Let's get this out of the way right now: this isn't the Marriott, Hyatt or Four Seasons.
Walk up the front stairs and be greeted by two dogs who run the joint. Say hi to a few gentleman smoking cigars and having a beer. Walk inside, meet the owner who points you to the bar, says the first beer is on him, and welcomes you. Drop your stuff in your room. Walk to the bar, and see: stained glass lamps, a suit of armor, stuffed bears, a mounted elk, a mounted deer, plush couches, hotel guests sharing a beer and a conversation, children watching cartoons on the television, a jukebox, a pool table, and so much more. Listen to the regulars talk about the glory days of the Inn, and the owner telling you about the time he fed a bear a chicken wing with his teeth. Don't believe him, until he shows you the photo proving it.
Go enjoy your day, and come back in the evening. The bar and living room are full of people laughing and having a great time. Take a seat for dinner at the buffet, grab another beer, play a few rounds of pool and notice that nobody is in their room. Everyone is hanging out and having a great time together. Laugh and converse late into the night, head upstairs for sleep, and wake up in time for coffee and breakfast.
This isn't the Four Seasons, and thank goodness for that. It's a slice of unique, 45 years strong family-run history. I have plans in the area in two weeks and cancelled existing reservations at a different hotel so I could come back.
