The Alling House

215 East French Avenue, Orange City, Florida 32763
Innkeeper(s): Gerald and Nan Hill
  • Rose Room

    Rose Room

  • Nature Cottage in courtyard

    Nature Cottage in courtyard

 
  • Introduction

    Welcome to the Alling House!

    "White Gloves Award Nominee for Superior Housekeeping"

    A true bed and breakfast experience.

    Welcome to the Alling House, a Bed and Breakfast with three rooms and five cottages, owned and operated by Gerald and Nan Hill.


    For over 40 years this was the home of E.B. Alling, a well-known mayor of Orange City during its formative years. Learn how Orange City was founded as part of the expansion of modern civilization into Florida along a prominent transportation route provided by the St. John's River.

    You will find the house has been well preserved over the years. Many visitors agree that the Heart of Pine wood floors are one of its most beautiful characteristics. The house is decorated in a comfortable Victorian style that reflects its heritage. Nan has designed each room in a way that provides a uniquely refreshing experience, encourages stress to melt away and causes guests to forget about the cares of a busy routine.


    We invite you to sit for a spell in the swing on our large front porch and relax while listening to the many beautiful birds. Take a peek at the goldfish in our pond and spy on the two large bullfrogs that guard the edge. Stroll across the front yard that provides a great presentation of our majestic home and a nice view of our landscaped property, surrounded by the residential neighborhood nearby. Browse underneath the canopy of trees behind the house and view the flora and fauna of an area frequently visited by the local critters that call this place home.



    Please take the opportunity to sit and talk; read from our library of books; play cards, chess or other games; choose one of the videos from the video library; take advantage of the cable TV or the Internet guest PC and wireless access; play on our 1908 Baby Grand piano; or listen to the soothing background music in our family room.


    For those who want to get out and be active, we are located near several places of interest. We are three miles from the St. John's River and Blue Spring State Park, where you can kayak or canoe and view the manatees that come into the park during the cooler months. There is plenty of opportunity for fishing and boating on the St. John's River. We are 30 minutes away from the New Smyrna Beach and Daytona Beach areas. Many people drive 5 miles north and enjoy strolling down main street Deland, with its historic atmosphere, antique shops and restaurants. Others come from around the world for more exciting pursuits, such as skydiving at Deland's airport. We are in the Orlando area and just a short trip from all of the well-known tourist parks. There is always something going on in the area. Whether it be a festival, fair, NASCAR race, Bike Week, or antique auction, we are close by.



    Hospitality being her strength, Nan's warmth and love will immediately make you feel like a close relative who has come home. You won't want to leave. We look forward to providing the opportunity and environment that will allow you to accomplish everything you're looking for from your vacation.

    Three diamond rating received from AAA.

    Amenities:

    • Cable TV with VCR/DVD and clock/radio in each room
    • Internet PC in common area on second floor and WI/FI Internet access
    • Ice machine and refrigerator with drinks and snacks for guest use
    • Family room and parlor with grand piano available for guest use on first floor
    • Discounts to local businesses
    • Tickets to local theatrical productions available for for guest use
    • Access to a professional massage therapist

    Each room has a clock radio with CD player, cable T.V. with VHS or DVD player, hair dryer and a private bathroom with spa quality towels and robes for your comfort. An iron and ironing board is available in the closet at the end of the hall.

    The common area on the second floor is available to relax in, watch television, read, play games or use high-speed access to the Internet with our guest PC or wireless router. This area also contains an ice machine and a small refrigerator with drinks and snacks. The exit door in this area is only intended to be used in emergencies.

    The main house has central air conditioning and heating. Each cottage has its own A/C and heating unit.

     


    The family room, parlor and dining rooms on the first floor are available for your use. You are welcome to play the 1908 Baby Grand piano. We love to hear the music. There is a handicap-accessible half-bath on the first floor.

    You will be given certificates that will provide discounts to businesses in our area and are available to use for the length of your stay.

    We have access to a professional massage therapist that can provide one-hour full-body massages for guests in their rooms at a very reasonable rate. Please make arrangements with us in advance.

