Boone Tavern Hotel
Historic 1909 hotel on Berea College campus, offering charming rooms, a locally-sourced restaurant, and loaner bikes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed dining
Boone Tavern Hotel
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed dining
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 1909 hotel on Berea College campus, offering charming rooms, a locally-sourced restaurant, and loaner bikes.
"A local legend offering a cozy stay and a taste of Kentucky's finest."
🍽️ Reserve Dining in Advance
Popular for its restaurant, especially after renovations. Book your table early to avoid disappointment!
🛏️ Cozy & Historic Rooms
Rooms are described as cozy and comfortable, offering a unique historic stay.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crafted at Boone Tavern Dining
Restaurant
Savor a locally-sourced menu in a beautifully renovated dining room. A true taste of Kentucky.
Historic Hotel Ambiance
Hotel
Step back in time in this charming 1909 hotel, once a stop for notable figures.
Berea College Campus
Surrounding Area
Explore the picturesque campus of Berea College, known for its arts and crafts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Embrace the Historic Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🍽️ Reserve Dining in Advance
Popular for its restaurant, especially after renovations. Book your table early to avoid disappointment!
🛏️ Cozy & Historic Rooms
Rooms are described as cozy and comfortable, offering a unique historic stay.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Options
Bring your furry friends! Boone Tavern offers pet-friendly rooms for travelers with pets.
🚲 Explore with Loaner Bikes
Take advantage of free loaner bikes to explore the charming campus and town.
Tips
from all over the internet
🍽️ Reserve Dining in Advance
Popular for its restaurant, especially after renovations. Book your table early to avoid disappointment!
🛏️ Cozy & Historic Rooms
Rooms are described as cozy and comfortable, offering a unique historic stay.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Options
Bring your furry friends! Boone Tavern offers pet-friendly rooms for travelers with pets.
🚲 Explore with Loaner Bikes
Take advantage of free loaner bikes to explore the charming campus and town.
☕ Frost Cafe for Coffee
Enjoy your morning coffee at the on-site Frost Cafe for a convenient start to your day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Boone Tavern Hotel offers a charming, historic stay with comfortable rooms and a focus on local dining at its rebranded 'Crafted' restaurant. While many appreciate the value, friendly staff, and unique ambiance, some dining experiences have been marred by slow service and inconsistent food quality, particularly during busy holiday periods.
"We had heard so much about Boone Tavern so when we had a chance to have our Thanksgiving meal there, we jumped at the chance. We never expected such slow service! Drinks arrived nearly 30 minutes after ordering; water and soft drink refills came only after requests; salads were delivered later, but one salad was missing from the tray and it took several minutes to get to our table; dinner plates were brought after a while. Those who ordered turkey were surprised to see one thin slice of turkey on their plate; the "gravy" for the meat loaf was the consistency of mashed potatoes, and all entrees were lukewarm at best. It was called to our waitress' attention that we saw several other turkey entrees with two thick turkey slices delivered earlier to other diners. The waitress apologized and went back for more turkey. After the dinner dishes were cleared, we ordered desserts. As with the rest of the meal, the desserts arrived about 10-15 minutes later. We asked for utensils, but they were never delivered. We cleaned off the utensils we used for dinner in order to eat dessert. The pumpkin pie crusts were tough; the cheesecake was warm; one serving of apple cobbler looked as if it was just a piece of pie that had been flattened; the other cobbler looked more like a traditional cobbler. Our bills were presented and we were shocked to see a 20% "Thanksgiving" fee added to the bill. No one informed us of this fee. Given the slow and inefficient service along with mediocre food served, Boone Tavern was an extreme disappointment. However, we were very thankful for the wonderful time we had with dear friends"
Jill Miller
"Had Thanksgiving dinner there this year and our reservation was for 330pm was told they were behind. 11 of us were seated about 345pm in the back. Ordered our food, then we were told they ran out of turkey and the Waldorf salad. So we all had to order ham. Food came cold! My dad was so embarrassed by the food he bragged on and a manager said that due to his dislike of food and service they would give him half off his bill. But bill for food was $640 minus half($320) plus service fee of $128.50 and tax and tip..bill was $500 and something for food that was cold. We will never eat at this place every again. My deceased mom always talked highly of this place. I am so glad she wasn't alive to eat there ever again."
Sherreta Lee
"When I was a student, I saw Boone Tavern as out of my reach, a decade later I'm back in town and discover the prices are on par with other prices I've been paying around the country, but the room is much nicer, smaller, but cozy.
I deduct one star from location because if there's a lot of traffic it feels like a nightmare getting out of the parking lot. but otherwise it's not too bad.
The bed was the most comfortable I've slept on at a hotel all year. . of course I had just finished a 5 day camping trip.
overall a great stay, and I'll make plans to stay there again in the future."
David Scrivener
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Boone Tavern Hotel is located on College Square in Berea, Kentucky. It's easily accessible by car, situated on the historic Dixie Highway. If driving, be aware that parking can feel like a nightmare during busy times due to traffic.
Yes, free parking is available for guests. However, during peak times or campus events, it can get crowded and exiting the lot might feel challenging.
While not directly on the main Bourbon Trail, Boone Tavern is located in Berea, Kentucky, which is a charming stop. Some travelers look for hotels along routes like I-127 for their Bourbon Trail trips.
The hotel offers loaner bikes, which are a great way to explore the Berea College campus and the surrounding town. Walking is also very feasible for nearby shops and restaurants.
