Home > Massachusetts B&Bs > Amherst Bed and Breakfast Inns > Allen House Victorian Inn

599 Main St, Amherst, MA 01002-2409, USA    
 
 

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$75
- $195


Book a Room $75 - $195

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5 based on 26 reviews
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Innkeeper/s:

Alan & Ann Zieminski

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Description

Circa 1886. This stick-style Queen Anne is much like a Victorian museum with guest rooms that feature period reproduction wallpapers, pedestal sinks, carved golden oak and brass beds, painted wooden floors and plenty of antiques. Among its many other treasures include Eastlake fireplace mantels. Unforgettable breakfasts include specialties such as eggs Benedict or French toast stuffed with rich cream cheese. Afternoon tea is a treat, and the inn offers plenty of examples of poetry from Emily Dickinson, whose home is just across the street from the inn.

For more information visit the website.

Rates

$75 to $195

Payment types accepted include Personal Checks, Travelers Checks and cash.

    • Breakfast
    • Snacks/Refreshments
    • Afternoon Tea

Amenities

This property has 7 total guest accommodations with private bath. The types of beds available include Queen, Twin and Double.

  • Air Conditioning
  • Coffeemaker
  • Copy Machine
  • Fax
  • Telephone
  • Wireless Internet Access

Events Hosted

    • Seminars
    • Meetings

Transportation Service

    • Train Station Pickup
    • Bus Station Pickup

Reservation/Cancellation Policies:

Minimum Stay Requirements

College weekends two-night minimum

Cancellation

14 day notice required for full refund

Smoking

Limited.


Other Activities

    • Amusement Park
    • Antiquing
    • Fishing
    • Golf
    • Live Theater
    • Parks
    • Shopping (Local Crafts)
    • Skiing Cross Country
    • Skiing Downhill
    • Sports Events, Major College
    • Tennis
    • Water Sports

Historic Interest

Aside from the Dickinson home, the area offers many museums and the inn is within walking distance of Amherst College, Hampshire College and the University of Massachusetts. Emily Dickinson Homestead (less than one-fourth mile), historic Deerfield (18 miles north), Norman Rockwell Museum and Tanglewood (less that 1 hour away).

Historic Awards:

  • State Register (Granted)
  • Local Register (Granted)
  • State Historical Site (Applied)
  • State Historical Site (Granted)
  • City Historical Site (Applied)
  • City Historical Site (Granted)

Historic Memberships:

  • National Trust
  • Local Historical Society

Historic sites nearby:

Aside from the Dickinson home, the area offers many museums and the inn is within walking distance of Amherst College, Hampshire College and the University of Massachusetts. Emily Dickinson Homestead (less than one-fourth mile), historic Deerfield (15 miles north), Norman Rockwell Museum and Tanglewood (less that 1 hour away).

Get a Free Night at this inn

- One Night Free: This property is featured in Bed & Breakfasts and Country Inns published by American Historic Inns. This guide features a certificate for ONE NIGHT FREE with the purchase of one night.

The dates this property will honor the certificate are Jan. 1-April 1, Sunday-Thursday.


Write a review

world-class hospitality

While visiting UMass Amherst on a last-minute trip, luck Ied me to book a room at the Allen House, a Victorian inn just down the street from Emily Dickinson's house and within a short walk from Amherst Center. I was traveling alone, and it was my first time visiting Amherst. The innkeepers Ann and Alan were so hospitable and kind that they seemed like surrogate parents. Ann picked me up from the bus stop in Amherst Center and drove me to the inn, pointing out landmarks to orient me along the way. I stayed in the Oscar Wilde Peach Room, a beautifully furnished second-floor room with its own bathroom and shower. I loved all the ornate little touches from the bedspreads to the wallpaper and tile. The bed was extremely comfortable with crisp white sheets--so inviting after my long day of travel. The free wifi also gave me a chance to catch up on all my correspondence. I stayed one night, and the inn was very affordable for this poor student! I had to be on campus early the next morning, so Alan drove me to the Amherst Inn (which he and Ann also own) to save me time to enjoy the full breakfast they laid out. The delicious fresh-cut fruit, orange juice, tea, eggs, sausages, and pancakes that Ann had prepared fortified me for the day. I wish I could have stayed longer to enjoy a second helping! The breakfast tables were elaborately set, and a few other very pleasant students and travelers joined me in the dining room. Alan then went above and beyond by offering to drive me to campus so I wouldn't be late for my class. He and Ann are both so good-hearted. They welcomed me to Amherst with open arms, and I can't wait to stay with them again and recommend their inn to friends and family who come to visit me during my time at UMass!
Steven Tagle

