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Chinaberry Hill - A Luxury Urban B&B Experience

Overview Rooms & Rates Reviews Location Amenities Meals
  • The Wild Rose Suite, a favorite spa retreat for those seeking the ultimate in privacy and spacious surroundings, features large bay windows with your own private forest of Japanese maple and cherry trees, a jetted Jacuzzi tub-for-two in the sitting room and private bath w/shower, gas fireplace and high four poster mahogany carved bed, and a view of Commencement Bay.
    Filled with one-of-a-kind antiques, oak and old-growth fir woodwork, stained glass, and period lighting, the entire 1st floor of the mansion is the common guest area.
    The Pantages Suite is the entire front of the inn on the second floor. Originally the mother's room and nursery, it is very spacious and bright with golden frescoed walls, large bay windows and nine and a half foot ceilings. The entire suite faces the water, so it has the best views of the bay. Also has the largest jetted Jacuzzi tub of any of our spa retreat suites (90 gallon), in its own alcove with a leaded rosette window looking out over the bay.
    The carriage suite, once where the carriages and horses were stored, now houses an 8 foot curved iron canopy bed and a jetted Jacuzzi-tub-for-two in what was once the horse's stall. With tall ceilings and tongue-and-groove old growth fir woodwork, the carriage suite feels very much like a Pacific Northwest lodge. The sitting area includes a sofa that makes into a queen bed for additional guests.
    The wraparound porch is great for watching the ships go by, or catching up on your email via our wireless internet service.
    View of the cargo ships entering the harbor -- a major West Coast port, ships pass into and out of the harbor throughout the day, many anchoring in the bay just below the inn.
    • Address 302 Tacoma Ave N
      Tacoma, WA 98403-2737
      USA
    • Phone+1-253-272-1282
    • Fax+1-253-272-1335
    • EmailContact Innkeeper
    Inn's website

    Historic Tacoma Bed and Breakfast provides memorable experiences and cheerful hospitality to the Seattle Tacoma vacation traveler since 1996. Chinaberry Hill, an 1889 Grand Victorian inn and cottage, has been featured in several travel publications, including Conde Nast Traveler, Sunset Magazine, Travel & Leisure, Best Places to Kiss Northwest, Amazing Getaways, Fodors, Frommers, Northwest Best Places. The Unofficial Guide to Bed & Breakfasts in the Northwest tells its readers: "This is one groovy place…from the oval window to the rounded porch… better-than-restored, with décor that’s bold, eclectic, opulent, and inviting. A delightful place, with secluded garden, hilltop privacy, yet great urban access." *** We are a top 10 Frommer's hotel/b&b lodging choice for the entire state of Washington. Our Tacoma bed and breakfast inn provides an excellent location for those wanting to explore the local sites: Downtown shops and theatres, museums, Antique Row and waterfront restaurants are all within a few blocks of this remarkable garden retreat. Over 100 structures in the neighborhood are on the National Historic Register. The inn's byline is “hearty breakfasts & serious coffee.” Chinaberry Hill serves up a multi-course breakfast feast every morning with such favorites as buttermilk blueberry pancakes, orange croissant French toast, ham and swiss quiche, garlic potatoes, mango-peach salsa and peppercrust bacon. Special dietary needs (e.g. vegan, gluten-free, low-carb, etc.) are cheerfully accommodated. Be sure to check out our website for more photos and information. We hope you find our Tacoma bed and breakfast mansion the perfect spot for your next getaway.

    Reviews

    Score Breakdown based on 18 Reviews

    Write A Review
    4.7 out of 5
     
    • Guest room  5
    • Services  5
    • Value  5
    • Cleanliness  4
    • Dining  5

    Explanation of Our Ratings

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

    Great experience

    August 14, 2012

    I spent 4 nights at this B&B while attending a work training. I was happily suprised to hear they would honor the government rate. The place is charming and the staff exceptional.I especially enjoyed my visits with Cecil and Elizabeth. The room was amazing and even had a fireplace and jetted tub. What was especially wonderful was the gourmet breakfasts cooked by Cecil each morning. After showing pictures and describing my experience I was the envy of my co-workers who stayed in other hotels. If I should be back in Tacoma I will be staying at this B&B again for sure.

