Walnut Street Inn

Me, my husband and our 21 yr. old daughter all enjoyed Walnut Street Inn! All hubby needs is free WiFi, a good bed at a fair price and lots of delicious food for breakfast---he got it! Our college sorority daughter got her own queen bed (in the same room) in a really cool old house she loved exploring, also next to an awesome college campus with her same sorority's house one block over. She really liked getting her own key and the freedom to stay out later than us if she wanted and enter the secure locked entry in the back on her own schedule. Mom had the time of her life!! We all stayed together in the Benton Room in the high-ceiling, skylighted "attic" and it was huge! I had my dormer to sit, relax, and look out from, husband had a large desk, and there was a large TV sitting area---those were just a few of the areas in the Benton Room you could enjoy. It was so quiet, cozy and serene up there---I long for it even now. Attention to detail is everywhere and cleanliness was exceptional even in the large private bathroom. I loved talking with the owner about the era, carriage stones, their antiques and I just made the delicious breakfast they served out of the Missouri Inns Cookbook I bought there and they were featured in. I can't wait to go back and visit relatives in Springfield and stay at Walnut Street Inn. Loved every minute and every inch!

The experience was wonderful. A neat thing I found was an algebra book published in 1866 and a lady signed it aug of 1874 on inside cover and signed it nov 1874 and end of book, and several math problems were worked in the book. The book was a decoration on top of the fireplace in our room, and the host had no idea such a book was part of his collection. This is an example of the living history of this what seemed like a living museum. What also impressed me was the attention to detail of everthing from cleanliness, interior decorating, and amenities. All of the rooms are lovely, and my personal favorite was the room located at the top floor of the main house that had the high ceilings and sky lights, (I believe it is called "The Benton") Don't expect a huge buffett for breakfast but rather a delightful personalized entree' with gourmet and great service and conversation with the host, who is an encyclopedia of Ozark History and local information

This B&B was amazing. I have done a bit of travelling recently, and this is by far the best place I have stayed at. My room was extraordinarily clean, well maintained and spacious, pure luxury as far as I'm concerned. Everything about the house was really cute and quaint. The breakfast was indulgent, very delicious, and the staff couldn't have been friendlier or more helpful. And, importantly (from a student's point of view), it was all very affordable! If I'm ever in Springfield again, I will definitely be staying here!

My husband and I stayed at this inn about 5 years ago and we had such a wonderful experience, I chose it again since I had to be in Springfield for a business conference. I stayed in the same room that I had stayed in with my husband and found the room to be just as comfortable as before. The staff person that welcomed me upon my arrival was very pleasant and very helpful in assisting me with directions to my conference. I was very disappointed in the breakfast experience on this visit. I had scheduled a 7:00 am reservation for breakfast, knowing I would need to leave at 7:20 to get to my conference and register in time. I arrived at breakfast and waited at the table til approx 7:10. I then went back to my room gathered all my things and brought them down with me knowing I would be in a rush. Finally, at 7:18, the breakfast attendant came in and said mine would be ready in a few minutes because she had been delivering a tray to an upstairs guest and that it was "poor planning" on the innkeeper's part. I finally got my breakfast - of overcooked scrambled eggs and microwave bacon, at 7:20, shoveled it in my mouth and ran out the door. It was really disappointing, as one of the things I remembered about my previous stay was the lovely breakfast.

I have read multiple reviews regarding Walnut Street Inn, most favorable and we chose it because of these reviews. We found the inkeeper to be quite friendly and accomodating. The breakfast was quite good. But other than that the stay was very disappointing. We looked at multiple rooms before we could chose one that was acceptable at all. Even at that, the one we chose was in great disrepair with wallpaper falling off the wall and the ceiling. The sink was chipped and cracked. The shower was crumbling and the pocket door to the bathroom would easily come off the track. The TV was tiny and in a closet. The in room coffee pot was perched on top of the VCR in a closet. There were several burned out light bulbs in the room. We stay at many B and B's and this one was a a real disappointment especially since it was not inexpensive. I would not return nor would I recommend this property, especially if you are used to nicely furnished rooms in good condition, nice linens, and amenities. We wer ther during the winter and had some difficulty getting into the inn as the sidewalks had not been adequately shoveled of the snow. This place needs a real overhaul. My husband usually is quite tolerant and never complains, but he was also very disappointed and could not understand the previous reviews.

