Inn at Irwin Gardens

A hidden gem of elegance and history, this place feels like stepping into a European garden retreat. With its stunning architecture, beautifully manicured gardens, and peaceful atmosphere, it’s one of the most breathtaking spots in Columbus, Indiana. I didn’t go as a guest, but a kind young woman welcomed me in, allowing me to explore both the gardens and the building and take photos. Although it was not a good season to see the garden, it was still bold and beautiful. The Italian-style gardens, with their fountains, statues, and lush greenery, create a magical setting, and I can only imagine how stunning they must be in full bloom. When the weather gets better, they will open the garden to the public for a specific period, making it a wonderful opportunity for visitors to experience its full beauty. Inside the grand historic mansion, the elegant decor, intricate woodwork, and antique furnishings made me feel like I had stepped back in time. Every detail, from the stained glass windows to the ornate fireplaces, reflects the timeless charm of this place. For anyone who loves architecture, photography, or historic homes, this is a must-visit. Even if you don’t stay overnight, it’s worth seeing for both the beautifully preserved mansion and the seasonal gardens. The experience was unforgettable, and I truly appreciate the warm hospitality that made my visit special.

Have you ever been somewhere and you suddenly stepped into a building, and you're thrown back in time? That is what it's like to walk into this beautiful historic bed and breakfast. This incredible mansion was built about 160 years ago, but the way it has been meticulously maintained and cared for you wouldn't know it. Everyone was so friendly and the fun details such as handmade tea bags and snacks combined with the history and pictures in each room. It makes you feel you are in the 18th century having proper tea with a very prominent lady of Columbus, IN. The next time I am in Columbus and need a place to stay I will look no further than the Inn at Irwin Gardens.

I had a wonderful stay at the Inn at Irwin Gardens and would highly recommend it. The location was extremely convenient-just steps from the Columbus Visitors Center and walkable to the downtown restaurants and attractions. The inn is beautiful, with a lovely period décor and historic details. Lots of amenities like a carafe of water in room, chocolates on the bed, nice glasses, and a coffee station. Very clean and comfortable. The innkeeper was welcoming, polite, and provided a great breakfast. It's very nice that guests can utilize the downstairs sitting rooms and stroll through or sit in the beautiful gardens.

The early 20th-century architecture is beautifully preserved, offering a glimpse into the past with its grand library and elegant rooms. The gardens are a serene oasis. The location is perfect, within walking distance to many attractions and restaurants. Highly recommend booking a tour!

Best B&B Breakfast ever.|Very accommodating.|Loved the old house, it felt very much appropriate for the 1910 time period. |Lovely gardens, a bit early for any blooms as they didn't have any spring bulbs planted. We enjoyed the evening bottle of wine that was opened for guests.|The first night we had the whole house therefore we enjoyed a lovely game of monopoly in the parlor. Great water pressure for the showers.||At one point the previous owners had to pay an inherentance tax and the sold their small collection of monets, Picasso and the like for $ 135 million. I wish they were able to hang replicates or maybe some other prints from these artists for a similar one to reflect the actual art work.||Within a few blocks of downtown and wonderful restaurants.

We spent a single night at Irwin Gardens and loved it. Anna greeted us warmly when we arrived and gave an overview of the property. We also received a delicious bottle of wine which we enjoyed on the veranda overlooking the beautiful Italian style garden that was in full bloom. Our spacious room was on the second floor and had everything we needed. The house is carefully maintained in near original condition including the impressive library. Lisa was great as our host and provided great recommendations for dinner. The inn is located within walking distance to many restaurants and architectural sights. Once we parked our car in the front of the property, we didn't need it again until we checked out! After we returned from dinner, we enjoyed socializing on the veranda. The breakfast Lisa prepared and served was both inspired and delicious. We certainly appreciated her catering to our vegetarian diet! Thank you for making our stay unique and enjoyable!

In my opinion the Irwin Gardens owner, Jessica Steven's is an absolutely awful, mean, and narcissistic individual I have ever had the displeasure of speaking with. She has already made her employees quit and doesn't know how to run any sort of business. This was all going towards what was supposed to be a very special day, and she has absolutely ruined everything. We have had a signed contract for almost a full year and we have had at least 2 event coordinators since that time. Today was supposed to just be us measuring the space out to figure out how to lay out tables and instead she started saying that we weren't going to be able to have the ceremony and reception with the 4 hours at the price that we signed the contract for. When she showed us the contract, I already knew that it wasn't the one we had signed, and I told her so, but she didn't listen. I was well okay with paying for extra set up time, and then she began saying really hurtful things and casting snide comments at me, when I was already about to cry, saying "oh are you angry?" And I said "yes, because you just told me I couldn't have the wedding I already paid for and signed a contract for" She then continued saying "well don't be angry at me, do you know how much it costs to run this business?" I told her that if she broke our contract I will take my money back and we will find someplace else. She said "okay, tell me who to write the check out to and for how much" She then continued to get nasty with my future MIL and my fiancé saying she never said she was going to break the contract and wasn't going to pay until my MIL said that we were breaking the contract. We had to get the police involved because she just continued to have a narcissistic grin on her face and continued to drag everything out. TL:DR The owner of Irwin Gardens in my opinion is hateful, narcissistic, and rude and I would not recommend anyone to have any sort of event there.

