If you've never stepped inside McMenamins Elks Temple, prepare to lose track of time. What was once a historic Elks Lodge in downtown Tacoma is now a seven-floor destination packed with bars, a boutique hotel, live music, a brewery, and more secrets than you can find in a single visit. This isn't just dinner out — it's a full-on experience.
Getting There
Driving
- Main parking on Broadway Street near the entrance
- A few free spots — most are metered (2–3 hr limit)
- Paid lot near the light rail stop by the Bottle Shop: $5–$20 depending on duration
- Refill your meter if you plan to stay a while
Light Rail — Best Option
- Park free at Tacoma Dome Station
- 10-minute ride drops you at the Bottle Shop entrance
- Free to ride
- Last train: 10 PM — plan your night accordingly
Floor by Floor
McMenamins Pub
Enter from Broadway and you land on the fourth floor — the main level. The McMenamins Pub is straight ahead: cozy, classic pub vibes with vintage décor and walls covered in original artwork. To the left is the hotel lobby where you can check in, grab Passport stamps, and pick up merch.
Visiting Friday or Saturday? Reservations are strongly recommended. If you're waiting for a table, don't worry — there's no shortage of bars to keep you entertained.
Boutique Hotel Rooms
Cozy, colorful, and loaded with personality — rooms up here are perfect for winding down after a full night of exploring. Each room is uniquely decorated in true McMenamins fashion.
The sixth floor features unique wall murals that tie directly into the McMenamins Passport scavenger hunt. Stop by the front desk for clues before heading up.
The Vault & Doc's Bar
Head down to the third floor and things get interesting. Hidden behind a secret door is The Vault — a dimly lit, underground-feeling bar (drinks only, no food) with street-level light filtering in from the sidewalk above. At night it positively glows.
Spooky in the best possible way.Doc's Bar is also on this floor — your spot for games and a more laid-back vibe.
Spanish Bar & Ballroom
Spanish Bar has its own exclusive food and drink menu — separate from the pub upstairs. On a nice day, grab a seat on the Spanish Steps for outdoor patio seating with sweeping views of Commencement Bay.
The Spanish Ballroom hosts concerts, comedy nights, and dance events throughout the year. Check their calendar before you visit.
The Old Hangout & Bottle Shop
Accessible via stairs, elevator, or directly from the light rail stop. The Old Hangout typically opens at 3 PM — check hours before planning an early visit. The vibe here is spicy and tropical with a great covered outdoor area complete with a fire pit and water feature.
Right next door, the Bottle Shop & Brewery Tasting Room is worth a stop even if you're not drinking — pick up local gifts, merch, or a fresh pour from the on-site Elks Temple Brewery.
The McMenamins Passport
First Visit? Get the Passport.
The McMenamins Passport ($35) unlocks a scavenger-hunt experience across all McMenamins locations — and the rewards make it well worth the investment. The Elks Temple alone offers stamps from the pub, each bar, the Bottle Shop, and hotel check-in.
$35 · Pays for itself in rewards Learn About the Passport