Hot Lake Springs Hotel is a remote bed & breakfast located in northeastern Oregon. First constructed in 1864, this unique place is full of fascinating history.
Located on a hot spring lake, as its name implies, the hotel has changed forms many times since it was first opened 150 years ago.
facebook/ Hot Lake Springs
Prior to the colonization that occurred here beginning around 1812, the hot spring was a popular place among Native American communities.
The building was first constructed here in 1864, although it faced the hill instead of the lake. Inside, there was a number of businesses including a blacksmith, post office, and barber shop. The structure was rebuilt in 1903 to face the hot spring and house a brand-new hotel.
flickr/ Roadsidepictures
Soon after the rebuilding, a new wing of the hotel was opened to serve as a hospital, which included a surgical ward, hot spring soaking tubs, a laboratory, and more. There was also a dance hall, over 100 guest rooms, and various shops. The hotel/sanatorium was a big hit, drawing visitors from across the country and beyond.
wiki/ Oregon State University Archives
In 1934, a fire tore through the complex, destroying many of the buildings and leading to the resort’s eventual collapse.
wiki/ Hot Lake Springs
Over the following years, the building was used in many different ways. During World War II, it was used as a nurse and pilot training facility. In 1951, it was used as a nursing home and then an asylum. After changing hands numerous times, the building was eventually abandoned and fell into disrepair.
wiki/ Visitor7
Some believe the place to be haunted. There are rumors of long-dead guests roaming the halls, disembodied voices in the sanatorium, and a piano that plays on its own.
flickr/ Roadsidepictures
In 2003, the dilapidated building was bought and slowly renovated into a museum and bed & breakfast. Nowadays, this historic inn is a lovely place to visit on a relaxing getaway. You can soak in the hot mineral water, check out the on-site museum, stroll through a garden, explore the surrounding scenery, and more.
facebook/ Hot Lake Springs
Whether you’re a history buff or you just want to relax in a beautiful hot spring setting (or both!), the B&B – now called Hot Lake Springs – is a fascinating place to visit.
facebook/ Hot Lake Springs
You can find out more and book a room on the Hot Lake Springs Website.
facebook/ Hot Lake Springs
flickr/ Roadsidepictures
wiki/ Oregon State University Archives
wiki/ Hot Lake Springs
wiki/ Visitor7
Address: 66172 OR-203, La Grande, Oregon
Find out about more of Oregon’s historic hidden gems here.
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