The Mead House, a B&B in historic Nelsonville, Ohio

Side view of The Mead House B&B

The Mead House, a Victorian home built in 1862, is a restored gem right off Nelsonville, Ohio’s historic town square. A stay at this bed and breakfast is a chance to relax in elegance while taking time to explore Hocking Hills history and natural beauty.

The Tulip Room

Each of the four guest rooms has a private bath and is decorated with period pieces and a modern flair. My husband and I stayed in the Holly Tree room, a cozy bedroom with a built in bookshelf and a bathroom with a claw foot tub and a separate shower.

The sitting room and parlor of the house are welcoming and meant for guest enjoyment. Sue Maxwell, the owner, knows Hocking Hills well and is an excellent resource. Of course, a great B&B has a great breakfast. Sue’s breakfast is worth driving for. Homemade muffins, a sausage and egg casserole and fresh fruit were the centerpiece while we chatted with other guests.

Along with providing one of the only lodging places in Nelsonville, The Mead House is part of the town’s history and what makes it vibrant today.

One side of the sitting room

In the late 1880s Nelsonville bustled as a coal mining town and its brick making companies paved streets in much of the United States. Starbrick is the most famous, and its design has become Nelsonville’s signature. In an effort to revitalize the economy, the town has turned to arts and tourism with some success.

Each month, Final Friday (the last Friday of the month) turns the town square into a festival of music and art. Also, Stewart Opera House, restored to splendor in the 1970s and on the National Register of Historic places, offers concerts and other performances throughout the year.

Another Nelsonville distinction is the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway. This non-profit, volunteer run railroad consists of vintage 1920s and 1930s train cars that travel a stretch of railroad from Nelsonville through part of the Hocking Valley. The train ride passes by historic sights along the way and is a fun way to learn about the region’s bygone days.

And here’s a bit of trivia. Nelsonville is the birthplace of Sarah Jessica Parker.

If you do go to Nelsonville, dine at Rhapsody, the restaurant run by the culinary school at Hocking College. The food is elegant, upscale and spledid. I’ve eaten here three times.

Because Nelsoville is central to most of Hocking Hills, it’s a perfect center for exploration of the area. Our plan is to head to The Mead House for a repeat visit.

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