The Irish Inn

Don't Miss Two Great Opportunities to Celebrate Your Passion

The Irish Inn is the Most Romantic Inn in Southern Illinois. Every day in February is Valentine's Day, and every day is perfect for celebrating your engagement, anniversary, birthdays, or to rekindle your fine romance.

We love March, because the whole world turns a little Irish on St. Patrick's Day. One day a month is not enough for The Irish Inn, so we celebrate every single day of March!

The climate in Southern Illinois is milder than many other areas of the Midwest, which makes outdoor activities possible and enjoyable 12 months of the year.  We also have two exciting wine trails, 32 vineyards, 60 miles of bike trails, and the best horse trails in the state.  Plan a romantic escape or celebrate a holiday at The Irish Inn this winter!  Don't miss the coziness of an Irish fire in the middle of the Shawnee National Forest.  Make Your Reservations Now!

This saying means "100,000 welcomes" in Irish, and we take pride in offering generous helpings of warm Celtic hospitality. Whether you are traveling during the week or enjoying a special weekend or holiday, you will never forget your stay at The Irish Inn.

The Irish Inn offers a wee bit of Europe in the Shawnee National Forest near the Tunnel Hill State Bicycle Trail, Bellsmith Springs, Burden Falls, Cache River, Dixon Springs, Ferne Clyffe, Heron Pond, Jackson Hollow, Jackson Falls, Lake Glendale, the Ohio River, Trigg Tower, Lusk Creek Canyon, Millstone Bluff, Garden of the Gods, and other beautiful natural sites. Stay in a stone and log chalet, comfortably cool in summer with blazing log fires in winter.

Congratulations to the Irish Inn for their selection as

"Most International B&B in North America"

You will enjoy the company of a genuine Belfast-born innkeeper, and there is no extra charge for the blarney, storytelling, and good Irish luck. Watch our video to see why St. Louis magazine included The Irish Inn on their list of must-see places in eight states surrounding Missouri!

Brian and Lynn are most entertaining and fun to stay with. Their international flair adds interest to any romantic stay! Brian serves a wonderful Irish breakfast and his intoxicating accent and Lynn's remarkable humor are engaging. The Inn itself is spectacular as you come upon this impressive hideaway with its massive wrap around porch, beautiful fireplace inside and large open rooms with cozy, comfortable beds makes you want to stay awhile. You feel you have traveled the world just being there! -  Freeburg, Illinois

The Irish Inn is featured on the cover of the Illinois Bed & Breakfast Cookbook. The publisher identified some of the best eating in the State of Illinois and then requested recipes. Many guests who stay at The Irish Inn request recipes, and now we can offer them this fabulous cookbook as a souvenir of their visit. Guests have written in blogs, guest books, and diaries about the huge quantity and quality of the full Irish breakfast (also called an Ulster Fry) and other culinary delights served in rural Ozark at The Irish Inn.  This view of meats from the full Irish breakfast were photographed by George Kaigh.

Besides the great food and Celtic hospitality, The Irish Inn features a well-stocked pond for fishing or just day-dreaming, antique furnishings, art collection from six continents, bamboo and pine floors, a huge great room with masonry fireplace, luxurious super king-sized beds for extra dreamy sleeps, luxurious draperies, forest and pond views, comfortable sitting and meeting areas, HDTV with satellite and DVD player, 500+ DVD library, high-speed wireless internet, small refrigerators, fire pit, walk-in shower, whirlpool tub, bidet, and other European features.  This photograph of two canine visitors to The Irish Inn is by Richard Marose.

The Irish Inn is a wireless hot spot, and we can arrange a whole office for long-term visitors. We welcome organizations planning events, small family reunions, anniversaries, honeymoons, and couples seeking relaxing romantic weekends. Children, families, and pets are most welcome here. The Irish Inn prides itself on being open to and welcoming to visitors from all countries and walks of life.  "Guests are awed by the magnificent sunsets and starscapes here," adds Brian McCreery, a native of Northern Ireland, who says he fell in love with the Shawnee National Forest the first time he visited. You will, too! Spend some time in front of our home fire or at our waterfront. If you think you do not have time for a holiday, remember the old Irish adage, "When God made time, he made plenty of it!"

