Milkweed Mercantile Eco Inn

There's nowhere like this in the world - rural, down-home, and with scrumptious food, gracious hospitality, and real people to get to know. It was perfect for us.

Staying at the Milkweed mercantile was a real treat. Our host were truly outstanding. They made us feel at home and we had a chance to see and meet some wonderful people who are working hard to reconect with a down to earth lifestlye. If you want to be reintroduced to a self sustainable lifestlye and family vaules I would strongly suggest you come for a stay and don't forget to take the tour. Ron Langwell

Aline and Kurt are wonderful hosts. They are concerned about every minute of your visit and the breakfasts are unbelievable. The Mercantile is located on an environmental intentional community, and learning about the work they do is part of the visit. You couldn't find a more unusual and interesting place to stay.

My wife and I stayed at the Milkweed at the end of November. I had no idea what to expect with respect to this trip. The ratings that I give are only based on other bed and breakfasts I have stayed in. If I had to rate this place against what I would expect from a place with composting toilets, sustainable construction, and solar and electric energy sources, it would have been off the chart. The owners and operators are amazingly friendly and warm. We are looking forward to returning next year with our kids.

Full disclosure: I'm a former Mercantile employee, and I returned to Dancing Rabbit with my students to explore natural building and design. Wow, it's been a while since I ate and slept so well! I was very familiar with the functional features of the B&B, but I had never experienced being a guest and it was wonderful. I highly recommend a trip out here even if you're remotely interested in ecological living. You'll be able to see and experience Dancing Rabbit from the comfort of five-star accommodations. One caveat, however: you'll never want to leave!

We could not have asked for a better weekend Alline made us feel like we were at home. The accommodations, clean, simple but well decorated, and comfortable. The tour and explanation,of Ecovillage living by our guide (Bob) made us think of how we could not only simplify our lives but tread more lightly on our world. It's an experience worth the effort. JR

Everything felt welcoming. The custom art built into the soft earth-toned walls were simple and beautiful warm colors. We enjoyed the great selection of beers, juices, sodas, and delicious home made baked goods and food served at the cafe down stairs. Great, friendly owners and staff. More stars in the sky than you can shake a stick at are visible on a clear night. Wonderfully comfortable beds and blankets. Beautiful, clean bathrooms. All the rooms, including the shower, bathroom, and common rooms got fantastic natural light during the day. Warm lighting at night. Everything is very eco-friendly.

Proprietors Alline Anderson & Kurt Kessner served up delicious organic meals & wonderful hospitality! A great experience for those wanting to explore an off the grid village of caring, industrious people.

Wow! What a wonderful experience. We were desperate to find a room since parents weekend at the college had all rooms sold out near Kirksville. When we pulled into the Milkweed Inn it was dusk and one of the proprietors greeted us with, "Are you Colleen?" When my wife responded "Yes!" Our host said. "I am glad you made it. I was worried." We immediately felt a genuine warmth and concern for our well-being which continued until we left the following morning. My wife, daughter and I were treated to a quick late night snack of perfectly grilled cheese sandwiches. homemade pickles, beets, olives and chocolates that were delicious. The beds were pure heaven.The morning breakfast was fabulous and everyone was so friendly. We did not want to leave. We are definitely going back. If you want a home away from home along with an education in eco-green living you will not find a better environment then the Milkweed Mercantile Eco Inn. I highly recommend you reward yourself and stay here.

Interesting, educational, relaxing, and a all around fun experience. Will defiantly visit again.

Came to visit from Seattle, my boyfriend was helping a couple to build their house. We stayed at the Mercantile our last night in the village and it was so nice and clean and comfortable. In the morning the coffee was delicious, and the breakfast incomparable, huevos rancheros.. and they even made mine with eggwhites! They went all out to make us happy and comfortable. Alline even sat with me after breakfast and helped route our drive back to Seattle. The beer is cold, the beds cozy and the people are friendly. We will be back, hopefully sooner than later!