    5 out of 5
     

    Inn with a View of Puget Sound

    June 28, 2012

    We were lucky to be upgraded to the front room, with a great view of Puget Sound from every window. It was a glorious stay with delicious breakfasts created by Cecil. He is a wonderful host and conversationalist. We plan to come back to Tacoma and will be sure to stay at Chinaberry Hill again.

    5 out of 5
     

    Pure Heaven

    October 22, 2011

    Upon arrival, my fiance and I were upgraded to a more exspensive room which has a great way to start our vacation. The room was elegant and spacious but the highlight of the stay was the phenomenal 3 course breakfast. The food was absolutely amazing. We now hold all other B&B's to this standard and unfortunately we have been disappointed when staying in other b&b's because the quality of the food at The Chinaberry was so exceptional. We would not only stay here again but have recommended it to freinds and family.

    4.2 out of 5
     

    Great place to stay in Tacoma

    July 14, 2010

    I booked this B&B because the 2 nicer hotels in downtown Tacoma were full. I was on a business trip. Next time I come, I will know to book with the B&B. Breakfast was outstanding, fit for a king! My room was spacious and tastefully decorated. The hosts were very pleasant and accomodating.

    Location

    Innkeeper Information

    Innkeeper(s)

    Cecil and Yarrow Wayman

    Innkeepers Description:

    Both Cecil and Yarrow are recent corporate dropouts and avid Dilbert fans. As chef at the inn, Cecil enjoys the creative aspects of cookery, and cultivating the "no worries" approach to life. Yarrow's passions are writing, promotional material design and the new global village (aka the internet).

    The innkeepers speak:

    • English

    • French

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  • Rooms & Rates

    • Nightly Rate $113 - $245

    Pantages Suite

    Originally the mother's room and nursery, the Pantages Suite is the entire front of the inn on the second floor. Bright and airy, this multi-room suite features large bay windows, private double Jacuzzi alcove with leaded rosette window, wonderful water views (the entire suite faces Commencement Bay and the shipping lanes), 4 poster queen oak bed, custom bedding, sitting room with writing desk, cable TV/VCR, golden frescoed walls, fluffy robes, free wireless internet, upscale antique decor, free local calls, free videos. Full gourmet breakfast & complimentary refreshments.

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 Queen
    Contact for Availability Contact

    The Garden Room

    Bright room w/high ceilings and large windows overlooks side garden. Vintage inlaid mother-of-pearl bed and armoire, private bath with antique clawfoot soaking tub & original Victorian rainshower. Soothing shades of taupe and cream, queen bed, luxurious linens, custom designer bedding and fluffy robes make this a relaxing retreat. Cable TV/VCR, free videos, free high speed wireless, free local calls. Entire first floor of the mansion and wraparound porch overlooking the water is for guest use. Rate includes complimentary full gourmet breakfast and 24 hour access to complimentary cookies.

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 Queen
    Contact for Availability Contact

    Wild Rose Suite

    Multi-room suite w/private double Jacuzzi, fireplace, bay view (smaller view than the Pantages Suite), high ceilings, large bay windows, 4 poster queen mahogany bed, private sitting room and bath w/shower, cable TV/VCR, free high speed wireless, free local calls. The Wild Rose Suite is the entire east side of the mansion on the 2nd floor, polished mahogany inlaid oak floors, originally the Master's private quarters and study. Wonderful large trees all around adds to the privacy. Complimentary high speed wireless, gourmet breakfast & 24 hr. access to complimentary cookies/refreshments.

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 Queen
    Contact for Availability Contact

    Hayloft Suite

    Once filled with hay for the horses below, the hayloft and carriage master's quarters are combined to create a roomy retreat on the 2nd floor of the carriage house. Sunny sitting room with loveseat and ottoman and leather chair, bedroom with queen carved wood and rattan bed, table and chairs, large walk-in closet, private bath with clawfoot soaking tub & shower and stained glass window, cable TV/VCR, phone. Extra bed available. Suite overlooks garden with a small view of bay through the trees. Complimentary high speed wireless, gourmet breakfast and complimentary cookies/refreshments included.