     

  • Weddings

    All packages include a one night stay in a cottage. Any other units may be reserved at 25% off the nightly rate for anyone affiliated or attending the wedding.
     
    All events must be coordinated by our event planner, Stephanie, at Soiree Solutions (www.soireesolutionsevents.com) and is the exclusive event coordinator for Alling House B&B events.

    Below is a recent correspondence from a wedding guest:
    "Please give the enclosed note to Stephanie, your bridal consultant, and accept my appreciation for your perfect hospitality and her incredible ability. As a 40 year veteran of the florist industry - working all over the world, I've never met a sweeter, more caring, gifted event planner. Your facility & her ability are a perfect combination for success."
     

    Baby's Breath Package (Wedding Ceremony only)

    Up to 25 guests*      $ 700.00 + $2 per chair****
    25 to 50 guests*       $ 800.00 + $2 per chair****
    50 to 100 guests*     $ 900.00 + $3.50 per chair****
    100 to 150 guests*  $1000.00 + $3.50 per chair****

    1.5 hours use of Alling House property
    Wedding day coordinattion - Timeline management, guest book/gift table, decor, setup
    Parking attendant(s) - 1 attendant for under 100 guests, 2 attendents for over 100 guests
    Chalkboard signs
    Guest book & gift table(s) with linens
    Chair decor on chairs lining aisle
    Celebrant
    Bridal bouquet & groom's boutonniere
    Quote for florals for additional attendants/honored guests available upon request
    Floral decor for ceremony site
    Unity ceremony display table
    Audio equipment & management
    One (1) cottage for bridal party/event restroom - for under 50 guests
    Two (2) cottages for bridal party & event restroom - for over 50 guests
        
    Mum Package ( Lawn Social-Hour Reception only)

    Up to 25 guests*   2 hours $1,900.00
    Up to 50 guests*   3 hours $2,750.00
    Up to 100 guests* 4 hours $4,600.00

    Wedding day coordinattion - Timeline management, guest book/gift table, decor, setup
    Parking attendant(s) - 1 attendant for under 100 guests, 2 attendents for over 100 guests
    Chalkboard signs
    Tables & chairs (chair upgrades available)
    Ivory linens, champagne table runners
    Floral decor for tables
    Reception music & audio equipment
    One (1) cottage for bridal party/event restroom - for under 50 guests
    Two (2) cottages for bridal party & event restroom - for over 50 guests
    Market lights over lawn (for evening events)
    Social hour reception
    Lemonade & water - coffee is optional at no additional fee
    One platter of assorted nuts
    Light Hors d'Oeuvres
    Fresh fruit display
    Imported cheese & cracker display
    Creme puff display with chocolate sauce
    Two (or three)-tiered custom-made wedding cake
    Champagne toast (non-alcoholic options available)

    Rose Package (Pergola Wedding Ceremony, Lawn Cake Reception)

    Up to 25 guests*   2.5 hours $2,200.00
    Up to 50 guests*   3.5 hours $3,000.00
    Up to 100 guests* 4.5 hours $4,600.00

    One one-hour consultation with professional wedding coordinator
    Wedding day coordinattion - Timeline management, guest book/gift table, decor, setup
    Parking attendant(s) - 1 attendant for under 100 guests, 2 attendents for over 100 guests
    Chalkboard signs
    Tables & chairs for ceremony & reception (chair upgrades available)
    Ivory linens, champagne table runners & chair ties (for chairs lining aisles)
    Celebrant
    Bridal bouquet & groom's boutonniere
    Personal florals for maid of honor & best man included in package for 50-100 guests
    Quote for florals for additional attendants/honored guests available upon request
    Floral decor for ceremony & reception
    Ceremony & reception music & audio equipment
    One (1) cottage for bridal party/event restroom - for under 50 guests
    Two (2) cottages for bridal party & event restroom - for over 50 guests
    Tent over ceremony - in the case of inclement weather (up to 50 guests)
    Tenting prices for larger parties available
    Market lights over lawn (for evening events)
    Cake reception
    Lemonade & water - coffee is optional at no additional fee
    One platter of assorted nuts
    Two (or three)-tiered custom-made wedding cake
    Champagne toast (non-alcoholic options available)


    Magnolia Package (Pergola Wedding Ceremony, Lawn Social-Hour Reception)

    Up to 25 guests*  3 hours     $2,500.00
    Up to 50 guests*  4 hours     $3,500.00
    Up to 100 guests* 5 hours     $5,500.00

    One one-hour consultation with professional wedding coordinator
    Wedding day coordinattion - Timeline management, guest book/gift table, decor, setup
    Parking attendant(s) - 1 attendant for under 100 guests, 2 attendents for over 100 guests
    Chalkboard signs
    Tables & chairs for ceremony & reception (chair upgrades available)
    Ivory linens, champagne table runners & chair ties (for chairs lining aisles)
    Celebrant
    Bridal bouquet & groom's boutonniere
    Personal florals for maid of honor & best man included in package for 50-100 guests
    Quote for florals for additional attendants/honored guests available upon request
    Floral decor for ceremony & reception
    Ceremony & reception music & audio equipment
    One (1) cottage for bridal party/event restroom - for under 50 guests
    Two (2) cottages for bridal party & event restroom - for over 50 guests
    Tent over ceremony - in the case of inclement weather (up to 50 guests)
    Tenting prices for larger parties available
    Market lights over lawn (for evening events)
    Social hour reception
    Lemonade & water - coffee is optional at no additional fee
    One platter of assorted nuts
    Light Hors d'Oeuvres
    Fresh fruit display
    Imported cheese & cracker display
    Creme puff display with chocolate sauce
    Two (or three)-tiered custom-made wedding cake
    Champagne toast (non-alcoholic options available)

    *Please include the bride and groom in final guest count.
    Additional guests can be added for your package's price per guest. Please ask to contract such arrangements.
    A date before your event will be set to ensure your final guest count and final payments are made. A fee of $200 will be assessed for guest count information and/or payment after that date.
    If unaccounted guests attend your event, a fee of 1.5x your package's price per guest will be assessed and your account charged.
    ** Additional time can be added for a fee of $150 per hour.
    *** Only approved vendors will be used. Should you have an additional vendor you want to be used, application forms are available for them to fill out.
    **** Alling House B&B offers up to 50 basic white folding chairs for $2 each. Available chair upgrades are: White resin garden chairs for $3.50 each or Chiavari chairs (with clients' choice of wood & linen colors) for $10 each.
    ***** Package price will not decrease if client opts to not receive any included goods or services listed here. Additional custom goods and services can be easily included.
        
    Orchid Package  - Price based on package contents
    Customized by you and our wedding planner.
    Comprehensive List of Services Provided
    (Packaged and/or A La carte)
    Planning, Design, & Coordination Services
    Guidance for the Selection of Event Venues
    Stationary Design & Creation
    Graphic Design
    Calligraphy
    Officiant
    Photography
    Videography
    Bouquets & Boutonnieres
    Floral Arrangements
    Decor & Design
    Tents & Setup
    Tables & Chairs
    Linens
    China & Flatware
    Catering
    Live Entertainment
    Disc Jockey
    Dance Flooring
    Sound System
    Ambient Lighting
    Interactive Activities
    Valet Parking
    Party Transportation

  • Guest Comments

    Here you will find a list of comments from guests that have stayed at our Bed and Breakfast.

    Diana - Palm Bay, FL

    "Even though this is the first B&B we have visited, it was  patently obvious that you two have set an extremely enviable and high standard to which all other B&Bs should strive to achieve. From the moment we walked in the door to our cottage - Nature Cottage - it was very obvious the tremendous amount of time and effort you both expended in making this and your other cottages, as well as the main house, a "home away from home". Your extreme attention to detail in uniquely furnishing each room and cottage, along with the incredible and abundant supply of complimentary amenities, snack foods, beverages, and other items, even down to the Q-Tips in the bathroom, definitely exceeded our expectations and made us feel most welcome to be here. The homemade breakfast was incredibly delicious, the beds were very comfortable, and the overall cottage was very warm and cozy. You have unquestionably made your wonderful  B&B very family friendly and a place we shall definitely visit again and recommend to our family and friends."

