Run Oregon Road Trip to The Holman

Run Oregon loves running – that’s no surprise. But we also love the Pacific Northwest and all that it has to offer. Running is a part of us, but it does not fully define us. In our “Make a Day of It” feature, we aim to showcase some great local non-running events and highlight where to run and how to make the most of your experience! The most recent location for our runcation series is a new stay at The Holman Hotel in downtown Salem.

Over the years, Salem, where I’ve been a resident since 2004, has undergone a remarkable transformation. From its roots as a pass-through capital city with state workers clocking out at 5 PM, it has burgeoned into a surprisingly solid destination for exploration. Nestled in the valley, Salem strikes a balance with enhanced amenities reminiscent of a big city while maintaining a suburban, intimate feel.

Its centralized location, just an hour away from the Oregon Coast, Portland, and Eugene, a straight shot over to Bend, and mere minutes away from wine country, does not get the credit it deserves. This evolution has not only increased its size and population but has also turned Salem into a central hub with diverse offerings.

First the Running:

Salem has emerged as not only a city of events but also a destination for running enthusiasts. The city is becoming a hotspot for both local and national races, including the spectacular Willamette Valley Half Marathon organized by Breakaway Promotions and the recent addition of IRONMAN 70.3. With a downstream swim and shaded run, it’s gaining acclaim as a favorite among multisport enthusiasts.

And with greater visibility, comes the need for suitable accommodations – something the Holman Hotel, a part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection, is now providing.

The hotel’s proximity to Riverfront Park makes it an ideal basecamp for runners. Not only does the park have a few miles of looped trails right along the Willamette River, it also provides bridge access to an extensive network of trails connecting to Minto Brown Park.

This runner’s paradise, with loop trails, paved paths, and single-track dirt trails, is a must-experience in Salem. Minto Brown Park is larger than Central Park in NYC, so the mileage is at your discretion!

The Spot:

The Holman, unveiled in 2023, is a breath of fresh air for Salem’s hotel scene. Its pristine, welcoming aura combines modernism with a touch of cozy local flair. Even though it is fresh and new, this spot is actually pretty historical.

The hotel stands on the hallowed ground that was once home to the Holman Building, a cornerstone of Oregon’s state government from 1857 to 1876. With its origins tied to Joseph Holman, a Salem businessman and original Willamette University trustee, this building witnessed the birth of Oregon as a state on February 14, 1859. Despite serving various purposes over the years, including a stint as The Commercial Hotel, the building faced demolition in 1951, making way for the Marion Car Rental and Park. Definitely not as cool.

The Holman’s location has deep historical roots, marked by the lighting of the first street gas lamp by Joseph’s son, George Holman. This legacy extends to the introduction of the first maple trees in Salem, enhancing the city’s streetscape. Today, the Holman Hotel pays homage to this rich history, working closely with the city of Salem to preserve the exterior architecture in harmony with other downtown landmarks.

Really cool stuff.

Not everyone is a rain runner, so if you prefer to stay dry, there is a Fitness Center that should provide a little reprieve. Hydrate with the ease of access to purified water through the bottle filling station, promoting sustainability and refreshing moments throughout your stay. If the weather is nice, make sure you bask in the open air on the outdoor patio, where a breath of fresh air complements the inviting atmosphere.

Our Room:

As we settled into a two-queen room, the straightforward yet well-appointed space boasted cleanliness and expected amenities. Depending on the room’s orientation, one could be treated to a view capturing the essence of Salem. Beyond the room, The Holman serves not just as accommodation but as a comfortable retreat, enhancing the overall experience of exploring Salem.

Our 2 Queen Suite with Kitchenette (complete with a pullout) was super clean and had plenty of space for us.

Refueling:

The dining scene in Salem received a significant boost with the addition of Pacific Standard, the Holman’s hotel restaurant.

Having attended the opening night of this restuarant this past year, it became apparent that this establishment stands out even among hotel restaurants. Pacific Standard offers a delightful combination of upscale fare, simpler bites, and a well-curated selection of drinks. This addition enriches the downtown Salem restaurant scene, providing guests with a memorable culinary experience.

Pacific Standard is also the hotel restaurant of KEX in Portland.

For coffee enthusiasts, the Holman’s coffee bar and quick-bites lobby location – the Lip Service Cafe. Salem is meant to be explored and this stands as a great spot to grab a quick pick-me-up before and after your day out and about.

Your journey at the Holman extends beyond culinary delights. The Holman Market provides a haven of carefully curated essentials, creating an oasis of convenience at your fingertips.

Overall:

Our stay at the Holman Hotel was nothing short of exceptional. Every aspect of our stay was marked by comfort and indulgence. At times it felt we were a world away from Salem – or at least far away from what Salem lodging has typically been.

With top-notch amenities, attentive service, and a location steeped in historical charm, the Holman Hotel exceeded our expectations. We wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking a delightful blend of running route access, luxury, convenience, and a touch of Salem’s rich history for an unforgettable stay.