We stayed in the Irwin Suite on Nov. 30th. The house had just been decorated for Christmas and was beautiful. The hostess was phenomenal. She showed us the place and answered all of our historical questions and more. We enjoyed dinner at the Taku and then spent the evening enjoying drinks in the large reading room. The gardens were not in bloom, but outside was still beautiful. Breakfast was delicious. I highly recommend this B&B and the Irwin Suite!

My boyfriend proposed in the Gardens here and it couldn't have been more romantic and unique. We stayed at the hotel and had breakfast in the morning - exceptional from start to finish. The decor, scenery, community, food and service was top notch and unlike any other hotel stay you'll find. I recommend for special events, anniversaries, a gifted stay, or just because! Irwin Gardens will always have a special place in my heart

Drove from Cincinnati primarly to see the gardens which are supposed to be open from 2 to 6 on tuesdays. they decided not to open

A beautiful, sunny, breathtaking venue that my daughter & son in law chose for their wedding!! Many thanks to Gracian & all other staff.

Celebrating our 28 year anniversary - everyone made us feel special - the house is fabulous with an excellent breakfast - Highly recommend for special occasions!!!!

My review is based upon the winter tour, not actually staying at the bed and breakfast as a guest. The tour during the winter allows access to any place in the house that is not occupied by guests staying at the Inn. The summer tour is limited to the first floor of the inn but has more to see in the Italianate garden. The home was built in 1854 with two major expansions and renovations, including the conversion from the Elizabethan style to the sleeker Edwardian style decor in 1910 while adding the garden on the east side of the house. The garden was undergoing some maintenance during my visit in March, so there wasn't as much visual appeal as some of the pictures I have seen online. Still, the construction and replanting should be completed and everything back to be worth stopping by this summer. The house itself is amazing. I kept saying "Wow!" so much that I couldn't help but feel like I was at a loss for anything intelligent to say! If you have any appreciation for craftsmanship and detailed artistry then this place is a must visit. For example, the library is lined with ornate book shelves. It appears like there is flocked wallpaper above the cases, but is actually stretched silk fabric that fits so perfectly together that I wouldn't have noticed if not told. I was told I could touch the fabric and felt it give instead of feeling a hard wall. This stretched fabric not only looks fantastic, but allows the panels to be removed and cleaned if needed. The woodwork is at a master level. Frequently, ornate figures are carved and placed in the upper corners of the doorways. Near the hydraulic elevator, four of the five senses are depicted in the hall leading there. Stained glass is also found frequently. The library has each of the seven windows with an inserted piece representing the day of the week. The stairwell windows contain the four fraternity/sorority emblems of the descendants of the original owners. Most of the furnishings are from the original owners with the exception of the family paintings which where mostly removed. Some modernization has been added to the bathrooms to make the bed and breakfast up to code, but the bedrooms and sitting rooms have retained the feel of the family home. Note that tours are scheduled and tickets need to be made online in advance. The gardens will probably be open a couple times a week for visitors to stroll through once the maintenance is completed, but to see inside, you would need to make arrangements. Tours run about $15 for the hour long visit. Review #238

This Bed & Breakfast was an amazing stay! The room I stayed in was called Joseph Irwin. It was beautiful! The room was very clean. had teas, coffees, and water. They placed two chocolates on my bed. The appearance of the room is so historic and breath taking. The host showed me the whole home which did not disappoint. The beauty of this home is just amazing. There was complementary wine in the library room in the evening, and the host asks your preference in win so she can chill it. They have a tea room that has cute tea kettles and cups to use. The garden is just something to experience in the spring and summer. It is absolutely worth the price. I would stay here again and plan to in summer. You are close to downtown Columbus so walking 5 mins down the road gets you to some really good restaurants. Parking was easy and convenient for the stay. They offer tours set up by the visitors center right acrossed the street. The host is very accommodating with everything. You ask and she's on top of it. The breakfast was amazing! It started with a beautiful view of the garden outside the window and a beautifully set table. I had tea as requested, water, and orange juice. The first thing I ate was a fruit salad and very yummy banana bread muffin. The main dish was then served and it was sooo good. It was a arugula, feta cheese, almonds and white wine vinaigrette salad with bacon on the side and a poached egg over gruyere cheese hashed potatoes with chives grown from their garden. I would rate this Bed and breakfast 1000 out of 10.

