Wyndham Alumnae House

For local users and travelers searching for distinctive and charming accommodations within the "Hotels Near Of Me" category, the Wyndham Alumnae House offers a truly unique experience. Situated at 235 N Merion Ave, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010, USA, this establishment is not just a hotel but a historic bed and breakfast with a rich heritage, nestled within the picturesque campus of Bryn Mawr College. Guests can connect with the Wyndham Alumnae House directly at (610) 526-5236 or via mobile at +1 610-526-5236.

The Wyndham Alumnae House is a gem, offering a blend of historic elegance and a serene academic environment. Originally built as a formal fieldstone farmhouse in 1796, the house has evolved through various ownerships and functions, eventually becoming part of Bryn Mawr College in 1926. It stands as a beautifully preserved example of 18th-century architecture, with later additions, including a modern wing and dining rooms. The interior is adorned with period antiques and furnishings, creating a unique and comfortable setting that resonates with history. As one guest eloquently put it, it's "a charming gem" and "a bit of an oasis in the middle of the Main Line."

Its location on the Bryn Mawr College campus means guests can enjoy "a convenient walk to/through the Bryn Mawr College campus," offering access to the college's beautiful historic gardens and arboretum. This provides a tranquil and aesthetically pleasing environment for relaxation and strolls. Despite its peaceful setting, Wyndham Alumnae House is strategically located just outside Philadelphia on the famed Main Line, providing a balance between a private, country-estate feel and accessibility to urban attractions. It’s ideal for visiting the college, attending local events, or simply enjoying a peaceful retreat away from the city bustle. The surrounding area of Bryn Mawr itself is known for its charming shops, cafes, and a refined suburban atmosphere.

Wyndham Alumnae House operates as a bed and breakfast, a restaurant, and a catering and events venue, offering a comprehensive range of services tailored to its unique setting.

• Guest Rooms: The B&B features seven "very quiet and comfortable guest rooms," each with a private bath and "essential modern accessories," including wireless internet and cable television. Rooms are described as "clean and bright," with recent property updates noted to "enhance an already exceptional experience." Rates typically start from $175 plus tax, with suites at $250 plus tax, and discounts are available for alumnae. Check-in hours are from 2-8 p.m., with special arrangements possible for early or late arrivals.
• Dining: Wyndham Alumnae House boasts an "award-winning restaurant" that is open to the public for lunch from Monday to Friday. The restaurant offers both a buffet and A la Carte selections, with a daily changing menu to ensure "fresh and seasonal variety." Guests consistently praise the food, describing it as "tasty, hot," with "hot and strong" coffee. It's considered by some to be "the best reasonably priced place to have a nice lunch, arguably on the Main Line." The dining experience is characterized as "simple, polite, elegant, and not snoody."
• Catering and Events: This is a significant aspect of Wyndham Alumnae House's offerings. It is an "ideal location for a wedding, special occasion, catered business meeting or banquet." They offer both indoor and outdoor spaces, including a lush flagstone terrace. The venue can comfortably accommodate a seated dinner-dance for 120 guests or a "Moveable Feast" for up to 150. For smaller gatherings, it can host as few as 30 people, perfect for rehearsal dinners. A large array of menu items is available, allowing each event to be tailored to specific needs. A unique feature is that guests are allowed to provide their own alcohol, with the house providing all service and catering, which can be a significant cost-saver.
• Connectivity: Wireless Internet is available throughout the property.
• Guest Services: The staff, including both professional and student employees, are consistently highlighted as "crisp, professional, pleasant, efficient & very caring." This level of service is a major differentiator and contributes significantly to the overall positive guest experience.
• Parking: Parking is included as part of the venue's services for events. Specifics for B&B guests would likely be similar, but confirmation upon booking is always advised.
• Nonsmoking Policy: For the comfort of all guests, Wyndham Alumnae House is a nonsmoking bed and breakfast.

The standout feature of Wyndham Alumnae House is its deep historical character combined with a genuine commitment to hospitality. Guests often describe their stays with words like "exceptional experience," emphasizing the blend of unique setting and excellent service. The staff's professionalism and warmth are consistently praised, creating an inviting and supportive atmosphere. The sense of looking "forward to each visit" speaks volumes about the positive rapport established between the staff and repeat guests, particularly those with connections to Bryn Mawr College.

The quality of the food, especially the lunch service, is a significant draw, making it a popular spot for both casual meals and more formal gatherings. The historic ambiance, complete with period furnishings, creates a distinctive atmosphere that distinguishes it from chain hotels. The "recently renovated" status suggests ongoing dedication to maintaining and enhancing the property, ensuring comfort without compromising its historic charm. The ability to host various events, from intimate dinners to larger banquets, demonstrates its versatility as a venue. It's notable that you "DO NOT have to be an alumnus to use their facilities," making it accessible to a broader public.

Wyndham Alumnae House, while sharing the "Wyndham" name, operates independently as part of Bryn Mawr College's operations and is not directly affiliated with the larger Wyndham Hotels & Resorts chain. Therefore, traditional Wyndham loyalty programs (like Wyndham Rewards) do not apply here.

Its promotional appeal lies in its unique proposition: a historic bed and breakfast experience with a highly-regarded restaurant and a versatile event space. For those seeking "Hotels Near Of Me" with character and a strong sense of place, especially in the Bryn Mawr or Main Line area, it's a compelling choice. The "reasonably priced" lunch is a significant value proposition for local patrons. For events, the flexibility of tailoring menus and the option for guests to "provide the alcohol" can result in "considerably less expensive" wedding costs compared to other venues. The high recommendation rate (96% of couples for weddings) and strong ratings across flexibility, professionalism, and value underscore its quality as an event venue. The overall value is derived from the combination of exceptional service, delicious food, historic charm, and a serene campus setting, making it a memorable alternative to conventional hotels.