Hands down, one of the most comfortable beds I've ever slept in (the king upstairs). If you're looking for a unique, relaxing, informative, adventurous experience, the Milkweed Mercantile is perfect for you. Breakfast is served family-style and enjoyed over conversation with the owners. The atmosphere is quite casual with the owners' open invitation to chat during meal prep in the large, open kitchen/shop area-I personally loved that aspect. The decor is uncluttered and eclectic; the common room upstairs is stocked with great books and games for leisure time. The bedrooms and bathrooms are clean, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing. Doors and woodwork (trim) are repurposed as are many of the furnishings. Utterly charming. Like spending the night at a beloved grandmother's house exploring old treasures and waking up to the enticing smell of breakfast wafting up the stairwell. Add to that the personal satisfaction derived from knowing the inn is completely off the grid and sustainable, and one begins to appreciate what is being offered. I'll definitely be a repeat customer.

I had such a wonderful time at the Mercantile. I was excited to come and see the village, but the Eco Inn was so lovely and the hosts even lovelier that it really made the stay exceptional. I was so impressed with the beautiful, comfortable rooms. The food was amazing and the dinner conversation even better. The stay was really great because of how welcoming and hospitable Kurt and Alline are. I would come back in a heartbeat. I even bought a few treasures in the gift shop to remember my stay.

The title says it all. The bed was fantastic to sleep in, and the breakfast each morning was amazing. The Mercantile proves you can stay in a Eco friendly Inn and be just as comfortable as if you stayed in a five-star hotel. I felt very comfortable and at home my entire stay.

Our family rented two rooms for the weekend at this wonderful B&B. The weather alternated between sunshine and rain--which was perfect for our stay. It has been a long time since we sat and listened to the rain with a good book. If you are looking for a clean, well accomodated, committed green B&B for a relaxing weekend (with great food and wine too), this is your place.

The beds were more comfortable than we expected. We each had two big pillows, very comfy, good mattresses and linens. Our first experience of using a composting toilet and rain water! The shower and all facilities were great. Great water pressure in the shower. We were not roughing it at all. All meals and the dining experience was way beyond our expectations. Delicious food, beautifully served. Wonderful weekend and great value.

Who knew that Northern Missouri is great weekend get-away? Our son encouraged us to visit and learn about two intentional communities 3 hours from St. Louis. We were delighted with the accommodations, which show that "sustainable" can also be incredibly comfortable. Kurt began our visit with a tour and history of Dancing Rabbit. Alline delighted us with her wonderful meals. Everyone we met was incredibly friendly and helpful in answering even the difficult questions about life in an intentional community. We learned a great deal about how life can be different. Thank you for this inspiring visit.

This was my second stay at the Milkweed Mercantile. My previous experience was so good, I tripled the length of my stay to 3 nights. I don't know of anywhere else that you can live your sustainability values on your vacation all while receiving all the comforts you would expect in a B&B and learning about one of the most inspiring experiments in sustainable community building in the world. Rooms were comfy and clean, the staff was friendly and attentive, and breakfasts were hearty, tasty, healthy, and locally or sustainably produced.

My wife and I celebrated our 3 year anniversary dinner at the Milkweed Mercantile during our 3 week visit to Dancing Rabbit. They went above and beyond in making our date something truly special. We had a wonderful candlelit dinner upstairs and dined on our own special pizza with olives in the shape of a heart on top. We rounded the meal off with some of the bar's high quality brew and some music on the porch in the sun. Afterwards my wife told me she hadn't been that happy in a long, long time. Definitely the Milkweed gets my recommendation!

Alline and Kurt are very welcoming. They'll tell you some entertaining stories and they're great listeners. Alline is a fantastic chef: homemade jam, fresh eggs, amazing desserts! Kurt will take you on a guided tour of the Eco-Village. I highly recommend the trip.

Lovely hosts and a great way to find out more about the Dancing Rabbit community. Beautiful building and food was great. I would highly recommend the Milkweed Mercantile Eco Inn!

My husband and I were traveling through Missouri when we came across the Milkweed Mercantile! We called last-minute, arrived late in the evening and brought our vivacious dog! (ideal guests, right?!?) None of that seemed to phase the innkeepers, Kurt and Alline! They were hospitable, sweet and friendly! Our room was super cozy! My husband swears the breakfast was the best he's ever had! Kurt and Alline are not only wonderful hosts, they are two people very passionate about life, community and our planet. As such, we had great conversations with them during our short stay. They are willing to teach what they know ~ they truly walk their talk, both in preserving the earth and building a community. They are a model for other intentional communities! As for the inn, it's a comfy spot to stay. The architecture is amazing. Quiet, off the beaten-path and unique! You will love making your way off the main roads to this home-away-from-home! We cannot wait to go back!

It's not just an off-the-grid Bed & Breakfast. It is an environment that reflects new possibility and hope, new considerations for anywhere you live and breathe, incredible aromas and great food, unheralded landscape, hand-hewn walls, clean crisp sheets, provocative discussions, and the best coffee I've ever had in a B&B. Alline and Kurt and more than innkeepers. They are stewards of our rare earth. I can't stop thinking about the winebottled windows at Dancing Rabbit too.

The Milkweed Mercantile Eco Inn is a really neat place. The Inn itself is very nice. Simple, but clean and comfortable. The community is fascinating. An eco village focused on being totally environmentally friendly. The community is growing, and since all structures are built with reused or environmentally friendly materials, you find lots of material piles around . . . until you understand what you are looking at they almost appear as trashy and cluttered. However, once you tour the community and see the structures it becomes clear. Everything from the structures to the gardens is eco friendly. Folks even complain they don't have a more eco friendly way to cook then propain. Solar and wind provide power; wood stoves provide the heat; several families share kitches. Very communal life style. Winter seems a little barren as the gardens are dead, but I immagine the Spring and Summer are lush and beautiful throughout the community. Definately worth a visit, even for city dwellers like me, if nothing more than to get a glimpse of a more simple life.

I knew this place would be special. I wanted a different experience. I wanted to see how other people live. I wanted to see what it's like to be off the grid. Our stay here was transforming. We took some of the magic with us, there is plenty to share. We felt like part of the family. The evening celebration was joyous. The food was amazing. We met some unforgettable people. We can't wait to go back!

If you are looking for a very unusual, interesting and delightful place to stay in northeast Missouri, the Milkweed Mercantile Eco Inn is for you. I loved my visit. Alline, the Innkeeper, and her husband Curt were gracious hosts who provided delicious breakfasts, as well as great scotch and unbelievable chocolate cookies, homemade bread and jam and lots of fun conversation. I am looking forward to my next stay at the Milkweed.

Beautiful straw bale inn accommodation. Met all our expectations with the addition of fun hosts with whom we shared lots of laughs, good food and great conversations. Milkweed Mercantile and Dancing Rabbit should be on everyone's list as a "must do" for those of us involved in walking the sustainability trail focussed, to encourage inquisitive ones interested in commencing the walk and to kick start those who need to be made aware of the need to get walking! It is the epitomy of reduction, restraint and resourcefulness. Kindred spirits who we hope to meet up with again on life's journey.

My husband and I stayed for 2 nights. We value and applaud the eco-friendly ways of this inn and its community. Our room was clean, inviting, and comfortable, with a beautiful view of a star-studded night sky. The guest lounge has plenty of reading materials, family games, and unique artwork. You do share a bathroom, but this wasn't a problem, as there is a separate room for showering and an extra sink area. The meals are delicious, organic (better tasting!), and locally grown. Alline kept our meals within our requested low-fat, low-sugar guidelines, even preparing jam made with freshly picked berries and 2/3 less sugar. Be sure to browse in the mercantile section for both unique and practical finds. We visit near-by family twice a year, and we will definitely be staying at the Eco Inn again. Jack and Emileah Jaworski, Toledo, Ohio

