When I headed to the Arts Impact Ohio conference in Toledo, I found a delight of a stay at The Kings Throne Inn. The inn on Collingwood Blvd in Toledo’s Historic Old West End is one of the former mansions that continues to wow.
Landon, The Kings Throne owner, bought the stately home as a passion project with visions of an inn and guest house. The result is a fine example of how passion delivers. Each room is an exquisite mix of gorgeous antiques and artwork. Instead of a stuffy, don’t move a thing feel, The Kings Throne’s ambiance is make yourself at home. I could have moved in.
The Kings Throne Inn Communal Spaces
On the first floor, the living room, parlor, dining room and kitchen are communal spaces guests are invited to use 24/7. There’s much to enjoy about the eclectic mix of items the owner has gathered over the years. Friends and family have added to the collection. A vase here, a figurine there–all are period pieces, adding to a homey touch. Plus, house plants abound. There are travel guides and magazines on a coffee table to showcase Ohio and Toledo standouts.
As you browse items, you’ll notice a king chess piece motif throughout the house.
The dining room has a table big enough for six, plus the large kitchen has bar like seating for a more casual meal. I enjoyed breakfast here. This is a make-it-yourself continental style breakfast. Landon has this space well-organized with friendly notes on where to find milk, juice, coffee, tea, bread for toast, cereal and eggs. Basically, help yourself. Guests are welcome to store items in the large refrigerator and use the stove. There’s also a microwave.
- Search for Great Tours HERE
- Get a Car Rental
- Buy Travel Insurance
Although the appliances are modern, and the kitchen has been updated, there is a wonderful mix of old and new. One can imagine what the house was like in 1892 when it was built. Landon is happy to be part of Toledo’s robust current offerings. As he points out house features, it’s clear that he loves the city and it’s catching.
During my stay, a young couple bounded in the back door leading to the kitchen. They were breathless, excited about their day at the Glass Studio at the Toledo Museum of Art. Both were taking a glass blowing weeklong workshop there. Pleased to show off three wine glasses, they basked in their accomplishment. The night before they had enjoyed a movie on the 55″ communal smart TV in the parlor. Before they headed to their room, they told me I should take in Toledo Museum of Art attesting to its awesomeness. The museum is withing walking distance of The Kings Throne Inn.
The Kings Throne’s location put me a minutes’ drive from the conference at the Renaissance Toledo Downtown connected to the Imagination Station, the city’s science museum. This part of Toledo on the banks of the Maumee River is a wonderful mix of architecture. The inn’s close proximity to downtown made coming and going to sessions quite easy. I popped back for a clothing change for a cocktail party. It was a treat to spend more time in my wonderful guest room.
My Room
My room, The King, is the largest guest room. When I arrived, it was dappled in light. The bay window alcove is a gorgeous space for sitting and taking in the view of Collingwood Avenue while reading a book. The fireplace, although no longer a working one, is a cool room feature. Period antique furniture, including the queen size bed, are quite lovely.
This particular room has a private bath with original tiles and bathtub fixtures. I was reminded of the shared bathroom at the Copper King Mansion in Butte, Montana. I loved this bathroom. It’s funky, functional and fun. Bath amenities including razors and toothbrushes are on the shelf above the pedestal sink. Shampoo, conditioner and shower gel are affixed to the wall at the back of the shower. Landon seems to have thought of everything guests might need. There are earplugs on the bedside table.
Other well-thought-out room features include a diffuser with a wide choice of essential oils and a guest book that gives background information about Landon and the house. There is also a local guidebook on the small desk.
Other Guest Rooms and Shared Spaces
Four guest rooms at the Kings Throne Inn are also appointed with antiques and unusual features. Two of the rooms have a shared bath at the end of the hall. Two other rooms have private baths. I checked out the shared bath. It is as wonderful as my private bath. Guests are provided with bathrobes. Because the hallway is decorated with bookshelves, artwork and items like boardgames for communal use, this feels like a home where one feels comfortable in any shared space.
Other shared spaces are the back yard, a lovely area of flower beds, garden art and places to sit, and the large front porch with comfy furniture. Guests are also welcome to use the laundry off the kitchen.
In the back of the inn off the alley, each guest room has a parking space. Guests are provided with a code to get in and out of the back door. If one needs anything, text or call Landon. He works during the day, but lives on the 3rd floor of the inn. Because he works during the day, check in is at 5 pm, but check out is at 3 pm.
To book a room, you can book from The Kings Throne website where you can add on amenities for a romantic stay, or book through Hotels.com or Booking.com. Rates range from $96 to $234 depending on the day. You can also book the entire inn.
I was a guest of The Kings Throne Inn, but all opinions are my own. I truly loved this place.
Post and photos by Jamie Rhein
