Where History and Luxury Meet in Kenmore
By Jennifer Coleman | Photos courtesy of City of Kenmore
Tucked along the northern edge of Lake Washington, Kenmore is a hidden gem where nature and community life intertwine. With its lush parks, vibrant waterfront, and a charming blend of history and trendiness, this small-town invites visitors to explore beyond the typical tourist trail. Kenmore encompasses just over 6 square miles along the northernmost shore of Lake Washington. Located at the mouth of the Sammamish River, it is a quasi-commuter town, just 12 miles northeast of downtown Seattle.
Kenmore is full of surprises. Not only is it home to the oldest operating air harbor and seaplane base in Washington, but it also has a historic Catholic seminary recently transformed into a destination hotel. The town's emerging "brew row" features a growing collection of craft breweries and distilleries collaborating to offer an outstanding food and beverage experience. With its network of parks and trails, Kenmore has become the go-to place for those seeking a unique getaway.
Known for its unique attractions, Kenmore offers something for every kind of traveler. One standout destination is the Lodge at St. Edward Park, an incredible example of history beautifully blended with modern luxury.
From 1931 until 1977, the Lodge at St. Edward Park was known as the St. Edward Seminary – an institution for developing Catholic priests. The grand seminary building was designed by a renowned Seattle architect and featured beautiful masonry work on the exterior, with exquisite details throughout. After falling into disrepair in the years after its closure, the building was renovated with love and attention to detail, bringing it back to a modern version of its original self. The newly renovated building opened to the public as The Lodge at St. Edwards Park in 2021 as a full-service destination hotel packed with history and located on the grounds of a Washington State Park.
A highlight when visiting The Lodge is making your way along the grand hallway that is bathed in natural light and showcases a rotating exhibit of art created by local Pacific Northwest artists and curated by Catalyst Fine Art. The Lodge is also home to an Artist in Residence program that features local artists who take inspiration from the Lodge’s surroundings and create and give demonstrations of their craft.
Each of the 5 floors at The Lodge have special points of interest and can be found on a self-guided tour. The “Stories of Saint Edward Historical Tour” can be found via QR code and a tour packet that you can get at the front desk. You don’t have to be a guest of The Lodge to enjoy the property, many of the amenities and facilities are made available each day for anyone in the community to use.
A grotto can be found on the property at the Lodge at St. Edwards State Park. The grotto was built in the 1940s by seminary students.
Pickleball courts at the Lodge are available for guests and neighbors in a newly renovated gymnasium.
The Lodge has cozy and luxurious accommodations in 84 guestrooms and suites. Vita Nova, the on-site spa, offers all the best in pampering experiences, and the newly earned Michelin Key restaurant Cedar + Elm serves up creative fare in the historic dining hall. On the lower level is Tonsorium Bar, a whimsical bar featuring adventurous cocktails and food along with authentic relics from the building’s past. Don’t miss the cozy library on the 3rd floor – it has many books and games, along with snacks and drinks for visitors to enjoy. Another hidden feature at The Lodge is the spiral stairway to the bell tower, which you may hear ringing from time to time, usually to mark the exchange of wedding vows for ceremonies taking place on site.
The Lodge at St. Edward Park is more than a place to stay; it's a journey through time, art, and nature. Whether you’re interested in history, seeking luxury, or craving a peaceful retreat in a stunning park setting, the Lodge delivers it all.