Mack Theater

Cook's Hotel • Yamhill Hotel

Built in 1886 by L.H. Cook of McMinnville, this historic landmark was originally known as Cook's Hotel. Designed by B.F. Fuller—a farmer and brother-in-law of Lyman Hall Cook—the hotel was an elegant three-story brick structure, offering 28 bedrooms, a billiard hall, a bridal chamber, an opulent second-floor parlor, and a grand dining room where meals ranged from just 25 to 50 cents.

By 1890, it was renamed The Commercial House, welcoming guests for $1.00 to $2.00 per night. In the 1930s, the east half of the building was transformed into what is now Mack Theater. Despite common belief, the theater’s name does not originate from McMinnville but from its first proprietors, the Mattecheck family. Today, this beloved landmark is undergoing a meticulous restoration to reopen for a new generation of moviegoers and live entertainment enthusiasts.

The western half of the building remains home to Serendipity, a charming Victorian-style ice cream parlor, featuring period furnishings and a player piano—a step back in time for visitors of all ages.

In 2022, a dedicated group of local investors and historic preservation advocates acquired the property with a vision: to fully restore the Mack Theater and reimagine the hotel as a premier destination in McMinnville. Future plans include a luxury boutique hotel, a full-service spa, restaurants and bars, and a world-class entertainment venue that will bring new energy to this treasured piece of history.

Stay tuned as we breathe new life into this iconic McMinnville landmark—where history, hospitality, and entertainment come together in a one-of-a-kind experience.