[Resource Id: innkeeperresponse, Set: reviews]
Thank you for speaking up, here, and before you left the Inn back in January. We took everything you said to heart and have made changes and repairs (wallpaper repairs, new sink, moved the DVD player, etc.)We will work to earn your respect, if not your return vist.

- Gary Blankenship (innkeeper)

No matter which room I stay in, I always enjoy the chance to overnight at the Walnut Street Inn. It has a very personal, warm, enveloping feel to it - each room has it own special charm. Gary and the staff are both friendly and professional, and very accommodating when it comes to helping you negotiate in Spfld. Breakfasts are something to look forward to, delicious and ample, and the dining rooms and back patio are lovely settings. Highly recommend.

We had a wonderful 2 day stay and Gary and his staff where very helpful in everyway possible. The breakfast was outstanding and we both enjoyed the service in our room. Thanks guys and we hope we can see you around same time next year Larry & Doris

I stayed on a business trip in the McCann room. This was a bright, sunny room at the corner of the Inn with 4 big windows. Although the room faces the street, I was pleased that it was quiet. The bed was very comfortable, it had a nice sitting room, huge bath and was very pleasantly decorated. The innkeeper was very helpful in directions and even suggested I check out this very cool chocolate factory in my spare time. Breakfast was delicious and more than I could eat. I am sure I will be back.

This is a nice inn but not as personal as some we've enjoyed. Since the owners do not LIVE in the home, it is staffed by employees who serve the breakfast -- and in that regard, it is more like a hotel than a bed & breakfast. We were disappointed to find not a DVD player but a VHS player in our room. We brought a favorite movie (DVD) to watch, but weren't able to because they still have only VHS players. I also think they're a bit on the pricey side, unless you go on a Sunday night in the off season, when they offer a discount.

My husband and I stayed here for our 5 year anniversary. We both attended MSU and were pretty familiar with the area, but the innkeeper had tons of info for those who may not have been as familiar with it. Breakfast was awesome--excellent cook. Complimentary drinks in the rooms, excellent touch. Each room is decorated differently and it gives a personal feel to the house. There is a book of the history of the house in each room, which I found interesting. It also lists nearby places to eat, stuff to do, etc. Must give a shout out to Nonna's for dinner if you stay here. Excellent Italian for reasonable prices. Tri Colored Tort is amazing.

Our stay here was awesome! From the moment we stepped into the quaint and charming house, we knew this was going to be a great stay. Our room was well furnished, sheets and covers were warm and cozy, fireplace was great! Everything work very well and was twice as good as any hotel or motel. We will make this place our home several times a year and cant wait to book again. Don't plan to stay anywhere else.

We were in Springfield, MO for our daughter's Senior Recital at Missouri State University. The inn is 1 block off campus, so the location was perfect. But, even better than the location, is the sense of "getaway" you get when you walk in. You truly feel like you leave the rest of the world outside. And, the owner and staff were extremely friendly, and the breakfast was outstanding! We will definitely be back.

I'm not one to write negative reviews, but my stay at the Walnut Street Inn was so far below average, that I have to comment on it. After reading such glowing reviews, I was expecting this stay to be outstanding, but at best it was acceptable. Fortunately I stayed on one of the Sunday night specials (40% off normal rates) or I would have been extremely disappointed. OK ... so let's break it down a bit so people don't think I'm just being overly critical. First the Good: It is a charming house and the amenities in the house are very nice. It was great to see fresh baked chocolate chip cookies waiting in the room, and the free refreshments in the room were all a pleasant surprise. The hosts were very friendly and welcoming, and very pleasant. Now the not so good: Parking on the grounds was limited ... we had to haul our luggage down a back alley from a remote parking lot at night. The bed was extremely uncomfortable and creaked like it was going to collapse ... every time you moved, it sounded like the bed was going to collapse ... we didn't sleep a wink. The tub/shower was small and you had to grip on tightly to keep from falling out. The breakfast was tasty, but extremely limited. I've stayed at other B&Bs where there is a smorgasbord of food available and delivered right to your room. At Walnut street we had to go down to the dining area to eat ... and breakfast was one slice of french toast with a few slices of banana on it. One strawberry, a tiny slice of watermelon, a couple of pieces of kiwi and juice/coffee. At best it was an appetizer, not a plentiful breakfast. Well ... I don't want to dis on the place too much, I'm mostly only writing in the hopes that the inn can use these comments to improve in the future. All in all, it was tolerable ... but had I paid full price or booked the inn for a very special occasion, I would have been sorely disappointed.

