“If a historic setting and elegant surroundings is your definition of the perfect getaway, consider northern Kentucky's historic Burlington's Willis Graves (BWG) Bed and Breakfast. The proprietors have perfected every detail of the ambience of the 19th century. I say this from experience, having been a recent guest at this sophisticated retreat.”
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“My husband and I recently visited this lovely Inn and really enjoyed our brief getaway. Being Innkeepers as well, we were looking for a relaxing retreat where we could enjoy quiet conversation. We found it at Willis Graves. It also turned out to be very romantic with it's 2-person whirlpool tub, fireplace and balcony. We stayed in the cozy and very comfortable cabin that was restored to perfection and filled with authentic period antiques. Nancy is very warm and welcoming and we thoroughly enjoyed breakfast. We had the best coconut bread pudding at a downtown restaurant that Nancy recommended. We will definitely return.”
— Linda Horn
“After staying at over twenty bed and breakfast establishments, our favorite is Willis Graves B&B - we have been spoiled during our visits! Other innkeepers should take notes from Nancy and her team, since the warm hospitality and top notch service is above and beyond what we normally experience. If you are looking for a romantic destination, this is it.
We’ve stayed in the five different guest rooms over the years and the pictures on the website accurately depict the beauty and detail of guest rooms. We arrive to warm chocolate chip cookies and bottled water in the room on each visit. The bedding in all rooms is top notch and includes fine linens, triple sheeting over a light down-type comforter, and lovely quilts. We certainly feel pampered in their comfortable and luxurious beds. For special occasions, the suites have large air jet tubs and steam showers that create a spa-like atmosphere.
The attention to detail shows when it comes to housekeeping too. I wish all establishments were this clean. The rooms and common areas were spotless. Nancy and her team personally iron all of the linens that go on the beds. Saran wrap covers the glasses in each room, so you know it has not been used and has not collected any dust in between guests.
One of the reasons this place is so special is because of the gracious hospitality shown by the hosts. Nancy is warm and friendly, definitely adding to the charm of this place. We’ve had the pleasure of meeting Margaret and Bob on our visits as well. They are all kind and courteous hosts. You will not want for anything during your stay. They have really thought of everything for you, so that when you get there you can focus on enjoying your visit.
Breakfast is an experience. The tables are exquisitely set with white tablecloths, cloth napkins, and fine china. There is a choice of assorted juices, along with coffee and tea. There is a menu with a long list of options for your meal; we had a difficult time deciding what to eat since the options sounded delicious! All breakfasts begin with fresh fruit, which was a delightful medley of fresh berries and grapes during our visits. My husband’s favorite dish is the Creme Brulee Stuffed French Toast and I love the breakfast pie. You will definitely experience a gourmet breakfast at this establishment, and it all includes beautiful plate presentation. Plan to skip lunch, you will not be hungry.
In our experience, the type of attention to detail we encounter here is beyond compare. They have created such a comfortable and romantic environment. You will not want to leave!”
— Cindy M
“My husband and I have been to Burlington Willis Graves B&B several times. It was the first B&B we had ever gone to after I searched online for different places and we struck gold with our first getaway. We no longer even think about going anywhere else. We try to go once a year or whenever we can and we look forward to every time we get to go away!
We have stayed in the cabin suite and/or retreat everytime we go there and we just LOVE it. The cabin feel is so beautiful, the bedding is out of this world comfortable and they seriously have the best bath tub in the world.
We also LOVE Nancy's breakfasts that she makes. The creme brulee stuffed french toast is our favorite but everything we have tried we have loved.
This B&B is very romantic from the feel and look of the cabin to the amazing bathroom including tub and hot steam shower. We love this place and look forward to when we get a chance to go back again!
We highly recommend it for any romantic getaway or really any type of getaway because it is just that great! Everything is SUPER clean, super yummy and the owners are super nice and so personal and friendly!”
— April Starkey
“Wow! There are hardly words to describe the attention to detail at Willis Graves. The grounds are well-manicured and the Inn itself is very inviting, both inside and out. After hearing about the Inn from a friend, my husband and I were anxious to book our stay. The only complaint I have is that we only got to stay one night! We booked the Graves Suite and not a single detail was overlooked. From the cozy, romantic fire, to the plush robes, to the fresh baked cookies on the bed, we soaked in every bit of it. The bathroom offers a romantic jetted tub (with lights!), big enough for 2. The bed was quite comfy and with triple sheeting, we were definitely sleeping in luxury. Perhaps the thing I was looking most forward to was the breakfast the next morning. My husband and I have become quite the foodies and love a gourmet meal, breakfast or otherwise. It was worth the hype, it was fantastic! The creme brulee french toast was simply sinful and the breakfast quiche was hearty and equally delicious. If you're looking for a romantic getaway, full of pampering and luxury, look no further than Willis Graves. We always hate to leave but look forward to our next visit!”
