There are so many places near Cincinnati that are ideal for a quick getaway, but unfortunately Europe isn't one of them. A trip across the Atlantic requires a lot more time (and money), so what do you do if you really want to experience some European flair but stick close to home? The answer to this question is just 90 minutes west of Cincinnati at the historic Inn at Irwin Gardens in Columbus, Indiana. If you've never heard of this beautiful destination, take a tour with us here and you'll be ready to spend a night at this charming inn that will make you feel like you've landed in Europe.
Over the last century, not much has changed at The Inn at Irwin Gardens, located in the historic town of Columbus, Indiana.
Now a private residence, bed & breakfast, and idyllic event space, the property is the perfect getaway for Cincinnatians.
When you arrive at this stately home, you'll feel as if you've flown to Europe and stepped into a meticulously maintained garden.
The verandas and outdoor areas welcome you to the home, just as it did for its residents over the years.
In 1864, Joseph Irwin and his family moved into the large home, which at the time was of modest Victorian design.
As Irwin's wealth grew, so did the house, and it was expanded and remodeled in both 1890 and 1910.
Also in 1910, the Italianate gardens were started and were finished in 1913. They are inspired by a garden excavated at Pompeii. Since 1910, the house has remained relatively unchanged, while the gardens have seen some changes both large and small.
The Inn now serves many purposes, and a charming bed & breakfast is just one of them.
With an overnight stay in one of the five private rooms, you get the opportunity to live a fabulous life in this elegant home.
Enjoy a lovely breakfast in the dining room, read a book in one of the sunny parlors, and stroll through the lush gardens.
The rooms at The Inn at Irwin Gardens are perfectly adorned and match the classic feel of the property.
You'll find all of the modern amenities in your room, from cable TV to private bathrooms to coffee makers. But the rooms are also timeless and definitely provide a unique stay in a historic setting.
There's plenty to keep you occupied during a stay at The Inn, but the area of Columbus also has much to offer.
Once you've explored the grounds and perhaps even taken a guided tour, save time to experience Columbus, nearby Nashville, Indiana, and perhaps even Brown County State Park, which are also nearby.
Or you may just choose to pretend you've been whisked away to Europe and stay put in your charming getaway spot just a short drive from Cincinnati.
The Inn at Irwin Gardens is a beautifully preserved home with so much European style, you'll feel as if you've flown across the ocean. Would you enjoy a getaway to this historic bed and breakfast? Where else do you like to go in the area for a weekend away? Share with us in the comments!
The Inn at Irwin Gardens is located at 608 5th St., Columbus, Indiana 47201. For more information, visit their website here.
And for a restaurant in Cincinnati that also takes you straight to Europe, check out our previous article here.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!