Davie School Inn

The Innkeeper reached out two days before our reservation to ask where we were, and that’s when I realized I’d booked the wrong dates. I was gutted, since I’d been looking forward to staying here with my Daughter, Anna, as our summer road trip was winding down. The people at Davie School Inn sorted out the reservation, though, and everything worked out fine. The place reminded me of the rural Illinois elementary school I attended 40 years ago. It’s got that old-school feel, with the comforts of a nice hotel. Everything was clean and in good shape, and the Innkeeper knew a lot about the school’s history, the town, and things to do nearby. My Daughter is 19, and as we were leaving she said, “Maybe we could make staying here part of our road trips now!” That was lovely to hear as the Father of a teenager. Davie School Inn made it happen. And the breakfast was awesome. It was a great stay! This got a bit long, so no worries if you skipped to the end.

We used the Inn as our base for a weekend with three other couples, and it exceeded our expectations. The hosts were amazing, and breakfast was outstanding on both mornings. They let us store our kayaks and bikes safely in the gym, too. It’s close to wineries and the Tunnel Hill bike trail.

The owner serves a generous, delicious breakfast right in your room and is friendly and helpful, whether you want to hear about the old school or get tips on the area. This former school in Anna, Illinois, became a bed and breakfast 30 years ago, with around eight rooms that were once classrooms. Chalkboards and other original details remain, while the bathrooms are modern and each room has a sink, refrigerator, and microwave. There isn’t much to do in town itself, but you’re near the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, sights in Shawnee National Forest, interesting spots along the river, and cities like Carbondale and Marion. It’s a really cool place to spend a few nights while exploring southern Illinois. I wish I could give it more than five stars, and I can’t recommend it highly enough.

We had such a relaxing weekend at Davie School Inn. The inn is spotless, the rooms are decorated just right, and the innkeepers are wonderfully hospitable. I’d gladly eat the breakfast every day, especially the baked French toast and seasoned potatoes. We also got to attend a Southern Illinois Opry concert in the schoolgymnasium while we were there. It made for a perfect little date night.