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  • Open Gates Bed and Breakfast, built in 1876 by a wealthy timber baron, is a family run, nature-based business located in the small coastal village of Darien, Georgia. Located on historic Vernon Square, just one block from the shrimp boats on the Darien waterfront, Open Gates is surrounded by giant live oak and magnolia trees providing a private, relaxed atmosphere for your vacation getaway retreat, business trip or special event.
    Open Gates Bed and Breakfast inviting saltwater pool is so cool and refreshing... guests love it at the end of a full day sightseeing and beachcombing in the Golden Isles.
    The Gift Shop at Open Gates Bed and Breakfast displays a delightful collection of nature gifts, local arts and crafts, and other unique finds.
    The library at Open Gates Bed and Breakfast is an exciting place for nature lovers, with a wonderful collection of books and literature on natural history subjects. Darien is a bird watchers paradise, with so many spots for good viewing.
    The Garden Room at Open Gates Bed and Breakfast is the perfect place for couples seeking a private getaway, with its own private entrance and balcony.
    The Island Room is Open Gates Bed and Breakfast's largest room and is located on the ground floor, convenient to the library and dining room. A private full bath, private dressing area and an antique cannonball four-poster queen-sized bed distinguish this guest room. A twin bed and sitting area also provide extra space for relaxation.
    From Open Gates Bed and Breakfast, guests have a view of the fountain and angel at historic Vernon Square, a place that was once home to wealthy timber barons.
    Sapelo Island, a beautiful barrier island facing the Atlantic Ocean, is a short distance from Open Gates Bed and Breakfast.
    The dining room at Open Gates Bed and Breakfast is delightful and inviting, with large windows and lovely furnishings.
    Open Gates Bed and Breakfast living room is beautifully decorated with paintings and antique furnishings.

    • Address 301 Franklin Street
      Historic Vernon Square

      Darien, GA 31305
      USA
    • Phone+1-912-437-6985
    • Fax+1-912-437-6985
    • EmailContact Innkeeper
    Inn's website

    Trained as professional biologists, your hosts at the Open Gates B&B will arrange for guided nature tours of the Altamaha River,surrounding marshes and isolated islands, all of which abound with wildlife. The coastal village of Darien, located on the banks of the Altamaha River, is a beautiful shrimping town full of Southern charm and eclectic character. Built in 1876, the Open Gates Bed & Breakfast is uniquely situated for nature lovers, birders, kayakers, and history enthusiasts wanting to experience one of the richest natural ecosystems in the world. Explore the old-fashoined small town of Darien, with her rich pre-colonial, Scottish, native-American, Gullah-Geechee and Civil War history. Stroll along the scenic Darien waterfront, watch the shrimp boats unload their catch, and peruse antique shops and local art galleries. Historic Fort King George (1721), the oldest European fort in the state, is located within walking distance of the inn. For dinner, enjoy excellent waterfront dining at Skippers Restaraunt, located only a short walk from the B&B. Open Gates B&B is a family-run, nature-based business. Our goal as innkeepers is to provide our guests with excellent accommodations, while allowing them privacy and space to enjoy their stay and discover our unique area.

    Reviews

    Score Breakdown based on 14 Reviews

    4.6 out of 5
     
    • Guest room  5
    • Services  5
    • Value  4
    • Cleanliness  4
    • Dining  5

    Explanation of Our Ratings

      Outstanding
      Exceeded my expectations
      Met my expectations
      Okay, but below average
      Unsatisfactory
    3.4 out of 5
     

    Perfect Place for a Prolonged Stay

    May 12, 2011

    We loved our stay at Open Gates. Kelly was outstanding and helped us find great places to eat and visit during our stay. Wish we could have stayed longer. It's definitely the kind of setting that you want to make a return visit too. Well worth the time.

    4.0 out of 5
     

    Great Place To Relax

    April 21, 2010

    Innkeepers Kelly & Jeff very friendly and welcoming. We felt at home and would stay there again. The inn is a large Victorian style house with a very nice library and large parlor. The guest room on the first floor had a comfortable king size bed and huge bathroom. Although not a problem during our visit, light sleepers may have a problem with this guest room as the library with a TV if off to one side of the room and the dining area is off to the other side. Jeff's shrimp and grits breakfast was very good. Relaxing by the pool or on the porch while enjoying the complimentary wine and coffee cake was fantastic. The inn is located next to the town park in a very quiet neighborhood. Darien is a great place to relax and walk. One can walk to the river front and watch the shrimp boats. Limited eating establishments in "downtown" Darien. Skippers and Purple Pickle (when open) serve tasty meals and one can stop by the local favorite wine bar for cheese and wine. Young children and teenagers most likely would not find much to entertain them in the town.

    5 out of 5
     

    This place is truly fabulous!

    February 20, 2010

    My partner and I made reservations at the last minute, didn't get in until after 830 pm, and Kelly & Jeff were still willing to have us! We stayed in a huge room upstairs that was immaculate, charming, and probably the most comfortable bed I have ever slept in. And the price just can't be beat for a B & B!! Homemade bread was delicious, as was the coffee. I appreciated the innkeepers willingness to give advice about the area, but not hover over us the whole time we were there. My only complaint-which doesn't have anything to do with the inn itself- is that if you do show up late, most of Darien has shut down, and there's not really anywhere to eat. Overall, it was truly an outstanding experience! I hope to visit here again soon & often!

    4.4 out of 5
     

    Beautiful

    September 15, 2009

    Beautiful setting. Rooms were clean, quiet and very comfortable. The best part was the hostess. Kelly is the perfect southern lady who knows how to treat her guests. Breakfast was excellent. Look forward to staying there again next year. Gary & Carol - garymroberts.com


    Location

    Innkeeper Information

    Innkeeper(s)

    Kelly & Jeff Spratt

    Innkeepers Description:

    Your hosts, Jeff and Kelly Spratt, with their daughter Hannah, will treat you like family. Both Kelly and Jeff hold Masters degrees in Biology and work professionally with the preservation and conservation of habitat and endangered species. Hannah, born in 2000, has not yet earned her Master's, but is learning the tradition of southern hospitality and environmental values from her parents.

    The innkeepers speak:

    • English

    Resident Pets

    1 Cat

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  • Rooms & Rates

    • Nightly Rate $90 - $125

    Policy

    Reservation Policy

    • Check In: 3:00 pm    Check Out: 11:00 am

    • Minimum Stay: On holiday weekends (2 nights)

    • Deposit Amount Required: Reservations should be held with a credit card number (MC or Visa).

    • Cancellations: Cancellations may be made up to one week in advance with no charges incurred.

    • Open All Year Round: Yes


    General Policies

    • Smoking Allowed: Limited

    • Guest Pets Allowed: Limited

    • Drinking Allowed: Yes

    • Drinking Description: wine available during social hour, or bring your own

    • Drinks Available: Yes

    • Children Allowed: children welcome

    • Suitable For Children: Yes

    • Childcare Provided: No

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  • Reviews

    Score Breakdown based on 14 Reviews

    4.6 out of 5
     
    • Guest room  5
    • Services  5
    • Value  5
    • Cleanliness  5
    • Dining  5

    Explanation of Our Ratings

      Outstanding
      Exceeded my expectations
      Met my expectations
      Okay, but below average
      Unsatisfactory
    3.4 out of 5
     

    Perfect Place for a Prolonged Stay

    May 12, 2011

    We loved our stay at Open Gates. Kelly was outstanding and helped us find great places to eat and visit during our stay. Wish we could have stayed longer. It's definitely the kind of setting that you want to make a return visit too. Well worth the time.

    4.0 out of 5
     

    Great Place To Relax

    April 21, 2010

    Innkeepers Kelly & Jeff very friendly and welcoming. We felt at home and would stay there again. The inn is a large Victorian style house with a very nice library and large parlor. The guest room on the first floor had a comfortable king size bed and huge bathroom. Although not a problem during our visit, light sleepers may have a problem with this guest room as the library with a TV if off to one side of the room and the dining area is off to the other side. Jeff's shrimp and grits breakfast was very good. Relaxing by the pool or on the porch while enjoying the complimentary wine and coffee cake was fantastic. The inn is located next to the town park in a very quiet neighborhood. Darien is a great place to relax and walk. One can walk to the river front and watch the shrimp boats. Limited eating establishments in "downtown" Darien. Skippers and Purple Pickle (when open) serve tasty meals and one can stop by the local favorite wine bar for cheese and wine. Young children and teenagers most likely would not find much to entertain them in the town.

    5 out of 5
     

    This place is truly fabulous!

    February 20, 2010

    My partner and I made reservations at the last minute, didn't get in until after 830 pm, and Kelly & Jeff were still willing to have us! We stayed in a huge room upstairs that was immaculate, charming, and probably the most comfortable bed I have ever slept in. And the price just can't be beat for a B & B!! Homemade bread was delicious, as was the coffee. I appreciated the innkeepers willingness to give advice about the area, but not hover over us the whole time we were there. My only complaint-which doesn't have anything to do with the inn itself- is that if you do show up late, most of Darien has shut down, and there's not really anywhere to eat. Overall, it was truly an outstanding experience! I hope to visit here again soon & often!