[Resource Id: innkeeperresponse, Set: reviews]
Thank you “sorely disappointed” for speaking up! We sometimes get “too close to the forest to see the trees” and your review is much appreciated and I will promise you, acted upon. Some disadvantages of operating a hospitality business in a 114 year old Victorian house can’t be overcome, but several of the things you mentioned can, and will. Thanks again, and please come again. We hope to exceed your expectations next time!

- Gary Blankenship (innkeeper)

My husband's 10-year high school reunion coincided with our one-year anniversary. We decided to stay in town to accommodate both events, but instead of staying at home, we chose to make the weekend special by staying at a Bed and Breakfast. We stayed in the Danzaro room at Walnut Street Inn, and we enjoyed everything about it. From the quick walk to down town Springfield for dinner, the jacuzzi tub in the room (big enough for two), and a chance to just relax and reminisce about the previous year while sitting on the front porch swing, this in-town get away was perfect. I had never stayed at a Bed and Breakfast before, and I thought we might have to sacrifice some privacy for charm, but I was wrong. Breakfast was prepared specific to our vegan dietary needs and was served at a bedside table in our room at our request. Though our room was close to three or four other suites, we were situated in the old carriage house behind the main house and felt like we were in a remote little cottage. We had access to the main house and could have mingled with others had we chosen to do so. But for a newlywed couple seeking a little romance after one year, this was an ideal option allowing for privacy and providing plenty of charm.

I was thoroughly impressed with this charming B&B! It was clean, centrally located, extremely comfortable and the staff was very friendly. They even put freshly baked cookies in your room each day! I will definitely stay there again when I visit Springfield. You won't be disappointed!

We stayed at the Walnut Street Inn in July, and I can’t rave enough about the experience. We were greeted by Gary, the innkeeper, who was both friendly and knowledgeable. We were in the Carver Room, the former library in the main house, which was immaculately clean and lovingly maintained. The furnishings and décor were mostly what you would expect in a B&B, but everything was even more meticulous than I anticipated. The room had a small refrigerator with complimentary sodas and water, and freshly baked cookies awaited us by the side of the bed each afternoon. We were allowed to select our breakfast time, and the chef happily made vegetarian meals both mornings for us. The food was excellent and varied each day. The location of the inn is perfect, just a short walk from the downtown and on a beautiful, historical street. The staff were also highly present and happy to make dining suggestions. My only complaints about the stay were the shower – the water temperature was too variable, and the pressure was too low – and the pillow – which was a little hard. Neither would preclude me from staying at the Walnut Street Inn again. It was the perfect way to spend a weekend in Springfield, and I cannot recommend it highly enough. If you’re headed to Springfield, skip a corporate hotel for a stay at the Walnut Street Inn.

The Thomas Hart Benton room was like heaven after a week of rainy, muddy, noisy camp! 2 king size beds, simple classic decor, free water and pop and a quiet delectable breakfast.

The location of this B&B was perfect for shopping, dining and events. The owner knows and loves Springfield-he can direct you to anything and make excellent suggestions. The rooms are fun, clean, interesting, comfortable, not homogenized. The entire staff obviously enjoy working there and they too know Springfield and the surrounding area. Everyone seems to be a bit of an artist which was a BIG plus. The food was amazing-a surprising treat, plus cookies at night, coffee and cold beverages during the day. Lots of little "get away" areas on the front porch, back porch, patios. This was truly just a fun place to go, to spend time, to shop and eat. I would recommend this B&B to all except stuffy folks!

The Walnut Street Inn was recommended to me by someone who had stayed there last year. My friend and I spent the last night of our 10 day trip to the Grand Canyon here. It was such a great place to finish off our vacation. The Inn is delightful - tastefully done, airy, and the breakfast of french toast and fruit was delicious. We stayed in the converted attic, Benton Room. I loved the touches of antique furniture and collectibles. My friend and I both wished we could move in and live there! Gary was a gracious and personable host. Since we were there on Memorial Day, many of the restaurants in the area were closed. Gary recommended an Asian restaurant called Five Spice and we had an excellent "fusion-style" dinner. If I am ever traveling through Springfield again, I will stay at the Walnut Street Inn. I recommend it most highly to all.

