By Katherine Boynton & Ward Morehouse III

The Rosemont Inn at 1423 Genesee Street in Utica, New York is a restored Victorian mansion built in 1866. We stayed at this stylish Bed and Breakfast while traveling back to New York City along with our new puppy. Yes, they are pet friendly!

Upon arriving (we arrived earlier than expected) Rita Sleys, the owner and innkeeper who has run the Rosemont for 13 years, instantly welcomed us to our room on the second floor. It was a little workout moving in our bags and puppy up the grandest flight of stairs we’ve ever seen in a B & B.  How women did it in victorian dress is beyond us. It was worth the climb. The Chantilly room was lovely and spacious with it’s own marble fire place, great windows draped in lace curtains, a comfortable King size bed, sitting area, mini frig and oversized private bath with a clawfoot tub and shower.   The Rosemont has seven beautifully decorated rooms on the first and second floors all decorated in the post Civil War Victorian style.

The Italiante Victorian B & B comes with an incredible four-course gourmet breakfast. We had the french toast that was out of this world. Rita’s daughter brought a pretty glass goblet of fresh pineapple topped with a spot of whipped crème and fresh mint sprinkled in from Rita’s garden. Sipping coffee from period teacups and looking at the antique wall mirror garnished with roses and a string of pearls takes one back in time.

“Being an innkeeper here at the Rosemont allows me to enjoy other things all at the same time,” says Rita. “I love gardening and plants of every variety. Our herbs here at the Rosemont Inn are growing in a small corner outside our back kitchen door.” Her porch adds to the warm atmosphere. It’s filled with flowers, greenery and has comfortable rocking chairs. Her friendly two sons and daughters help with the Inn.

Only a few blocks away is the historic Stanley Theater. It was once a baroque movie palace and now a theatre for Broadway touring companies. Also special is the Munson-Williams Proctor Museum of Art. With all the rich history, travelers need not leave technology behind as wifi Internet access, fax and copy services are available to all of the Rosemont’s guests.

One unique feature of the Rosemont is the massage service offered. They have a wide selection of treatments to enhance and rejuvenate your stay.

Rita is jubilant in talking about Utica’s immigrant heritage, “They give so much to the city,” she says. Built in the industrial hay-day of Utica, the Rosemont Inn is listed on the National Register of Historic Homes. We were glad to have stayed in this relaxed elegant landmark. For reservations call: 315.797.9033 stay@rosemontinnbb.com www.rosemontinnbb.com