— Danielle Deskins
“After traveling and staying at many B & B's around the nation, this one ranks #1 on our list! We have stayed here many times and they continue to amaze us with their attention to detail. Prepare to be spoiled in luxury with soft triple sheeted fine bed linens, a delicious gourmet breakfast, plush terry cloth bath robes, refreshing steam showers, and fresh homemade cookies on your pillow! Fall in love all over again by taking in the scenic views in one of their adirondack chairs. A highlight of every trip is relaxing in the romantic hot tub together with a glass of wine. The inn keepers and staff are warmly welcoming and the entire place is impeccably clean. Conveniently located near fabulous dining, shopping, and entertainment venues, it makes for the perfect romantic getaway. They truly set the bar for what a bed and breakfast should be!”
— Vanessa Rice
“We have stayed at Willis Graves each year for the last 7 years and it has been WONDERFUL each and every time! The rooms all have an amazing bath and the entire inn is beautifully and luxuriously appointed. We always look forward to soaking in the extra-large whirlpool tub and relaxing in the steam shower. The linens are so plush and soft. Prepare to come to breakfast hungry because you'll leave stuffed! Nancy's amazing breakfast is to die for! The stuffed french toast is not to be missed. Our annual anniversary trip to Willis Graves is one of the highlights of our year. Its romantic and quiet and the perfect place to just be together.”
— Jennifer Heindl
“We first visited Burlington's in December 2000 for our anniversary. We were looking for something near (our home) and romantic. Burlington's is near, romantic and so much more. We've stayed here countless times and it's the best B&B experience in the U.S. The property is absolutely gorgeous and very tranquil. Burlington's is not just the cleanest B&B, but the cleanest home that I've ever seen; it's simply immaculate! All bedding is laundered after each stay and I don't feel the need to bring my own pillowcases (like I usually do). Nancy's food is great-nothing less than great! I told my daughter how great Nancy's cooking is just yesterday (she couldn't believe it because I am so picky). I am very particular and because of this, I only stay at Burlington's Willis Graves B&B. The beds sleep like a gem and the whirlpools are amazing; never had to worry about running out of hot water like we've experienced at other B&Bs. During warmer months, the roofed back porch is a major plus, lots of seating to read or just take in the scenery (the sun is never an issue because of the roof). We also love Burlington's romantic atmosphere; it gives us the chance to renew and reconnect as husband and wife. Lastly, I must mention that the Swartzels have rearranged there schedules countless times to accommodate their guests flights, breakfast times, etc. Burlington's Willis Graves is the standard for B&Bs and that's why we'll visit them for the rest of our lives, literally.”
— Monica Blackwell-Harper
“My Husband and I look forward to escaping to Burlington Willis Graves at least once a year. We enjoyed a very romantic wedding night in Thomas' Room five years ago and have returned to the inn every year since. This is our most favorite place to go to reconnect and relax. Reconnecting is so easy to do here with the delicious homemade cookies, whirlpool tubs, and soft fresh-smelling bedding. I can't say enough good things about this inn. It is truly a treasure.”
— Amy Wilson
“The first time I stayed at Burlington Willis Graves B&B was in July 2008. It was one of the Inns we stayed at on our honeymoon and I was not disappointed.
Since then I have returned two more times in 2009 & 2010 for our wedding anniversary and the level of service, and quality of the establishment has been consistant excellence.
Nancy (the inn keeper) really pays attention to detail, and that is what seperates this place from the rest.
The suites are perfect for a romantic weekend getaway with steam showers, whirlpool baths with colorful lights. All the rooms have comfortable beds and overall it is just a very relaxing atmosphere.
Breakfast is world class, and Nancy will go through great pains to make sure it is prepared exactly how you like it, if its not on the menu, just ask and she will most likely make it for you.
The location is 15-20 mins outside downtown Cincinatti so it is a perfect place to stay before going out to dinner, or seeing a show downtown.
I plan to go back again this July for another romantic anniversary weekend with my wife.
The place is so wonderful we have made it a tradition :)”
— Christopher Shea
“Nancy and Bob have created a delightfully romantic getaway that has everything you would want – charm, seclusion, pampering, plush comfort, beautiful scenery and scrumptious breakfasts. We visit about every six months and prefer the ground floor of the log cabin (William Rouse Suite). It is private, comfortable and wonderfully cozy with its fireplace, whirlpool tub, private porch, fluffy towels and bathrobes, luxurious sheets – and don’t forget the homemade cookies! The microwave and refrigerator make it easy to keep and prepare snacks without having to leave. We encourage everyone to stay more than one night as that’s the only way to fully experience Nancy’s delicious breakfast choices—having both the breakfast pie and the stuffed French toast! If you are the type that needs to get out and explore, Nancy and Bob have all kinds of great recommendations for things to do. This is our absolute favorite B and B, and although we find that our time slips away too quickly, we always leave relaxed, refreshed and looking forward to the time when we can return.”