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
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This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

what a truly outstanding B&B

Amazing B&B. Great service, great people, great location and a beautiful place! When we arrived, we were greeted by the extremely friendly innkeeper, who went on to, after serving us home-made cookies with milk, into our room. The room was perfectly clean and the beds were very comfortable. The bathroom was in fine condition and all of the toiletries one would normally expect from a hotel were there, as well. Even though we only stayed on night, we got a great feeling as, whenever we went downstairs, or needed anything, the innkeeper was right there. He was very talkative, which was fine, and very helpful. In the morning, we had one of the most delicious breakfast's I've ever had. The eggs were delicious! I had to ask for the recipe. His wife was exceedingly friendly as well. Despite having recently recovered from breast cancer, she not only made breakfast and did all the cooking, but offered to drive my son and me to the college we were looking at! truly remarkable! Upon our return later that day, we were yet again greeted with cookies, milk and tea. we checked out with no problem and all was well. The innkeeper, before we left, gave us a few recommendations for restaurants to stop at in the area, and I must say, the two we tried were really delicious! Overall, I say five stars! What an amazing trip!
Sandy Weiner

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (2 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Allen House Review

The Allen house was a lovely respite from a hard day's travel. Alan and Ann were wonderful hosts. The room was really comfortable and the breakfast was delicious.
Lisa G

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (1 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Amazing!!

My husband and I stayed here for a week (Monday - Friday) and it was fantastic! Homemade breakfast, awesome guests that we got to know during breakfast, and the inn owners are absolutely delightful! They are kind, generous, and attentive without being intrusive. They will accommodate your requests and are so gracious. They are also an excellent source of information for what to do in the area. My husband and I came to the area to do a vow renewal in the town in which we met (we're Hampshire College graduates) and our stay here exceeded our expectations. We will definitely be coming back!
Montana V-G

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (2 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Truly exceptional

I stayed at the Allen House on a free weekend between business trips. The house itself is remarkable, beautiful in every detail; the innkeeper’s knowledge of the history of the place made it all the more interesting. The room was comfortable and relaxing, the breakfast delicious each morning, and the place had an overall feel of home. What made the Allen House stand out was the innkeeper, Alan. I typically require very little of my accommodations, but in this case the complexity of my itinerary required that I ask a lot of Alan. He provided excellent advice on what was in and around town, lent out an umbrella, permitted me to do laundry, stored a bag at the inn for a week, and gave me a place to clean up after I returned from my travels to pick up my bag. He even sent me on my way with some fruit for the journey. I could not have expected better service of anyone. If ever I find myself with reason to be within 20 miles of Amherst, I will stay at the Allen House!
Nathan L

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

extraordinary

My daughter and I stayed at The Allen House in Amherst, MA for 2 days while on a college visitation tour through the area. We thought the inn was extraordinary and wanted to submit comments about it. The physical inn was most interesting, done in period style with antiques, unusual wallpaper, everything completely thought out to transport guests back through time to a more elegant age. The innkeeper Alin was extremely helpful to us, talking about the history of the area and giving us tips on such matters as where to eat etc. We would recommend the Allen House to anyone visiting Amherst. Marvin Shaub, Ph.D., Princeton, NJ
Marvin Shaub

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

My Peaceful Gorgeous Stay

If you like living in a historic house, sitting on a rocking chair, reading your book in front of a fireplace in a cozy, quiet room; this is a place for you. I highly recommend you treat yourself with a night of historic luxury in Alan House. I enjoyed our stay so much; it reminded me of 80s built luxury mansions. I definitely stay in Alan House if we are ever in Amherst again. The very kind and friendly owner makes you feel home. He is so passionate to help you out with whatever you need that you do not feel shy to ask. He made us the best scrambled egg (with Tuscan herb) I have ever had. The fantastic breakfast in a Victorian style kitchen with classic music sets you up for a lovely day in Amherst. The gorgeous room with its comfortable bed and the soft classical music create a calm feeling and relieving stress which sets you free from whatever it is that prevents you from claiming the life that is truly yours.
Ellie Fini
2/10/2011

