My first trip to Baker City was smack dab in the middle of winter, but this historic gold mining town managed to charm the pants off of me anyway. Located right along Interstate Highway 84, it follows the Oregon Trail and is steeped in history. But nothing compares to the incredible history and Wild West beauty of The Geiser Grand Hotel.
In its heyday, which lasted through the 1920s, Baker City was known as the Queen City of the Mines; they were at the geographic center of the region’s rich gold, copper and silver fields, and became the center of trade and commerce as well.
Townspeople enjoyed an affluent lifestyle; women ordered fine gowns from “back east” and men were attired in frock coats topped off with derbies or top hats. Baker City boasted not one but two Opera Houses, where world-famous artists performed, including the Russian Symphony.
Geiser Grand Hotel Overview
Situated on a corner in picture-perfect downtown Baker City, the Geiser Grand, with its distinctive clock tower cupola, looms large among the rest of the businesses surrounding it. It has been around since 1889 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Back in the day, timber and cattle barons, politicians, dreamers and schemers mixed and mingled here in the Geiser Grand. The hotel is named after one of the prominent family of the day, the Geiser family.
As soon as you enter the lobby, the rich history of Baker City’s legendary gold rush past tickles your fancy. It’s reflected in the décor, the opulent chandeliers, and the deep lavish colors of the carpeting and upholstery.
The architectural style of the Geiser Grand is reminiscent of the Victorian period, called the Italianate Renaissance Revival. Where design elements of the Roman empire are used throughout the building.
The gold mines closed and economic hard times set in. The Geiser Grand closed after the cast of the movie “Paint Your Wagon” stayed in the summer of 1968. The building fell into disrepair and was almost demolished to become a parking lot. Then, in 1993, restoration of the hotel began and a whopping seven million dollars later, it reopened for business in 1998.
My Corner Room
GASP!!
This was all I could utter the moment I stepped into my room. It was one of the most spacious and exquisite hotel rooms I have ever stayed in. My eye was first drawn to the dining table tucked nicely into the cupola, surrounded by windows. A quick look on the hotel’s website and I found I was in the Cupola Suite, with a 180-degree view of the eastern Oregon mountain backdrop.
Directly at the foot of my king bed was a sitting area with a sofa and two chairs, and a gas fireplace with flat-screen TV. It was all antique furniture and crystal chandeliers. There was also a desk with an ergonomic chair for working. With the ultra-high ceilings, the room felt incredibly spacious and luxurious.
And the bathroom! As with any historic property, the layout of the bathroom was indicative of the era in which it was built. There was a separate water closet for the toilet, and a separate tiled shower (with awesome bath amenities) and a jacuzzi tub!
Nothing says getting the kinks out like have a soul-restoring soak in a jetted tub, with a tasty drink made from fine vodka at Glacier 45, made just down the street. It was just the remedy I needed after a hectic day of sightseeing and tours.
A spacious vanity, with a makeup mirror, hairdryer, and small coffee/tea station rounded out the spacious bathroom. And yes, there was even a small chandelier in this room! Like I said – opulence.
On the evening of my arrival, I opted for room service from the Palm Court, so I could take advantage of the dining room in the cupola. My chicken cordon blue was perfectly cooked and flavorful, with a yummy sauce. Paired with mushroom risotto and basket of yummy crusty bread, the room service gentleman mentioned the haunted history of this place.
As I lay in bed that night, I let the subtle lights coming in from the street fuel my imagination that the shadows playing on the wall might lead to ghosts.
Alas, to no avail! I saw no ghosts during my stay. Nevertheless, this history of this place is poignant and you wonder what exactly took place within these walls over a century ago.
The next morning, I partook of the wonderful breakfast buffet, with biscuits, muffins, scones, sausage, potatoes, French toast, granola, fruit, coffee, and juices…and even an omelet station! You can create your own omelet, and the friendly chef will prepare it fresh for you. I dined right under the Pacific Northwest’s largest stained-glass ceiling, two stories above me. When the sun is at the right angle, the ceiling casts fanciful rainbows on the carpet.
Dining Options
The Palm Court has a separate breakfast and dinner area. Chef Brandon leads the charge here with great local flavors from the region to create a menu that is as creative as it is delicious. While the menu changes on a regular basis, some sample dishes may be Mesquite smoked prime rib, Pacific Northwest salmon, and smoked prawns with wild mushroom fettuccine. Then indulge in desserts such as Peach Cobbler and Chocolate Hazelnut Torte.
Just next door is the 1889 Café. The stately mahogany bar serves up all of your favorite cocktails, with traditional pub fare, wine, and microbrews. They also host live music some nights and always support local musicians. Back in the day, Fresh Maine Lobster and Green Turtle Soup were among the delicacies served by white-gloved waiters in this social center of the region. Try to find the bullet hole in the wall!
Wonderful Stay!
The Geiser Grand Hotel checked all of the boxes for me when it comes to a historic getaway in a charming little town. The location was perfect and a great home base for exploring the area. I felt very taken care of by every single one of the staff I encountered. Every time I left the hotel to embark on my next stop, I was wished a Good Day by the front desk staff.
You just don’t get that with most hotels anymore. It makes you feel like a true guest in a historic home. Book your stay at the Geiser Grand during your trip through Eastern Oregon.
Despite the snowstorm and other duties that cut my trip short, rest assured, I will be back in Baker City and not look any further than the Geiser Grand to call home while I’m there.
Disclaimer: I was hosted by The Geiser Grand Hotel, however, all opinions mentioned here are my very own.