My wife and I go to the Walnut Street Inn for our own private getaway. We don't answer the phone and we spend our time concentrating on each other and enjoying the surroundings. We have 5 visits under our belt and the only time we took our children was for my daughter's college graduation. Other than that, we spend our time in a wonderful environment that evokes the period of the Inn. Gary and his staff are absolutely wonderful. They are personable, friendly and extend every courtesy to make your stay a memorable one. The photos of the room don't do them justice. Each room is well appointed and you will sleep like a baby. You get more for your money at the Walnut Street Inn. The premium on peace, quiet surroundings and stellar service is of great value.

A beautiful bed and breakfast. We celebrated my husband's birthday and were so happy we did! A beautiful Inn. The rooms were fabulous and comfortable. The Inn is filled with charm. The stress melted away as soon as you enter. Depending on the time of year, you can attend a ball game, theatre, symphony and nice restaunts all within walking distance or sit outside in one of porch swings, read and enjoy nature. We are already looking forward to our next visit!

What a lovely old house! We like so much we're trying to get back there before summer. The Inn has a great location (downtown Springfield). You are within walking distance of so many things. We'll be going back to catch a ballgame with their local team and we'll stay at the Inn for sure! The rooms were roomy and comfortable, common areas were nice, our host Gary was so friendly and breakfast was great! Check out the downtown art walk, the first Friday of every month.

What a wonderful time we had during our stay at the Walnut Street Inn. The inn is inviting and comfortable from the moment you step inside and the staff is both accommodating and friendly. Our room was just right and the beds were a ten on the “snooze” scale. Could think of no better way to start a morning than one of Rita’s breakfasts. Judi and I are already planning our next visit. And I’m told it will be real soon. We so appreciated the hospitality and look forward to many more visits. Again many thanks from two more-than-satisfied guests.

My husband and I were looking for a Romatic weekend over Valentines Day and that is what we got at the Walnut Street Inn. The Staff there are fantastic and the food is great. We enjoyed a nice relaxing time away from the hustle and bustle of real life. It was great to be able to curl up infront of the fire and watch TV with my sweetheart. I would recommend you try the Inn and you will find yourself going back again and again.

My husband and I chose the Walnut Street Inn to have our wedding. It was an all inclusive package and we were treated like family from day one. On the day, the Inn keepers and staff made sure all the details were taken care of so that my husband and I could focus on our special day. We had a night stay included in our package and thoroughly enjoyed a beautifully decorated room complete with a king size four post bed and a whirlpool bath tub for two. In the morning, the Inn chef cooked a lovely breakfast including pumpkin pancakes with orange marmalade, bacon, fresh fruit, juice and coffee. If you're looking for a quiet getaway, a place to spend a few days while in Springfield, or just want out of your own house for the night, I highly reccommend the Walnut Street Inn for service, friendliness, atmosphere, food, and decor!

It's been a tradition for my family and I to visit "The Inn" twice a year (around Christmas and the end of Summer) for the past ten years. The reasoning behind the custom is simple: we can always expect a wonderfully relaxing and thoroughly enjoyable stay. The staff are genuinely warm and accommodating (it's not uncommon for the owner, Gary, to sit down and chat with us over breakfast tea), the food is excellent and plentiful, and the rooms are varied and comfortable--each with its own inimitable style (I think we've stayed in nearly all of them at one time or another). Furthermore, it's conveniently located on historic Walnut Street, too--just a stroll away from downtown Springfield (such as it is), where we customarily have dinner at our favorite Italian restaurant, Nonna's (yes, we're slaves to ritual). Whether as a couple looking for some together-time or as a family, we've invariably had a great experience at The Inn. We trust you will too.

Walnut St Inn is wonderful. As a repeat customer, I have stayed in three different rooms. Each has its unique charm. My personal favorite was the Wilder room with it's balcony overlooking the rear courtyard. A beautiful view in the fall. Morning breakfast was far superior to any hotel breakfast I have had. They deliciously met my low/no sugar dietary needs. While preparing my early morning meal, Gary or Rita and I would have a pleasant chat. By the 2nd morning, they brought me tea without asking. Breakfast was delicious and relaxing, really starting my day off well. The location is also very convenient. It is within close walking distance of several excellent restaurants. And, if you don't mind walking 20 minutes you can easily walk to downtown for shopping or dinner. Every night I walked to a different place for dinner. Next time I go to Springfield, I will be staying as Walnut St. Inn.