We welcome those having small weddings, family reunions, anniversaries, honeymoons, and all couples seeking relaxing romantic weekends.

Visit Our Website For More Fun Specials At The Irish Inn

Nearby Entertainment Options & Natural Areas

The Irish Inn is located actually in the Shawnee National Forest, and you can spot our place on the official maps. We are surrounded by the most beautiful and unusual nature areas in the State of Illinois and some not-to-miss entertainment options. Enjoy this photo essay of all four seasons by Michelle Rositsch, James Heap, Brian Marshall McCreery, Grant Szalay, and Stephanie Milligan. The photograph of the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers is courtesy of Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau. Southern Illinois is a sensational destination any time of year, and following are some of the attractions and activities our guests enjoy most.

The Irish Inn is filled with mementos from adventurous lives spent on six continents. Innkeepers Brian & Lynn McCreery are world travelers who came together in Northern Ireland four years ago. They were married on the levee of the Ohio River in 2008 by Rev. Murrell Hazel, who holds the record for performing the most weddings for guests at The Irish Inn. Having spent decades traveling in pursuit of business and pleasure, the McCreerys are well-acquainted with what makes a stay a joy. Brian loves living in the wilderness of Southern Illinois, near canyons, waterfalls, two great Rivers, the horse trails, and 32 wineries. He is learning all the best places to hike, and at 62 years of age taking up boulder climbing, kayaking, canoeing, and renewing his interest in golf. Lynn has ridden every mile of Tunnel Hill State Trail (45 mile bicycle trail), hiked in all the natural areas, and is active in many historical, genealogical, lineage, and Native American organizations. She enjoys sharing stories of ghosts, pioneers, and Native Americans.

The McCreerys have welcomed guests from all 50 states and 48 different foreign countries so far! The Irish Inn keeps them both busy, but they are determined to visit Antarctica. If you have been to the seventh continent, they will want to hear all about it. Closer to home in the MidWest and MidSouth, they spend two days per month visiting other bed and breakfast inns. In fact taking these mini-holidays on a monthly basis was their New Year's resolution - one they are keeping with relish. You can make the same promise, a resolution you will surely keep! They are members of American Bed & Breakfast Inns (ABBI), Bed & Breakfast Association of Kentucky (BBAK), Illinois Bed & Breakfast Association (IBBA) and Professional Association of Innkeepers International (PAII).  Drawing of the McCreerys is by Hannah S. O’Neal.

A Gift Certificate from The Irish Inn is the Perfect Gift Anytime!

Is there a very special couple on your gift list? The kind of people who have everything, and you don't know what to give them? Send them a gift of love by ordering a gift certificate in any amount. If you are feeling particularly generous, choose a one- or two-night Romantic Getaway or special escape to The Irish Inn. The gift certificate will not expire until used. Order online using any major credit card through Webervations via this link http://www.webervations.com/magic-scripts/giftcert.asp?memberid=12698.  We will send your loved ones a beautiful gift certificate from you along with our brochure and other requested literature. If you prefer to pay by check, click here to download an order form, complete it and send it with your payment to:

The Irish Inn
P.O. Box 97
Ozark, IL 62972-0097

Start Your B&B Collection with Our Beautiful Irish Inn Coffee Cup
It also makes the PERFECT Gift
or A Souvenir to Remind You of Your Wonderful Stay At The Irish Inn
Our Coffee Cup is $9.99 + shipping & handling
+ (.0625 tax to Illinois residents)
(all retail tax is only for IL residents on items)

The Irish Inn is way out in the country, but easy to find. If you are traveling South on Interstate 57, be sure to merge onto Interstate 24 just South of Marion. Continue on I-24 and take the Goreville exit (Tunnel Hill Road) on your right, but at the top take a left. Continue on Tunnel Hill Road, and beware of curves until you come to New Simpson Hill School (at top of hill just up from Tunnel Hill State Trail).

