Garth Woodside Mansion

This may be the ultimate experience at this award winning inn. VOTED # 1 bed and breakfast in Missouri by inn-goers. 39 acre estate, stunning views, grand archetecture, an uncommon full breakfast, canopy beds, plush robes and more.... more

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Here is what guests had to say...

"Woods Trail cottage" 11/5/2009
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Stayed On: 10/2009

The only negative item noticed during our stay was that the room was dusty. I probably wouldn't have noted it except for my alergy to dust. Frequent sneezing caused me to look around and it was then that I noticed that better attention could have been given to dusting. I especially enjoyed dining in our room and the staffs willingness to make that possible. It would have been even better if we could have had breakfast in the room as well. When we desire to escape together, it is especially nice when we can spend our entire time together alone. This was our second escape to Garths and both times were very relaxing and enjoyable.

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Innkeeper Response
I am so glad you posted this review! I chatted nicely with the housekeeper and she actually told me of the nice note you left for her about her attention to dusting. Sure enough she did not tell me until I spoke of this review. If this happens again to you or any traveler, please notify the innkeeper/owner as well. This way we are sure to rectify ANY issues. Owners are always the best bet. At Garth Mansion you are always only one person away from the owner. Thanks again!

- Julie (innkeeper)

"The BEST EVER" 11/4/2009
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Stayed On: 10/2009

Our stay at Garth was the BEST we have ever had and we have traveled all over the US and stayed in many B&Bs. The service was great and was only out done by how friendly and helpful John and Julie were. I would never stay any where else when in the area!!!

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Innkeeper Response
YOU are why we ARE innkeepers. We are very lucky to be able to have a 'job' we both enjoy!

- Julie (innkeeper)

"Great get away!" 10/10/2009
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Stayed On: 10/2009

Price of overnight stay includes an excellent evening meal, and of course a fabulous breakfast while watching the lamas, squirrels, and bluebirds. A rural setting close to Hannibal MO attractions. All the rooms we toured were fabulous. The rainy day made the gas fireplace toasty and romantic! We enjoyed watching our dinner being prepared on their webcam! We would enjoy a repeat visit.

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Innkeeper Response
You are welcome anytime. Next time ask to eat in the kitchen and you can be the next star on the webcam!

- Julie (innkeeper)

"Charming Mansion " 10/2/2009
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Stayed On: 10/2009

This was our first time at the Garth Mansion. We just loved it. The mansion is very charming and beautiful. From the moment we walked in the door, we could tell the mansion was very loved and cared for. The innskeepers John and Julie were very warm, friendly and welcoming. The property surrounding the mansion was simply breath taking. It had a story book setting. Simply beautiful. The food served at the mansion was wonderful. Their french toast was so amazing as well as the fresh juice!! The room/rooms were so beautiful and very tastefully done! The staff was amazing! We will be back again to visis the mansion. We just loved it! We had the chance to go anywhere in MO and we chose the Garth Mansion. We are so glad that we did! We just fell in love with the charm and beauty with the mansion as well as the land it resides on! Just lovely!

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"Return Visit Just as Rewarding" 8/27/2009
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Stayed On: 8/2009

This was our second visit to the Garth Woodside Mansion. It is just as lovely as ever. They now have a restaurant attached to the house. It is a lovely, inviting room. Although Julie and John were gone, Sean and Sheena were the perfect hosts. Will try to visit again. We love this place.

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"Bang for the Buck!" 8/6/2009
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Stayed On: 8/2009

We have two daughters ages 12 and 11. "Aunt" Julie and "Uncle" John were SO kind and welcomed all of us to their place. They are very detailed about your comfort--you are responsible for letting them know because they can not read minds, but they will do anything to make your stay and meals the BEST. Not only was breakfast included in the price of our stay, but the dinner as well. We just had to pick up the taxes. We never ate so much in our lives. If you go away hungry-- it's your own fault. The place is very clean. They have two llamas to feed and pet. A pond you can fish in and an area to play catch. It is set back in the woods for walks or a beautiful wedding. The cabins are private with a hot tub and the main house is full of antiques. My husband and I plan to go back (minus the kids) for some together time. I have already told many people about this wonderful place. Stayed Aug 3-5, 2009

