Disclaimer: I was given a 2-night complimentary stay to facilitate this post. However, all opinions are my own.
Southern Living recently posted an article that stated the 6 characteristics of Southern Charm are kindness, good home cooking, politeness, helpfulness, charm, and charity. I can tell you first hand that The Laurel Oak Inn has all these traits and more.
Nestled in the heart of the Historic Bed and Breakfast District in Gainesville, Florida. The Laurel Oak Inn is an inviting and warm place. It is like coming home after a long day on the road. Nan the innkeeper spoils you as if you are family and the warmth within the walls of this beautiful inn is like being home.
The Laurel Oak Inn
The Inn is housed in a restored 1885 Queen Anne Victorian home, Each room has its own personality and its own feel. The Buckner Suite where I had the pleasure of staying is named after Nan’s beloved great-aunt, Mary Bucker. This room was inviting and stylish. Plus it has a walk-in shower which is a great thing for someone like myself who has a mobility issue. The room also sported luxury robes which were AMAZING!!!!
Along with my beautiful room I enjoyed many of the wonderful offerings Nan supplied. Like coffee and tea available at any time. Delicious homemade snacks like pumpkin bread. One of my favorite things to do while staying at the Inn was sitting in the parlor reading.
The beauty of The Laurel Oak Inn was the openness of the whole house. It was nice being able to go from room to room and just enjoy what was offered. I especially loved the openness of the kitchen. I liked being able to gather around the kitchen nook and talk.
Amenities
Some of the wonderful amenities offered at this inn were simple things that made it feel like home. Things like coffee and tea offered any time from the antique beverage bar and fresh baked goods that pair well with a good book and cup of tea on the porch swing. There were also snacks in the parlor for our enjoyment.
Along with these simple offerings, Nan serves up a delicious two-course homemade breakfast each morning. Served with coffee or tea, your choice of juice, and of course great conversation.
First course each morning is a deliciously prepared fruit dish. We had both baked pears and warm figs served on alternating mornings. Our second course was a warm breakfast item. Our first morning it was pumpkin french toast which I hope to make soon and share with you all. On our second morning, we were served a delicious apple chicken egg strata.
Both mornings I was in food heaven. As most of you know I am a self-proclaimed foodie and Nan certainly fed me well.
Final Thoughts
I have to say I have stayed at a few Bed and Breakfast Inns throughout my travels and the thing that sets The Laurel Oak Inn apart from many of them is the open and warm feeling you get when you walk through the door. It’s like coming home and Nan is there to greet you after a long day of travel. She welcomes you in and makes you feel like family.
So if you ever find yourself in the North Central area of Florida whether it’s for football, a girl’s weekend away or even if you’re here visiting family or a college student be sure to grab a room at the Inn. It will be the best stay ever.
Booking Information:
The Laurel Oak Inn
221 SE Seventh Street
Gainesville, FL 32601
Call: (352) 373-4535
Website
Have you ever stayed at a Bed and Breakfast inn? What’s your favorite thing about it?
[…] One of my favorite things about Gainesville Florida is its rich history. From the beautiful architecture to the small locally owned shops and restaurants that are still running strong. Gainesville is also the birthplace of some of the greatest musicians like Tom Petty and Stephan Stills . It also has some of my favorite locally owned Bed and Breakfast Inns like the Camilla Rose and Laural Oaks. […]