The McCleary Hotel Journal

The McCleary Hotel has always been more than a place to sleep. Since 1912, it has been a place where people arrive, gather, rest, and set out again.

This journal is a collection of stories from the hotel and its surroundings—our history and restoration, what it’s like to stay here today, and the small, meaningful moments that happen within these walls. We also share notes on hosting quiet celebrations, retreats, and events, along with reflections on McCleary’s unique position between Olympia, the Olympic Peninsula, and Washington’s wild coast.

Whether you are planning a stay, considering the hotel as a gathering place, or simply curious about this corner of the Pacific Northwest, these entries are meant to offer a sense of place—and an invitation.

 Step back in time with a stay at The McCleary Hotel, a historic 1912 boutique hotel in McCleary, Washington. Discover cozy guest rooms, inviting common spaces like the Cedar Gathering Hall and Fireside Room, and a quiet retreat just 20 minutes from Olympia. From handcrafted wood details to a slower, restorative pace, this is where history, comfort, and thoughtful hospitality meet.

Just 20 minutes from Olympia, the McCleary Hotel is a well-kept secret for intimate events, retreats, and gatherings. This 1912 historic boutique hotel offers flexible spaces like the Cedar Gathering Hall, cozy Fireside Room, and Cascara Studio—paired with peaceful gardens and nearby trails. It’s an ideal setting for weddings, workshops, and celebrations that feel private, personal, and timeless. 

Located just 20 minutes from Olympia, the McCleary Hotel offers a quiet gateway to the Olympic Peninsula. Guests can take easy day trips to forests, coastal towns, and wide-open beaches—then return to a peaceful historic hotel. With trails, Wildcat Creek, and a pond just steps away, the McCleary Hotel is an ideal base for exploration without city traffic or crowds. 

Looking for a hotel near Elma, Washington? Travelers often discover that the most memorable stays aren’t always in town—but just beyond it. This article explores why guests searching for Elma-area lodging are choosing the historic McCleary Hotel for its quiet setting, boutique character, and restorative atmosphere, just minutes from Elma. Learn what sets this thoughtfully restored 113-year-old hotel apart from standard roadside options and why it’s becoming a well-kept secret for travelers seeking comfort, charm, and a slower pace. 

Looking for a hotel near Elma, Washington? Travelers often discover that the most memorable stays aren’t always in town—but just beyond it. This article explores why guests searching for Elma-area lodging are choosing the historic McCleary Hotel for its quiet setting, boutique character, and restorative atmosphere, just minutes from Elma. Learn what sets this thoughtfully restored 113-year-old hotel apart from standard roadside options and why it’s becoming a well-kept secret for travelers seeking comfort, charm, and a slower pace. 

Choosing where to stay in East Grays Harbor County shapes the entire rhythm of your visit. From quiet historic towns and forested backroads to lively entertainment venues and practical roadside hotels, the region offers several very different lodging experiences. This guide explores the primary accommodation options in and around East Grays Harbor County — and highlights what makes the McCleary Hotel a distinctive choice for guests seeking calm, character, and a more meaningful stay. 

The McCleary Hotel is proud to recognize the McCleary Museum as a valued community partner. As two historic institutions rooted in the town’s story, we share a commitment to preserving local history, supporting community engagement, and creating meaningful gathering spaces.

This journal entry highlights how the hotel and the McCleary Museum work in complementary ways—encouraging visitors to explore McCleary’s past, supporting educational and cultural programming, and thoughtfully coordinating events that honor both venues’ roles. Together, we believe history is not just something to preserve, but something to live with, learn from, and share.