    Rich and Laura - Marietta, GA

    "I wanted to say thanks for our wonderful visit and to post a comment. It seems every possible superlative has already been used, but hospitality as gracious as yours, must be acknowledged and we certainly want to let other potential guests know what a special place you have. We have stayed at many B&Bs and homsestays and found your welcoming accomodations to be outstanding! Thanks for the great breakfasts and all the help with enjoying the local surroundings. We wish you both much success and gratification in your B&B. "

    Rosalie and John - Coconut Creek, FL

    "Our stay at the Alling House has been by far the best experience we have ever had at a Bed & Breakfast. Your amazing hospitality, your attention to detail, the overall cleanliness, the wonderful food, your generosity are all best described by the phrase 'ABOVE AND BEYOND'! We thank you so much for making our stay most memorable. Best of luck to both of you!"

    Carol and Chris - San Antonio, TX
     
    "On behalf of all the B_____ family, I'd like to thank you for your outstanding service at the Alling House. What a lovely and special place you have. Your hospitality was amazing -- all the extras you provided were very thoughtful. Your kindness and quality service helped to make our family gathering a great success. We look forward to spending more time with you in the future."

    Sara and Dan B_____ - Orange City, FL
     
    "All the B_____ family want to thank you for the week-end we enjoyed at your beautiful Bed & Breakfast. The cottages were so nice & well furnished. We appreciate all the extras - outside table & chairs - also beach umbrella, boogy board & toys for children. You were so kind to help in every way. When needed we'll look forward to another time with you."

    Tom and Leatha - North Port, FL
     
    "I'm sitting on your porch swing enjoying the shear beauty of the morning as I write. Our week's stay with you couldn't have been more perfect. Our granddaughter's graduation from Stetson is what brought us here, but the wonderfulness of your B&B AND new found friendship with the two of you will be what brings us back. I think you've spoiled us for future B&Bs as I'll always compare, knowing none can top this. We thank you again for sharing your little slice of heaven with us. May God bless you both with your future success here."

    Lou and Rona - Israel

    " What can we say? Words just would not be enough to express how wonderful you have made our vacation. Our room was beautiful, comfortable, homey, cozy, impeccably clean, and we just loved the bathroom, most especially the shower! :) And all of your special little touches, Nan, did not go unnoticed! We appreciate it all! The chocolates by the bed, the snacks, drinks, coasters by the bedside, etc., etc. We could go on all day! And, Nan, your breakfasts were so delicious, a reason to look forward to each & every morning! The house is so lovey, warm & welcoming! We have stayed at many hotels around the world but have enjoyed your B&B more than any!!! We will see you again & will highly recommend Alling House to all! Thank you for everything!"

  • Activities and Events

    Barberville Pioneer Settlement
    www.pioneersettlement.org

    Daytona Events
     www.daytonachamber.com
      Deland Events
     www.delandchamber.org/events_calendar.htm

    New Smyrna Beach
    www.cityofnsb.com
     
    Orange City
    www.ci.orange-city.fl.us
      Manatee Festival - www.themanateefestival.com  - January 26 & 27, 2013

    Southeast Volusia County Chamber of Commerce
    www.sevchamber.com
      West Volusia County Chamber of Commerce www.visitwestvolusia.com
      Volusia County Fairgrounds: - www.volusiacountyfair.com/other.htm

    Stetson University www.stetson.edu

    Athens Theater - www.athenstheatre.org

    Shoestring Theater - 380 S. Goodwin St., Lake Helen, FL. 32744 - 386-228-3777
     
      Volusia Speedway Park - dirt track racing - www.volusiaspeedwaypark.com

    Daytona International Speedway - www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com
      Rolex 24-Hour Race      - 01/26/2013-01/27/2013
      NASCAR Daytona 500  - 02/24/2013
        NASCAR  Coke Zero 400     - 07/06/2013
      Bike Week - March 8 - 17, 2013 - www.daytonachamber.com
      Daytona Turkey Run - November 22 - 25, 2012 - www.turkeyrun.com
      Biketoberfest - October 18-21, 2012 - www.biketoberfest.org

