Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Adventures in Northeast Ohio | Member Inn at Brandywine Falls


Nestled in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park next to Brandywine Falls is one’s of the parks true treasurers, The Inn at Brandywine Falls, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The home was originally built in 1848 for the James and Adeline Wallace family. The Wallace’s owned mills and land in the area. As timed passed the home became abandoned and left to its demise. Waiting and waiting for years for someone, maybe a family to bring it back to life.

In 1988 the home was rescued. The Wallace home could of not received a more perfect family to save it from near fate. Armed with wit, determination and a desire to become Innkeepers, George and Katie Hoy opened the Inn at Brandywine Falls to the public. (We will let George tell you the whole story.)

Unlike some bed and breakfasts, this one sits next to the picturesque Brandywine Falls, a favorite stop for visitors to the National Park. Walking trails abound, and it is centrally located between Cleveland and Akron with easy access to all the local attractions, restaurants and events.

But to me the best attraction is George and Katie.
George and Katie are true innkeepers. Yes, they have had (21+) years of practice, but there are just some things you cannot learn. Like how to make your guests feel like they belong.

The Inn offers three (3) historic rooms with private baths and three (3) suites with private baths. My favorites are probably “The Granary” or “The Loft” suites. These suites are located a few steps behind the main house in the Carriage Barn. Not that the rooms located in the home are any less, I just like the rustic look of the plank floors, the wood beams and the wood burning stove. Gives a very calming feeling and a great place for an avid reader like myself to cozy up with a good book.

I have had the pleasure of partaking in the Inn’s wonderful breakfast on a few occasions and all I can say is yum. The fresh fruit, grains and other wonderful homemade items served by the gracious hosts are simply heavenly. George is a wonderful bread maker and offers up some pleasant surprises.

And lets not forget to talk about the hosts, George and Katie. Katie, so soft spoken and warm along with George’s stories and wonderful whit makes a visit to the Inn absolutely charming and a must stay on anyone’s list. What a wonderful spot to spend a special occasion or just by yourself as a getaway.

The Inn also offers Cooking Seminars, which I have promised myself to sign-up for one this year. The Inn would also make a wonderful spot to host an event, such as a shower, wedding or corporate meeting.

Now, when visiting the Inn, please make sure you ask George for directions to the six infamous Fairy Lakes where the “Fairies” live. Also, make sure to be included on their mailing list so you can receive the wonderful “Inn Absentia” publication mailed every year. I so enjoy the tales of the Inn as well as the sharing of Inn recipes. The Inn also sells their own cookbooks, which make wonderful gifts, as well as hypo/allergenic hand soap. (see photo)


With so much to do in Northern Ohio and with the Cuyahoga Valley National Park walking trails, bicycle trails, train rides and historical stops, you may need to make it a three day visit. George and Katie will be more than happy to share with you a park map as well as a list of Cuyahoga Valley points of interest.


To find out how you can make a reservation please go to
http://www.innatbrandywinefalls.com or contact the Inn at 330-467-1812.
And please, tell George and Katie I sent you.

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