$10 Million Renovation Completed

The Benbow Historic Inn opened its doors in July of 1926 and over 90 years later she is shining brighter than ever before.

After recently undergoing a $10 million renovation, its place as one of the great inns of the American West has been solidified, as has their inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places and their membership in Historic Hotels of America.

And what a history it is.

It was built by the Benbow family using a Tudor design from renowned architect Albert Farr, most famous for The Wolf House – the home he designed for legendary writer Jack London. It quickly became the go-to getaway along the Redwood Route, attracting visitors that included a who’s who of the time: Spencer Tracy, Clark Gable, Alan Ladd, Charles Laughton, Basil Rathbone, Eleanor Roosevelt, Herbert Hoover, King Abdullah II of Jordan, and George Siefert.

Not bad company, if we do say so ourselves.

The Benbow Historic Inn has had its share of ups and downs over the years, and was certainly hit hard by the market crash in 1929 and the Great Depression that followed. But it has persevered over time, maintaining its reputation for quality lodging and hospitality, while going through several ownership changes that led to the team that today proudly and capably carry on the legacy of the Benbow family. John and Teresa Porter, along with Jack Macdonald, made their purchase in 1994 and have guided a transition that has culminated in the renovations completed in March of 2018.

“We’re excited by the changes and proud of the fact that all work was completed by local Humboldt County businesses,” said John Porter, Inn Keeper and Managing Partner of the Benbow Historic Inn. “The improvements are beyond my expectations and will undoubtedly allow us to better welcome visitors to the North Coast region for generations to come.”

Benbow Historic Inn, Room 120 – the Helen Benbow Suite.

Here’s a look at the some of the updates:

• Now fully ADA compliant
• Elevator installed
• 10 new guest rooms/suites
• 2 new private banquet rooms
• New catering kitchen
• New registration lobby on ground level

Charmingly, each new room has been named after the Benbow children and decorated in themes that are relevant to each – complete with personal items of interest. Just another example of the great attention to detail that the current ownership and management teams bring to the table.

There are quite a few very special places to experience in the North Coast region. Without question, the Benbow Historic Inn is one that you’ll savor for years to come. Plan now for your next visit.

In the meantime, please enjoy this gallery of images showing off that new shine: