The Inn at Irwin Gardens

The Inn is an integral part of the history of Columbus, Indiana ... the home of one of the founders of the famous Cummins diesel engine. The family retained all of the original furnishings from 1910 except for the installation of modern bedding and bathroom fixtures. The gardens are being refurbished and it is next door to a very modern library with a Henry Moore sculpture at the entrance. At least two good restaurants are within easy walking distance. The hosts are very accommodating and, in our case, Jessica went out of her way to get my glasses back to me via special delivery US Post late on a Friday evening with a Saturday morning delivery to the Hyatt in Lexington, KY.

The home was outstanding and very real. Staff Sarah and Roseanne were great hosts!

This was a great place to stay. The innkeepers were friendly and helpful and the mansion is unbelievably decorated. I felt like turn-of-the-century royalty or like I was sleeping in a museum. Our original dinner reservations fell through (long story) so I called back to the inn and received some thoughtful suggestions that turned a hectic evening into a pleasant one. Our room (the Tangeman’s Garden View Suite) was great. Everything felt like it was right out of 1935! It was clean, spacious, and comfortable. The suite was comprised of a private sitting (living) room, bedroom, 2 walk-in closets, bathroom, a small kitchenette (mini-fridge, microwave, sink) and a sun-porch. The innkeepers were flexible for breakfast, serving ours at 10am in the dining/banquet room on the first floor. The high-quality yogurt+granola parfait with fresh berries served with a warm belgium waffle, bacon and homemade blueberry syrup were very good. The only negative aspect to our stay was a small plumbing problem. The shower did not drain, so it filled up like a wading pool. It caused some water issues in our bathroom and below, dripping to the first floor. I'm sure this is a problem that will be corrected due to the severity and one that shouldn't be unexpected in such an old structure. Overall, a pleasant stay. I wish we had more time to enjoy this place. I would recommend. Aaron H. - Indianapolis, IN

Its like Stepping back in time, extremely comfortable home, fabulous gardens, and the location is in walking distance to everything you need. You would be missing out if you did not stay at The Inn at Irwin Gardens.

Comfortable and inviting. Had trouble deciding how to get into the building.

We had a great time at The Inn at Irwin Gardens. The staff was very helpful and knowledgeable about the house and history. It was a very pleasant way to spend a weekend before the craziness of the holidays starts! I've recommended the Inn to several friends and we will certainly be visiting again in 2012.

We received excellent service and help from the Innkeeper and owners of this charming B&B. The Innkeeper helped us by identifying a wonderful local event to attend the weekend we were in Columbus. She arranged to have a beautiful bouquet of flowers in our room. We were lucky enough to be at the Inn the weekend they hosted an afternoon tea, which was wonderful. The owner was there providing historic information about the house and tours of the garden, which even in the late fall, are spectacular. The Inn is located just a block from the Columbus visitor center. We partked our car on Friday night and didn't have to use it again until we left on Sunday. The Inn, a lovely historic building, is the perfect location to stay and truly appreciate the architectural spirit in Columbus. We know we will be back to enjoy the gardens and breakfast on the patio when the weather is warmer. We stayed in the WG Irwin bachelor suite and it has the BEST SHOWER ever!! It has wrap around pipes and a big shower head. The water was hot, pressure was great and it has a skyligt! The breakfast was simple, elegantly served and a great way to start the day. We would recommend this B&B to anyone, and everyone who wants to come to Columbus.

At least it was for our four night stay. Great location, extremely friendly and accommodating inn keepers. The home is warm and quiet. It felt like home after a day of sight seeing. Nice touches were: The wine and cheese at 5 pm, his and her robes, coffee maker and stocked beverage fridge. Loved the books in the room and the iPod alarm/player. Would love to stay here again!! We were pleasantly surprised with the variety of fun and interesting things to do in Columbus and the surrounding towns. We even spent a few hours at the nearby antique mall. Took a nice drive and hike at Brown Co state park and saw a show at the Palace theater in Nashville. Don't miss the Sushi at New Japan restaurant. One more thing...take the city tour on Friday, we went on Sunday and all the churches were closed.

Truly, our trip could have ended with our evening at the Inn. How rare an opportunity we had to step back in history and into another family's lives, with so much of the original home and furnishings intact. Jim and his staff were graciously hosted us. I had wanted to make this journey for 25 years, and am so glad that I waited until now, to have the opportunity to participate in the home where it all began.

Jim's tour of the house and gardens was especially informative and enjoyable. He made us feel that he genuinely cared about our having a fine stay at the inn.

This was my first experience with a B&B and I would definitely do it again. The manor was gorgeous, the owners extremely pleasant and informative, and the architecture and history of the town both entertaining and breathtaking. Breakfast was delicious, and the dinner package for downtown Columbus definitely worth it.

I would stay here again in minute. The combination of local history, the gardens, service, and architecture make this Inn a great experience. The innkeepers have my respect and admiration for what they are doing to preserve this historical home and gardens. Some of the 7 rooms are perfect, however the one we stayed in need a little more updating in the shower to make it exceed expectations. They will get there. A trip to Columbus and the Irwin Gardens is a wonderful architectural and design experience.

this property is a wonderful oasis in downtown Columbus, IN. The house has lots of character with ornate woodwork and original furnishings. The garden remided us, on a smaller scale of those around the manor houses in Endland. Our experience was enjoyable in every way and we highly recommend a stay here.

InnKeepers were very knowledgeable and just attentive enough. Room was very comfortable and well furnished with period pieces. Electric outlets for cellphone and computer charging required unplugging a lamp so really the only criticism which I hope will taken in the positive and constructive way.

This is a terrific B&B in an historic house. I wish the AC had been more in force on the third floor. When asked about allergies for breakfast, it didn't occur to say we were two diabetics. The French toast would have been better served with the topping on the side to allow guests to put what they wanted and in the quantity they liked on the top. Staff extremely helpful.

This is a must stay for anyone who loves historical buildings. The innkeepers are knowledgeable about the property and love to share it's story. Every aspect was terrific but you have to be understanding of 100+ yr old buildings. For example, there was no electric plug in the bathroom to run a hair dryer. Breakfast was wonderful! Would definitely recommend.

The hospitality was great. We thoroughly enjoyed the wine and cheese in the late afternoon overlooking the Gardens and the breakfast ( eggs benedict) was fabulous. The house was beautiful and well cared for. Truly a piece of history. We would highly recommend it and will stay there when we are back in Columbus.

We had a wonderful time staying at the Irwin Gardens Bed and Breakfast. We would recommend it to others.

We really enjoyed our stay. Several Columbus amenities a short walk away. Highly recommend.

Beautiful home and grounds. Some areas are under construction/renovation but that does not deter from the beauty and historical significance. The only disappointment we had, while staying there, was with the delivery of a gift basket by our Neice who resides in Columbus, IN. She personally delivered the gift basket and told the gentleman that took it that it was for the couple from Indianapolis that was celebrating their anniversary. Unfortunately, there was another couple there (not from Indianapolis) that was also celebrating their 50th and we believe the gift basket was mistakenly delivered to their room. Our Neice did not put a card on the basket as she wanted to anonymously surprise us. When I found out what had happened I called the Inn and left a message for the owner to call our Neice to figure out a suitable resolution to the error but she has never received contact from anyone at the Inn to resolve this.

[Resource Id: innkeeperresponse, Set: reviews]
Dear 50th Anniversary Guests, Congratulations on a truly unique and amazing milestone! We are so glad that you spent such a momentous and special occasion at The Inn at Irwin Gardens. I am glad to hear that overall you had a wonderful experience, but I truly apologize about the incident with the gift basket. We want to make this right and do what we can to reimburse your niece as well as be sure to get the gift to you that she intended. It is my understanding that we attempted to contact your niece but perhaps did not follow through with an appropriate resolution. Again, I am so sorry about this confusion and would be most happy if you would contact me directly so we can make this right. Thank you for bringing this to my attention in such a kind way. We strive to constantly improve on our endeavor and feel awful that this happened. Sincerely, Jessica Stevens 812-603-1132

- Jessica Stevens (owner/manager)

Gave us an excellent tour of the mansion and gardens, along with some of the history of the house and family. Very friendly. Great breakfast-egg, ham and cheese souffle and delicious homemade yogurt granola parfait.

[Resource Id: innkeeperresponse, Set: reviews]
We are so glad that you spent the time to experience The Inn at Irwin Gardens and appreciate all your positive comments! We hope to see you back some day.

- Jessica Stevens (owner/manager)

We have been to Columbus several times and always visited the Gardens in the past. We actually returned to Columbus to specifically stay at the Inn now that it is open. For years we had admired the home from the outside. As another review said, if you have dreamt about sleeping in a home like the Biltmore, this would be it! We loved that we were able to stay in the home as it was originally built with original furnishings and fixtures. It did not dissapoint! Jim was a very informative and friendly host. We enjoyed the private tour of the home, his knowledge of the history of the home and Irwin Family, and the pleasant conversations. We also enjoyed the wine and cheese in the evening where we were able to meet other guests and socialize. It felt as if we "lived" in the home. If you enjoy grandeur, history, and elegance, this is the place to stay. All the staff was friendly, helpful, and welcoming. Also within walking distance of the center of town and many architectural sites. We will return in the future!

The location was very good. Close to the center of town and able to walk to the sights that we wanted to see. Also good parking. Enjoyed the late afternoon wine and cheese

Wonderful stay. Friendly, accommodating owners and staff. Thanks for opening this fabulous property so others may experience it.

you will not find an older more elegant bed and breakfast anywhere. Worth trying at least once. Skip the local ice cream shop and visit story indiana and eat in Bloomington at Farm.

House was wonderful--a genuine mansion from an earlier era, and the owners and innkeepers were very kind and interesting. The breakfast was below the standard we expect. The town is one not to be missed.

If you have ever visited the mansions in Newport or dreamt of living in the gilded age a night here makes you feel like a Vanderbilt or a Rockefeller The house is magnificent and the gardens are beautiful Breakfast was excellent and the innkeepers friendly and very helpful More expensive than some B&Bs but worth everynpenny

The Inn at Irwin Gardens is a must if you want to experience a piece of history, culture and beauty. The innkeepers, Eve and Jim, are most gracious and eager to share the history of the Inn. The gardens were beautiful with lovely flowers, fountains, and statues. It is a highly recommended experience for all! Rich McGown

I have to say first my husband and I have stayed at several Bed and Breakfasts, and this one is at the top of our list. The website does not give this beautiful Bed and Breakfast any justice. The minute we walked in we were so amazed of the beauty of this home. Jim Jackson welcomed us and gave us a tour room by room. The history of this home alone is amazing. This house is just like it was in 1910. The wood work, windows, fireplaces, furniture are all circa 1910. The gardens were modeled after Pompeii and absolutely breathtaking. We have payed alot more and got alot less at other Bed and Breakfasts, this is an excellent value, I would not pass this Bed and Breakfast up! Thank you Jim for sharing your home with us, we will definitely be back. Jason and Crystal Shawler

This bed and breakfast was amazing. There was so much history that went along with the inn which made it fun to learn as much we could. I am also partial to nice lansaping and the gardens at the inn were breathtaking. We had so much fun. I recommend the W.G. Irwin suite.

This is a wonderful B&B place to stay. Words could not do this place justest! You must see to believe, such beauty, so friendly, so serving to make your stay wonderful. Come see there beauty then you will believe!! So much history there, so much to see and enjoy. The food is fantastic!!

Two very relaxing nights despite AC issues. Shared the premises with local family members. Disturbed about the water drip in the bathroom. Gracious treatment by all inn keepers. Thank you.

This house had been in the same family hands since it was built in the mid 1850's. It appears untouched since it's last 1910 renovation and the house is in remarkable condition with it's original furniture and decor still in place. The staff keep finding historic goodies in the attic and basement so be sure to ask them about their experience.

We really enjoyed the stay. The building is BEAUTIFUL! The grounds are magnificent! It was a great experience!

We wanted to see the beautiful home and gardens of the Irwin Inn and we were not disappointed in our stay. Jim and his staff were very friendly and helpful. Columbus is a gem of a small town and you should spend at least one night if not several and the Inn at Irwin gardens to see all of the wonderful architecture in this town.

Such a gem to find in the heart of Indiana. Unmatched craftsmanship and beauty combined with perfectly preserved history. It is like stepping back in time. My husband and I enjoyed the spa and gardens. What a wonderful treat for our anniversary. Having an event here would be unforgettable. What a great location for a wedding and reception. I hope we get to use this place for our children's weddings. Be sure to enjoy the guided tour.

I originally chose to stay at the Inn at Irwin Gardens not knowing anything about the history of the house and it's connection to Columbus. The beautiful woodwork of the rooms and the spacious gardens clear from the pictures was enough to intrigue me when making my selection online. The innkeepers took us on a tour when we arrived and explained the story of the original owners and it was every bit as amazing as I had anticipated. After settling in, we enjoyed chatting with them so much that we had to delay our dinner reservations at one of the many nearby (walking distance even) fine restaurants located downtown. The morning breakfast was excellent, and we went on the Architecture tour that starts just two buildings down the street. Afterwards I stumbled across a book in the library "The little engine that could" and that helped connect the history of the area - starting with the Irwin family and the house, their chauffeur Clessie who started Cummins with their help, and how the company funded the designers of the amazing Architecture of Columbus. In short, not only an amazing house and gardens, but an astonishing connection and introduction into the history of Columbus. We will be back.

If at all possible, book the W.G. Irwin 'bachelor' suite. Nearly everything here was excellent. The house itself is incredible, still very much as it looked when members of the Irwin and Miller families lived here. It's steeped in history...my partner and I were surprised that it's not on the National Register of Historic Places...it should be! The amazing shower that's part of the suite worked just fine and, after seeing the photos on the Internet, we were hoping it would. Our hosts Jim and Eve were gracious and friendly. Since we were the only guests that evening we were so glad they joined us during the wine & cheese offering, and at breakfast the next morning. They truly meant it when they invited us back just to see the gardens when they aren't snow covered. This was our 12th anniversary and we'll always remember our stay and this fascinating place.

We had an absolutely wonderful time in this totally incredible mansion with great inn keeper hosts/guides. Complete tour of the home from top to bottom, front to back. This place is amazing and easilly a must do and must see for virtually anyone. This makes all other b&b's pale in comparison.

We had a wonderful, wonderful stay at the Inn at Irwin Gardens!! Everything was perfect from the moment we stepped into the beautiful foyer: charming host and hostess, informative tour, great room, delicious breakfast. The only thing missing was spring - when I'm sure the garden would have been breathtaking - but it was winter when we stayed. But the warm fire in the library with its gorgeous woodwork, sipping wine and nibbling on tasty crackers and cheese made up for the cold outside. Absolutely wonderful stay!

It was nice to stay in such a piece of history. The beds were very comfortable and the furnishings were stunning. The hosts were very pleasant and made you feel at home.

Personal service in luxurious surroundings. We will stay again very soon.

We had a lovely stay. The garden is so beautiful in the fall. We stayed in the 3rd floor Bachelor's Suite, and the shower alone was worth the stay!

Photo's don't do this B&B justice. It is the most spectacular place I have stayed in by far. Jim and Eve were a pleasure and they made you feel very welcomed. The added touch was the history and tour of the property. It's only 45 minutes from Indy, a short trip for a getaway that is not like anything you've seen.

Incredible mansion in unbelievable condition! Innkeepers are wonderful too. Definetly recommend this B & B!

Our stay at the Inn at Irwin Gardens couldn't have been more delightful. I can't say enough good things about it. Our hostess gave us a very informative talk on the history of the house and it's owners spanning 5 generations. We were greeted with wine and cheese and a stroll through the elegant formal Italian gardens. My favorite room was the library with a view of the gardens at the back of the house. The rooms were luxurious and the gourmet breakfasts in the lovely dining room were beyond our expectations. Our host and hostess were knowledgeable about the town and steered us to good restaurants and shops.The locations couldn't have been better. We could walk to town in a couple of minutes and were practically next door to the Visitors Center where the tours of Columbus begin. It's not a bad trip from Chicago and Brown County in the fall is beautiful.

This house is absolutely gorgeous. You could easily spend your entire stay wandering the house and gardens. The innkeepers are very helpful and informative and more than willing to help you discover all of the history of the house. Highly recommended.

My husband and I stayed here last Saturday night during a trip Columbus, Indiana from Cincinnati. It was such a pleasant surprise to stay in such a beautiful historic house. The owners, Jim and Eve Jackson, made us feel welcome instantly with a tour of the house, introduction to the other guests, and happy hour wine and cheese. We were having such a great time we hated to leave to make our dinner reservations so Eve offered to move our reservation back. We had a great dinner a couple blocks away at Tre Biccheri then returned to the Inn for a great night in the Elsie Sweeney room. Jim and Eve prepared and served breakfast Sunday morning before we left to explore the town and take the architecture bus tour. The Inn at Irwin Gardens is a like no other bed and breakfast we've visited - extraordinary!

I would recommend the Inn at Irwin Gardens to anyone. Owners and staff were wonderful and very welcoming. Rooms were extremely clean and roomy. The gardens were breathtaking. We felt like we were somewhere very special for our anniversary. Would love to go back again.

The Inn itself is an outstandingly beautiful vintage 1910 luxury home. It has been so lovingly cared for that it looks like NEW. Staying there imparts a feeling like you belong, unique from any other place we have ever stayed (and we travel extensively). Jim and Eve, the owners and hosts make you ever so welcome at every turn, and become your friends. As well, they are more than helpful in acquainting you with beautiful Columbus, IN, and making your stay a complete experience. Hal and Mary, Fenton, MI.

The Inn at Irwin Gardens was not only beautiful, but also historic and the innkeepers did an excellent job of telling the story of the mansion and its gardens. First-rate room and breakfast.

We stayed for our 7 year anniversary this past month and were thrilled with the house,the gardens it was awesome! Jim was so nice and made me and my husband feel welcome. What was missing for me was there was no tour of the home or gardens,no fault of Jim or Eve.There was another inn keeper there and she did not seem to know there was supposed to be a tour. Breakfast was great! The parfait to die for!! The eggs benedict was ok,I was surprised to find tomatoes in the cheese sauce? The rooms are fantastic! We stayed on the third floor and it was gorgeous! A very unique bed and breakfast!! We will be back in the summer when the flowers will be in bloom! Highly recommend this b and b!

[Resource Id: innkeeperresponse, Set: reviews]
First and foremost we want to say thank you for staying at The Inn at Irwin Gardens on your anniversary! We know these dates are rare and special and we appreciate you thinking of us. We also appreciate your feedback and are glad to know of areas where we can improve, especially when we (the owners) are not there to learn first-hand. We will be sure that a tour is a must for all guests! I am glad that you enjoyed the parfait and will be sure that any fill-in inn-sitters are familiar with our breakfast recipes. We look forward to having you back this summer and thank you for recommending us! Warm regards, Jessica Stevens and The Inn at Irwin Gardens

- Jessica Stevens (owner)

Everything was really lovely with the service provided by Eve and Jim outstanding to the incredible house and grounds which are almost beyond description. The breakfast was perfect with the only exception being that the beautiful containers for serving don't keep the water for tea or the coffee hot for more than a few minutes. Thermos type jugs could solve that at the expense of the beauty of course. The only other problem was not having an electric outlet near the bathroom sink for the hair dryer. But these were minor criticisms and we would definitely return!

The home and grounds was more than I had anticipated it being. The gardens are out of this world for just being a home garden. We had been to French Lick two days before coming here and there gardens and rooms did not compare to our stay here. If you are going to stay here, scheldule more than one day. There is so much to see in the area and home. The only thing bad is you might want to bring a warm out fit for lounging in, the rooms are a little cooler than I like. They did supply some very warm robes for us to put on which made it comfortable. I would highly recommend staying here. VERY CLEAN!

