The Old Powder House Inn
St. Augustine, Florida

The Old Powder House Inn is so named because the property was used by the Spanish in the 18th century to warehouse gunpowder for the nearby fort. The present 8-room guest home was built in 1899.

The first thing I noticed after ringing the bell was a sun porch off to the left. It serves as an outside common area. It was screened-in for late night visits that Florida evenings always bring. Everything from area information to a stocked refrigerator and a phone were available inside. Comfortable chairs and homemade treats enticed me, but it was time to go inside.

Kate's smile was almost as shiny as the hardwood floors as we entered. She showed us to our room quickly as we had less than one hour to prepare for attendance at the Inn Route Gala being held at the Lightner Museum.

Everything in our room (Grandma's Attic) was perfect. The king size bed boasted an puffed quilt, the butler's basket held anything we might have needed and the air conditioner was doing its job very well in the Florida heat and humidity. Photos of bygone eras as well as antique mementos completed the decor. Down the hall was a balcony with a swing and lovely plants.

The Gala was great -- Florida did itself proud! Lois Cleveland pulled off another success and is commended for her efforts. We returned to our Inn afterward to a great night's sleep. We considered the hot tub in the back, but time and fatigue won out as I sank down into the soft bed.

Breakfast the next morning was another treat awaiting us. There were stuffed pears resting in a vanilla cream sauce, granola, chocolate chip muffins, eggs benedict, juice and coffee.

Before we left for a tour of old St. Augustine, Al allowed us a quick peek at the Memories Room, a Jacuzzi suite. "It boasts the only true 2-person Jacuzzi tub in St. Augustine," said Al. The room is home to many antique games in great condition. A jacks game with a wooden ball, a pre-erector set type toy, an original Old Maid game and even Mr. Wiggley!

Veterans of nearly 100 weddings, Eunice and Al Howes of The Old Powder House Inn, will pamper you into bliss. Be sure to check out their website and enjoy!