Burlington, Kentucky Bed and Breakfasts
Home > Kentucky Bed & Breakfast > Burlington, Kentucky > Burlington's Willis Graves Bed and Breakfast Inn


  • William Rouse Log Cabin - Luxurious touches include whirlpool baths, steam showers, plush robes and towels, fireplace (in suite), triple sheeting with fine linens, down comforters, top quality mattresses, fresh baked cookies, and complimentary beverages.
  • Willis Graves Federal Brick Homestead (Main House with Thomas' Room, Catharine's Room, and the Graves' Suite)
  • A full gourmet breakfast is served at individual tables set with white tablecloths, cloth napkins, and fine china. All our dishes reflect our effort to present your meal with an artistic, attractive flair and include a first course of fresh fruit and home
  • William Rouse Retreat Bathroom - This second floor retreat includes a double whirlpool bath and steam shower.
  • Mr. and Mrs. Graves' Suite - Suite includes living room, queen-size bed furnished with triple sheeting and down comforters, double whirlpool bath, and steam shower.
Click on the photos above to see them larger
View more photos at our web site: www.willisgraves.com

Burlington's Willis Graves Bed and Breakfast Inn

Your host(s):
Nancy and Bob Swartzel
Web Site:
www.willisgraves.com
Email:
inn@willisgraves.com
Address:
5825 Jefferson Street
Burlington, Kentucky 41005
Phone:
888-226-5096
859-689-5096
Guest Rooms:
5Bathrooms: 5
Rates:
$105 - $225
Check In/Out:
3:00pm or later - by 11:00am
Extra Person Fee:
$25.00

Burlington's Willis Graves Bed and Breakfast Inn

Welcome to Burlington’s Willis Graves Bed and Breakfast Inn, where you can experience sophisticated charm and relaxed country living at the edge of our small town, just minutes from Cincinnati, Ohio. Choose between our two masterfully restored early and mid-1800s buildings: the 1850s William Rouse log cabin and the 1830s Willis Graves Federal brick homestead, both furnished with appropriate antiques and reproductions.

In every detail, from the luxurious whirlpool baths and steam showers to our full gourmet breakfast served on individual tables dressed in white linens, your comfort is our top priority. Our goal is to understand our guests and deliver a lasting impression that involves all five senses: the sight of unusual antiques and comfortable surroundings, the sound of soft music, the touch of plush towels, the smell of the freshly ironed sheets, and the memorable taste of homemade cookies on your pillow. From guest feedback, we know that these unique impressions keep our guests coming back time and time again.

For leisure and business travelers, our accommodations go far beyond traditional hotel lodging. Details such as triple sheeting with luxury linens, down comforters, extra pillows, robes and towels, and fresh baked cookies are already in place when you arrive. For your convenience, guests may also enjoy wireless high-speed Internet, cable television and DVD players, and access to our comprehensive movie collection.

We are located in close proximity to over sixty major corporations and are a quick 9-mile drive from the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International airport. Our pledge is to make your visit as enjoyable as possible and to help you get the rest and relaxation you need.

View Reviews from TripAdvisor
View Reviews from
  • 05/02/2009 04:00 AM
    pontoonwoman

    My best friend/first cousin and I have spent quality time together since we were preteens, and now that we're closing in on 60, we want our time together to be enhanced by our entertainment and accommodations. Our motto is that "we deserve it!" We have raised our families, worked hard all of our lives, and we want to spoil ourselves a bit. Well, The Burlington Willis Graves exceeded my expectations as a surprise for my best friend. She had never stayed at a B&B, although my husband and I do so, frequently. She was thrilled with the ambiance, the attention to detail, the beautiful decorating and the lovely lovely rooms. It was a tough decision to even choose our room as each is exceptional. We kicked back after dinner and chose " The Secret Live of Bees" from their extensive DVD collection, sipped wine in front of the delightful fireplace all snug in the inns plush white spa robes. After we dried our tears from this great chick flick, my cousin enjoyed the jacuzzi tub, especially the light show that accompanies it while I browsed and read. Their collection of books fit the atmosphere, perfectly. The breakfast was fantastic, too. I can't say enough about the value coupled with an outstanding experience. The ladies were sweet and wanting so much to make sure that our stay was wonderful. My cousin is now questioning why she never thought to stay in such lovely settings that pamper you as opposed to the cookie cutter motela and hotels, many of which are asking ridiculous prices. Be sure to stop at this nationally registered inn. You won't be disappointed!

  • 11/13/2008 05:00 AM
    Pat

    Nancy and Bob have a done a great job decorating the house, while allowing the original character of the building to remain. The Stuffed French Toast was so delicious. I felt very warmly welcomed and Nancy never tired of answering my many questions. I highly recommend this inn and will be back with my wife for another stay!