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"summer getaway" 8/5/2009
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Stayed On: 8/2009

Julie and John are great host. The mansion is beautiful and the food was out of this world

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"Can't wait to return" 5/1/2009
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Stayed On: 4/2009

All we can say is WOW! My husband and I had never stayed at a B & B before so for our anniversary I planned a night at Woodside. We came with no expectations and were overwhelmed with kindness and beautiful surroundings. We had no complaints from the amazing room to the amazing sense of home. John and Julie are so helpful and welcoming you will find it hard to leave. Looking forward to our next visit and the baby lamas. Kay & Doug Illinois

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Innkeeper Response
The baby 'crias' are due in 2010 around the 5th of May. Keep an eye on our site, I hope to get a webcam for llama watch.

- Julie (innkeeper)

"totally charming" 1/28/2009
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Stayed On: 11/2008

From the moment you arrive, everything is wonderful and everything you would want is seen to. So relaxing and so peaceful. We come twice a year to the same B&B; there is none other!

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"beautiful" 10/28/2008
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Stayed On: 10/2008

very quiet and relaxing. Gourmet breakfast was exceptionable. Julie is a wonderful innkeeper. Can't say the same for her husband. guess it's just his personality, but he's not friendly.

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"Get-a-way" 10/14/2008
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Stayed On: 10/2008

Incredible B&B, so much thought and attention, one of the best.

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"10 Plus" 10/10/2008
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Stayed On: 9/2008

Our 25th Wedding Anniversary celebration at Garth Mansion was a 10 Plus. We know we have been a guest at the very best B&B in the midwest.

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"Garth Mansion" 9/30/2008
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Stayed On: 9/2008

When we travel, it is usually to visit family, and we stay with family members. We have occasionally traveled on our own and have stayed at hotels/motels. A few times we have stayed at B&B's. This one was the best!!

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"WONDERFUL" 7/17/2008
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Stayed On: 7/2008

I really enjoyed my first stay at the Garth. John and Julie were so friendly and the food was delicious. I was able to relax in my jacuzzi tub and get away from the city for a night. I will definately come back again and again and I am spreading the word. I can't wait to come back again!

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"My Birthday" 7/9/2008
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Stayed On: 6/2008

I was already excited since it was my birthday, just when I saw my surprise I was elated. The charm, warmth, food, owners were great!

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"An incredible find" 7/3/2008
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Stayed On: 6/2008

An exceptional experience The Dewager Cottage was wonderful & the breakfasts out of this world. Highly recommend.

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"Spring" 6/23/2008
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Stayed On: 6/2008

Flowers were in bloom and everyone had an air of freshness and happiness with a wonderful place to stay.

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"Fantastic!" 6/19/2008
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Stayed On: 5/2008

Our room was gorgeous - the beautiful bed, fireplace, and clawfoot tub were wonderful. What a treat to stay in such a fabulous mansion!!


"Over-all Impression" 6/19/2008
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Stayed On: 5/2008

Food was very good. Hosts made us "feel so welcome."

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"Anniversary Visit" 6/16/2008
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Stayed On: 6/2008

My husband and I stayed at the Garth Woodside Mansion for our honeymoom in 2006 and recently went back for our 2nd anniversary. Our 2nd visit was just as outstanding as our first visit and we can't wait to go back again next year. John and Julie make everyone feel right at home and the breakfast that is served is excellent. There is a resturant on site so if you want to have a wonderful meal you have come to the right place. Stay at the Garth and you won't be disappointed.

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"Great" 6/10/2008
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Stayed On: 5/2008

Excellent getaway - Would highly recommend - Very personable food excellant, service excellant. We were pampered from beginning to end.

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"The Garth Woodside Mansion is Great!" 6/9/2008
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Stayed On: 5/2008

The Mansion is beautiful, the country setting is charming. The hosts are warm and friendly and made our stay a pure delight.