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
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This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

highly recommended

I spent six nights at the Allen House in Amherst and couldn't have thought of a better place to stay. The innkeepers, Alan and Ann, Sarah, and Panda the black and white cat completed the welcoming Victorian atmosphere of the house.
a guest
Germany,
9/13/2010

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Cozy and Informative

Host Alan seems to know everything about the town and region. Housekeeper Sarah was very efficient and nice. The Inn itself had fabulous furnishings and food. We had a very relaxing weekend.
Phil Nash
Bethesda, MD
8/26/2010

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Beautiful and pleasant

The Allen House is a beautiful home with a pleasant atmosphere amid a historical setting. My husband and I enjoyed a two night stay to mark the start of our 'empty nest' years. Alan and Ann are wonderful hosts, and Sarah too. We met Panda, the adorable cat living in the house, and enjoyed breakfast with fellow travelers. The homemade fudge brownies were a delight. We will definitely return to the Allen House.
Diane Tarbet
Bethesda, MD
8/25/2010

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Close, comfy, and quiet.

I highly recommend this Inn! Very friendly people, fantastic breakfast! I stayed here for two nights while I was taking an African Drumming workshop at UMass. It is very close to everything while still being a very quiet place. I could have biked to Main St. and UMass. My room was gorgeous, and the bed was very comfortable. It was also cheaper than the surrounding chain motels!
Jill Boday
Woonsocket, RI
8/7/2010

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
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InnSide Tip - quarters!
Make sure you have plenty of quarters for a trip to downtown Amherst! All of their parking is metered!
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Loved it!

I stayed here only for a night and that was my loss to be sure. Everyone was lovely, friendly and I had some great conversations while I was here...and that's only with the staff! The breakfast was wonderful, the grounds lovely (there's a great garden out back) and my room was awesome. I sincerely can't recommend the Allen House enough. They go above and beyond to make your time there feel like you are staying with good friends. Thanks Allen, Anne, Duncan and Panda!
Lindsay Avra
Woonsocket, RI
8/2/2010

My ratings for this property      
     Location
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     Condition
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

a homey touch to our college tour

The location is unbeatable, the room and bath were lovely and comfortable, and the breakfast was delicious. The host was helpful in giving directions and suggestions, and we would definitely stay here again.
Melissa McCullough
Durham, NC
7/25/2010

My ratings for this property      
     Location
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     Condition
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

allen house inn amherst mass

we had a wonderful stay. the owners were always available and helpful. we highly recommend a stay. the katz's of phila
r katz
Durham, NC
7/18/2010

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Charming, Romantic, Historic....

I went to 4 B&Bs in 10 days and the Allen House in Amherst far surpassed the others. The charming and historic house was obviously cared for deeply and beautifully appointed in every aspect. The hosts were kind, fascinating, and helpful. The breakfasts were perfectly prepared. It was WONDERFUL. Hated to leave such a lovely place.
Deborah S.
Olympia, WA
7/4/2010

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Peaceful, elegant, comfortable

My stay at the Allen House was exactly what I was looking for, respite from my daily life to finish a writing project. I was comfortable while being surrounded by elegance. I was treated to a full breakfast and even cake and iced tea in the evening. Fully rested and inspired at the end of my stay, I would return in a heartbeat.
Barbara S
Olympia, WA
7/2/2010

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

The Best

Simply put, the Allen House is the best. The coziness I felt here was just absurd. I stayed here 2 months ago and to this day I have failed to grasp how or why I enjoyed myself so much! It's ridiculous. Allen is friendly, eccentric and exceptional. His personality entwined with Victorian setting made our time at the Allen House seem like more of the vacation than the time spent away from the Allen House. The breakfast is thoughtful. The discussions are fun. The attention to detail by Allen is unprecedented for an Inn. Overall, I feel like I have found a 'home' for my visits to western Mass. I plan to visit there 2 more times this year.
Chris O
Olympia, WA
5/31/2010

My ratings for this property      
     Location
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
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This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

A Lucky Find!