Such a beautiful home in an extraordinary setting! Lovely hosts, delicious breakfast, huge bath & bedroom. And then those gardens & fountains!!! We had breakfast on the terrace overlooking the gardens. It was a European experience. As close as we will get to a European Garden in the year of Covid-19! This B & B is impeccably kept!!! We can't wait for our next visit!

Magical, old world, great gatsby, secret garden are all ways to describe this beautiful quaint B&B and Wedding venue. I've been going here for years and the staff is super friendly. Each visit I find another charming detail that makes me fall in love with the Irwin Gardens all over again. Weddings here are out of this world amazing. Irwin gardens is a hidden southern Indiana Gem well worth the trek.

Spectacularly restored 100 year old mansion with beautiful grounds that are suitable for any event from intimate overnight stays for 2 in their bed and breakfast to large wedding parties with plenty of seating and beautiful places for photos all around the grounds, the gardens, and inside the house. The property takes up the entire downtown city block, and is walking distance to many eateries, bars, and shops. No expense was spared in the restoration of this amazing property.

Spectacular historical gem. You're welcomed by a sweetheart of an innkeeper (Brittany) who loves and cares for the guests as well as she does the home. Both she and the owner truly care about preserving the integrity of the home and its history to share with others. So many areas of the home to immerse yourself and take in, the best was having full-access to the original family's personal book collection in most every room. Many belonging to J. Irwin Miller who grew up in the home. He was a rare jewel of a human being, please read the history of this family! We truly felt like spoiled guests of the family (not a hint of being in a business). The breakfast was another delightful surprise and housekeeping was excellent. Lots of little treats like free tea, drinks, snacks, DVD's (if you really must) and great local wines every night! Finally, perfect walking distance to everything. Literally next door to famed architectural masterpieces by I.M. Pei and Eero Saarinen and a large Henry Moore sculpture a few feet away...if you can tear yourself away from the enormous formal garden! Enjoy!

We had the privilege of staying at the Inn at Irwin Gardens On May 4, 2013. We were there to attending an Yelp event held in the gardens. When we arrived we were greeted at the door with a lovely smile and welcome home feel. (thank you Sarah) The Innkeeper/business manager Sarah gave us a brief instruction about the Inn and showed us to our suite. The Inn was charming and full of history. The next day we were served a delicious breakfast before our departure. I can not wait to visit the Inn again in the near future.

Beautiful B&B. Fantastic gardens. They just don't make places like this anymore. Wouldn't want to stay anywhere else if I revisit Columbus again.

This review is for The Gardens, since it is not listed separately. My dream as a little girl was to get married in Irwin Gardens. My sister and I would play here often. "The Gardens" seem a little bit English and a bit Italian. Either way, it is very cool that the home is now an Inn. I can't wait to stay at the Inn, but whether you stay there or not, don't miss The Gardens when you visit Columbus.

I sometimes travel to Columbus for work. As a business traveler, I really appreciate having the opportunity to stay someplace special like the Inn at Irwin Gardens. When I found out they offer a corporate rate during the week, I jumped at the chance to stay in this magnificent house. It is remarkably preserved! The rooms are large and beautifully decorated and the grounds are inspiring. I only wish I had more time to linger and enjoy the surroundings. The staff was very accommodating to my travel and schedule needs. I hope to return soon.

We loved our stay. The Inn is beautiful and quiet, the staff is friendly and welcoming. Breakfast is home cooked and delicious. The location could not be more perfect, close or the Visitor Center and major architectural landmarks, and just a quick walk to all the restaurants and shops downtown.

My husband and I had a weekend getaway here. Absolutely wonderful! The rooms are spacious with turn of the century charm. We were able to explore the grounds as well as the unoccupied rooms (even the attic). Brittany made the most delicious breakfasts for us both days, and never hesitated if we needed something. Can't wait to go again.

This place is wonderful! I can really only comment on the gardens as I haven't been through the Inn yet but it is definitely worth a visit if you go to Columbus. Absolutely fantastic, you won't regret it!

This place is absolutely breath taking! Perfect setting for garden party or wedding!

