Crafts Inn

The Crafts Inn, situated at 10 W Main St, Wilmington, VT 05363, USA, is a distinguished historic establishment that offers a unique lodging experience in the picturesque town of Wilmington, Vermont. For those searching under "Hotels Near Of Me" in the region, Crafts Inn stands out not just as a place to stay, but as a destination steeped in history and offering a range of amenities suitable for various travelers. You can reach them at (802) 464-2344 or +1 802-464-2344.

Environment and Location:

The Crafts Inn holds a prominent place in the heart of Wilmington Village. This turn-of-the-20th-century inn, designed by the preeminent architect Stanford White in 1898 and opened in 1903 (originally as "Childs Tavern"), is registered as a National Historic Landmark. Its architectural significance adds to the charm and character of the property. The inn is part of the Wilmington Village Historic District, surrounded by other historically significant buildings, offering guests a glimpse into Vermont's past.

The location on West Main Street places guests within easy walking distance of Wilmington's quintessential Vermont village center. This means immediate access to local shops, stores, restaurants, and bars, providing convenience and a lively atmosphere. The natural environment is a major draw for visitors to Wilmington. The inn is "close to lots of hiking," with abundant trails and natural sites nearby. Mount Snow ski area is approximately an 18-minute drive (about 11.8 miles), making it an excellent base for winter sports enthusiasts. In warmer months, Lake Whitingham (also known as Lake Raponda) is within a 10-minute drive, offering opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. The surrounding Green Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for year-round outdoor activities. The immediate vicinity, being on a "busy road" as noted by one reviewer, means easy access but also some potential for road noise, which guests should be aware of. Despite this, the overall charm of the historic setting and the proximity to both village amenities and natural wonders remain significant advantages.

Services and Amenities:

Crafts Inn offers a variety of services and amenities designed to cater to both short and extended stays, often appealing to families and those seeking a more self-sufficient accommodation.

• Accommodation Types: The inn primarily offers one and two-bedroom units, often described as apartments or suites, rather than standard hotel rooms. These units are equipped with efficient or full kitchens, which include a dishwasher, refrigerator, stove, microwave, coffee maker, toaster, and all necessary dishes and utensils. This feature is highly valued by guests, especially those staying for multiple nights or traveling with families, allowing for meal preparation and cost savings. Rooms typically include queen-size beds and queen-size sleep sofas in the living room, accommodating families comfortably. Some units are noted to have air conditioning, though one review specifically highlighted its absence in their room, suggesting variability or a need to confirm this amenity when booking.
• Recreational Facilities: A key highlight of the Crafts Inn is its on-site recreational offerings. Guests have access to an indoor swimming pool, a hot tub, and saunas, providing excellent options for relaxation and activity regardless of the weather. There is also a racquetball court and a game room (with ping pong and billiards) for indoor entertainment. A playground is available on-site, which is beneficial for families with children.
• Connectivity and Technology: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the inn and in all rooms. Units come with cable TV and sometimes a VCR/DVD player, with movies available for rent at the front desk.
• Guest Services: The front desk operates during specified hours (typically 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM), and the staff is generally described as "really nice" and helpful. While one review mentioned a negative experience with a specific front desk clerk, the overall sentiment regarding staff has been positive, highlighting good treatment during stays. Laundry facilities are available on-site for guest convenience.
• Parking: Free parking is available for guests.
• Pet Policy: It is important for guests to note that pets are generally not allowed at Crafts Inn.

Features and Unique Selling Points:

The Crafts Inn differentiates itself with several key features:

• Historic Significance: As a National Historic Landmark, the inn offers a unique opportunity to stay in a piece of Vermont's architectural heritage. This historical charm, combined with modern comforts, creates a memorable experience.
• Apartment-Style Living: The emphasis on units with full or efficient kitchens and separate living areas provides a more home-like atmosphere than traditional hotel rooms. This is particularly beneficial for longer stays and families.
• Comprehensive On-Site Recreation: The indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, and racquetball court provide ample opportunities for relaxation and physical activity without needing to leave the property, adding significant value to the stay.
• Prime Location: Its central position in Wilmington allows for easy walking access to the village's shops, restaurants, and bars, while also being a convenient drive to major outdoor attractions like Mount Snow, Lake Whitingham, and numerous hiking trails. The presence of EV charging one block away is also a modern convenience for electric vehicle owners.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With spacious rooms, kitchens, a pool, and a playground, the inn caters well to families traveling with children, making it a comfortable and convenient base for family vacations.

Promotional Information and Guest Considerations:

The Crafts Inn markets itself as a delightful destination for year-round outdoor sports and scenic beauty. Promotions often highlight its historic charm, central location, and the array of amenities available, positioning it as a versatile choice for both adventurous and relaxing getaways. Rates can vary depending on the season (high demand during ski season and foliage season), with specific rates available for different room types (Double, Triple, Quad) and during holidays. For example, non-holiday weekday rates for a Double room start around $160 per night, with weekend and holiday rates being higher. Additional guests typically incur a charge of $20 per night. Vermont Rooms and Meals tax (10%) will be added to these amounts. Discounts are occasionally offered through vacation clubs like RCI and Armed Forces Vacation Club, indicating it also functions as a timeshare resort with units available for rent.

Guests should be aware of a few important points: while the staff is generally praised, isolated negative experiences with front desk personnel have been reported. It is also advisable to confirm specific amenities like air conditioning for individual units, as it may not be universally available. The location along a "busy road" might mean some traffic noise, particularly for rooms facing the street. However, the convenience of walking to nearby amenities like a grocery store (5 minutes away) and restaurants is a significant plus. Check-in time is typically 4:00 PM and check-out is 11:00 AM.

In conclusion, the Crafts Inn offers a blend of historic elegance and practical amenities, making it a compelling choice for visitors to Wilmington, VT. Its spacious, kitchen-equipped units, indoor recreational facilities, and prime location provide a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the rich history, charming village life, and abundant outdoor adventures that Southern Vermont has to offer.