  • 09/30/2008 04:00 AM
    Timothy

    Attention to small details made the stay exceptional. One of the more comfortable beds in which we've slept, and a very fine breakfast. Quiet neighborhood.

  • 09/16/2008 04:00 AM
    Sandra Lang

    The beautiful location, luxurious furnishings and wonderful breakfast made our stay memorable - but the peaceful atmosphere and hospitality left no room for stress. Thanks, Nancy, for letting us unwind and making us feel so special. Ray and Sandy Lang

  • 07/22/2008 04:00 AM
    charles

    This was a wonderful first experience at a bed and breakfast. The accomedations were amazing. We look forward to returning.

  • 04/03/2008 04:00 AM
    Linda

    This was our third visit to the Willis Graves Inn and it was the ultimate getaway as usual. We have never been disappointed. We take many vacations but when we go here we go just to get away and enjoy the moment. We have stayed in many bed and breakfast inns but have never enjoyed one more than this inn. Breakfasts are a delight. When all the options sound wonderful, you don't even have to make a decision; Nancy and Margaret just bring you some of each! It is far enough away from the bustle of town, but close enough that you can easily get to many varied attractions if that is your interest. We highly recommend this inn.

  • 08/28/2007 04:00 AM
    Cindy McDavid

    I can't say enough about Burlington's Willis Graves Bed and Breakfast Inn. We always look forward to the warm and gracious hospitality, luxurious bed and bath linens, beautiful antique decor, and gourmet breakfasts. It is truly an escape from daily living; the perfect place to relax or be able to work free from distractions. We love it!

  • 07/20/2007 04:00 AM
    Cindy McDavid

    It was fantastic - as usual!

  • 05/09/2007 04:00 AM
    Cindy McDavid

    Absolute Perfection, Exceeds all Expectations! I do not even know where to begin, and from the length of my normal reviews you may note that I am usually not short on words. Burlington’s Willis Graves Bed and Breakfast Inn is perfection; there is just no other way to say it. Other innkeepers should take notes from Nancy and her team… (Note: We have stayed here twice in the last two months. The following review combines both experiences.) Reservations/Website: Before I book a bed and breakfast, I always check two popular travel sites for previous guest reviews or posts and then I visit the inn’s website. If they do not include photographs of the rooms and bathrooms, I am generally a bit leery to stay there. My policy is that the more information I can “see” to know what the inn will be like, the better. Burlington’s Willis Graves Bed and Breakfast has one of the best websites I have visited. They cover all the essentials: room types and descriptions, information about the area, amenities, and breakfast. It is organized, easy to navigate, and displays crisp, clear photographs. It is a breeze to check availability and make your reservation online. If only all bed and breakfasts advertised this well! Check-in/Arrival: On both visits, Nancy greeted me at the door when I arrived. She showed me around the house, noting where breakfast would be served and where to find beverages and movies should we need them during our stay. She also showed me a covered back porch where guests can relax. It is furnished with outdoor furniture and would have been a great place to read a book if the weather had been better. When we went up to our room, I received excellent instruction on the air-jet tub and media equipment. Rooms: The first time we visited, we stayed in Thomas’ Room and on our second visit Nancy gave us a complimentary upgrade to the William Rouse Retreat on the second floor of the log cabin. Like the rest of the main house, both rooms are beautifully decorated with antiques. The pictures on the website accurately depict the beauty and detail of both guest rooms; if anything the rooms exceeded our expectations after viewing the pictures online. You will arrive to warm chocolate chip cookies and bottled water in your room. The bedding in both rooms is top notch and includes fine linens, triple sheeting over a light down-type comforter, and lovely quilts. We certainly felt pampered in these comfortable and luxurious beds. Thomas’ Room is definitely smaller than the William Rouse Retreat. If you are only staying for one night or need to stick to a specific budget, I would not hesitate in booking Thomas’ Room. We plan to stay there again during future business trips. If you are visiting for more than one night, celebrating a special occasion, or plan to spend considerable time in your room, I would definitely recommend the William Rouse Retreat or one of the other suites instead. There is a microwave and small refrigerator in the William Rouse Retreat. Both rooms have desks and wireless Internet for those who need workspace. Since we both tend to work on the road, we liked the couch in the William Rouse Retreat as it provided plenty of additional space for my husband to spread out with some of his paperwork while I worked across the room. Bathrooms: Can I have Nancy design my bathrooms someday? Seriously, both bathrooms are fantastic. The bathroom in Thomas’ Room includes a one person air-jet tub (two people can fit, if neither are too tall), a beautiful Kohler pedestal sink with large sides for toiletries, and plush towels and robes. For the ultimate in bathroom luxury, head on over to the William Rouse Retreat. This bathroom is gorgeous! It includes a huge two person air-jet tub, steam shower (with great water pressure), a beautiful sink with plenty of room for toiletries (or you can store them inside the large mirror over the sink), and plush towels and robes. Both rooms include travel sized toiletries and a hairdryer, in case you forget something you might need. Housekeeping: Unbelievable! I wish all establishments were this clean. The attention to detail shows when it comes to housekeeping. The rooms and common areas are spotless. Nancy and her team personally iron all of the linens that go on the beds. Saran wrap covers the glasses in each room, so you know it has not been used and has not collected any dust in between guests. Location: Depending on your needs, location may be the only “downside” to this property. Burlington is a bit outside of Cincinnati, so you may have a longer drive to get to attractions or restaurants if you need to be in the city. Both times we have found places to eat within 10-15 minutes (there are other options closer). That said, I would stay here in a second over any hotel accommodations in Cincinnati and just commute into town. It’s that special. Service: One of the reasons this place is so special is because of the gracious hospitality shown by the hosts. Nancy is warm and friendly, definitely adding to the charm of this place. Ask her about the renovation work they have done on the property if you enjoy that type of thing. I thoroughly enjoyed hearing about their experiences and looking at the pictures that chronicled their journey (the albums are located in the dining room). I had the pleasure of meeting Margaret and Bob on my first visit as well. They are all kind and courteous hosts. You will not want for anything during your stay. They have really thought of everything for you, so that when you get there you can focus on enjoying your visit. Breakfast: Breakfast is an experience. The tables are exquisitely set with white tablecloths, cloth napkins, and fine china. You have your choice of assorted juices, along with coffee and tea. Nancy provides a long list of options for your meal; you will have a difficult time deciding what to eat! All breakfasts begin with fresh fruit. Both times we have had a delightful medley of fresh berries. My husband has ordered the Orange Marmalade Stuffed French Toast on both occasions and he gave it rave reviews. The first time I had the breakfast pie, which was extraordinary. I was able to print the recipe from their website but I have not attempted it on my own yet. The second visit I tried the waffles with a side of sausage/potato casserole, both were terrific. You will definitely experience a gourmet breakfast at this establishment, and it all includes beautiful plate presentation. Plan to skip lunch, you will not be hungry. Overall: In our experience, the type of attention to detail we encounter here is beyond compare. They have created such a comfortable and classy environment. You will not want to leave!