The first old-house-turned-B&B I have been in that seems to have been maintained meticulously since the day it was built. Floors perfect, corners square, no sense of "faded grandeur," just a feeling of having gone back in time a bit to a more gracious era. Innkeepers thoroughly modern and friendly. Breakfast superb. Garden to die for. Worth a trip to Columbus - which itself is otherwise remarkable - just to stay here.

Very rude and un accommodating staff. Wanted to inquire about availability for the B and B and to host evens there and they were not willing to even allow us to see any part of the property. It doesn't matter how lovely a space is, if the staff is disrespectful it doesn't matter. Will be staying and taking our event elsewhere.

A gorgeous inn, set in the estate of the family responsible for Columbus' architecture extravaganza. Beautiful details, generous rooms, and outstanding hospitality. Located right next to the I.M. Pei library and the visitor center where all the tours start. Great place to start the Columbus architectural experience!!

We stayed at the Inn for our first anniversary, and what a perfect spot! You feel like the really own the place during your time there. As soon as we walked in we were treated to a tour of the home and told we could wander as we pleased, as when we got to the exquisite library we were told we could read any of the books we like - books that I believe belonged to the original owners. We were also shown the other bedrooms, since no one was staying in them at the time. We ended the tour at our 3rd floor room - the W.G. Irwin Bachelor's Suite. This is the only room on that level, so we had the entire floor to ourselves. I was so impressed with not only the room, but the amenities - a mini Keurig along with a great variety of coffee & tea, TV with DVD player, luxurious bathrobes, a sound dock so we could fill the room with music from our iPhone, a selection of books and magazines in our room, and generous toiletries including a sewing kit. We were only there for one day, so my only regret was not having enough time to experience the home as I would have liked. What an absolutely gorgeous inn, full of modern luxuries and hospitality!

Nobody dresses up anymore, you know? Where has the formality gone in this day and age? Take a trip back to a simpler time, throw on your best garden party outfit, and go spend a weekend in the middle of an episode of Downton Abbey. Visited for a Yelp Event, and now I'm planning a trip for my anniversary, and I could not be more excited to go back. The Roman style gardens are incredibly unique, and the whole place is just beyond quaint. An absolute must see. I can't believe I'd never heard of it before; I assumed it was some failure on my part, and now whenever I mention it, I always expect people to say "Oh yes, Irwin Gardens. Absolutely. Beautiful, right?" And I'm always shocked if people don't know what I'm talking about, because this should be a landmark on Indiana; one of those places that everyone knows about. Book your room now before I fill up all the reservations for forever. I would live here if I could.

Walking to the Inn I felt like I was in my own hometown. Then I was taken to a Romanesque back yard of the Inn greeted by statues and water fountains. I was there for the Yelp lawn party and did not make my way inside the estate, however from my excellent peeping tom skills I gather it would be a lovely place to stay, relax and explore Columbus Indiana.

The gardens. I lived in Columbus for 15 years before I ever managed to find a time when the gardens were open! Such a beautiful place to read, walk around, and enjoy the landscaping. The events the inn puts in for the public in the summer are very fun too.

We had a great stay in the WG Irwin suite on the third floor and loved everything about the Inn. The location is right next to the IM Pei library and the Saarinen designed First Christian Church. We attended the Sunday service at 10:30 which we enjoyed. The Inn has a stately feel to it - we joked, "Why are we whispering?" when we were eating breakfast. Britt the innkeeper whipped up such great breakfasts and was super helpful in recommending places for us. Sundays are very quiet downtown so we did a little road trip up to the Story Inn and had lunch there. I also highly recommend the spa - I had one of the best massages ever with Stephanie, and I'll admit I'm a bit of a massage snob so I was pleasantly surprised and thankful that I booked the longer session. It felt very special to stay at this historic home - and Britt made us feel very welcomed, both to the Inn and to the city. We hope to be back again!

This comment is just for the gardens, which are open to the public on Sunday afternoons. We enjoyed our visit to the beautiful gardens very much on a late Sunday afternoon. At the entrance was a pamphlet explaining the history of the home and garden. I went on line after our visit and read more about the home, the garden, and the restorative work that is being done. I would really like to stay at the Inn at Irwin Gardens when I go down to Columbus again. I can't say it enough, the garden is beautiful and I am grateful that the owner has it open for a walk-through. We saw birds and butterflies among the plants and flowers. I bet it is lovely for a wedding or other event.

This is a relaxing get-away. The building and grounds need a little more TLC, but overall this is a good place to stay. I hate to see crumbling mortar. The mansion is a historical treat and the gardens are reminiscent of those I have visited in Europe. A good alternative to redundant chain hotels.