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"Garth Mansion" 6/6/2008
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Stayed On: 5/2008

The mansion was beautiful and well maintained. The hosts were wonderful. The food was very good.

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"awesome place" 6/5/2008
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Stayed On: 5/2008

what a wonderful experience. way beyond our expectations. the accommodations were perfect, hospitality was out of this world and the food was to die for. perfect perfect perfect! this is well worth the trip for anyone. fantastic!

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"great getaway" 6/5/2008
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Stayed On: 5/2008

peaceful setting, friendly and at home atmosphere. fantastic food with great personal service. we highly recommend it. can't wait to go back

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"Garth Mansion" 5/28/2008
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Stayed On: 5/2008

Garth Mansion is a delightful walk into the past. The pwners are very hospitable and the food is excellent. The grounds are beautiful.

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"“Not our "cup of tea" - our first and last trip to the Garth”" 4/10/2008
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Stayed On: 2/2006

My husband and I booked a room for our anniversary, and although we have never stayed in a B&B, we live in a similarly appointed home, so we knew what to expect as far as "comfort" is concerned. We really didn't get a tour or history when we checked in, the gentleman proprietor showed us to our room, and then awkwardly suggested that he could turn down the bed for us. It was 4:30, and a little early for that, but I think he insisted so that the crocheted bedspread could be removed from the room. Anyway, with that out of the way, he raved about the complimentary toothbrushes (who cares?) and told us we could look around until our dinner reservations at 6:00. Our dinner took 3 full hours from start to finish, and we had to have a steak recooked, but the food was OK overall. It was hardly busy in the dining room though, so it should have taken half that time. Also, the proprietors spent most of their time obsessed with another couple who was on a return visit, and rarely spoke to us. Breakfast was in their restaurant (like dinner) instead of at the home's dining table so you really couldn't talk to the other guests. And there wasn't a TV in the place! (That bothered me more than it bothered my husband, but for a place that advertises it has high speed internet connections, you think that TV is a given). Overall, our experience was pretty poor, and the $350 we spent on the room & dinner will be forever gone!

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Innkeeper Response
I love to review guest reviews like this one. They usually post the same one several times on several sites time and time again. Still bitter over two years later, they stayed in 2006 and posted in 2008? She is right, you cannot please everyone ALL the time, sorry we thought they might want to take a nap before dinner. And yes, we spend time with guests that come back and want to spend time with us, if you are not a real chatty-cathy we are not going to be in your face and try to be your new best friend. We are here if you want, and leave you to your privacy if you like. And, BTW, two years later-we do have TV's with built in DVD players---BUT---if one of you does not want it, then we hide the remote control from the other one of you. (grin)Come and stay with us and make your own decision, we promise not to make you laugh on John's toothbrush story!

- Julie (owner/innkeeper)

"Wonderfully Romantic!!" 2/14/2008
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Stayed On: 12/2007

My partner and I celebrated our 1 year anniversary this past December 2007 and stayed at the Garth Mansion for our celebration weekend. We were thrilled with nearly every part of our stay and absoluetly loved the mansion. We stayed in the Rosewood room and it was amazing. We had our own fireplace with warmed the room great as well as set a very romatic mood to cuddle in front of. The room size and quality was spectacular. The best part, aside from our very comfy bed, was the claw foot bathtub in our bathroom. Perfect for a romatic day or night. I can't tell you how great it was!! The Rolsen family that runs the household were very friendly and welcoming and made us feel at home but at the same time gave us our privacy and respect. The food was terrific. High quality delicious breakfast and don't miss a dinner in the dining room it was awesome....order the crab cakes!! Overall, my partner and I can't wait to return in the summer to enjoy more of the outdoor grounds and have another fantastic get-a-way at a wonderful place to stay!!

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Innkeeper Response
It is guests like the both of you that make it worth our while to continue to being innkeepers. Innkeeping is a way of life and I am glad you chose us for your first B&B. We hope to see you this summer when so many flowers are in bloom and you can enjoy another wonderful dinner, but this time on the patio under the stars. See you soon...