  • 11/20/2006 05:00 AM
    alicia henson

    FABULOUS


Provided by BedandBreakfast.com


Area Activities

  • Antiquing
  • Biking
  • Golf
  • Hiking
  • Historic Sites
  • Museums
  • National/State Parks
  • Theater
  • Unique Shopping
  • Wineries

Food Service

  • Accommodates Special Diets
  • Continental Plus Breakfast
  • Early Morning Coffee/Tea
  • Evening/Afternoon Dessert
  • Full Breakfast
  • Picnic Lunches/Extra $

Geographic Setting

  • Small Town

Inn Amenities

  • Comp. Beverages
  • Corporate Rates
  • First Floor Rooms
  • Gardens
  • Internet Access
  • Massages on Site
  • National Historic Register
  • Off Street Parking
  • Outdoor Guest Areas

Inn Policies

  • Alcoholic Beverages Permitted
  • Cash Accepted
  • Checks Accepted
  • Children/Inquire
  • Credit Cards Accepted
  • Innkeeper Pets in Residence
  • Pets Not Permitted
  • Smoking Not Permitted
  • Traveler's Checks Accepted

Minimum Stay Required

  • Holidays
  • Peak Season Weekends
  • Special Events

Room Amenities

  • AC/Central
  • ACRoom
  • Air Jet Tub
  • Bathrobes
  • CD Player
  • DVD or VCR
  • Fireplace/Gas
  • Full Bed
  • Hair Dryer
  • Iron/Ironing Board Available
  • Luxury Linens
  • Microwave
  • Movie Library
  • Private Bath
  • Private Deck
  • Private Entrance
  • Queen Bed
  • Refrigerator
  • Shower
  • Steam Shower
  • Telephone
  • Television
  • Wi-Fi Access

Well Suited For

  • Business Travel
  • Elopements
  • Family Travel
  • Gay Friendly
  • Group Events
  • Honeymoons
  • Meetings
  • Quilters Retreats
  • Romantic Escape
  • Scrapbooking Retreats
  • Single Traveler
  • Vacation Getaway
  • Weddings