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You Can Stay In Kurt Cobain’s Old Apartment In Olympia, Washington

Kurt Cobain's former apartment in Olympia is available for rent on Airbnb, offering a nostalgic stay for Nirvana fans.

Published Nov 27, 2019

Written by 

Jessica Wick

Whether you were living in Seattle during the height of the grunge days or Nirvana is a distant memory your parents seem to hold dear, knowing the impact Kurt Cobain and Nirvana had on our history is part of being a Washingtonian. And while Cobain was born and raised in Aberdeen before moving to the Emerald City, he spent some time living in an apartment in Olympia, where he wrote quite a bit of his music. And now, thanks to Airbnb, diehard fans can rent that space for overnight stays.

The apartment is one of three units in this old house at 114 Pear Street NE in Olympia.

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Kurt Cobain lived here from 1989 to 1991.

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Rumor has it that Cobain actually wrote about 75 percent of his total lifetime output here.

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Airbnb

Smells Like Teen Spirit was inspired by graffiti that was sprayed on the wall of the apartment by Bikini Kill's Kathleen Hanna.

These days, the apartment serves as a mecca for die-hard Nirvana and grunge fans.

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Airbnb

Although it isn't marked in any way, it's public knowledge that he lived here, so true fans know where to find it.

Your $69 nightly rental fee includes this private studio space, which houses a queen bed, a TV with cable, WiFI, and a full kitchen.

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Airbnb

There's also a quiet backyard complete with a cherry tree.

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While Cobain's actual possessions are long gone, the host does include some nostalgic details, like photos on the wall that were taken when he lived here.

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Airbnb

The host, Kelli, has kept the decor retro to make it seem authentic, just as it was when Cobain called it home. And if you're a believer in vibes, you'll love the creative energy here.

History was made between these walls, so it's pretty amazing that the public can stay here now.

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Airbnb

Kelli even offers discounts for long-term renters — you know, in case you have an album you're working on and you need inspiration.

Would you stay in Kurt Cobain's apartment? If so, check availability here. If you love unique accommodations like this, you'll also want to check out the Grain Bin Inn.

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Stays|Hotels & Resorts

Experience Old West Luxury at One of Washington’s Oldest Hotels

Do you want to experience Old West luxury? At The Bishop Hotel in Port Townsend, you'll stay in one of the oldest hotels in Washington!

Updated Oct 23, 2024

Written by 

Andrea Verschuyl

Somewhere between the advent of Airbnb and Instagram, vacationers began craving accommodations that provided them with more than beige, standardized interiors. Today's sightseers patronize businesses that deliver comfort while maintaining the local character guests couldn't find anywhere else. If a one-of-a-kind stay is on your wish list, you might want to stay in Port Townsend's Bishop Hotel, one of the oldest hotels in Washington.

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Perched on the northeast tip of the Olympic Peninsula with sweeping views of Puget Sound, Port Townsend is a famously picturesque town with a reputation for well-preserved Victorian architecture. The community's careful conservation of these structures is partly thanks to luck. While other Washington cities fell victim to fires that forced redevelopment, Port Townsend avoided these disasters.

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Aerial panorama of the town of Port Townsend, a small and picturesque city on the Quimper Peninsula in the Puget Sound, Washington, with the Olympic Mountains in the distance.

With its stylish looks and oh-so-symmetrical architecture, there's something charmingly Wes Anderson about The Bishop Hotel. Walking up, it delivers visitors Old West luxury with a Victorian flair.

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David Seibold/Flickr

A local man named William Bishop Sr. built the site in 1890. It became known as The Bishop Block, serving as the headquarters for the Owl Cigar Company well into the 1900s before being converted into temporary housing for WWII civilian workers in the 1940s. 1980 was the first year the building operated as a hotel, and it's been a tourist favorite since.

Current owners Jessica Jennings and Eric Wennberg purchased the building in 2020 and have done a remarkable job updating it while remaining sensitive to its storied past. You'll find their touch in modern details that imbue the hotel with timeless panache.

One of the things we love most about this boutique hotel in Port Townsend is that it sits just one block from the water, creating the perfect coastal escape. You can access the beach and water right from Water Street. And after your time outdoors, you can take a walk and browse the many local shops.

Though the downstairs Bottle Shop at The Bishop Hotel is open seven days a week for espresso, pastries, and adult beverages, and the beautiful courtyard is a must-visit year-round, some rooms are fitted with quaint kitchenettes, meaning you can luxuriate in bed as long as you'd like on a lazy vacation morning.