Visited my son at Dancing Rabbit from October 1 to October 6, and had the good fortune to stay at the "Mercantile". My wife and I had visited there previously. Alline and Kurt are wonderful hosts who are willing to accomodate any need. They had coffee ready for me each morning, and prepared exellent breakfasts each day. My son and I also enjoyed dinners two of the evenings during my visit. I have a gluten intolerance, and each meal was prepared gluten-free. Alline even made a gluten-free chocolate cake for dessert. It was delicious! I stayed in the Wallace Stegner on the first floor. With an exterior door, it was convenient for easy ingress/egress with tools. I was there to help my son assemble a hoop house (greenhouse), and I apprecieated the convenience. The room was also near the bathroom and shower. When returning to DR, we will certainly stay at the Mercantile! Bill Durica

I went with girlfriends on a weekend trip to visit the EcoInn. While there, we attended a canning seminar, toured the Ecovillage, ate amazing food and had so much fun! The owners made us feel at home right from the start! I can't wait to go back! Next time I think I'll bring my kids and husband--I know they'll have a great time too! I recommend this EcoInn to everyone. I was such a great experience!

I was told when I arrived to the ecovillage that I should try pizza night at the Milkweed Mercantile, that it was better than NYC pizza (my home town) and I didn't believe it. I finally experienced it and it is seriously amazing pizza. I don't think I can find crust light this- thin and flaky. The toppings were also done to perfect proportion. This will go down as one of my top 5 lifetime pizza experiences.

The Milkweed Mercantile Eco Inn offers first class comfort while visiting the bold and successful Dancing Rabbit Eco Village. The DR residents have succeeded in tapping earth's bounty to capture and store all the electricity needed via solar and wind power sources. This is modern living at its best. The inn keepers are congenial, informed and gifted. The food offerings accommodate all dietary needs without compromising taste and flair. How can the Inn be so clean and still be on a farm?! Come and see for yourself. You will learn more than you spend, guaranteed!

Stayed at the Mercantile earlier this year in the spring with my father. I was well adjusted to life off the grid, he was not. Despite this, the Mercantile met both of our needs very well. All the amenities we were used to were readily available while still relying on only sustainable resources. Service was outstanding, with a personalized tour of first the inn and later the ecovillage. Food in the morning was delicious as well.

This comfortable, hospitable Inn would be competitive in a more densely populated area. Do expect the hosts to facilitate you in making healthy choices that are good for you and for the planet. Reusable towels; recycling; eating local foods are just some examples. The Inn is designed to operate without air conditioning. I was pleased that there was ample hot water for showers; my travel partner prefers cold showers. There was electricity for our laptop from the solar and wind power systems, and wireless internet access. The food here is excellent! Breakfast is made with guests' dietary choices in mind (omnivore, vegetarian, vegan, food allergies, etc.). The conversation at breakfast with the inn keepers and various guests ranged on many topics relevant to sustainability and sharing. Lunch and dinner are not always served at the Inn. No pool, but there are several ponds in the area.

Staying at Milkweed Mercantile was such a fun and unique experience. We went to learn more about energy efficient living, but were bowled over by the hospitality. Kurt and Alline were incredibly friendly and very willing to tell us all about their successes and their difficulties. We booked dinner, and were served a wonderful home-cooked meal with pasture-raised ham, fresh vegetables and homemade biscuits. Breakfast was also a knockout. The experience was a fascinating lesson in green living, served up with great food, great coffee, and a lot of perspective and humor. My only regret is that we couldn’t stay an extra night. There’s a lot to be learned here.

The Milkweed Mercantile is such a joy. Everything here is made with such care -- for the earth, for the guests/friends who stay here, and for the artistry and value of beautiful spaces. The place is airy, clean, and bright. I particularly loved perusing the book collection, the laid-back company of the innkeepers and other guests, and the wonderfully-made breakfasts. I'm hoping to entice my mother to come for a visit -- she's rather suspicious that "eco-friendly" is another word for "dirty," and she's not much of an outdoorswoman. The Mercantile, I'm sure, will expand her idea of the possibilities and joys of living lightly on the earth. Thank you so much for the hospitality, Milkweed Mercantile!