Turn left onto Route 45, and continue North to Ozark Road. When you see the Ozark General Store on your left, turn right onto Ozark Road. Continue 4.5 miles to Trigg Tower Road (Zion Cemetery will be on both sides of road), and make sure you make a hard right turn onto a gravel road (Trigg Tower Road). Continue to Soloman Lane, which is less than a mile, and turn right. The Irish Inn is at the bottom of the hill.

If you are traveling North on Interstate 24, take exit #14 (Route 45 - Vienna), and turn right (North). Travel to Ozark Road and turn right; continue 4.5 miles to Trigg Tower Road and turn right again (hard right onto gravel road); then go less than one mile to Soloman Lane. Turn right at Soloman Lane, and The Irish Inn is at the bottom of the hill.

We look forward to having you stay with us, and invite you to email or call us from the road on (618) 695-3355 or (618) 695-LOVE.

The Irish Inn has played host to many interesting and diverse guests from all 50 United States and 48 different foreign countries on six continents thus far. Some of their comments are presented here. You will see that The Irish Inn is a place of great magic!

Over the last 30+ years we have stayed at many B&Bs. Our experience at The Irish Inn was the very best! The countryside setting, accommodations, and easy access to many attractions were terrific. However, the warmth and delightful hospitality of the McCreerys, Brian and Lynn, made our stay so Very Special! Brian's Irish breakfast is delicious! - St. Louis, Missouri

Usually when we go on vacation we have to finagle someone to watch our two beagles or sneak them in the back door of a hotel but at The Irish Inn they were welcomed with open arms full of treats! The bed and breakfast is gorgeous and in such a unique location that you may never want to return to the city. The hospitality that we receive from owners Lynn and Brian is unmatched and is why we will continue to go back time and time again. - Makanda, Illinois

This was our first B&B experience in the United States. What a fantastic experience! It not only excelled in the "creature comfort" category but much more importantly, we came away with a panoramic historical and political view of the world, thanks to the innkeepers' (Lynn and Brian) vast experience with cultures in various other countries. If you want environmental beauty, the Shawnee area of southern Illinois will surely satisfy that need, but conversations with Lynn, Brian, and guests from other parts of our own great country will expand your horizons far beyond expectations. Our visit was much too short! We hope to return to the beauty of this part of our country soon and experience the hospitality, warmth, humor and knowledge of our Innkeepers at the Irish Inn! - Tyler, TX

On my search for girlfriend get-a-ways I found a review on the Irish Inn located in Southern Illinois, which was only about 2 1/2 hours from home. Being of Irish background, this was right up my alley. Well if folks in Ireland are half as nice, entertaining, and make breakfast like Brian, I may have to relocate. This lovely chalet (another favorite of mine) is nestled in the corner of the Shawnee National Forest. The wineries are plentiful on the Southern Illinois Wine Trail, and the owners are so nice. Honestly everyone we met on this trip was so nice. I can't wait to get back to the Irish Inn as it was the closest you can come to being home in the country without having to be with relatives. - Florissant, MO

My husband I wanted to explore the Southern Illinois area, and looked for a B&B near or in the Shawnee National Forest. We were very happy to find an availability at The Irish Inn. When we arrived, we were greeted by Brian (from Ireland with a charming Irish brogue). He prepared scrumptious Irish breakfasts for us every morning. He and his wife, Lynn, made us feel right at home immediately. Our room was spacious with a very comfortable king size bed and large bathroom with a shower and whirlpool bath. They have the largest selection of DVD's we've ever seen at a B&B. Lynn printed personalized day trips for us, gave us good suggestions for dinner each evening, and had a list of the wineries we could visit as we traveled around the area. We had a really enjoyable stay here and highly recommend this B&B. - Brimfield, IL

This was the best B&B experience my wife and I have ever had! Great time, good to have the Irish breakfast and all the stories which fed us as well! - Dahlonega, GA

We have always enjoyed staying at B&B's and the Irish Inn reinforced all the reasons we love them! We were greeted with a fresh cup of Irish tea when we arrived, and had a wonderful time getting to visit with our Innkeepers before retiring. The room was lovely and comfortable...the breakfast magnificent (we loved the new taste experiences of the Irish breakfast...thank you Brian!!) The grounds are lovely as well, and made me wish we could stay longer. From start to finish it was a wonderful experience. Brian & Lynn spoiled us with their hospitality, cooking and friendship. Go spend a night (or two!) at the Irish Inn, you'll be glad you did! ~ Adventurous couple