As well as being squeaky clean, the rooms are equally packed with character. As a lover of antiques, I relished the hotel's attention to detail. Here, guests enjoy all the atmosphere of a Victorian building while also benefiting from modern comforts. The combination makes for a delightful experience you'll want to repeat again and again.

This Old West hotel in Washington also offers weekly, private, and various pop-up events. These events typically take place in the Bishop Block Bottle Shop or Garden Courtyard and can include everything from live music nights to a weekly pasta night. We recommend you visit The Bishop Hotel’s website for upcoming events and activities.

You'll love your stay at one of the oldest hotels in Washington! The Bishop Hotel delivers Old West glamour in a decidedly Victorian package. Best of all, this boutique hotel is located within walking distance from Port Townsend's charming downtown. Book your vacation and make lasting memories in this stunning waterfront town! And, of course, if you have stayed at this Washington hotel in the past, let us know about your experience. Don't forget to include your favorite The Bishop Hotel photos!

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Stays|Hotels & Resorts

Take a Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride, Then Stay in a Snow-Covered Lodge for a Holly Jolly Washington Adventure

Head off the beaten path to a picture-perfect winter resort in Washington with enough activities to last all season long.

Updated Oct 22, 2024

Written by 

Sherri Adams

If you’re looking for a winter getaway that’s sure to please, then head off the beaten path to the little, old Western town of Winthrop, Washington. Nestled in picturesque Okanogan County, you’ll find the Sun Mountain Lodge, a premier resort surrounded by cross-country skiing, snowshoeing trails, and even the option for a horse-drawn carriage ride in Washington. A holly jolly adventure awaits at the Sun Mountain Lodge.

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Sun Mountain Lodge is undeniably one of the most beautiful places to stay in Washington in the wintertime. The lodge sits perched high above the Methow Valley with panoramic views of the Cascade Mountain Range, an idyllic location for a variety of winter sports and activities.

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jaisril / Flickr

Here you’ll find the largest destination cross-country ski resort in the United States. Whether you’re a seasoned skier, or just starting out, Sun Mountain Lodge has the perfect cross-country skiing experience for everyone. Expertly groomed ski trails stretch across the valley with diverse terrain for all skill levels.

If you’re looking for a slightly slower-paced activity, Sun Mountain Lodge has you covered. Have you ever tried snowshoeing? This winter activity is a favorite pastime in the Methow Valley. You can rent snowshoes from the lodge and spend the day in the fresh, crisp air trekking through glistening snow and making memories you won’t soon forget.

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Mt. Seymour, North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

A ride in a horse-drawn sleigh will delight the whole family. From mid-December through early March, depending on snow conditions, you can take an enchanting sleigh ride over snow-covered hills, led by magnificent draft horses. Snuggle under the provided quilt and breathe in the clean mountain air. Reservations are strongly recommended, as this is a popular family activity.

Speaking of reservations, don't forget to make some for award-winning cuisine in the dining room. So much winter activity in Washington is bound to work up an appetite, and fortunately, the on-site dining will not disappoint. With fresh, farm-to-table selections, and grand sweeping views, the dining room at Sun Mountain Lodge is a culinary experience not to be missed. The menu changes seasonally, offering guests a chance to enjoy the region's finest bounty, supplied by local farms whenever possible. And, those who appreciate fine wine will be impressed by the cellar's 3,000 bottles of local Washington wine.

Looking for a more casual dining experience? Check out the Wolf Creek Bar & Grill. With 180-degree views of the Methow Valley, delicious, locally and regionally sourced foods, and craft beers, the Wolf Creek Bar & Grill is a great place to bring the family for lunch. Gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options are available.

Well-appointed guest rooms await at the end of the day. After a long day of skiing and snowshoeing, you’ll want to snuggle up in a complimentary bathrobe and fall into bed for a restful night’s sleep in one of the lodge’s cozy guest rooms. Guests rave about the views, service, and top-notch quality of the accommodations.

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ryan Bucci / Flickr

Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a romantic getaway for two, Sun Mountain Lodge has the winter adventure you’re looking for. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sleigh rides are just a few of the fun winter activities at Sun Mountain Lodge. Hop on a snowmobile and glide across fresh powder through the 3,000 acres of wilderness. You can even sign up for lessons with an expert instructor and learn how to Alpine ski!

Your winter adventure awaits at the Sun Mountain Lodge in Winthrop, Washington. Pristine snow, wilderness trails, fresh mountain air, and award-winning cuisine make for the perfect mountain getaway! Have you experienced the beauty and tranquility of Sun Mountain Lodge? What new Washington winter activities did you try?

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If you're looking for some more ideas for spending winter in Washington, check out what makes the village of Leavenworth so incredibly magical.

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