Milkweed is the perfect blend of sustainability and comfort. For some of us older folk, it adds a level of relaxation without feeling that the tenets of sustainable living are compromised. Alline and Kurt deserve the Best Innkeepers of the Year Award. Louise

A wonderful place to stay, especially if you are interested in learning about ways to live in a sustainable way. Great care is taken to make guests feel welcome and comfortable.

It was a wonderful time – we went just for a bit of peace and found it. The food was great (we had dinner there one night as well as the full farm breakfasts made to order), the people were great and the concept of an eco B&B was the best! The stars! The Lightening Bugs! The mercantile…. Everyone who enjoys the ‘family’ environment of a B&B should go – you’ll have new friends to add to your Christmas card list.

The Milkweed Mercantile Eco Inn was very fascinating. They were super kind and welcoming, gave us a tour of the whole Eco village and were very quick to answer any and all questions we had. We felt like we were apart of the community for the time we were there. It was a great experience that I soon hope to repeat!

My expectatations were far exceeded by the beautiful and restful accommodations of the Milkweed Mecantile Eco Inn. The Inn owners offer outstanding customer service with their attention to everything I desired, and some things I didn't realize I desired. The food is varied, exceptional, and plentiful to say the least. For those who like myself don't always make the effort to be as conscious of the earth's resources, the Inn's sustainable practices make up for any guilt, without feeling comfort has been sacrificed. For those who embrace a sustainable lifestyle, visiting the Milkweed Mercantile is a must. Thank you for a great weekend!

Last weekend I stayed at the Milkweed Mercantile and I am still talking about it! I have been wanting to visit the Dancing Rabbit community because I've been hearing about it for years. In addition to experiencing firsthand an exceptional intentional community, I was treated to a stay at an outstanding bed and breakfast! Kurt, Alline, and Amy do a fantastic job and it is inspiring to see how they have created such a warm and welcoming environment using sustainable practices. I had a great time meeting the other guests at the Mercantile and also some of the residents of Dancing Rabbit and within a short time I felt like I was among friends. Great conversations were had! One of the highlights of my stay was also the food that was lovingly prepared and cheerfully served to me throughout the weekend! Anthony, Brian, and Sparky (and Alline!) are amazing! From the cheesecake, to the tea, and the brunch on Sunday morning...I can't put into words how delicious it was! The eggs were from happy chickens on a local farm, the jam was homemade, as was the butter and the biscuits...truly one of the best breakfasts I have ever eaten. I will look forward to visiting again! Sara in Kansas City, MO

We stayed at the Milkweed Mercantile earlier this week, and we were blown away by the warmth of owners Kurt and Alline. We were also captivated by the charming design of the building's interior--the lobby is graced with a gorgeous mosaic laid into the plaster of the cob walls, and the upstairs is filled with incredible art (from a local artist) and furniture. Even the books on the bookshelves were color-coordinated! It's obvious that Kurt and Alline put a great deal of themselves into the making of the inn. Our bedroom, the large family room, was furnished with three luxurious beds and adorable handmade window curtains. I couldn't help running my hands over the curved white corners of the walls, which Kurt and Alline constructed and plastered themselves using natural materials. As soon as we put down our suitcases, Alline brought us an afternoon snack of freshly-baked chocolate chip oatmeal cookies. It was such a treat! And speaking of food, in the morning, Kurt brought us delicious coffee and a breakfast of biscuits with butter & organic jam and a cheesy asparagus scramble. Almost all of the food ingredients were locally produced--and if you are vegan, the chef can be more than accommodating. The Mercantile prides itself on environmentalism and sustainability, two of the cornerstones of the Dancing Rabbit Eco-village in which the Mercantile is located. For instance, the building--like most structures in the eco-village--is run on solar power. If you are interested in learning more about living sustainably and experiencing life in an intentional community while also resting in comfort and class, the Mercantile is the B&B for you! Don't forget to stay for a Saturday BBQ and then Sunday brunch...