Today we’d like to introduce you to Casey & Whitney Hunt.
Hi Casey & Whitney, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
We purchased a building downtown Pendleton in 2018. Casey’s financial office occupies one of the three spaces, another was leased to a single hairstylist, and the third sat vacant. At one point, we were in discussions with local restaurateurs about opening a noodle restaurant there. As we explored the idea, we quickly realized just how challenging—and expensive—it would be to build a commercial kitchen in the space.
Around that same time, Casey and Whitney took a trip to New Zealand. It was our first experience staying in vacation rentals instead of traditional hotels, and we absolutely loved it. We returned to Pendleton inspired, knowing exactly what we wanted to create at 8 SE Dorion—a premier vacation rental in the heart of downtown.
That vision became Heart of Pendleton, one of the city’s very first vacation rentals. It was the first in downtown Pendleton and remains the only street-accessible vacation rental in the downtown district. Our goal was to create a space that blended the character and history of Pendleton Oregon’s treasures : Pendleton Round-Up, Happy Canyon and the Pendleton Woolen Mills, along with the comfort, style, and convenience travelers are looking for today.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road, but every challenge has helped shape what Heart of Pendleton is today. When we first started, vacation rentals were still a relatively new concept in Pendleton. There wasn’t really a blueprint to follow, so we spent a lot of time researching, learning, and figuring things out as we went.
Renovating a historic downtown building also came with its own set of challenges. We wanted to preserve the character and history of the space while creating modern accommodations that guests would love. Finding that balance took time, creativity, and a significant investment. There is always more work to be done.
Like any small business, we’ve also had to adapt to changing markets, evolving guest expectations, and the day-to-day responsibilities that come with owning and managing a vacation rental. Through it all, we’ve remained focused on providing a unique, comfortable experience that showcases everything we love about Pendleton. Seeing guests enjoy the space and return year after year has made every challenge worthwhile.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Casey and Whitney Hunt share a deep appreciation for Pendleton’s history, traditions, and sense of community—values that inspired them to create Heart of Pendleton.
Casey, a financial advisor with Edward Jones, was born and raised in Pendleton, Oregon. After building a successful career with Gallo Winery, Casey and Whitney made the decision to return home in 2015 to raise their family, bringing their children, William and Charlotte, back to the community they love.
Growing up, Casey was a three-sport athlete and was actively involved in many community events. His connection to Happy Canyon runs especially deep. He first appeared in the Happy Canyon Night Show at just four years old as a “swim kid” after his father joined the Happy Canyon Board of Directors in 1983. Casey is a second-generation participant in both the Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon and has dedicated much of his life to preserving those traditions. Today, he proudly serves as the President of Happy Canyon during its historic 110th year. Casey and Whitney continue that legacy together, while their children, William and Charlotte, now perform in the Happy Canyon Night Show, making them the third generation of the Hunt family to be involved.
Whitney grew up in Dayton, Washington, but her family’s roots in Pendleton date back to 1909, when the Pendleton Woolen Mills first opened. As a sixth-generation member of the Woolen Mills family, she has a lifelong connection to the community and its rich heritage. Some of her fondest childhood memories include attending the Pendleton Round-Up Grand Entry, watching the Round-Up Queen and Court make their iconic rail jump into the arena, and experiencing the storytelling and traditions of the Happy Canyon Night Show.
In 2007, Whitney had the honor of serving as the Pendleton Round-Up Queen, an experience that strengthened her appreciation for Pendleton’s western heritage and the volunteers who preserve it. Today, she continues to participate in the Happy Canyon Night Show and remains committed to celebrating the history and traditions that have shaped generations of her family.
Together, Casey and Whitney have woven their personal histories into Heart of Pendleton. Every detail of the vacation rental reflects their love for the community, incorporating elements inspired by the Pendleton Round-Up, Happy Canyon, and the Pendleton Woolen Mills. Their goal is to offer more than a place to stay—they want every guest to experience the hospitality, history, and authentic spirit of Pendleton through the eyes of a family whose roots have been intertwined with the community for generations.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Don’t be afraid to take a chance on an idea that you’re passionate about, even if there isn’t a roadmap to follow. When we started Heart of Pendleton, vacation rentals were still a new concept in our community. There were plenty of unknowns, but we believed in our vision and were willing to learn along the way.
One of the biggest lessons we’ve learned is that success doesn’t happen overnight. It takes patience, persistence, and a willingness to adapt. There will always be unexpected challenges, and there is always more work to be done. Listen to your guests, continue improving your space, and never stop learning.
Most importantly, create something that is authentic to you. Heart of Pendleton isn’t just a vacation rental—it’s a reflection of our family, our community, and the traditions that have shaped our lives. We believe people can tell when something is created with genuine care and purpose, and that’s what keeps them coming back. If you stay true to your vision and focus on providing an exceptional experience, the rest will follow.
Pricing:
- $145-$185/night
Contact Info:
