Thinking of staying at the Blackburn Inn and Conference Center? I decided to stay at this historic hotel during my trip to Staunton, Virginia. If you plan to visit this charming town, let me tell you why this place should be high on your list!
A Rich History of Blackburn Inn
First off, the Blackburn Inn has quite a story to tell. The grounds used to be an insane asylum and a prison, which sounds a bit spooky, right? But now, it’s transformed into a beautiful and serene place to stay. The history adds a unique character to the inn, making it more than just a place to sleep.
TOUR OF THE HOTEL
The Grounds
You’ll be greeted by beautiful, well-maintained grounds when you step onto the property. The gorgeous water fountains create a peaceful ambiance, perfect for a morning stroll or an evening walk. Trust me, you’ll want to take a lot of photos here!
The Rooms at Blackburn Inn
The rooms are quite spacious, and I was happily surprised at the size of the bathroom. The floors are made of concrete, so you won’t hear your neighbors, but they can get very cold. Fortunately, most of the floors are covered with thick carpets. I think they should consider adding comfy robes and slippers.
The bathrooms featured waterfall-style shower heads and glass doors.
Rooftop Views at Blackburn Inn and Conference Center
One of the highlights of my stay was the rooftop. If you’re a fan of stunning views, you’ve got to check it out. The rooftop is absolutely beautiful during sunrise and sunset. Watching the sky change colors while sipping on a cup of coffee is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Hotel Amenities at Blackburn Inn and Conference Center
Breakfast Options
Now, let’s talk about breakfast! The inn offers a paid breakfast with vegetarian options, which is great if you want something healthy and delicious to start your day. It’s nice to have choices, especially when traveling and wanting to keep things light and nutritious.
Art Gallery at Blackburn Inn
The Blackburn Inn boasts a tiny but stunning art gallery that adds a touch of culture to your stay. This gallery features designs from local and regional artists. It’s the perfect spot to spend some time admiring the creativity and talent of the artists and perhaps even find a piece to take home as a unique souvenir. The art gallery truly enriches the experience at Blackburn Inn, making it more than just a place to rest but a celebration of artistic expression.
What is There to Do Nearby?
Another big plus is the location. The Blackburn Inn is close to many places, so you won’t have to travel far to explore Staunton. Whether you’re interested in visiting local shops, restaurants, or historical sites, you’ll find plenty to do nearby.
Is the Blackburn Inn Haunted?
I love ghost stories and have stayed at haunted hotels across the globe. Some locals claim that Blackburn Inn is haunted, as it once served as an asylum in the 1820s. Initially, it was called Western State Lunatic Asylum and helped those with mental illness receive adequate and holistic care. Dr. Francis T. Stribling was passionate about providing adequate care. He initiated programs like gardening and livestock training for his patients.
Later, Dr. Joseph DeJarnette, a eugenist, would become director of the asylum, and he had a very different view on mental health. He performed lobotomies, forceful sterilizations, and other inhumane practices. It wasn’t the patients that made this place haunted; it was the evil people who ran it. Although nervous, given its history, I noticed no paranormal activity.
Do I Recommend Staying at the Blackburn Inn?
Overall, my stay at the Blackburn Inn Conference Center was good. Although there were a lot of guests, it didn’t feel extremely crowded. My room was comfortable, and the Wi-Fi was perfect. With its rich history, charming rooftop views, and great location, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing getaway. If you’re ever in Staunton, Virginia, I highly recommend checking it out!
READ MORE:
- Staunton Virginia Travel Guide
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