Class is back in session, but it may not be quite the curriculum you remember. This time, you can fill your schedule with Advanced Drink Sampling, Introduction to Relaxation, and Swimming in Style.
If you’re anywhere near Bothell, this decadent curriculum is what you can expect at Anderson School Hotel, a former educational institution transformed into a hospitality hotspot. Once a bustling middle school, it now serves up a different kind of activity, with a collection of unique rooms and equally enticing spots to eat and drink.
Add in a seemingly endless parade of live events, public lectures, and music, and you have all the makings of a vacation, staycation, or a night out on the town.
From School to Cool
The Anderson School is part of the McMenamins franchise, known for its creative series of bars, restaurants, and hotels, often all rolled into one complex.
They’re particularly famous for revitalizing historic properties, and between its ample acreage and its fascinating past, the Anderson School was a perfect candidate to join the lineup. But when this space opened back in 1931, it had a much simpler purpose: to provide the city of Bothell with its first junior high school.
After decades as the only middle school in town, Anderson was redesignated as Secondary Academy for Success (SAS), a crucial resource for students struggling with the traditional academic path.
From 1973 to 2009, SAS welcomed students who needed extra resources and guidance, keeping them in the school system and on track for graduation. When the school moved out to a new campus, the McMennamins crew moved in.
By 2015, the space had reopened as a hotel and entertainment hub, but the stories of the past had not been forgotten. Take a stroll down the halls today, and you will find paintings, photos, and stories commemorating the academic past, from famous students to beloved bus drivers. You can even stop in at The Principal’s Office – no longer a source of anxiety, but now a charming little nook of a bar on the top floor.
The city has also been home to a massive amount of famous figures, and plenty of the art pieces (not to mention the names of the rooms themselves) pay tribute to this eclectic assortment of notables, such as renowned bass player Willie Sligh and current state Senator Patty Murray.
Fun in Every Flavor at McMenamins Anderson School
After a bit of history and art appreciation, it’s time for the new version of recess, with a playground for every mood.
If you’re looking for a hassle-free tropical holiday, you can enjoy great food and drink surrounded by carved deities and a rainbow of winking lights at Nui Nui, which brings a global spin to the classic tiki bar motif.
Throw in a session at the indoor pool – a welcoming bit of paradise resplendent with fake palm trees and miniature waterfalls, and you have the perfect way to spend a drizzly Washington day.
Looking for something sportier? Trade the swimming pool for the green felt variety at the Woodshop, where you can get in a few rounds of shuffleboard or billiards, or watch some different games play out on the TV.
On the cozier side of things, Tavern On The Square offers sumptuous meals all day, an extensive tap list, and plenty of stained-glass windows and fireplace seating to keep both your taste buds and your sense of aesthetics entertained.
Don’t forget to indulge in some upscale whiskeys at The Shed, or to stop by The Market to grab some beverages and treats of your own, plus the all-important souvenirs.
Always Something New to Do at McMenamins Anderson School
As if all of this weren’t exciting enough, all of the venues at Anderson School offer up a calendar packed to the gills with events and performances.
The Anderson Theater offers all the latest releases alongside plenty of special screenings and concerts in every genre imaginable.
Meanwhile, the History Pub and Science Pub series give guests a taste of school days gone by, with local experts offering talks on topics ranging from the development of the University of Washington’s Bothell branch to the study of seismic activity.
If you want to learn even more about the facility itself (not to mention the creative smorgasbord covering its walls), check out the History & Art Tour to explore the space in more depth.
In nice weather, you can also spend plenty of time wandering through the five acres of gardens, outdoor patios, and charming little trails that make up the outside of the complex. Be sure to say hello to the chickens!
Whether you’re looking for a unique stay, a band to dance to, a lecture to learn from, or just a memorable evening out, class is always in session at the Anderson School!
The Anderson School is open year-round, though operating hours vary by venue. For information on events, reservations, and a chance to peek at some of the amazing treasures in store, check out their website.
Anderson School
18607 Bothell Way NE, Bothell
