Want a funky, fun vibe place to stay while in Corvallis? Hotel Corvallis, formerly known as University Inn, is now a boutique hot spot right downtown. But, don’t confuse it with the no-longer-existing, formerly-historic, previously-named Hotel Corvallis - that one is now offices and home to several shops. This Hotel Corvallis is a short walk to OSU and conveniently located to many great local eats, treats, and shops.
The owners, Todd and Eunice, took over the 75-room hotel in 2015 and started the renovations just before the pandemic. Their vision takes advantage of elements that others would see as an obstacle. The cement brick walls fit in with the retro furniture and mid-century minimalist decor. The focus is all about high-touch points, like the deep, comfortable mattresses, earth-friendly Marmoleum flooring, and excellent water pressure in the showers. In addition, you’ll see high-end touches such as the luxury-level shampoo/soap, the custom-made Willamette Valley viticulture map hanging as art, and the Tesla charging station.
The hotel didn’t come with its own restaurant. Todd asks, “Why compete when we have all these great places next door?” Guests can get vouchers for breakfast at Tommy’s 4th Street Bar & Grill, which locals often recommend as a great breakfast place. Why bother with a cheap coffee pot in the room when you can get locally roasted caffeine at Coffee Culture Downtown? In the lobby, guests are welcome to snacks and beverages gratis. If that’s not enough, the hotel’s “bodega” is steps away at The Stock Market in the Chevron station - be sure to admire the mural on the back of the building, one of the many in Corvallis’ mural tour.
Hotel Corvallis also offers amenities that result from listening to guests' needs. They offer the most rooms in town where dogs can bunk with their humans. Are you a biker taking advantage of one of the many epic trails nearby? Some rooms have bike racks inside where you can safely stow your ride. Many guests enjoy the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff - or, as Todd and Eunice call them, team members.
Adding some unusual entertainment makes Hotel Corvallis stand out. For weekend nights during the warmer months, the hotel features “Alleyway Movie Night.” Think of it as a drive-in movie vibe, but the movies are projected on a big building wall, you tune in to audio on your TV, and you can watch from the comfort of your balcony. More interesting events are in the works. Alternatively, within three blocks, you could play games at Conundrum House; climb walls at Valley Rock Gym; solve mysteries at Corvallis Escape Room; read books at The Book Bin; buy vintage clothes; and watch a show at the Darkside Cinema or the historic Whiteside Theatre.
The owners' goal is to have guests enjoy the experience of staying at their high-value hotel. Come for the convenient location, and remain for the original, funky, fun atmosphere! If you share your upbeat adventures in Corvallis and Hotel Corvallis on social media, add the hashtag #VisitCorvallis, and we may feature it on our accounts.
Article by Stacey Newman Weldon. Featured photo by Jane Wiley. Keep up with Corvallis news, events and happenings by signing up for our email newsletter.
