When the owners of stately homes, full of history and charm, open their doors, inviting us in, they let us partake, even if for just a night or two, of life lived a century or more ago. Stained-glass windows, lustrous hardwoods, marble, turrets, verandas and elegant period furnishings are more than just a lesson in historic architecture, they immerse us in the past. Elegant snacks in the parlor in the evening and breakfasts in grand dining rooms with delicious offerings served on fragile china help make a bed and breakfast experience sublime. Whether in large cities or small towns, Edible Indy has found such keepsakes not far from home.
Bartholomew County
For years the wonderfulIrwin Gardens, part of the two-acre estate located in downtown Columbus, were open to the public. Here thick twists of wisteria, planted in 1911, bloomed in a profusion of purple flowers and the Renaissance-style tiered fountain formed the perfect backdrop to the 13,000-square-foot Edwardian mansion. Though the house was private, that changed several years ago. It now offers the public enjoyment both inside and out.
Boone County
A bed and breakfast for 30 years, the Brick Street Innhas been part of Zionsville’s historic brick-lined Main Street since 1865 – making it a perfect spot for guests to visit the nearby boutiques, art galleries and restaurants. All the catering is provided by Patrick’s Kitchen and Drinks, an on-site full-service restaurant with terrace dining in nice weather.
Brown County
Once a general store built in 1916, theStory Inn is now a destination restaurant and the jewel of a pre-Civil War village nestled along a winding rural road in scenic Brown County. The Inn offers elegant farm-to-fork dining and overnight accommodations in what were the homes of early residents, some dating back to 1851. Breakfast here is country-style, with house-made biscuits and gravy, freshly roasted coffee and crab cakes Benedict.
