reviews
Erin Neff September 15th, 2025
Erin Neff

Check-in staff unhelpful for first-time user. Pool crowded...at least 6 young, noisy kids during Saturday noon soak. Location is fine. Pool is beautifully landscaped. Would prefer they offer adult-only or family hours.

Kaye Sharp MPT, WHC June 28th, 2025
Kaye Sharp MPT, WHC

Such a great experience! Must see in Portland! Our server , Jacob , was amazing as was the food , drinks , and atmosphere!

Reviews1313 June 14th, 2025
Reviews1313

If you read the comments below, you’ll see people in the soaking pool won’t like you and your kids lol. Unless you are a parent with young kids who just sit there (I’ve never met one of those) expect to have the pretentious Portlanders glare at you and your family. It’s not family friendly, I wish it was! I think they should have a family friendly hour or perhaps an end of the pool where families can hang. Kids want to wear their goggles and yes, two drops of water might splash onto the angry lady reading her book lol.

Joseph DiRenzo September 18th, 2022
Joseph DiRenzo

The front desk staff was very nice and we were able to get a spot in the soaking pool last minute. (Although I recommend getting a spot in advance if you’re planning a visit.) They allow you to stop by the bar and grab a drink to bring with you into the pool, which was a highlight. There was quite a few people in the pool by the time we got there even though we visited during the week in the AM. We bought a locker for our stuff but unfortunately someone had just placed their stuff in our slot so we couldn’t lock it. It was too bad it was only an hour but the time flew by and it was definitely worth a visit. Next time I go I’ll book in advance and try and go at a less busy time.

Beth Hill August 14th, 2022
Beth Hill

We weren't sure what to expect since we hadn't been to a soaking pool before. Plan to spend a bit more time here than just an hour because you will want to explore the building. They have restaurants, bars, a movie theater, and I am sure even more. They take reservations by phone up to a week in advance. It costs $8, I recommend bringing cash for a quicker entry. Also, make sure you bring your own towel! We went to the bar in the building and they made us a delicious craft cocktail to bring into the soaking pool. It was so relaxing, even with a decent amount of people in there. This is definitely worth the stop! Note that if you are not staying at the Kennedy School Hotel, the hours to the public are shorter (I think 10a-6p).

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Opening Hours

Sunday 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Monday 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Saturday 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
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