    4.4 out of 5
     

    Beautiful

    September 15, 2009

    Beautiful setting. Rooms were clean, quiet and very comfortable. The best part was the hostess. Kelly is the perfect southern lady who knows how to treat her guests. Breakfast was excellent. Look forward to staying there again next year. Gary & Carol - garymroberts.com

    5 out of 5
     

    superb!

    July 15, 2009

    Everything about our stay was superb! he owners were friendly and accommodating, the breakfasts were fantastic, the facility was beautiful and extremely clean. Whenever we are in that area, we will always stay at Open Gates!!

    5 out of 5
     

    Delightful and Gracious

    June 09, 2009

    Jeff and Kelly have created a very special place at Open Gates in their careful and friendly, but not fussy, attention to detail and comfort. The rooms are truly lovely - yet cozy. The inviting den was a treasure trove of interesting books, maps, photos, puzzles, great wine on the sideboard, and yet also provided access to a networked computer. The meals were absolutely perfect! In my 25+ years in Georgia I had not yet had shrimp and grits - but Jeff's were heavenly. Darien was a great location assuring easy access to Jekyll (primary destination) and Savannah (secondary destination). Harris Neck Wildlife Refuge was recommended by both Jeff and Kelly and it was a wonderful trip before heading to the airport. I will be back so another stay as soon as I can!

    5 out of 5
     

    excellent at all levels!

    April 13, 2009

    Perfect location and service for those interested in eco-tours and history.

    4.0 out of 5
     

    Great stop-over beckons for longer visit

    March 27, 2009

    Wonderful, friendly, knowledgeable innkeepers. Lovely walkable river front town. Was a one night stop on way to Florida, but definitely would like to return!


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  • Location Type

    • Altamaha River

    • near Sapelo Island

    • Small town

    City - Savannah

    • Distance to city: 50 miles

    • Directions to property:
      Take I-95 to Exit 49. Turn east off exit ramp onto Hwy 251, go one mile. Turn right onto Hwy 17, go 1.3 miles. Turn left onto Hwy 99, go two blocks. Turn right at Open Gates sign. House is on right.

    Airport

    • Savannah, GA (SAV) 40 miles

    • Directions to property:
      Travel south on I-95 to Exit 49. Turn left off exit ramp onto Hwy 251, go one mile. Turn right onto Hwy 17, go 1.3 miles. Turn left onto Hwy 99, go two blocks. Turn right at Open Gates sign. House is on right.


    Area Attractions

    • Antique Shopping

    • Beach

    • Gourmet/Fine Dining

    • Historical interests

    • Movie Theater

    • Museum

    • National/State parks

    • Nature area

    • Ocean

    • Fort King George

    • Rice Plantation

    • Sapelo Island

    • St. Simons Island

    • Jekyll Island

    • Savannah

    • Outlet Stores

    • Picnic area

    • Religious Services

    • River

    • Ruins

    • Bicycle rental

    • Bicycle riding trails

    • Bird watching

    • Boating

    • Canoeing

    • Fishing

    • Golfing

    • Hiking trails

    • Hunting

    • Kayaking

    • Fort King George

    • Sapelo Island

    • Darien Waterfront Park

    • Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge

    • Altamaha Bioreserve

    • Hofwyl Broadfield Plantation

    • Sailing

    • Shopping

    • Sight-seeing

    • Swimming

    • Swimming pool

    • Tennis courts

    • Water sports

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  • Amenities

    Type:

    • Bed and Breakfast

    Property highlights

    • Antiques/decor

    • Family Travel

    • Group events

    • Honeymoons

    • Nature

    • Peaceful getaway

    • Romantic escape

    • Weddings

    On-site

    • Bath robes

    • CD player

    • Conference Rooms

    • Copier

    • Fax Machine

    • Fireplace

    • Internet Service

    • Library

    • Satellite/Cable TV

    • VCR

    • Videos

    • Washer/dryer

    • Wedding Facilities

    • Wet bar

    Guest room(s)

    • Air conditioning

    • Alarm clock

    • BBQ grill

    • Board games

    • Ceiling fans

    • Desk

    • Fridge

    • Hairdryer

    • Ironing Board

    • Private entrance

    • Radio

    • Telephone

    Other

    • full-sized pool

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  • Breakfast

    • Type: Full

    • Serving Location: Breakfast/dining room,Dining Room

    Complimentary Perks

    • Fruit

    • Wine/Cheese Plate

    Signature Dish

    shrimp and grits
    A low-country classic, fresh local Georgia shrimp served over creamy grits are a favorite breakfast along the coast. Available in-season and by request.

    Special meal options

    • Low fat

    • Restrictive

    • Vegetarian

    Additional food services

    • coffee cake

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Explore Open Gates

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