Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Historic Boone Tavern Hotel & Restaurant Hotel in Berea, Kentucky
Established in 1909 by Berea College President William G. Frost, Historic Boone Tavern Hotel & Restaurant has served as a beacon of Appalachian hospitality. Our historic property combines century-old charm with modern amenities, offering 63 guest rooms handcrafted by Berea College students. The hotel supports the college's mission by employing students in operations, ensuring they gain practical experience while funding their education through donor generosity. We specialize in creating memorable events, from intimate weddings to corporate gatherings, emphasizing locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices.Our LEED Gold Certification reflects our commitment to environmental stewardship, while membership in Historic Hotels of America reaffirms our preservation of architectural heritage. Guests enjoy complimentary electric vehicle charging, bike rentals, and access to Berea College's cultural resources. Through every renovation and operational decision, we maintain fidelity to the vision of Nellie Frost, who first envisioned this gathering place for global visitors and Appalachian locals alike.
Services
Hotel accommodations
Farm-to-table dining
Event planning
Wedding services
Student craft retail
Details
- Year established: 1909
Highlights and features
- Students staff 30% of operational roles through Berea College's work program
- Our 110+ year-old architecture blends with modern LEED Gold sustainability standards
- Exclusive 'one bride per day' wedding policy ensures personalized attention
- Farm-to-table restaurant features Kentucky Proud ingredients from Berea College Farm
- Complimentary electric vehicle charging and bike rentals enhance guest mobility
Associations and certifications
- Historic Hotels of America
- LEED Gold Certified
What people say
Authentic Appalachian experience
Impeccable event planning
Student craftsmanship excellence
LEED sustainability efforts
Scenic wedding venue
Services
Hotel accommodations
Historic Boone Tavern Hotel & Restaurant offers 63 uniquely crafted guest rooms featuring antique wood furnishings made by Berea College students. Each room includes modern amenities like high-speed WiFi, Keurig coffee makers, and eco-friendly bathroom products while maintaining historic architectural elements such as crown molding and mosaic tiled mirrors. The hotel accommodates various needs with room types ranging from double occupancy to luxury suites and ADA-accessible options.
Farm-to-table dining
Crafted at Historic Boone Tavern Hotel & Restaurant presents seasonal menus using ingredients sourced from Berea College Farm and Appalachian producers. The restaurant showcases student-created woodcraft and decorative arts while serving Kentucky Proud dishes like signature spoonbread. Beverage programs include regional bourbons and seasonal cocktails complemented by Berea College student-designed tableware that enhances the dining experience through hands-on educational initiatives.
Event planning
The hotel provides 8,552 sq ft of flexible event space across seven rooms accommodating 6150 guests. Our professional planners coordinate corporate retreats, conferences, and social gatherings with eco-friendly amenities and locally sourced catering. Technology includes high-speed internet and AV equipment while Historic Appalachian design elements create a distinctive atmosphere for business or leisure functions at this college-owned facility.
Wedding services
Couples can exchange vows in the historic garden or covered portico with exclusive one-bride-per-day policy. Reception venues hold up to 150 guests with architectural details like soaring columns and curved staircases. Coordination includes decorative elements from Berea College Crafts, locally sourced catering, and overnight accommodations for wedding parties with customizable packages starting at $3,500.
Student craft retail
The Berea College Visitor Center Shoppe sells student-created woodcrafts, textiles, and decorative arts. Operated as an educational program, the store offers demonstrations of traditional Appalachian craft techniques daily. Products include handwoven baskets, mosaic mirrors, and furniture that directly support student tuition assistance through sales, with online ordering and campus tour packages available for visitors seeking authentic regional craftsmanship.
Questions
What makes Boone Tavern historically significant?
Built in 1909 by Berea College students, it hosted dignitaries like the Dalai Lama and President Calvin Coolidge. The hotel's architecture by Cady & See firm and student-made brick construction reflect Appalachian heritage.
How does the hotel support Berea College students?
All guest rooms feature student-crafted furnishings. The hotel employs 30% of its staff from Berea College work program, with student wages covering room and board costs through the college's no-tuition policy.
What wedding packages are available?
Packages start at $3,500 for garden ceremonies with 6–150 guest capacity. Includes exclusive 'one bride per day' policy, historic venue access, and locally sourced catering options with custom planning available.
Are there special dining experiences?
Crafted at Boone Tavern offers bourbon tastings with Kentucky Proud menus. Student-made tableware enhances meals featuring Berea College Farm ingredients, with chef-led demonstrations and seasonal tasting menus available.
Is the hotel accessible to guests with disabilities?
ADA-compliant guest rooms and event spaces available. Electric vehicle charging stations and wheelchair-accessible entrances ensure accessibility. Contact directly for specific accommodation requests or equipment availability.
What parking options exist?
Complimentary self-parking with designated handicap and green vehicle spaces. Two electric vehicle charging stations available. Complimentary bike rentals with safety equipment provided at front desk on request.