There are a whopping 124 state parks in Washington, and they are visited by nearly 40 million people each year. And while each of our parks has its own unique character and special features, there's only one that has a former seminary that is now a full-on sanctuary. The Lodge at St. Edward State Park opened in 2021, and it's absolutely incredible.
Located in Kenmore, St. Edward State Park is Washington's second most visited state park.
Here, you can hike, bike, host an epic picnic or birthday party, attend small outdoor concerts in the summer, swim in Lake Washington, and even get married. And now, you can spend the night at the breathtaking lodge.
The Lodge at St. Edward State Park spent 46 years as the St. Edward Seminary. The institution for developing Catholic priests operated until 1976.
After that, this beautiful building lay dormant, occasionally being used as a set for a horror movie or thriller. At long last, the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission entered into an agreement with Daniels Realty Development and completely restored the building.
Creating this luxury lodge took five years and over $50 million, but take one look inside and you'll see that it's worth it.
Most of the 84 guest rooms are compact and cozy—this was a seminary, after all. But they're filled with luxury amenities, making your stay magical. There are also a few spacious suites if you're willing to splurge.
When you arrive, take a walk down the hall by the main lobby. It's full of local art.
Then, you'll be ready for a cocktail or a glass of bubbles at Father Mulligan’s Heritage Bar .
Downstairs, the Tonsorium Bar takes up the space that once served as the seminary's barbershop.
This bar is open seven days a week, offers a daily happy hour, and features lives music on Thursdays.
If you're looking for a quieter experience, check out the tranquil spa.
Not only can you treat yourself to a relaxing treatment, but you can unwind in the Vita Nova Meditation Room.
The on-site restaurant, Cedar + Elm, serves Pacific Northwest cuisine at its finest.
The head chef here is incredibly talented, and the team uses herbs and produce from the on-site garden whenever possible.
Guests tend to love the upstairs library, which has everything from classic literature to board games.
Sometimes self-care means cozying up on the couch and getting lost in a good book.
The Lodge at St. Edward State Park has come a long way from its seminary days, but the team has done a wonderful job of maintaining some of its original historic details.
The property is surrounded by stunning nature, and you won't find anything else quite like this anywhere in Washington.
Treat yourself to a true PNW retreat at this luxurious lodge.
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