    2012-2013 Performing Arts Season - Peabody Auditorium, Daytona Beach - www.PeabodyAuditorium.org

    ACTIVITIES:
      Agriculture:
    Long & Scott Farms - Mt. Dora
    http://www.longandscottfarms.com

    Antiques:
      Renninger's Antiques/Farmers & Flea Market - www.renningers.com/dora/dorahome.htm
      Antique Extravaganzas - Over 1400 Dealers
     (November, January, February)
      Antique Fairs - Over 400 Dealers
      (March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October)
    Civil War Re-enactment - Battle of Townsend's Plantation
    (January)

      Central Florida Antiques Market - www.floridaantiqueshows.com

    Attractions:
      Blue Spring State Park / Hontoon Island State Park-
    www.floridastateparks.org/bluespring/default.cfm
      Swimming
      Tubing
      Scuba Diving/Snorkeling
      Canoeing
      Manatees

    DeBary Hall - 1871 Historic Home of Frederick deBary www.debaryhall.com

    Stetson Mansion - 1886 Historic Home of John B. Stetson www.stetsonmansion.com

    Lake Woodruff Wildlife Refuge - www.fws.gov/lakewoodruff/
      2045 Mud Lake Road
      DeLeon Springs, FL 32130
      (386) 985-4673

    Reptile Discovery Center -  www.reptilediscoverycenter.com
    2710 Big John Drive
    Deland, FL 32724
    386-740-9143

      St. Johns River Activities - www.stjohnsrivercountry.com
    Central Florida Zoo - www.centralfloridazoo.org

    Holy Land Experience - www.holylandexperience.com
      Walt Disney World - www.disneyworld.com
      Silver Springs - www.silversprings.com
      Sea World - www.seaworld.com
      Busch Gardens - www.buschgardens.com
      Universal Studios - www.universalstudios.com
      Kennedy Space Center - www.kennedyspacecenter.com

    Bird Watching:
      Central Florida Nature Adventures, LLC
    www.floridabirdwatching.com

    Boat Tours:
      Central Florida AirBoat Tours - www.centralfloridaairboattours.com
      4650 E. SR 46
      Geneva, FL.
      407-321-0753
      St. Johns River Cruises (Blue Spring State Park) - www.sjrivercruises.com

    Canoeing/Kayaking:
    Central Florida Nature Adventures, LLC (guided tours)
    www.kayakcentralflorida.com 
    Expedition Florida Adventures (guided tours)
    www.expeditionflorida.com
    Wekiva Springs  - Rock Springs Run (canoe/kayak rentals)
     www.clubkayak.com/cfkt/trips/wekiva_river.html
      King's Landing - www.kingslandingfl.com

    A Day Away - Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge
    www.adayawaykayaktours.com
    Bioluminescence night time kayak tours

    Civil War Re-enactments (www.floridareenactorsonline.com):

    Day Trips:
      All Orlando Day Tours & Excursions
      119 North Kirkman Rd.
      Orlando, FL. 32811
      1-866-868-7786
      www.allorlandotours.com

    Family Fun: 
      Family Fun Town -  www.familyfuntown.com
    401 S. Volusia Ave.
    Orange City, FL 32763
    386-775-3181
    miniature golf, go-cart track, arcade, food 

    Fishing:
      World Wide Fishing -  www.worldwidefishing.com/florida/b1977
     
    Jolly Gator Fish Camp
      4650E SR 46
      Geneva, Fl. 32765
      407-349-5554

    Deep Sea Fishing -  www.pastimeprincess.com
      Pastime Princess
      107 N. Riverside Dr.
      New Smyrna Beach, Fl. 32168
      386-427-5393

    Fishing/Boating:
      Astor Bridge Marina - www.astorbridgemarina.com

    Hontoon Landing Resort & Marina - www.hontoon.com
      2317 River Ridge Rd.
      DeLand, Fl. 32720
      (386) 734-2474

