The Long Beach Peninsula certainly isn't known for its railroad history. But considering many of the communities were established in the mid-1800s, it makes sense that the railroad was the preferred way to distribute mail and people from the north end of the peninsula to the steamboat ferry terminal at Ilwaco. The "Clamshell Railroad" was designed to fill this local need, but it also led to the construction of many new local businesses. Washington's longest-running hotel was one of them, and the Shelburne Inn (now the Shelburne Hotel) is still going strong today.
The Shelburne Inn first opened for business in 1896, making it the oldest continuously-operating hotel in Washington.
The inn was owned by Charles Beaver as a retreat for people in the Portland area, and it was named after a fancy hotel in Dublin. The hotel was a stop on the Clamshell Railroad, which was in operation for more than 40 years.
Ownership of the inn changed hands many times, even before the Clamshell Railroad ceased operations.
Fortunately, it never closed down. Each owner seemed to improve it more than the next.
One of the most prominent parts of the hotel is the on-site pub, which was opened after the owners had the old front porch enclosed in 1983.
The pub looks much older and more striking thanks to the beautiful stained glass windows.
These stained glass windows, which you'll see all over the pub and in parts of the hotel, were salvaged from a century-old church in England.
They add such a unique flair to the space, they tend to be what guests remember the most.
Of course, the food at the pub is also quite memorable.
Just try the famous fish and chips once. You'll be hooked.
There are 16 rooms here, each with their own unique details that make them stand out.
Choose from historic Queen rooms, contemporary King rooms, or decadent details like clawfoot tubs.
During its last renovation, the Shelburne Inn officially became the Shelburne Hotel.
This place is proof that historic touches and modern details can go hand-in-hand. In fact, they work extremely well together.
Have you ever stayed at the Shelburne Hotel? Book yourself a weekend getaway here.
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