About Us
Historic Grandeur in Washington Wine Country
A treasured landmark rising above downtown Walla Walla, The Marcus Whitman pairs its enviable historic pedigree with an unflinching commitment to modern-day luxury and exceptional service. Since opening in 1928, we’ve reigned as Walla Walla’s premier hotel, a hospitality hub deeply connected to the community and committed to showcasing the region’s wine country splendor.
Named Hotel of the Year by the Washington State Wine Commission, The Marcus Whitman delights guests with a collection of five on-site tasting rooms—hosted by local boutique vintners. Additionally, our very own Marc Restaurant serves innovative farm-to-table food & wine pairings—while the Vineyard Lounge wows patrons with seasonal cocktails, served alongside savory appetizers.
"The Marcus Whitman pairs its enviable historic pedigree with an unflinching commitment to modern-day luxury and exceptional service."
When the hotel was built in 1928, a city ordinance was passed stating that no other structure could be built taller than the Marcus Whitman Hotel; this ordinance is still in place today.
The hotel has hosted several famous guests, including Shirley Temple, George Reeves, Chuck Connors, Louis Armstrong, President Dwight D. Eisenhower, and President Lyndon B. Johnson.
From the mid-1970s until the late 1990s, the hotel was used for subsistence housing until being restored to its former glory, complete with decorative dark wood paneling in the ornate lobby.
Unrestored pieces of the hotel’s original interior still exist, including the original key cubbies behind the front desk, an original clock (also behind the front desk), and the original phone booths.
The lobby’s terrazzo floor has been completely restored to its original condition.
On the second floor of the tower, there are 35 original oil paintings by artist David Manuel depicting the story of founders Marcus and Narcissa Whitman.
Located in downtown Walla Walla, which is consistently recognized as one of the best small towns in America, The Marcus Whitman is just one block over from a boutiques, cafes, bookstores, tasting rooms and restaurants along tree-lined Main Street. Area celebrations and activities include the Farmers Market, Feast Walla Walla, the West Coast League’s Walla Walla Sweets Baseball Team, the Walla Walla Chamber Music Festival, the Wheelin’ Walla Walla Classic Car Show, and more.
The hotel’s central location within the Walla Walla Valley AVA - a burgeoning wine region complete with scenic agricultural areas and natural landscapes - makes it easy for guests to enjoy one of the country’s most exciting wine tourism destinations. Day trips are by car or bike are easily arranged and include a variety of interesting and picturesque locations, including the towns of College Place, Waitsburg, Dayton, Milton Freewater, and Pendleton.
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Gallery
Explore the beauty, historic style and comfort of staying at The Marcus Whitman.