- Julie (innkeeper)

"Christmas at Garth Mansion" 1/19/2008
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Stayed On: 12/2007

This was the second Christmas Eve and Christmas that my wife and I have spent at Garth. From the warm front door greeting by John, Julie and son Sean, it's like taking a step back into a more gracious, warm, and romantic era where time goes by slower and you can savor all of the sights, sounds, and aromas of a special place in history. The original 1800's furnishings surround you in a peaceful and warm environment. Julie, John and Sean are always at hand to make sure all your needs are attended to, and to offer great conversation over a cup of hot coffee. This year it was extra romantic because there was a lot of snow on the ground for a white Christmas. If it is romance and the quiet of a bygone era you are looking for, then look no further. The dining was among the very best we have ever experienced. The gourmet chefs are creative and offer personalized menus as you prefer. The total experience of this serene country setting is available at a most reasonable price. As the Rolsens say, you arrive the first time as guests, but you'll always leave as family making Garth a part of your life from then on.

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Innkeeper Response
If you like the Christman season, try staying the week of Thanksgiving and stay two nights and get one of those free when you help put all of those wondeful ornaments and trees up. We are in Tom Sawyer area and we try to do the "Tom" thing and have you help out. See you in November??...

- Julie (innkeeper)

"Fabulous B&B" 11/19/2007
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Stayed On: 11/2007

Relaxing, enjoyable, beautiful, comfortable, friendly.... Great place to stay for a relaxing getaway. The owners are extremely nice and hospitable. The food is fabulous!!!

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"Grand Experience." 10/8/2007
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Stayed On: 9/2007

We thoroughly enjoyed celebrating our 25th anniversary at Garth Woodside Mansion with hosts John, Julie, and Sean. The accomodations, ambiance, and meals were exquisite.

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Innkeeper Response
Thank you so much for taking time to find the site and make such nice comments. Guest like you are always a joy to serve. Please come again when it is NOT a special occasion, just because you deserve it. Warmly,

- Julie (innkeeper)

"Excellent Experience!" 8/9/2007
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Stayed On: 8/2007

My husband and I were referred by a winery to this beautiful mansion to experience the outstanding wine list... upon entering the property, we decided to spend the night and could not have been more pleased! The service was friendly (we were always called by name).. food was superb, very intimate surroundings and positively BEAUTIFUL! We left feeling pampered and relaxed!

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"Family Reunion" 7/19/2007
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Stayed On: 7/2007

John, Julie and Sean were great hosts this past weekend. The grounds are beautiful, food and service were excellent. I like the idea of no tv's in the bed rooms. I had a great time.

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Innkeeper Response
If you would come more often, I would not have to break this news to you. We put some small flat screens in the rooms. But the remote is only given out if BOTH guests ~grin~ agree to having one in there rooms. They basically are for watching a variety of movies (which there are over 400 DVD's) to choose. Let me know you are coming and we can whisk it out of there before you arrive.

- Julie (innkeeper)

"A wonder experience " 7/18/2007
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Stayed On: 6/2007

The host & hostess made us feel like family but gave us space to do what we wanted. The comraderie was wonderful.

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"Stayed here in 2001" 7/15/2007
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Stayed On: 9/2004

Everything about our stay was great! That was six years ago, but I still remember what a wonderful time we had and would like to return. The breakfasts were so good! The rooms were incredibly furnished. I like to brag about my stay in the Samuel Clemens room. Innkeepers were so friendly!

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"Memorial Day Weekend at the Mansion" 6/8/2007
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Stayed On: 5/2007

