Just a few days ago, we wrote about how Idaho is home to the largest Ponderosa Pine tree in the world. But did you know that we're also home to the largest beagle in the universe?
The Dog Bark Park Inn is quite possibly one of Idaho's most recognizable landmarks, hailing from humble Cottonwood in the Camas Prairie. But for all of its sweet, puppy-loving charm, do you actually know what this husband and wife team's cozy B&B is all about? Check it out!
The Dog Bark Park Inn is not your typical bed and breakfast. That’s because it’s in the shape of a giant beagle, lovingly known as Sweet Willy.
His sidekick pup, Toby, is just for show.
The quirky, pooch-themed property was created back in 2003 by husband and wife artists Dennis Sullivan and Frances Conklin.
The entire beagle - and his fellow sculptures - were all created by hand. Dennis is a self-taught chainsaw artist who has been carving for over thirty years; Frances joined him around twenty years ago and can be found painting sculptures, hosting, baking, and gardening alongside Dennis.
Booking a stay gives you access to the entire big dog, which houses two bedrooms and a bathroom ― the second room is located in the nose of Sweet Willy.
And when the wind picks up in the valley, Sweet Willy's carpeted ears even flap in the wind. How cute is that?!
The bed-and-breakfast boasts majestic views of the surrounding prairie from the deck that juts out of Sweet Willy's ribcage.
Upon arrival, guests check in at the owners’ studio and gift shop, located on-site.
Then, head on over to the doghouse...literally.
Guests can also explore the property’s sculpture garden, where where they’ll find some of Sullivan’s other creations, like Toby, of course...
There’s also a giant coffee pot with windows which guests can enter and take pictures inside,, in addition to various decorative sculptures dotting the property.
The 12-foot fire hydrant with a portable toilet inside is especially delightful!
So far the couple has created 60 different breeds and poses of dogs carved out of wood, often working with customer photos to create custom carvings of their canine companions.
Although, like any true artist, one medium or inspiration is never enough!
Thanks to its kooky, memorable appearance and great hospitality, the business has racked up dozens of awards, features, and extra publicity.
As well as near-perfect reviews across travel sites.
But as charming as the exterior of Sweet Willy is, and the wonderful additions of his carved companions, the Dog Bark Park Inn is still a B&B, first and foremost.
That means delicious, fresh-made eats...
Fresh landscaping...
And genuine hospitality from start to finish, for both you and your four-legged best friend.
For an additional free, the Dog Bark Park is a pooch-friendly joint, fresh-baked dog-shaped treats included!
And the dog-themed suite is as delightfully kitschy as it gets!
But if you're just passing through or in search of the perfect gift for the person who already has everything, you might just find what you're looking for here.
It's a one-of-a-kind retreat unlike anywhere else in the world.
Ready to see it yourself?
Of all of Idaho's top-rated inns, B&Bs, and hotels, this is without a doubt the most unique. Have you ever paid a visit to Sweet Willy?
For the full story behind the creation of this Idaho landmark, this dog-loving duo recently published their own book, Sweet Willy: A Noble & Absurd Undertaking.
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