# 180 - Outside Inn Nevada City, CA

A Lucky Find!

In February, Don and I made it to  Nevada City on our 5th night after leaving Houston. We were headed to Sacramento to see our son and daughter-in-law's new home, but we begged them to meet us at Outside Inn.

We were excited to have found a charming refurbished motor court in a cute little town. One, that excepted pets!
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Finding Nevada City

Don and I were excited to get back to the little town that we fell in love with, a few years ago. The idea that we could stay in a cute motel, in walking distance to shops and restaurants was pretty exciting!
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The Old Airway Motel

There was no snow in Nevada City when we arrived, but we drove through some to get there. This is how our inn looked in the 1940's I'm guessing. Kate Smith and her husband owned and operated the motel and convenience store for 60 years.

The Creek Side

This is the same view today. It was a little chilly for lounging by the creek, but it looked a lot more inviting than the snowy scene.

Outside Inn, Since 1997

Evans Phelps purchased and renovated the motel in 1997. Her daughter and husband run it now. Not only did they keep the retro charm of the past, but they added a lot more fun to the place.

Office

We checked in about 4 and the young woman working the desk was very welcoming. 

Love That Lamp

She wouldn't let me buy this lamp, however. Oh my, do I ever want that vintage little lamp with US map and cedar base!

We got our key to #12, The Winter Room and parked right in front of our door.

Circle of Units

We must have been the first to check in, since the cars filled the space later. There was a nice sitting area and grill towards the back of the circle.

Pool

In the summer, the pool would have been fun. Maybe next time.

Look who's there!

Before we even got into our room, the "kids" arrived with Lola the granddog!

We were so glad one of the 2, pet-friendly rooms was available.

Cute Kitchen

This is the only photo I have of Scott and Chali's bicycle themed suite. I loved the little kitchen with yellow wooden cabinets and table.  So did Lola.

The Winter Room

Our room was right next to the office. We stepped inside and I just grinned. I love a theme and I love old. They did both well. Usually I'd cringe at paint over knotty pine, but I loved the icy, purple-blue paint, with silver snowflakes and the antique skis!

Kitchenette

We didn't have a full kitchen, but we had no need. There was a tiny fridge and microwave and an adorable vintage sink and lots of knotty pine. Plus a wonderful view of the creek!

Built-ins and Woodwork

I have no clue if the little built in desk is original. I don't know if the wood framing the door is old. I just loved the feel of it all. The desk area was cozy and the cute bathroom had corner shelves for your stuff... plus a window to the creek!

Some Art, too!

I loved the painted, blue furniture with glass tops on the bedside tables. The quilt was pretty without being oldie-moldie. There was  a TV, which I was sort of an unexpected treat.

Morning

A coffee maker was equipped in the kitchenette. I made a little before heading outside. I was excited to see a daffodil. We don't get those in Houston. I loved seeing the "free veggie cart" even though it was empty. In the summer, locals and guests can donate and enjoy!

Our Back Door

Again, the weather was a little cool for sitting out. But we had a backdoor to the creek and patio. I wandered a bit.

I found a welcoming fire pit with wood. I wish we had taken advantage the night before!

What's Notable?

For just over $100. we were able to spend the night in a delightful, family run inn, in a charming town. I know rates go up in summer, but how I'd love to come back and enjoy Outside Inn... inside and out!