    Highbanks Marina - www.campresort.com
      488 West Highbanks Road
      DeBary, Fl.  32713
      386-668-4491

    Golf:
      The Pines Golf Club
      1715 Monastery Rd.
      Orange City, Fl. 32763
      386-774-2714
      DeBary Golf & Country Club
      www.debarycc.com
      300 Plantation Club Dr.
      Debary, Fl. 32713
      386-668-1705
      Deltona Hills Golf & Country Club
      www.deltonahillsgolf.com
      1120 Elkcam Blvd
      Deltona, Fl. 32725
      386-789-3911
      Hidden Lakes Golf Course
      35 Fairgreen Ave.
      New Smyrna Beach, FL. 32168
      386-427-4138

    Horseback Riding:
      Rock Springs Riding Ranch
      31700 County Road 433
      Sorrento, FL 32776
      352-735-6266
      www.rsrranch.com

    Hot Air Balloon Rides:
      Aerostat Adventures
      DeLand Airport
      877-495-7433
      www.balloonflorida.com

    Kayaking:
      Club Kayak - www.clubkayak.com

    Lighthouses:
      Ponce Inlet Lighthouse - www.ponceinlet.org
      St. Augustine Lighthouse - www.staugustinelighthouse.com
     
     
    Maze:
    Long & Scott Farms - Mt. Dora
    http://www.longandscottfarms.com

    Model Railroad Clubs:
      Blue Springs RR Model Railroad Club
    At Son’s A Poppin Ranch
    1610 Park Ave, Orange City, FL
    386-775-2891

    DeLand Model Railroad Club
      220 W. Minnesota Ave.
     
      Paintball:
      Xplex Paintball- www.daytonabeachpaintball.com
      Highway 44, near New Smyrna Speedway
      386-214-1939

    Full Throttle Paintball- www.fullthrottlepaintball.com
      386-228-2791
      Store Location - 2401 E. Graves, Orange City
      386-774-2791
      
    Personal Dinner Chef:
    Chef Matt - 386-956-7817
    Gourmet meal cooked and served just for you in your own room.

    Pet Boarding:
      John Athey/David Crossett DVM/Orange City Animal Clinic
      1220 South Volusia Ave.
      Orange City, FL 32763
      386-775-3735

    Pioneer Settlement: - www.PioneerSettlement.org
      1776 Lightfoot Lane
      Barberville, FL 32105
      386-749-2959

    Post Office Museum:
      Heritage House, Orange City

    Restaurants:
    See our Discounts page for local restaurants that give discounts to Alling House B&B guests -  Click Here

    To dine in old Florida Victorian atmosphere:

    The Old House Cafe
    412 S. Woodland Blvd.
    DeLand, FL 32720
    386-734-7592

    Segway of Central Florida - guided Segway tours of Mount Dora
      10% off guided tour of Mount Dora
      140 West 5th Avenue
      Mount Dora, Fl. 32757
      352-383-9900
      www.segwayofcentralflorida.com

    Skydiving/Parachuting:
      Skydive Deland
      1600 Flight Line Blvd.
      Deland, Fl. 32724
    386-738-3539
      www.skydivedeland.com

    Train Ride:
     Orange Blossom Cannonball
    305 E. Main Street
    Tavares, FL 32778
    www.orangeblossomcannonball.com

    Zipline Tour:
    Zoom Air
    Central Florida Zoo  
    Sanford, FL 34771
    407-330-0767
    www.zoomair.us

    Zip Orlando
      4509 S. Orange Blossom Trail
      Kissimmee, FL 34746
      www.ziporlando.com

  • Directions

    Traveling west on Interstate 4 toward Orlando or east on Interstate 4 toward Daytona Beach, take exit 114 and go west  on Highway 472 toward Orange City and Deland. Stay in the left lane and go around the loop that connects to Highway 17/92 going south. Turn left onto East French Ave. at the third traffic light. We are the second house on the left. Note the brown Blue Spring State Park signs along the way.