This Boutique Hotel Takes You Back to Elegance of the 1920s

By: Visit Indiana

If you enjoy seeking out lodging options beyond the typical chains – ones with personality and history, and unique decor, you’ll love the Charley Creek Inn in Wabash. This boutique hotel first opened in 1920, and it harkens back to those days of luxury. It was then known as Hotel Indiana.

Like many aging hotels, there came a time when it fell into disrepair. In 2010 it returned to its former glory following a two-year renovation after local philanthropist Richard E. Ford purchased it and set his sights toward restoring it. This gem carries a vibe of old-world elegance and is situated in the historic downtown, which is loaded with quaint shops, eateries, culture, and entertainment.

I stayed in the Gene Stratton Porter suite, named for the author, nature photographer, and naturalist from Wabash County. It included a large living room, a kitchen and dining area, and a large bathroom. There’s a total of 21 guest rooms and suites, an opulent lobby with a player piano, an upscale restaurant called Twenty, a lounge, private dining rooms, an ice cream shoppe, and a wine and cheese shop.

During my stay, I dined at Twenty, which has such a wonderful romantic, nostalgic ambiance. I dined on salmon rangoon and teriyaki salmon as tunes from the 1930s and 40s played. There’s a varied dinner menu of small bites, sandwiches and steaks, and chops.

The ice cream shoppe is a cute spot where you can get a cone from among ten or so flavors, candy, popcorn, and other snacks. And just across the hall is the wine and cheese shop where I enjoyed lingering for a wine tasting. When checking in, you get a voucher that is good for a couple scoops in the ice cream shoppe or a tasting or glass of wine in the wine shop. I decided to order a cheese board as well and call it dinner. 

Parking was easy and free in the lot right behind the hotel, and there’s street parking as well. Across the street is the historic Eagles Theatre, where you can take in film or live shows. Across the street on another side is the Wabash County Visitor Center, where you can learn more about the area, pick up some guides and maps, and shop from local items. For more information, click here.

Charley Creek Inn is on the National Register of Historic Places and is the recipient of Indiana Landmark’s Cook Cup for its impeccable historic restoration. The Cook Cup is prominently featured in the lobby of the hotel.