— Bruce & Angie Curlette
“Recently, my wife and I spent a week at the Willis Graves B&B and what a week it was! From the minute you arrive, it’s obvious that the inn keepers put a lot of thought in pleasing their customers. Each room is as perfectly decorated as the houses are perfectly restored. My wife Katherine and I very much enjoyed each and every aspect of the place from the romantic comfortable rooms, relaxing whirlpool baths, Nancy’s mouth-watering breakfast, and the unmatched hospitality.
On top of everything the Inn has to offer, it’s also located in the middle of a picturesque little town, with many unique shops and restaurants as well. And being located so close to Cincinnati, Lexington and Louisville, just about anything you might be interested in is just a short drive away.
I’ve stayed here several times since Nancy and Bob opened the place and each time is better than the last. This B&B truly is a gem! I really don’t think you could find a better place to stay if you tried. Not that you would want to after spending just one night in any of the rooms. This place leaves absolutely nothing to be desired!
Matthew B.
Richmond Texas”
— Matthew Brames
“We wanted to Thank Burlington Willis Graves B&B for a Beautiful Stay. It is a Lovely Inn with great people and so much to see and do.
Thank You,
Dwight & Carmen”
— carmen davis
“My husband and I just spent a night at Burlington's Willis Graves B & B. We had the most wonderful time. We instantly felt right at home in this cozy inn. Our room and bathroom was immaculate. The cookies that were waiting for us in our room was also such a nice treat. Breakfast the next morning was so delicious. We have stayed at several B & B's and never have we been given a menu to order from. It was so yummy! They really pay attention to every small detail to make sure your stay with them is enjoyable. They even allowed us before we left to take a tour of the cabin. What a romantic cabin. We would recommend this B & B to everyone!!! Loved it.”
— Jana Baker
“My husband and I stayed here a few years ago and of all the places we have traveled, this is the best! The staff was great. They do all the little extras, like fresh baked warm cookies, letting us stay a little extra because they wanted to make sure we tried out the amazing bath tub before we left. We stayed on the first floor of the cabin. Ate a yummy breakfast. Enjoyed a bottle of wine out on the back deck. Not too far from all the things we love to do in Cincinatti. One of the best weekends we have ever had!”
— Kary Payne
“My husband and I stayed there almost a year ago for our 8th anniversary. It was absolutely FABULOUS so I'm on their website booking for our 9th anniversary. I wouldn't be surprised if we stay there year after year. When you find something this great, why change? I took one heart off of the Location score just because it is a little off the "beaten track" however, it's well worth the trip.”
— Brenda Kenyon
“Don’t pass this small but very exquisite B&B up. I have been a guest at the B&B many times and have told many friends and family if they ever want to get away this is the place to go. From the moment you walk in the door in the main house and meet Nancy you feel at home. I have only been in the cabin that is just off the main house which is roughing it at its finest. Walking in your door to find freshly baked cookies on the bed is a great start and the beds which are the best and you won’t even move during the night. The bathrooms are of the best quality from the spa tub to the steam shower.
I like taking cruises and am someone that likes to be on the go and didn’t know how I would like going to a B&B. I have to say, I loved staying here and will tell everyone to stop at the best B&B I have been too. I now live in California and have tried to find a substitute for the gem I found in Kentucky, but haven’t found anything close.”
— Mark Shaw
“My boyfriend and I had only one night to spend at this great B&B. We stayed in the cabin and walked into town for a delicious dinner that night. I only wish we had made the reservation for two nights, as I would have loved to sit a while and enjoy the wonderful atmosphere.”
— Kathryn Haynes
“My husband and I have enjoyed staying at Willis Graves B&B several times, and each time our stay has exceeded our expectations. Nancy Swartzel makes you feel immediately at home and offers so many wonderful choices for the intimate breakfast. The rooms are impeccably kept...and Nancy is always looking for little extras to make each stay more memorable than the last. It is absolutely our favorite getaway!”
— Carolyn Guth
“The cabin at Willis Graves has been our home away from home for at least 5 visits to the area. Everything about Willis Graves is 5 star. The furnishings, linens, everything is beautiful and relaxing. The food is the best you will get, it is gourmet. Nancy and Bob and the ladies who help run the bed and breakfast are all friendly and inviting. We've staying at two other B&B's in the area and there is no comparison. Come to Willis Graves and you will be spoiled and will love it.”
— Lori Adams
“Years ago we found this B&B by chance. This proved to be our very most favorite place to stay (Thomas Room.) We enjoy antiquing and the Fair is right there. Everything about this Inn if first class from the food, accomaditions and Nancy and her staff always take excellant care of us. The location is perfect, so much to see and do. If you want to be pampered, I cannot say enough about the Willis Graves.”
— Ann Bakich
“It's perfect.
That's all one can say.”
— B Allen
“It's beautifully appointed. It's quite and serene and you just don't want to leave. You have to experience it to know.
My husband and I and other family members have stayed a few times and it's always wonderful. The best breakfasts of all time and places are served by the nicest innkeepers.”
— peg halpin
“Best place I have ever stayed. Nancy and Bob created a very romantic and relaxing environment. Very clean and taken care of -- we will be back soon!”
— Jeanine Moore
