ANSWERS TO 305 NORTH INN FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is there parking? YES! In the rear of the building there are 9 spots, including one designated handicap space nearest the building. We provide off-street parking that allows you to shop, play, and relax while your vehicle stays safe!
Can I park there before I’m supposed to check in? YES! You can park in the back as early as 11AM, which is the check-out time for guests who are leaving. However, you will have to verify the lot is not full when you arrive as we also permit guests they can leave their cars there after they check out and until they leave a few hours later. Most times there are no problems, but in the busy months like October there could be an issue
Can I check in before 4PM? Sometimes, and only with permission. Please call 815-777-9125, leave a message with your request, or e-mail Jack@305North.com, and we’ll get back to you. Please understand that our staff need time to clean and prepare the suites.
Are there refrigerators in the suites? YES! Suites 1, 4, 5 & 7 have mini-fridges, and suites 2, 3, & 6 have standard refrigerators.
Is there an elevator or escalator? Unfortunately there is not. 305 North Inn was constructed in 1845, and there simply is no feasible way to install either.
Can I control the temperature in my suite? You can in suites 3, 6, & 7. Note that suites 6 & 7 have mini-splits HVAC units that can be individually controlled for both air-conditioning and heat (there are also baseboard heaters in these suites). Suites 1 through 5 have central air (and suite 3 has control of one of the HVAC units). We are currently working on installing mini-splits in all suites so that the temperature can be controlled and supplemented.
What is the history of 305 North Inn? The building was originally constructed in 1845 and has obviously undergone many renovations and transformations. In the 1800’s the ground floor (next to the parking lot) was used to service horses. The main floor has been a grocery store (early to mid-1900’s) and a restaurant (1970’s). Bob Farster first renovated the building into a hotel/inn beginning in 1985 and named it “Farster’s Executive Inn.” In 2000 ownership changed and it was branded the “The Old Towne Inn.” Around 2004 ownership changed again and it was re-branded Carrie’s Vintage Inn. Finally in 2009 the last owner named it “305 North Inn.”. We have retained the name from the previous owner since we purchased the building in September 2024. We are assembling as much of the history as we can and will make it available on the website at a later date.
What are the charities 305 North Inn supports?
1) Bissell Pet Foundation — we love all pets!
“BISSELL Pet Foundation exists to support animal welfare organizations and provide resources to underserved communities. This includes helping to reduce the number of animals in shelters and rescues through pet adoption, spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchipping, and crisis and disaster response.”
2) Tunnels To Towers Foundation — we respect and love veterans and first responders!
“Since 9/11, we have been helping America’s heroes by providing mortgage-free homes to Gold Star and fallen first responder families with young children and by building specially-adapted smart homes for catastrophically injured veterans and first responders. We are also committed to eradicating veteran homelessness and helping America to Never Forget September 11, 2001.”
3) Kiwanis Club of Galena — Helping children in need,
4) Knights of Columbus — Helping anyone in need,
and others as needs arise.