We were driving across America trying to see as many of your 50 states as possible in two months. We ended up staying two and a half days in Southern Illinois, which is not on most lists of must-see places in the U.S. The hospitality was outstanding; the scenery amazing; and so much to do with 32 wineries, a bicycle trail, riding stables, waterways. We just could not believe the variety of activities, and the (to us) very low cost of luxury accommodations and fine restaurants in the Shawnee National Forest. We feel we learned more about the REAL people and way of life in America during our days in Southern Illinois than in Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Phoenix or L.A. We thought this would be a once in a lifetime bit of travel to celebrate our retirement, but we are already thinking of returning to drive from the Northernmost point of the Mississippi River to New Orleans. Somewhere between St. Louis and Memphis, we will stop again at The Irish Inn, which we should also mention was the only hotel, B&B, or inn in America to serve us a proper and delicious full Irish breakfast. - Galway, Ireland

This was a very unique experience. The house and countryside is beautiful and comfortable. You are wonderful hosts, and a delight to be with. We had a great time. - St. Charles, MO

This was a very peaceful, rustic setting in the country. The innkeeper is a great host. Thanks for a uniquely wonderful time. - St. Louis, MO

We could hardly stay long enough! This place is gorgeous, and you are wonderful. It was a complete pleasure to stay here. Thanks for the DVDs, and may you have continued success. - Paducah, KY

What a wonderful adventure: great fishing, great food, great blarney; and great sleeping. We feel we've made great friends here, and look forward to returning. Best wishes in all you undertake! - Chatham, IL

I liked the ghost-hunting, hammock, telescope, and my room. I really liked when we heard the Indian drums on Mill Stone Bluff. - Newburg, IN

I enjoyed the thunderbird and thinking tree on Mill Stone Bluff and while being there when the
"Rainbow People" played there drums on a nearby mountain, an amazing feeling and inner strength came over me. - Newburg, IN

We had a great time on our haunted weekend - very interesting history - such a peaceful feeling up on Mill Stone Bluff - the drums. While touring the haunted sites I caught the wonderful scent of the beautiful young mother. The company and conversations were great. Thank you! - Ava, IL

We had a grand time - music, food, and good craic. We look forward to another time for more stories. - Carbondale, IL

Thanks for your wonderful hospitality. It reminded us of B&Bs in Ireland. - Carbondale, IL

Good food, great conversation, and a good fire! What a life. You have my vote. Next time I am in the area I will always stay at The Irish Inn. No more Ramada or Hampton Inns for me. I believe many business travelers will come here once they know about it. Congratulations on an idea that turned into a vision that now has become a reality. - Bath, IL

The Irish Inn was just what I needed for a couple days. Rest and food - it's that simple. You were very nice to me when I was away from home and needed to see a friendly face. How can I gain five pounds in two days? The answer is the cooking here - good and plenty and prepared before dawn to fit my business schedule. Thanks & good luck from the Man from Man, West Virginia now working and living away. - Jackson, OH

This was the first Bed & Breakfast we have ever stayed in. It was like staying with family. I loved the many windows - a good view from each one. It was great waking up to the Irish music! The huge breakfasts were great and filling, and we appreciated the kind hospitality. - Chesterfield, MO

We love the setting - the trees and the pond. What a pretty log house! The hospitality and stories are warm and entertaining, respectively. This food is delicious -- you won't go away hungry! - Springfield, IL

I had a wonderful time. This is the first time I've been to a bed and breakfast, and I was a little worried. It seems like such an intimate thing to do. You made me feel so welcome and comfortable. I hope to return someday. Thank you. - St. James, MO

Our first B&B was magnificent. Now I know that the selling points of great food and lovely accomodations are supposed to determine one's opinion of a place, and there were all wonderful. It's the conversation that I'll remember and the enjoyment of a well told tale. Thanks! - St. James, MO

We have nearly 600 reviews on I Love Inns! Click here to see them.