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“Go, Bobcats!” is a common saying in Athens, Ohio. Hunter green is a popular color in this college town. It’s a town steeped in academic traditions and sports. Home to Ohio’s first public university, Athens is a place where pride runs deep. Ohio University Inn pays homage to this academic pride and Bobcat love. Hunter green is part of the hotel’s color scheme, and Ohio University is blended in the decor.
When Ohio University shifts to the summer session, sports love slows down, and Athens is a quieter town. In June, when my husband had a two-night stay at the Ohio University Inn for a seminar, I jumped in. I stayed here before. A stay is a treat. Years ago, a friend and I headed to Athens for the spring literary festival. This time, I enjoyed the same classy place I remembered.
Ohio University Touches
The Ohio University Inn’s building reflects the architecture of College Green, Ohio University’s historic center. Inside, the lobby reception area of American classic furniture and decor create an academic connection vibe. A wall mural of Ohio University’s iconic buildings and majestic trees graces one end.
Here’s where to find out the Athens and Ohio University goings on. Here’s also where to pick up complimentary toiletries if you happen to leave your toothbrush at home like I did.
Food and Libations at Ohio University Inn
For drinks and food, head to the connected Bunch of Grapes Tavern, the hotel’s bar and eatery with a pub-like feel. A robust wine and beer menu is paired with casual fare. Snacks, sandwiches and a creative appetizer mix are served up daily starting at 2 pm. In the morning, you can get a Starbucks fix.
Bunch of Grapes Tavern
I headed to the hotel’s Cutler’s Restaurant for breakfast. This airy, stylish restaurant of Bobcat colors has creative comfort food as the menu’s theme. I zeroed in on Goetta Hash. Goetta is a German-style sausage with steel cut oats as a signature ingredient. Glier’s goetta, made in Covington, Kentucky, is hard to find north of Cincinnati. It’s a Rhein family favorite. Ordering the Ohio University Inn’s version was a must. This mix of hashbrowns, sunny side eggs and cheddar cheese is a hearty combo.
Goetta Hash
Cutler’s Restaurant also has lunch and dinner where American favorites are joined with southern influences. Like the rest of the inn, Cutler’s Restaurant pays homage to the university. Artwork and historic photos tell a visual story dating back to the university’s start.
About the Guest Rooms
The 139 guest rooms include king bed, two queens and two doubles. When I arrived, my husband had thoroughly settled into our tastefully appointed king room. Food was in the refrigerator and belongings scattered. A novel with a pen as a bookmark was on the coffee table.
King rooms like ours include a sofa bed. All rooms have a microwave, large flat screen TV, coffee maker, iron, ironing board and hair dryer. Like the rest of the hotel, framed photographs of Ohio University buildings are a nod to tradition.
A floor lamp, desk lamp and bedside table lamp create a homelike lighting ambiance. One of my favorite features was the room’s patio. Our ground floor room’s sliding glass doors opened to a small patio with two chairs and a table. Because the hotel’s landscaping includes flower beds and a view of the pool, this is a place to savor a morning cup of coffee or an evening glass of wine.
photo courtesy of Ohio University Inn
Ohio University Inn Amenities
The inn’s large kidney shaped outdoor pool is a throwback to days where lounging at poolside means afternoon pleasure. There’s plenty of seating for a crowd. Beat the heat in summer since the pool is open to 9 pm. This is a seasonal pool.
Another outdoor gathering spot is the terrace near the pool. The terrace includes more tables, chairs and an outdoor fireplace. The open 24/7 fitness center is another well-appointed place for guests to enjoy.
Ohio University Inn. Think Location, Location, Location
There’s a reason Ohio University Inn is a fan favorite. Located within walking distance of the Ohio University campus, Penden Stadium, home of Bobcats football and Convocation Center where the basketball team plays and graduations occur, the inn is convenient to all university happenings.
It’s also close to Athen’s downtown since the campus and university are next to each other. This means eateries, bars, shopping and a movie theater are close by. Also nearby is The Dairy Barn Arts Center with art exhibits and a gift shop of local artists’ wares. This is a don’t miss place. I’ve bought many presents at the gift shop.
Strouds Run with Mimi Morrison (in purple) and Touch the Earth Adventures
Another don’t miss is Stroud’s Run State Park. Stroud’s Run is a few miles from Athens and a lovely gem for enjoying the outdoors. The lake is gorgeous, and the trails worth traversing. The end of June, I joined Mimi Morrison, owner of Touch the Earth Adventures, for a kayak trip paired with a watercolor painting lesson. Morrison frequently uses Stroud’s Run for her group kayak trips designed to connect people to nature. Full moon paddles are a specialty.
Timing is Key
Ohio University Inn is the go-to hotel where booking a room is like winning the lottery. During peak times like graduation or a parent’s weekend, lots of luck.
Room rates booked with the hotel range from $199 to $219 but fluctuate. Check out the package deals. My husband’s program covered our room cost. Check out Hotels.com or Expedia to look for savings.
By the way, this is a pet friendly hotel, and parking and Wi-Fi are free.
Post and Photos by Jamie Rhein
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