Columbia
by LUCINDA SIGNAGO
Are you seeking a taste of the Northwoods without leaving Missouri? Just pack your sled, (long johns and snowshoes are optional) and mush to Columbia for a stay at the Stoney Creek Inn.
A large moose standing in a pond filled with goldfish is your first hint that this destination will be memorable. Along with the moose, an immense, carved wooden bear acts as a sentinel and braves the cold in order to scrutinize all that come and go.
The atmosphere inside is decidedly warm and the décor activates the senses. A friendly stuffed bear offers candy, pine trees dot the lobby, massive posts, beams and railings brag of their strength. Small, unusual trappings catch your eye. A comfy seat before the fire seems the logical place to relax and take it all in.
James H. Thompson, founder and president of the innovative chain of Stoney Creek Inns, envisioned an atmosphere that was unique and exciting to behold. In 1995 his vision became substance when the first Stoney Creek Inn was built in Waukon, Iowa. That retreat created a feeling of being in the woods, a feeling that he hoped would refresh travelers and inspire them to return for many visits.
Each of the Stoney Creek Inn properties utilizes signature carvings to illustrate the history of that particular area. One of the outstanding focal points in the Columbia lobby is the front desk. Carved in wood, it depicts a scene in which cowboys with a lone covered wagon face off against a band of Indians. The artist’s detail is wonderful, and this frontier scene piques the imagination.
The lobby itself is 85 percent gift shop. Though shelves, nooks and crannies are filled with a wide variety of clothing and souvenirs, everything is tastefully arranged to enhance the character of the room.
Moose, bears and trees are the mainstay of the inn’s décor and even hallways and offbeat alcoves are brimming with accoutrements that speak of the outdoors. Every inch of the property works in tandem to create a distinctive experience for the guest.
“You’ll find the same attention to detail throughout the inn,” says General Manager Troy Chadwick. “We want our guests to feel like they just stayed at their own cabin in the woods. We try very hard to make this feel like a home away from home. This is a great place for romantic evenings, but it also meets the needs of the corporate traveler.”
After a relaxing swim, while the wind is howling outside and the snow is piling up, you might enjoy a visit to the Antlers Bar.
“This is not your typical bar,” says Chadwick. “It’s designed more for hotel and conference guests. It’s themed and decorated, but offers a big screen TV, too. There’s a nice fireplace and it’s very cozy, casual and comfortable.”
The guest rooms at Stoney Creek Inn are spacious and, again, the attention to detail is fascinating. Trademark moose are scattered throughout, even printed on the fabric of the bedspreads. These rooms offer great ambiance, but a special occasion might call for a night in one of Stoney Creek Inn’s 11 themed suites.
“One of my favorites is the American Heritage suite,” says Chadwick. “It’s a very large room, has a sort of teepee in the headboard of the bed and has a lot of great Indian décor.”
For guests seeking the ultimate experience, three premier suites are available. The Caddy Shack, Homestead and the Lodge all provide isolated master bedrooms with their own living areas, four-season porches, plush carpet, kitchenettes, stone fireplaces and bathrooms with a whirlpool, a steam shower and a television.
“Our themed suites attract a lot of guests,” says Chadwick. “Each one of them has furnishings and things that you don’t usually find, and people really seem to enjoy that. This property also has 16 extended-stay cottages, complete with balconies and full kitchens.”
Chadwick attributes much of Stoney Creek Inns’ success to the company’s focus.
“The corporate office believes in keeping people first, in fact that’s our motto,” he says. “They don’t micro-manage, they treat their employees well, and our staff here reflects the property. Also, we’re very competitive. We charge a mediocre rate but offer high-quality standards.”
Columbia’s Stoney Creek Inn has become an inviting site for weddings and conventions. Families flock to the inn on the weekends and corporate travelers seek the refuge of a refreshing escape during the week. Located just a mile from the Mizzou campus—plus being named as the official hotel of Mizzou Athletics—has also increased the popularity of the inn.
“People just love it here. It’s always a positive atmosphere to be in,” says Chadwick. “We offer something that will draw people away from the ordinary. Stoney Creek Inn truly gives you the feeling that you’re in the woods, like you’re visiting a rustic, wilderness lodge. It really is that unique.”