We stayed at The Inn at Irwin Gardens for a family girls weekend. We had an wonderful time! The Inn is beyond beautiful and in a great location. The service and attention we received were outstanding. We would go back in a heartbeat! Thank you!!!

[Resource Id: innkeeperresponse, Set: reviews]
So glad you had a great girls weekend! Thank you for the positive feedback and for thinking of us on your fun and special get-away/get-together.

- Jessica Stevens (owner)

The bedrooms were large and spacious with very nice furnishings. Our bedroom had a very nice sitting area for relaxing and reading. Bathrooms were very good with wonderful original fixtures. Very nice amenities. The innkeepers were very personal and had lots of recommendations for restaurants and activities. The public areas of the house, especially the library and gardens were extraordinary. The mansion is a site to behold.

This place was great. It is so beautiful and Jim & Eve Jackson could not have been better host/hostess. We are telling everyone we know about this place and plan to return soon. Loved it!!!

The Inn at Irwin Gardens is truly a treasure. If you get a chance to see it by staying there, having an event there, or touring it when available for public functions, you will see what a wonderful jewel it is. The rooms are all very spacious with high ceilings and the woodwork is of the highest calibre. Amazingly, since the renovation in 1910, the home has been lovingly cared for, even though it hasn't been lived in for 15 years. The Irwin Miller family maintained it over the years and the condition is remarkable. Nooks and crannies are plentiful, and the built-in dressers, bookcases, closets are wonderful to see. The gardens when we visited were not at their best, but I would guess that in the spring and summer tey would be resplendent with color. The gardens also had lots of little nooks and crannies to explore, as well as fountains and a large herb garden. What a wonderful place for a wedding or party! Don't miss it!

The house was fantastic! The caretakers were welcoming, informative, and attentive. I have already recommended the Inn and town to many of my friends.

The room was lovely. The owners of the inn couldn't have been kinder or more helpful. They were eager to inform us of places to eat and things to see. The task of caring for this beautiful place would be daunting for me, but they seemed to be quite at ease and having a wonderful time receiving guests into their home. The inn is a very old, well-kept, beautiful, historic home, and I enjoyed myself there very much. I was not disappointed in any aspect of my stay. Good job... well done!! Thank you for a very nice time!!

My husband surprised me with a stay at this wonderful Inn for my 65th birthday. I had no idea where we were going until we pulled up in at Irwin Inn. The house is unbelievably beautiful, more than the eye can take in. The stay was only made better by the innkeepers, Eve and Jim. A truly delightful couple who made us feel right at home and attended our every need. We will definitely return to this wonderful house. Nell and Frank Weer

My stay at The Inn at Irwin Gardens was better than I expected. The Innkeepers were very welcoming, the guests were interesting and the house and it's history is fascinating.

Wonderful stay. Innkeepers were very gracious and friendly.

An absolutely incredible facility. It's like getting the opportunity to stay in a museum, except that you are encouraged to touch . . . The Jacksons are wonderful hosts.

We were greeted at the door by Jim and Eve who very enthusiastically shared their excitement about their new B&B venture. We were treated to wine and cheese and a tour of their 'home'. The rooms are huge, extremely clean, with all the niceties of a boutique hotel --- yet the treat of staying in a fabulous historic home. The gardens are amazing as well. Eve treated us to a fabulous gourmet breakfast, and we had the extra pleasure of great conversation with other interesting guests. We've stayed at quite a few bed and breakfasts, and this one ranks with the best. The town has some great restaurants, and wonderful architecture -- a recipe for a great weekend or short vacation. We coupled our stay with a visit to Brown County and French Lick / West Baden. We even visited a few local Amish restaurants, etc. It was a lovely Midwest trip !!!

The Inn was in a beautiful area with many things within walking distance. All rooms and suites had origional antiques and decorated to the period of the home. The service was excellant and the breakfasts were outstanding . Everyone was friendly and very helpful with any request we had. I will reccomond this to my friends and family and will return again soon.