About The McCleary Hotel
A Restored Historic Hotel in McCleary, Washington
The McCleary Hotel is a historic boutique hotel located in McCleary, Washington. Built in 1912 and listed on both the Washington State and National Registers of Historic Places, the hotel has long served as a gathering place in this small Pacific Northwest mill town. Today, it has been thoughtfully restored as a peaceful, adult-focused retreat for guests seeking rest, character, and a slower pace of travel.
Stewardship & Ownership
The McCleary Hotel is owned and operated by Old Growth Fir Properties LLC, led by managing members Lorena and Matthew Maurer. Former educators turned contractors, the Maurers live and work throughout Grays Harbor County, including Aberdeen, Hoquiam, and McCleary. Over the years, they have renovated more than a dozen historic and residential properties locally and across the United States.
Their background as short-term rental hosts shaped a philosophy centered on thoughtful restoration, practical comfort, and gracious hospitality. At The McCleary Hotel, that experience translates into an environment designed to feel cared for rather than commercial.
History & Restoration
Constructed in 1912 during the height of the region’s timber era, The McCleary Hotel was originally developed by Henry McCleary, the town’s founding lumber baron. His purpose in building the hotel was to showcase the fine products produced by his mill, which is why the building features abundant beautifully finished wood throughout its décor, from ornate trim to elegant paneling. For more than a century, the hotel has witnessed the rhythms of mill-town life, from everyday gatherings to milestone celebrations.
The current restoration prioritizes preservation over reinvention. Original architectural details have been retained wherever possible, while modern systems have been carefully integrated to support comfort and longevity. The goal is not to recreate the past, but to honor it—allowing the building’s age, craftsmanship, and stories to remain visible.
Discover the Charm of The McCleary Hotel
What a stay is like today
The McCleary Hotel offers a quiet, adult-focused atmosphere well suited to guests seeking rest, reflection, or focused time away. The pace here is intentionally unhurried. Rooms emphasize comfort, simplicity, and sleep, while shared spaces invite conversation, reading, or solitude.
Guests often choose The McCleary Hotel for:
- A calm alternative to busy coastal or urban lodging
- A character-rich historic environment
- A setting conducive to rest, creative work, or small gatherings
The hotel is best suited to adults who value atmosphere, history, and quiet over constant activity.
Gardens, Nearby Trails, and Recreation
The property is surrounded by established gardens, including flowering quince trees that bloom seasonally. Outdoor seating, a firepit, and garden gathering areas provide space to enjoy the slower rhythms of small-town life.
Within a quarter mile of the hotel, guests can explore a variety of outdoor amenities including:
- A serene pond and Wildcat Creek, accessible via a trail across the street
- Walking trails through forests and a local park
- Pickleball courts and other recreational spaces
These nearby features make it easy for guests to enjoy the natural beauty of McCleary and the Pacific Northwest without needing a car.
Indoors, the historic gathering room can accommodate small events of approximately 30–40 people. The space is well suited for micro-events, retreats, and intimate celebrations that benefit from a timeless, understated setting.
Sense of Place
Sense of Place
Located in Grays Harbor County, The McCleary Hotel sits within easy reach of Washington’s coastal rainforests, working harbors, and rural landscapes. McCleary itself is less than 20 minutes from West Olympia, making it accessible for day trips or weekend escapes while still offering a tranquil, small-town atmosphere. The surrounding region reflects the Pacific Northwest’s quieter side—marked by rain, evergreens, and a strong sense of local history.