One of the things I love most about travelling is finding cool and quirky places to stay. Don’t get me wrong, I’ll stay in a corporate chain if I have to, but I far prefer hostels, guest houses, and bed and breakfasts. On my lightning overnighter to Dayton last weekend, I stayed at Inn Port, in the Oregon District in downtown Dayton, OH. The Oregon District is Dayton’s oldest neighborhood, dating back to 1829 or so. I strongly recommend reading more about the history of this funky little neighborhood, as it’s a real urban revival success story.

Inn Port is actually two separate buildings on the same street. The building where I stayed was a stately old beauty of a duplex, built in 1855. Lovingly restored by owners Jeff and Leslie Gonya, the building is a glory of hardwood floors, soaring ceilings, gorgeous woodwork and quirky Caribbean themed decor. Jeff and Leslie greeted me at the door after helping me find the place via cell phone.  I’ve stayed in quite a few B&Bs over the years and Jeff and Leslie are among the friendliest, most down to earth folks I’ve had the privilege of guesting with. They made me feel right at home in the cozy Key West room.

The Key West room has a sort of tropical, Jimmy Buffett theme. There’s a vintage record player with a bunch of Buffett albums, beachy decor, and a fabulously comfortable bed. It occupies the top floor of the house, sharing space with the New Orleans room, a shared bathroom and an inviting common area with sky chairs, a television, fridge, etc. Jeff and Leslie’s own apartment is also on this floor which was comforting since I was travelling alone.

Breakfast is a serve yourself continental affair in a spacious breakfast room. I’m not a morning person and this suited me better than some places I’ve stayed where the owners sit right down and eat with you. On the whole, Inn Port is a gracious, comfortable B&B with welcoming, laid-back owners. What more could you ask?