From the moment I entered the door to this house of enchantment until I checked out was a most satisfying experience. The entire staff, including the owner made me comfortable to the point I felt totally at home. I look forward to and anticipate my next visit. (SOON) Bill Brooks

Since my husband and I were married less than a week before Christmas, we couldn't travel far away from our families for a honeymoon, so we stayed in Springfield, MO. Staying at Walnut Street Inn was just as good as getting away, though. We were able to sleep in and have our breakfasts delivered to our room, and everything was so comfortable and serene that we felt like we were far away from everything! Walnut Street in is a wonderful place for a getaway.

My wife and I found the Walnut Street Inn three years ago while visiting my daughter at Missouri State University. Now, every visit to Springfield includes a visit with Gary and staff. We have stayed at Inn across the county, from Key West to Hawaii, and can honestly say the Walnut Street Inn is one of our absolute favorites.

The Inn was lovely. It was the perfect retreat for my daughter and me. I highly recommend this for anyone who enjoys a quiet hideaway!

The Walnut Street Inn is wonderful. The staff is kind and accommodating. The food is excellent and they will adjust the menu if you request it in advance. Great location close to downtown Springfield night life. I give it an A+.

My new wife and I didn't have time to go on a full honeymoon so we stuck around town and stayed at the Walnut Street Inn for a weekend. We reserved the Finley Room and found it to be perfect. It is the perfect size to be cozy and close with your partner. I loved the fireplace (which actually provided great heat) and the jacuzzi. I would have to say the jacuzzi was our favorite part. It was big enough for two to be very comfortable. I am an average size guy at 5'8 and I could almost lay down completely flat. The bed was very comfortable. The t.v. was fine with a descent selection of channels, but we didn't watch it that much. The only hang up with that is there is no DVD player. There are hook ups for one on the front of the t.v. so you could bring your own if you wanted, which is what I did. If you are going on your honeymoon or just for a romantic getaway, I would recommend the honeymoon package. When you arrive in your room you will be greeted with candles everywhere, rose petals on the bed, chocolate truffles, and champagne on ice with two champagne glasses for you to keep. We stayed two nights and had breakfast brought to our room both mornings. It was delicious. I asked the owner who cooks and he said they have a Culinary Institute of New York grad so that was impressive. Wi-fi is also available, which is a must. Our stay was more than we had hoped for, especially for our honeymoon. We had a great time. I would really recommend this to anyone.

What a lovely place in the center city. A nostalgic, romantic getaway, reminds me of a boutique hotel. The grounds are also beautiful. Restaurants within walking distance, heck, right across the street. Great neighborhood to walk in, past the painted ladies--Victorian houses, that is. And the innkeeper says "Welcome home" as soon as you walk through the door. And Hershey's kisses greet you. I'll go back soon..

I have traveled the world my entire life and slept in many of the finest places but none compare to the walnut street inn. Gary and Paula are the most gracious of hosts, the place is beautiful,charming and lovingly kept.Breakfast was the best ever!

My husband and I had a great stay at Walnut Street Inn. The Inn is very charming and we loved the spa tub in our room. It was a very romantic anniversary. We ordered dinner in from an Italian place the Innkeeper recommended and it was great!

This past Thanksgiving my family gathered from the 4 corners of the US at the Walnut Street Inn. We took over the main house for almost a week as well as an additional room. Gary and his staff were very friendly and even helped coordinate with a caterer for a special evening celebrating Thanksgiving and a combined 80th birthday party for my parents. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Thank you Gary and your staff for a great time!

My sister and I came to Springfield to retrace our parents' footsteps. What we discovered was a little bit of heaven called the Walnut Street Inn. Each night of our week's stay, we looked forward to getting back to our room(s). Gary and his staff met us each evening with a bright smile, a cheery word, and an eagerness to hear our tales of the day. We will always remember our time at this amazingly warm and inviting place. Thank you, Gary, for making it memorable for these two oldies.

We stayed in the DANZERO room for our anniversary and it was spectacular! I highly recommend this room for anyone who is wanting a quiet, romantic retreat with their loved one. We loved the room so much that we didn't want to leave. We only went to eat supper and we spent the rest of our time in our room. Everything from the fire place to the four poster bed makes this room an excellent pick for a romantic evening!

delightful ambience

I stayed here on my honeymoon and my first anniversary. It was cute and close to everything downtown. The food was a little cold when it arrived.