    • Maximum Capacity: 3
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 Queen, 1 Twin
    Contact for Availability Contact

    Carriage Suite

    Ten steps from the main house, the Carriage suite offers genuine seclusion for a special occasion getaway. Original items from the "horse and buggy" days of the estate provide a nostalgic backdrop for the 8 ft. curved iron canopy bed. Multi-room suite provides private bath with shower-for-two, a spacious double Jacuzzi alcove in what was originally the horse's stall, private sitting area with cable TV/VCR and sofa (makes out into a queen for extra guests), guest phone, round pedestal table and chairs. Complimentary high speed wireless, refreshments, gourmet breakfasts.

    • Maximum Capacity: 4
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 2 Queen
    Contact for Availability Contact

    Catchpenny Cottage

    Once the carriage house of this estate, this unique 2 story carriage house is also on the National Historic Register and has been renovated to include the Carriage Suite and Hayloft above (1,000 sq. ft. - sleeps 6-7). The first floor includes an 8 ft. curved iron canopy queen bed & queen sofa sleeper, private sitting room w/double Jacuzzi & shower, and private bath, cable TV/VCR, phone. The second floor includes a bedrom with a carved mahogany and cane queen bed (small view of bay from bedroom), large walk-in closet, private bath with clawfoot soaking tub and shower, private sitting room with a wonderful loveseat & ottoman (guests call it the "lounge magnet") and ficus tree, cable TV/VCR, phone, and twin rollaway sleeper for additional sleeping accommodations.

    • Maximum Capacity: 6
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 3 Queen, 1 Twin
    Contact for Availability Contact

    Policy

    Reservation Policy

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

    • Deposit Amount Required: First night's stay is required.

    • Cancellations: Seven days cancellation policy, 30 day group bookings. Once inside cencellation period, guest is responsible for entire booked amount unless the room(s) can be rebooked for that period.

    • Open All Year Round: Yes

    General Policies

    • Smoking Allowed: No

    • Guest Pets Allowed: No

    • Drinking Allowed: Yes

    • Drinking Description: bring your own

    • Drinks Available: No

    • Children Allowed: Children are welcome in the Catchpenny Cottage suites.

    • Suitable For Children: Yes

    • Childcare Provided: No

    Explore Chinaberry Hill - A Luxury Urban B&B Experience

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  • Reviews

    Score Breakdown based on 18 Reviews

    Write A Review
    4.7 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
    5 out of 5
     

    Great experience

    August 14, 2012

    I spent 4 nights at this B&B while attending a work training. I was happily suprised to hear they would honor the government rate. The place is charming and the staff exceptional.I especially enjoyed my visits with Cecil and Elizabeth. The room was amazing and even had a fireplace and jetted tub. What was especially wonderful was the gourmet breakfasts cooked by Cecil each morning. After showing pictures and describing my experience I was the envy of my co-workers who stayed in other hotels. If I should be back in Tacoma I will be staying at this B&B again for sure.

    5 out of 5
     

    Inn with a View of Puget Sound

    June 28, 2012

    We were lucky to be upgraded to the front room, with a great view of Puget Sound from every window. It was a glorious stay with delicious breakfasts created by Cecil. He is a wonderful host and conversationalist. We plan to come back to Tacoma and will be sure to stay at Chinaberry Hill again.

    5 out of 5
     

    Pure Heaven

    October 22, 2011

    Upon arrival, my fiance and I were upgraded to a more exspensive room which has a great way to start our vacation. The room was elegant and spacious but the highlight of the stay was the phenomenal 3 course breakfast. The food was absolutely amazing. We now hold all other B&B's to this standard and unfortunately we have been disappointed when staying in other b&b's because the quality of the food at The Chinaberry was so exceptional. We would not only stay here again but have recommended it to freinds and family.

    4.2 out of 5
     

    Great place to stay in Tacoma

    July 14, 2010

    I booked this B&B because the 2 nicer hotels in downtown Tacoma were full. I was on a business trip. Next time I come, I will know to book with the B&B. Breakfast was outstanding, fit for a king! My room was spacious and tastefully decorated. The hosts were very pleasant and accomodating.

    5 out of 5
     

    Absolutely in my top five!

    June 13, 2010

    From the moment we arrived both the home and Cecil were inviting and unique! An ever full cookie jar and wireless internet are some of the details that all but guaranteed a perfect stay. What made this one of the best B&B's I have ever visited was Cecil. The unique stories for each diligently collected piece of furniture was enthusiastically told by Cecil upon request. The breakfast, which could be at first misunderstood as simple, was like the rest of our stay, expertly orchestrated to perfection. The hand selected syrup, the fruit pairings, all superb! One would be remiss to visit Tacoma and not spend at least one night at Chinaberry Hill. I know we'll be back!