My husband and I spent the Memorial Day weekend at the lovely historic Garth Woodside Mansion Bed and Breakfast located in a rural area of Hannibal, MO, and owned and run by John and Julie Rolsen. We were made welcome immediately upon arrival. After check-in, John gave us what he called the ‘5 cent tour’ of the mansion, while explaining the rules and amenities for the mansion stay. He showed us to our room and turned down the bed for us (how nice!). We even got to see the rooms that were still vacant at that time (all beautiful). We were taken by the extraordinary restoration and detail of the mansion, inside and outside. The décor was beautiful and kept to the era of the mansion. Each time we walked through the mansion we saw things we had missed when we had walked through previously. There are so many furnishings, ornaments, and unusual antique pieces and pictures, all so fun to be a part of in this tranquil setting. No TVs or phones in the rooms, which encouraged us to relax and forget about our too busy lifestyle (something we needed to do). Breakfast was fabulous! The food, and the enthusiasm of our hosts as they served us, made this a great experience. The dinning room (windows all around) provided us a view of the owner’s three lamas, a lovely garden and birds of many species. We enjoyed the quiet comfortable room and bed, which has not always been our experience at Bed and Breakfast stays. Julie was fabulous at getting everyone to relax and have fun while we ate. We walked the spacious and scenic grounds of the mansion, which was also enjoyable. Thanks John and Julie and son for a wonderful weekend we will not forget! The only thing I might ask to be changed is the check-in time. Could it be check-in at 3PM, not 4PM?

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"the weekend at garth woodside mansion" 3/4/2007
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Stayed On: 10/2006

we stay at garth woodside mansion twice a year to regroup our mind and soul and we are never disapponted. the owners john and julie are the most wonderful people that we have ever meet and they always make sure you stay is unforgettable.

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"Comfort, elegance, history" 1/20/2007
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Stayed On: 3/2004

Beautiful hilltop setting, stunning Victorin mansion, great history. I loved staying in the room where Mark Twain (Samuel Clemens) slept when he was a frequent visitor to this grand home.

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Garth Woodside Mansion Bed and Breakfast
Garth Woodside Mansion, Hannibal, MO - Inn
Garth Woodside Mansion
11069 New London Rd.
Hannibal, MO 63401
USA
Phone: +1-573-221-2789
Toll-free: +1-888-427-8409
Innkeeper(s)
Col (Ret) John & Julie Rolsen
Rates:
$175 - $395
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Reviews

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Review Garth Woodside Mansion, Hannibal, MO

Video

Welcome to the Garth Woodside Mansion, a Hannibal, Missouri bed and breakfast, and Woodside Restaurant, where you will be treated as friends while you enjoy romantic surroundings and attention to detail.

Photo Album

Winter at the Garth Mansion is wonderful. Decked out in full Victorian style.  Very cozy with so many rooms offering fireplaces.Look close! That's right, this is Tom Sawyer and Becky Thatcher visiting the Garth Mansion.  You just might see them on your visit here.
The Rosewood Room has thee most expensive bed in the state of Missouri you can sleep in. Circa 1869 and made of Rosewood and hand carved black walnut you will fall asleep before your head hits the pillow. Bathroom features the original clawfoot tub added in 1900.Samuel Clemens Room.  Yes, he actually slept here EVERY time he came to Hannibal after moving away when he was 18. Being such close friends with Col. and Mrs. Garth it is only fitting he had his own guest room. Queen sized half-tester, private bath.
Ahh, Avie's Room.  One of the favorites! The soft blues, queen canopied bed, 10 foot windows, even a fireplace to flicker all over the room when you are all cozied up on the feather bed.  Hard to get any better than this.Do you play? The 1869 Steinway Square Grand stills gets tuned twice a year and boy does she sound wonderful when those original ivories sing.
If you leave hungry from the breakfast table it is your own fault.  Guests usually mingle at the table for quite sometime visiting with each other.  You won't get chewed out if you are late, those beds are super comfy.  The whole house smells great in the a.m. help lure you up.  You may also sneak off and catch a quick nap before heading into town to see the museums and shops. It is your vacation and up to you. This view shows you part of the 1500 square foot building.  The spiral staircase in the foreground takes you to the loft overlooking the grassy knoll.  These windows overlook the private deck which sits over the pond.  There is another room, the kitchen, where your breakfast is brought to you in the a.m. Stay in bed, the light will come on when the candles are lit and the innkeeper has left the building. You see nobody until you check out.
This picture was in Victorian Homes Magazine. Warm sunshine, hot coffee and a rocking chair on either of these porches in the morning is the best way to start the day.