Located on College Square, it's a prominent landmark in Berea. Its historic nature makes it a recognizable destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to make reservations for the Crafted at Boone Tavern restaurant, especially for dinner or on weekends, as it's a popular dining destination.
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website or call ahead. They recently underwent a renovation and rebranding to 'Crafted at Boone Tavern'.
There is no admission fee to enter the hotel lobby or explore the grounds. Room rates apply for overnight stays, and dining costs apply for restaurant visits.
Yes, you can typically book rooms directly through their website or through various online travel agencies. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Yes, the hotel and its facilities are used for various events, including conferences like the Appalachian Writer's Conference.
🎫 🏨 Onsite Experience
Rooms are generally described as cozy, clean, and comfortable, offering a historic charm. Some find them smaller but well-appointed, while others note they could be spacious. +1
Yes, Boone Tavern Hotel is pet-friendly and offers pet-friendly rooms. They welcome guests' pets.
Amenities include a restaurant, a cafe (Frost Cafe), free parking, and loaner bikes for exploring the area. Some rooms are pet-friendly. 
Built in 1909 and named after Daniel Boone, the hotel has hosted many notable guests, including the Dalai Lama and Henry Ford. It is owned by Berea College.
The vibe is historic, charming, and welcoming. It's a place that offers a step back in time with modern comforts, set on a vibrant college campus.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The restaurant, now 'Crafted at Boone Tavern,' focuses on a locally-sourced menu, offering Southern comfort cooking with dishes like Cast Iron Mac and Cheese, Ribs, and Beet Salad.
While specific menus can change, a focus on locally-sourced ingredients often means fresh vegetable dishes are available. It's best to inquire directly with the restaurant about current options.
Travelers have enjoyed dishes like Cast Iron Mac and Cheese, Ribs, Beet Salad, Oatmeal Coconut Cookie, and Mango Sorbet. Spoonbread is also a notable mention.
Prices are generally considered on par with other dining experiences around the country, offering good value for the quality and historic setting.
Some reviews mention a 20% 'Thanksgiving' fee added to bills during holiday meals. It's important to clarify all fees and charges with staff before or during your meal. [^Review]
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic architecture of the hotel, the charming interiors, and the picturesque Berea College campus. The dining room, especially after renovation, is a great subject.
Yes, you can take photos inside the restaurant, especially to capture the ambiance and beautifully presented dishes.
Absolutely. The campus offers scenic views, historic buildings, and often artistic installations, making it a great place for photography.
Morning light can be lovely for exterior shots of the hotel and campus. Evening can offer a warm ambiance inside the restaurant.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is excellent for capturing the ambiance of the restaurant. A DSLR or mirrorless camera will allow for more detailed shots of the architecture and campus.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1While the hotel itself is historic, the surrounding town of Berea offers a variety of shops and crafts that might interest older children. For dining, the 'Crafted at Boone Tavern' restaurant offers a chance to try local flavors, though it's wise to check the menu for kid-friendly options or consider the more casual Frost Cafe for simpler fare.
+1💰 Budget Travelers
While dining at the on-site restaurant can add up, exploring Berea's local eateries or utilizing the Frost Cafe for coffee and lighter bites can help manage food expenses. The value comes from the historic experience and the prime location without the premium price tag of larger city hotels.
🐾 Pet Travelers
Be sure to inquire about any specific pet policies or fees when booking your room to ensure a smooth stay for both you and your pet. The ability to explore the campus and town with your pet adds to the convenience and enjoyment of your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Century of History and Hospitality
+1Owned by Berea College, a pioneering institution known for its commitment to education and community, the Boone Tavern Hotel is more than just a place to stay; it's an integral part of the college's heritage. The hotel has undergone significant renovations, most recently rebranding its dining room as Crafted at Boone Tavern. This renovation highlights a renewed focus on a locally-sourced menu, showcasing regional art and furnishings, and aiming to provide an enhanced guest experience.
+1The hotel's charm lies in its historic architecture and the handcrafted furnishings that adorn its spaces. Guests often remark on the cozy and comfortable rooms, which, while perhaps smaller than modern chain hotels, offer a unique and intimate atmosphere. The hotel's connection to Berea College also means guests are immersed in a vibrant academic and artistic environment, with opportunities to explore the campus and its creative offerings.
Dining at Crafted at Boone Tavern
Travelers have praised specific dishes, including the Cast Iron Mac and Cheese, Ribs, and Beet Salad, indicating a menu that balances comfort food with refined flavors. Desserts like the Oatmeal Coconut Cookie and Mango Sorbet have also been noted. The focus on fresh, regional ingredients suggests a dynamic menu that may change seasonally.
While the food quality and service have received mixed reviews, particularly concerning holiday meals where slow service and lukewarm food were reported, the overall sentiment leans towards appreciating the effort to create a unique dining experience. It's advisable to make reservations and to clarify any special fees or menu details with the staff to ensure a smooth and enjoyable meal. [^Review]
Exploring Berea and Beyond
+1Berea is known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous art festivals and artisan studios. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting these studios, perhaps even purchasing handcrafted items. The town also offers access to hiking trails and other outdoor activities, making it a well-rounded destination for those who enjoy both culture and nature.
For those interested in a broader Kentucky experience, Berea's location offers opportunities for day trips. While not directly on the main Bourbon Trail, it's accessible to routes that can lead to distilleries. Travelers looking for hotels along routes like I-127 might find Berea a convenient and charming stopover point.
Social
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