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  • Beautifully restored, historic Mandolin Inn Bed and Breakfast - original home of Nicholas J. Schrup, financier and senator. Designed and built in 1908 by the renowned swiss architect Fridolin Heer.
    Queen Anne Wrap around porch - a perfect spot to relax, read a book, catch up with friends and sip a glass of iced tea or a glass of wine. The floor is the original italian tile and the balustrades are hand-carved limestone. The perfect spot to view a parade.
    Beautiful leaded and stained glass window of St. Cecelia, Patron Saint of musicians carrying her mandolin - hence the name of the Inn. Can you find the "blessed error"?
    The English Cottage Garden next to the pond.
    The Music Room - perfect for reading, chatting or catching up on the news.
    Formal Parlor - sip a glass of port or sherry and relax back into the past.
    Glorious dining room with fantasy forest oil painting that surrounds entire room and magnificent white oak sideboard - what a way to start your day.
    The Amanda Room - originally the family's second floor sitting room - full of lovely oak woodwork, queen-size burled oak bed and matching bedside tables and dressing table, gorgeous non-working fireplace, chaise lounge, and two very comfortable chairs in a big bay window. Elegance and luxury to the max!
    The formal parlor
    The Solarium - light and airy room in what was originally the greenhouse/sunroom.

    • Address 199 Loras Blvd
      Dubuque, IA 52001
      USA
    • Phone+1-563-556-0069
    • Fax+1-563-556-0758
    • Toll free+1-800-524-7996
    • EmailContact Innkeeper
    Inn's website

    An Edwardian Bed & Breakfast dedicated to sharing the elegance and comfort of an earlier era with a few discerning guests. The wheel-chair accessible Inn sits in the historic "Mansion Row" area and is within easy walking distance of many local businesses, restaurants and historic sites. Each day begins with a gourmet breakfast as sumptuous as the room in which it is served. The dining room of the Mandolin Inn is considered by many to be the most magnificent in all of Dubuque. An artist has painted a fantasy forest above the oak paneling. The beveled glass china cabinet stretches from floor to ceiling. A beautiful fireplace detailed with Italian tile rests in the corner. Pampered visitors relax at day's end in the parlor or the music room. In fair weather you may enjoy refreshments on the veranda. Guest rooms are meticulously decorated with period antiques and are a perfect place to kindle romance or to relax at the end of a business day. For year-round comfort, all rooms are provided with queen-size beds, down comforters, wireless internet access, cable tv and central air conditioning.

    Reviews

    Score Breakdown based on 12 Reviews

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

    Explanation of Our Ratings

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

    Our First Bed and Breakfast Experience

    June 11, 2012

    Neither of us had ever stayed at a bed and breakfast before. We really needed a weekend get-away and didn't want to go to a cold/impersonal hotel. Amy, the inn keeper was a wealth of information, an awesome cook, a great conversationalist and provided the personal touches that made our first bed and breakfast experience the best ever. We stayed in the Solarium room with our own bathroom (claw foot tub) and private patio. The house and grounds were well maintained. When we came back to the Mandolin Inn from the day's activities it was like coming home. Debbie and Eolo Des Moines, Iowa

    Innkeeper Response
    I'm so glad that you decided to stay here for your first B&B experience! It was a pleasure to have you stay here and I do hope that you'll come again.

    4.0 out of 5
     

    A Great Get-Away!

    August 23, 2011

    My husband and I simply wanted a quick get-away for a night and the Mandolin Inn was a perfect choice! The innkeeper was very friendly and welcoming, which made our trip even more enjoyable. The bed and breakfast is close to many fun restaurants and shops. It was a wonderful trip!

    Innkeeper Response
    It was a pleasure to have you stay here. I'm glad you had a wonderful time and hope that you return! - Amy

    5 out of 5
     

    Fantastic Home - Fantastic Hospitality

    June 04, 2010

    The Mandolin Inn was exceptional in its day and still is! My husband and I have stayed at more than 50 B&B's (all historic) and this one is one of the best, not only for the house, but the innkeeper was also exceptional in the service she provided. The breakfasts were also exceptional!

    Innkeeper Response
    We are so glad that you enjoyed your stay here and do hope that you will visit us again. We love historic home lovers!

    4.4 out of 5
     

    "Polished, Professional, and Private"

    October 18, 2009

    As we were greeted by our hostess at the front door, we felt like invited guests encouraged to share her home. Nearly every detail was anticipated to insure that we were comfortable: wine, beautiful bed linens and robes, and a magnificent breakfast. There was even a flashlight plugged into the electrical socket in our bathroom in case we would need it. We were offered restaurant menus for our dining preference and excellent vocal history of the house and city. We will be referring our friends to this lovely inn.

    Innkeeper Response
    It was a pleasure to have you stay at the Inn. Thanks for partaking in October along the Mississippi River - hopefully there will be more predictable color next year. Do come again.


    Location

    Innkeeper Information

    Innkeeper(s)

    Amy Boynton

    Innkeepers Description:

    Textile Arts, Current Events, Films and Books, skiing and snow-shoeing,hiking and gardening.

    The innkeepers speak:

    • Some French

    • Some Spanish

    • English

    Resident Pets

    2 sweet cats live here Others

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  • Rooms & Rates

    • Nightly Rate $85 - $150

    Policy

    Reservation Policy

    • Check In: 4:00-6:00 pm    Check Out: 11:00 am

    • Minimum Stay: 2 night stay Weekends Sept. through early Nov.,all holiday and festival weekends

    • Deposit Amount Required: Room is guaranteed with a credit card

    • Cancellations: 72 hour notification

    • Open All Year Round: Yes


    General Policies

    • Smoking Allowed: Limited

    • Guest Pets Allowed: No

    • Drinking Allowed: Yes

    • Drinks Available: No

    • Children Allowed: well behaved children are welcome

    • Suitable For Children: Limited

    • Childcare Provided: No


    Discount Type

    • Corporate - Sun thru Thurs - non-holiday
      Percent Off: 40%

    • Government - Sun thru Thurs - non-holiday
      Percent Off: 40%

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  • Reviews

    Score Breakdown based on 12 Reviews

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

    Explanation of Our Ratings

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

    Our First Bed and Breakfast Experience

    June 11, 2012

    Neither of us had ever stayed at a bed and breakfast before. We really needed a weekend get-away and didn't want to go to a cold/impersonal hotel. Amy, the inn keeper was a wealth of information, an awesome cook, a great conversationalist and provided the personal touches that made our first bed and breakfast experience the best ever. We stayed in the Solarium room with our own bathroom (claw foot tub) and private patio. The house and grounds were well maintained. When we came back to the Mandolin Inn from the day's activities it was like coming home. Debbie and Eolo Des Moines, Iowa

    Innkeeper Response
    I'm so glad that you decided to stay here for your first B&B experience! It was a pleasure to have you stay here and I do hope that you'll come again.

    4.0 out of 5
     

    A Great Get-Away!

    August 23, 2011

    My husband and I simply wanted a quick get-away for a night and the Mandolin Inn was a perfect choice! The innkeeper was very friendly and welcoming, which made our trip even more enjoyable. The bed and breakfast is close to many fun restaurants and shops. It was a wonderful trip!

    Innkeeper Response
    It was a pleasure to have you stay here. I'm glad you had a wonderful time and hope that you return! - Amy

    5 out of 5
     

    Fantastic Home - Fantastic Hospitality

    June 04, 2010

    The Mandolin Inn was exceptional in its day and still is! My husband and I have stayed at more than 50 B&B's (all historic) and this one is one of the best, not only for the house, but the innkeeper was also exceptional in the service she provided. The breakfasts were also exceptional!

    Innkeeper Response
    We are so glad that you enjoyed your stay here and do hope that you will visit us again. We love historic home lovers!

    4.4 out of 5
     

    "Polished, Professional, and Private"

    October 18, 2009

    As we were greeted by our hostess at the front door, we felt like invited guests encouraged to share her home. Nearly every detail was anticipated to insure that we were comfortable: wine, beautiful bed linens and robes, and a magnificent breakfast. There was even a flashlight plugged into the electrical socket in our bathroom in case we would need it. We were offered restaurant menus for our dining preference and excellent vocal history of the house and city. We will be referring our friends to this lovely inn.

    Innkeeper Response
    It was a pleasure to have you stay at the Inn. Thanks for partaking in October along the Mississippi River - hopefully there will be more predictable color next year. Do come again.

    5 out of 5
     

    Wonderful

    August 05, 2009

    My family and I recently stayed at the Mandolin Inn and it exceeded our expectations. From the accomodations to the superb breakfast, we couldn't have enjoyed our stay more. Games and movies were available for our kids and the history of the house was incredible with period antiques. Highly recommend. The Innkeeper is wonderful as well. Will stay again.

    Innkeeper Response
    It was a pleasure to have all of you stay here at the Inn. Cinde(rella)the cat appreciated the help of your son with exploring the house - it made her job a lot easier. We're looking forward to having you visit again. Thanks for your business!

    4.6 out of 5
     

    Luxury for everyone

    November 05, 2008

    We have been going to the Mandolin Inn for the last 8 years. Amy always treats us with a warm smile and terrific breakfasts. The wide range of room options make it easy for us to recommend a stay at the Mandolin Inn to all of our friends. Amy does a wonderful job of keeping track of what is going on in the area and offering suggestions on area activities and dining. We always leave relaxed and can't wait to return for another visit. The house itself is a must see with beautiful architectural detail and a dining room like no other. You can't go wrong with the Mandolin Inn!

    Innkeeper Response
    It has been a pleasure to share the Inn with you guys. Return guests are a great deal like great family members - you find yourself very much looking forward to the next visit and the cats feel the same.

    4.6 out of 5
     

    A Great Escape

    October 31, 2008

    My husband and I live in Madison (a little over an hour from Dubuque) and we love going to the Mandolin Inn for a quick weekend getaway. The house is beautiful and the location is a quick trip from numerous restaurants and activities downtown. Out daughter loves playing with Cindy (the resident cat) and exploring the wrap around porch and gardens.

    Innkeeper Response
    Thanks so much for choosing to stay at the Mandolin Inn. It's been a pleasure to have you guys stay here - and Cinde the cat loves playing with your precious little girl.

    4.2 out of 5
     

    The Mandolin SINGS, baby..!

    October 30, 2008

    I visited the Mandolin Inn in June of this year, but that was only the most recent time. I first stayed at the Mandolin in 1998, and have lost count of the number of times I have been there since. The beauty and charm of the Inn must be seen to be believed and the quality of service is beyond compare. My friends, family and I were treated like royalty during every visit. The meals are consistently delicious and the innkeeper Amy always makes my favorite sausage and peppers at least once during my stay. I live in Chicago, which is about a three hour drive from door to door, and over the years have taken my mother, sister & nephew, and many friends to stay at the Mandolin Inn. Each and every one has raved about the experience. It's fascinating is to visit each room I've stayed in and read the passages written in the room journals by each guest. What makes it more fun for me is to find the passages by my family, friends and myself. This is really a warm retreat and certainly worth making a point of visiting.

    Innkeeper Response
    Thanks so much for sharing yourself, your family and friends with us here at the Inn. You guys have been coming ever since I first bought the Inn and it's so nice to be a part of your lives. The cats and I all view you as a part of the family here at the Inn.


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  • Location Type

    • Mississippi River

    • City

    • Downtown

    City - Galena

    • Distance to city: 12 miles

    • Directions to property:
      From Illinois take Hwy 20, cross Mississippi River turn right onto Lucust Street. Go 14 blocks to Loras Blvd turn right go one block turn left on Main - Inn is at the corner of Loras and Main

    Airport

    • Dubuque, IA (DBQ) 5 miles

    • Directions to property:
      upon exiting the airport take Rt. 151/61/52 North. Take the Downtown/Locust Street Exit. Cross Rt. 20 and continue on Locust Streer. Turn right onto Loras Blvd (which is also 14th St). The Mansion is immediately to the left, next to St. John's parking lot.


    Area Attractions

    • Antique Shopping

    • Aquarium

    • Art Galleries

    • Casino

    • Concert venue

    • Gourmet/Fine Dining

    • Historical interests

    • Live Music

    • Movie Theater

    • Museum

    • National/State parks

    • Nature area

    • Water Park

    • Galena

    • National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium

    • Performing Theater

    • Picnic area

    • Religious Services

    • River

    • Ruins

    • Ski area

    • Vineyard

    • Winery

    • Bicycle rental

    • Bicycle riding trails

    • Bicycles

    • Bird watching

    • Boating

    • Canoeing

    • Cross-country ski trails

    • Downhill Skiing

    • Fishing

    • Golfing

    • Horseback riding

    • Hunting

    • Mountain Bike trails

    • National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium

    • Dubuque Museum of Art

    • Dubuque Symphony Orchestra

    • Grand Opera House (plays and concerts)

    • Several great vineyards in the area

    • Five Flags Center (concerts, plays, hockey, etc.)

    • Shopping

    • Sight-seeing

    • Ski rentals

    • Snow shoe trails

    • Swimming

    • Swimming pool

    • Tennis courts

    • Tennis racket rental

    • Water sports

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  • Amenities

    Type:

    • Bed and Breakfast

    • Urban Inn

    • Historic Inn

    Property highlights

    • Fabulous Tiffany Stained Glass

    • welcomes all - Black, Asian, Hispanic, GLBT, etc.

    • wheelchair accessibility

    • Antiques/decor

    • Business travel

    • Family Travel

    • Gourmet food

    • Group events

    • Honeymoons

    • Luxury

    • Peaceful getaway

    • Romantic escape

    • Weddings

    On-site

    • Board games

    • CD player

    • Conference Rooms

    • DVD Player

    • In-room internet

    • Desk

    • Fax Machine

    • Library

    • Private entrance

    • Telephone

    • Videos

    • Wedding Facilities

    Guest room(s)

    • Air conditioning

    • Alarm clock

    • Bath robes

    • Ceiling fans

    • Fireplace

    • Ironing Board

    • Radio

    • Satellite/Cable TV

    • TV

    • VCR

    • Wi-Fi

    Other

    • Wheelchair Accessible guest room

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  • Breakfast

    • Type: Full

    • Serving Location: Breakfast/dining area

    Signature Dish

    curried sausage
    A weekend stay might feature spinich and feta cheese quiche, curried sausage and mushrooms, fresh fruit and cinnamon scones on one day and potato and cheese strata, spinich salad, bread pudding with apple cider sauce on the next morning.

    Special meal options

    • Low fat

    • Restrictive

    • Vegetarian

    • gluten-free

    Recipes

    Bread

    Butterscotch/Apricot Scones
    Serves: 12
    Prep time: 1/2 hour

    Breakfast-Brunch

    Zuchinni and Roma Tomato Crustless Quiche
    Serves: 12
    Prep time: 1 1/2 hour

    Side Dish

    Curried Sausage with mushrooms
    Serves: 14
    Prep time: 2 1/2 hrs

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Explore The Mandolin Inn

Visit Website