There are certain factors that can make or break a vacation, and lodging is top on that list. I have traveled extensively both domestically and internationally, and it is rare to come across the hospitality and service I found at the Allen House in Amherst, MA. From the moment I arrived, I instantly felt at home. I still can’t believe what a lucky find discovered! Often times, attention to detail goes unnoticed. At this bed & breakfast, my needs were not only met, but were exceeded. Allen has a genuine and kind nature that instantly makes you feel welcome and comfortable the moment you walk in the door. His ability to make all guests feel at ease creates an extremely pleasant atmosphere. During my time there, I enjoyed breakfast with other guests. The food was not only delicious but also beautifully presented in the traditional Victorian manner. I shared many laughs at that table, and left my stay taking with me new friends and fond memories. I was hesitant to write this review, because The Allen House was a special find…and often times I do not like to disclose my best secrets. My only hope is that other people are able to enjoy this rare treat as long as there is always a room for me!
Rachel Gabriel
Hingham, MA
4/20/2010

My ratings for this property      
     Location
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     Condition
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Wonderful hospitality

This place has a very friendly atmosphere; if you like New England charme all the better. Each room is differently designed, and there is a cozy shared living room. A special treat is the breakfast, freshly made by the friendly owner.
Bettina Jungen
Amherst, MA
4/9/2010

My ratings for this property      
     Location
     Comfort
     Condition
     Cleanliness
     Service
BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Warm and gracious innkeepers

My wife, my mother and I loved the Allen House. We especially loved the hosts, Anne and Allen. They found us a beautiful room on short notice, and were wonderfully hospitable. We have also stayed in the Amherst Inn, and that was equally enjoyable. Make sure you stay here when in Amherst. It's also right across from Emily Dickinson's House, which is a must see!
Jed Feffer
Amherst, MA
12/20/2009

My ratings for this property      
     Location
     Comfort
     Condition
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     Service
BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Family time

We had a wonderful stay. The hosts were very accommodating. It was an ideal situation to bring five branches of the family together in one house. We totally enjoyed the cozyness of the family room.
James Hansen
McGregor, TX
11/16/2009

My ratings for this property      
     Location
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     Cleanliness
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Great room and hospitality!

I stayed here for nights while I was looking for a house in Amherst. Allen and Ann, the couple who run the place are absolutely kind. They helped me out in finding my housing and gave me tons of information about the town. I felt like I stayed with my own friends and family there. Highly recommended!
Malikhone M
McGregor, TX
9/23/2009

My ratings for this property      
     Location
     Comfort
     Condition
     Cleanliness
     Service
BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Great Location and Stay

This is a great place to stay if you're visiting the Dickinson home. It's right across the street, in beautiful Victorian style. It's clean and quiet and the hosts were lovely.
Susan Fine
New York, NY
8/30/2009

My ratings for this property      
     Location
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     Condition
     Cleanliness
     Service
BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Fabulous B&B

My friend and I stayed here one summer weekend and were impressed with every aspect of the Inn-the food, the accommodations, the innkeeper, the location (across the street from the Emily Dickinson House and a hop skip from downtown Amherst). For the affordable price, we found a steal!
Elana Kieffer
New York, NY
8/9/2009

My ratings for this property      
     Location
     Comfort
     Condition
     Cleanliness
     Service
BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Like staying with friends

The room was clean, the bed was comfortable, the breakfast was substantial, and the hosts were friendly.
Mike Holland
New York, NY
5/11/2009

My ratings for this property      
     Location
     Comfort
     Condition
     Cleanliness
     Service
BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

charming

Our room and adjoining bath were spotlessly clean, charming, and quiet, with good lighting. Our meals were delicious and appetizing, and the casual, family-like atmosphere encouraged discussions among the guests.
Anonymous
New York, NY
10/21/2008

My ratings for this property      
BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
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This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

At A Glance

26 Review(s)
92% would stay again
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Other Ratings: "3 AAA Diamonds, "iLoveInns Guests

Publicity and Press Reviews

New York Times, Boston Magazine, Bon Appetit, Yankee Travel, Victorian Homes.


Discussion

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