    5 out of 5
     

    Great Experience!

    April 13, 2010

    From the beautiful, well prepared and stocked rooms to the fantastic customer service, our stay at Chinaberry Hill was perfect. Cecil was a charming gentleman, gracious host and five star chef! Yarrow was extremely helpful and patient with my questions prior to the stay. This was our first B&B experience. The neighborhood was beautiful and the proximity to local resources a plus. We will visit again soon!

    4.0 out of 5
     

    F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S!!

    February 26, 2010

    I have stayed here three times now when I have been in Tacoma for overnight stays. Each time, I have wished that my trip had required me to stay longer so I would have more time to enjoy the energy of this wonderful B&B and its owners, Cecil and Yarrow. The rooms are charming, cozy and comfortable, as are the common-area rooms like the living room and kitchen. The crowning glory is Cecil's breakfasts!! From the artistically arranged mango and strawberry starter course, all the way through the omlettes, garlic-butter fried potatoes and luscious blueberry pancakes, the breakfast itself would be a good enough reason to stay at Chinaberry Hill. For the price, this place runs circles around the average, boring hotel/motel, so, if given the choice, this is the place to choose.

    5 out of 5
     

    A Wonderful Getaway!

    December 23, 2009

    Our children surprised us with a bedandbreakfast.com gift card for my birthday, and we think it is one the best gifts we have ever received! Our daughter is a nurse at nearby Madigan Army Hospital, and this B&B was a short drive from there. Our suite had marvelous views of Puget Sound and was furnished with beautiful antiques. Cecil was a wonderful host, but the best part of our trip was the awesome gourmet breakfast he prepared for us the next morning! We will be repeat guests...

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  • Location

    Overview Points of Interest Restaurants

    Location Type

    • Downtown

    City - Seattle

    • Distance to city: 20 miles

    • Directions to property:

    Airport

    • Seattle, WA (SEA-Seattle Tacoma)

    Area Attractions

    • Amusement Park

    • Antique Shopping

    • Aquarium

    • Beach

    • Casino

    • Historical interests

    • Lake

    • Live Music

    • Museum

    • Nature area

    • Historic Gardens

    • Views

    • Libraries

    • Ocean

    • River

    • Rodeo

    • Ruins

    • Ski area

    • Vineyard

    • Winery

    • Zoo

    • Bicycles

    • Billiards

    • Boating

    • Canoeing

    • Cross-country ski trails

    • Downhill Skiing

    • Fishing

    • Golfing

    • Hiking trails

    • Horseback riding

    • Hunting

    • Mountain Bike trails

    • Sailing

    • Shopping

    • Sight-seeing

    • Snow shoe trails

    • Swimming

    • Swimming pool

    • Table Tennis

    • Tennis courts

    • Whitewater Rafting

     Nearby Cities

     Nearby States

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  • Amenities

    Type:

    • Guest Cottage

    • Urban Inn

    • Historic Inn

    Property highlights

    • Antiques/decor

    • Business travel

    • Excellent views

    • Family Travel

    • Gourmet food

    • Honeymoons

    • Luxury

    • Peaceful getaway

    • Romantic escape

    On-site

    • BBQ grill

    • Board games

    • Copier

    • In-room internet

    • Fax Machine

    • Hot tub/whirlpool tub

    • Library

    Guest room(s)

    • Alarm clock

    • Bath robes

    • CD player

    • Fireplace

    • Private entrance

    • Satellite/Cable TV

    • TV

    • Telephone

    • VCR

    • Wi-Fi

    Other

    • Writing desks

    • Guest Kitchen

    • Cottage

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  • Breakfast

    • Type: Full

    • Time Served: 7:00-9:30am

    • Serving Location: Breakfast/dining area,Dining Room,Guest room

    Special meal options

    • Low fat

    • Restrictive

    • Vegetarian

    • macrobiotic

    • vegan

    Additional food services

    • popcorn, cookies, juices,

    • sodas, hot chocolate,

    • teas, bottled water, snacks.

    Explore Chinaberry Hill - A Luxury Urban B&B Experience

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Explore Chinaberry Hill - A Luxury Urban B&B Experience

Visit Website