Griffin House

Amidst the captivating landscape of the Columbia River Gorge, the Griffin House stands as a timeless wedding venue, blending historic charm with breathtaking vistas. Its ceremony site rests on a terrace, partially encircled by a stone wall, offering panoramic views of the Columbia River and the weaving train tracks below. The historic 120-year-old house boasts multiple rooms for wedding parties to prepare, while the spacious cocktail hour lawn provides an idyllic setting to get the party started, seamlessly transitioning between ceremony and reception. Surrounded by lush Pacific Northwest greenery, the grounds set a picturesque stage for unforgettable moments. A grand reception tent, shielded from the wind, welcomes guests with stone steps, setting the tone for an elegant celebration befitting the newlyweds. At the Griffin House, every detail intertwines to create a wedding experience infused with history, natural beauty, and timeless romance.

Location

The Griffin House is conveniently located about an hour east of Portland but just 5 minutes from downtown Hood River. Few places offer such convenient access to epic views with minimal travel time to nearby lodging.

Ceremony Site

When guests first arrive for your ceremony at the Griffin House, they will be initially greeted by the beautiful two-story house itself, its entrance flanked by two griffin statues. They will then round the side of the building and find themselves paralleling a cliffside overlooking the Columbia River Gorge with just a stone wall separating them from the majesty below, the perfect spot to grab informal selfies and group shots. They will then descend a sloped lawn where the ceremony seating cascades down toward a stone terrace with evergreens rising overhead. Gaps between the trees reveal the river below and the Cascade mountain range framing the water.

Reception Area

A graceful flight of stone steps with grass poking between them ushers guests down to the spacious 2600-square-foot reception tent. The tent features clear panels that let in ample evening light, so the festivities look their best well toward sunset. The tent’s blank canvas provides the opportunity to get plenty creative with your wedding aesthetic, but the venue also provides access to their private furniture collection including vintage couches and moroccan rugs, to dress things up. If your plans involve a live band, yes, they have plenty of room for that with all the hookups with room to spare for the dance floor.

Getting Ready Rooms

The Griffin House includes plenty of space for the whole wedding party. The middle level floor provides ample space for hair and make up while you enjoy a brief ditty on the piano if someone in the wedding party feels like performing. Upstairs, the Griffin’s Wing is the perfect room to get your dress on as you’re bathed in light streaming through the skylight. An adjacent sun room is wonderful for lounging and sipping champagne with your besties before heading out the door for photos, and several surrounding bedrooms ensures everyone has privacy when they need it. The bottom level features the vintage-inspired Griffin’s Den and backyard patio, perfect for a laidback hangout before jumping into your suit and tie.

Photo Opportunities

Great photo backdrops abound at the Griffin House. The front of the house itself with the towering trees framing the entrance works great for the wedding party and family photos. Meanwhile, the interior spaces provide a minimalist aesthetic with ample window light, which is a great option if the weather is a little dreary. When the sun is out, the eastern lawn is great for afternoon portraits in the shade. And at sunset, the views along the rock wall overlooking the river is, of course, a no-brainer. For a casual but classy laidback look, lounging on the classic furniture collection provided by the venue can inspire a playful, intimate portrait session.

Nearby Attractions

Multnomah Falls: One of the most iconic waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest, Multnomah Falls is a short drive away and offers breathtaking views and hiking trails.
Historic Columbia River Highway: Guests can explore the scenic Historic Columbia River Highway, which winds through the gorge and offers stunning viewpoints, waterfalls, and opportunities for scenic drives.
Hood River: A charming town nearby, Hood River offers boutique shops, art galleries, breweries, and restaurants. Guests can also enjoy activities like windsurfing, kiteboarding, and paddleboarding on the Columbia River.
Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum: Located in The Dalles, this museum offers interactive exhibits and educational programs highlighting the natural and cultural history of the Columbia River Gorge.
Wine Tasting: The Columbia River Gorge is home to numerous wineries and vineyards, offering guests the opportunity to sample local wines and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
Outdoor Recreation: Guests can explore hiking trails, go birdwatching, or enjoy fishing along the Columbia River. Nearby parks like Beacon Rock State Park and Starvation Creek State Park offer opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Fruit Loop: A scenic driving route through Hood River Valley, the Fruit Loop offers guests the chance to visit orchards, farms, and wineries while enjoying picturesque views of Mount Hood and the surrounding countryside.
Maryhill Museum of Art: Located on the Washington side of the Columbia River, the Maryhill Museum of Art features an extensive collection of European and American art, as well as outdoor sculpture gardens overlooking the gorge.

Lodging

Guests attending a wedding at the Griffin House in the Columbia River Gorge have a variety of lodging options to choose from, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay. The nearby town of Hood River offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, inns, and bed and breakfasts, catering to different preferences and budgets. Some recommended lodging options in Hood River include:

Columbia Gorge Hotel & Spa: Known for its historic charm, this hotel offers elegant accommodations along the Columbia River, providing a luxurious and scenic retreat.
Best Western Plus Hood River Inn: Situated on the waterfront, this hotel provides comfortable rooms and easy access to downtown Hood River, making it a convenient choice for wedding guests.
Hampton Inn & Suites Hood River: A modern hotel with contemporary amenities, conveniently located for exploring Hood River and the surrounding area.
Hood River Hotel: A boutique hotel with a historic ambiance, offering charming rooms and a central location near shops and restaurants.
The Society Hotel Bingen: Located on the Washington side of the river, this unique hotel combines modern comfort with historic character, providing an alternative option with scenic views.

Additionally, guests may find vacation rentals, cabins, and Airbnb options in the vicinity for a more personalized and home-like experience. It’s advisable for wedding hosts to provide information about lodging options and, if possible, secure room blocks or discounted rates with specific accommodations to make the booking process easier for guests.