Entire home
1800s Home, Train-Themed Decor, Walk to Downtown & Attractions, Exclusive Perks
Photo gallery for 1800s Home, Train-Themed Decor, Walk to Downtown & Attractions, Exclusive Perks





Reviews
10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 101775 sq ft
Popular amenities
Explore the area

Boone, IA
- Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad and Museum9 min walk
- Boone Speedway6 min drive
- Iowa State University19 min drive
Rooms & beds
3 bedrooms (sleeps 10)
Living Room 1
1 Queen Bed
The Eisenhower Bedroom
1 Queen Bed
The Kate Shelley Bedroom
1 Queen Bed
The Prairie Rose Bedroom
2 Double Beds
1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom
1st Floor Half Bathroom
Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer
2nd Floor Full Bathroom
Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Garden
Dining Area
About this property
1800s Home, Train-Themed Decor, Walk to Downtown & Attractions, Exclusive Perks
Step Back in Time – with Modern Comforts!
Featured in the 2025 Travel Iowa Guide (pg.94)
The 607 Guest House is a 150+ year-old vintage vacation rental that was once owned by railroad tycoon John Insley Blair. Built in 1867—the same year Iowa's first railroad tracks were laid—this thoughtfully restored home highlights its historic charm, allowing you to immerse yourself in Boone’s rich history while enjoying modern-day conveniences like a heated bathroom floor and zoned central air. After sitting vacant for years, the home has been lovingly brought back to life, with the interior carefully restored to reveal its original beauty. The exterior retains its original character, with future updates planned to further showcase its 1800s roots.
Inside, you’ll discover artwork, décor, and details inspired by Trains, Iowa, and the Midwest, making your stay a true Boone experience. From its original heart pine floors to restored windows with working pulleys and leaded glass panes, history comes alive in this one-of-a-kind stay. Whether you're here for adventure, relaxation, or a step back in time, the 607 Guest House is more than just a place to sleep—it’s an experience.
SLEEP IN COMFORT & PRIVACY
Accommodating up to 10 guests (2 per bed), featuring 3 themed bedrooms + additional sleeping space:
• The Kate Shelley Room (1st Floor): Queen Bed + En-suite Half Bath
• The Eisenhower Room (2nd Floor): Queen Bed
• The Prairie Rose Room (2nd Floor): Two Double Beds
• Living Room: Queen Sealy AlwayzAire Mattress with headboard (adjusts to your preferred firmness)
WAKE UP TO BREAKFAST – ON US!
Unlike most vacation rentals, we provide complimentary self-made breakfast options including:
• Pancake mix, oatmeal, and toppings (chocolate chips, sprinkles, powdered sugar)
• Coffee Bar with Keurig, French Press & Drip Coffee makers, creamer & flavorings like Caramel Latte, Chocolate Creme & Sugar-Free Hazelnut.
RELAX, COOK & GATHER
• Living Room: Cozy couches, blankets, fireplace, Smart 4K Roku TV, desk
• Dining Room: Large table for 6+, perfect for meals, games, puzzles & more
• Kitchen: Fully stocked with full-size appliances, cookware, utensils & dishes
MODERN AMENITIES WITH VINTAGE CHARM
• Two Bathrooms (Full upstairs, half downstairs) stocked with toiletries
• Spacious Off-Street Parking (Motion-activated security light)
• Walkable Location – Steps from dining, attractions & a short drive to Ames & Des Moines
EXCLUSIVE GUEST PERKS! (No Other Stay Offers These!)
We’ve partnered with local businesses to offer you exclusive discounts & freebies during your stay:
• NO hidden CLEANING FEES
• Rail Explorers: FREE Tote Bag (1 per reservation)
• Seven Oaks Rec: 15% OFF activities (except snow tubing)
• Lavender Basket: $10 Gift Certificate (Pretzels, Boba Drinks & More!)
• Midtown Crossing: 10% OFF 1 ticket of Axe or Dart Throwing
• Serenity Spice & Tea: FREE Cup of Tea per guest
• Chrysalis Healing Center: 10% OFF services/treatments
• Mrs. Slobberworth’s: Special Guest Discount
• Bottled Bliss: Special Guest Discount
(Full details at 607GuestHouse.com)
KNOW BEFORE YOU BOOK: No Fine Print, Just Transparency
We want your stay to be amazing, but please note:
• No pets allowed (Cleaning fee applies if a pet is brought on the property.)
• Rate Based on Occupancy, Additional guest(s) fee may apply
• No smoking, vaping, e-cigarettes indoors (Designated outdoor area available)
• No parties/events (Family gatherings with approval are welcome—just ask!)
• Max 10 registered guests (No overnight unregistered guests—please update your reservation)
• Security Notice: Property has a Ring Smart Doorbell at the front entrance.
Ready to book? Have questions? Text, email, or call anytime!
Visit 607GuestHouse.com to see local events & plan your stay.
With so much to enjoy—history, comfort, and special bonuses—you’ll want to "EXTEND YOUR STAY Because "WHERE YOU STAY should be part of YOUR DESTINATION EXPERIENCE, too."
Featured in the 2025 Travel Iowa Guide (pg.94)
The 607 Guest House is a 150+ year-old vintage vacation rental that was once owned by railroad tycoon John Insley Blair. Built in 1867—the same year Iowa's first railroad tracks were laid—this thoughtfully restored home highlights its historic charm, allowing you to immerse yourself in Boone’s rich history while enjoying modern-day conveniences like a heated bathroom floor and zoned central air. After sitting vacant for years, the home has been lovingly brought back to life, with the interior carefully restored to reveal its original beauty. The exterior retains its original character, with future updates planned to further showcase its 1800s roots.
Inside, you’ll discover artwork, décor, and details inspired by Trains, Iowa, and the Midwest, making your stay a true Boone experience. From its original heart pine floors to restored windows with working pulleys and leaded glass panes, history comes alive in this one-of-a-kind stay. Whether you're here for adventure, relaxation, or a step back in time, the 607 Guest House is more than just a place to sleep—it’s an experience.
SLEEP IN COMFORT & PRIVACY
Accommodating up to 10 guests (2 per bed), featuring 3 themed bedrooms + additional sleeping space:
• The Kate Shelley Room (1st Floor): Queen Bed + En-suite Half Bath
• The Eisenhower Room (2nd Floor): Queen Bed
• The Prairie Rose Room (2nd Floor): Two Double Beds
• Living Room: Queen Sealy AlwayzAire Mattress with headboard (adjusts to your preferred firmness)
WAKE UP TO BREAKFAST – ON US!
Unlike most vacation rentals, we provide complimentary self-made breakfast options including:
• Pancake mix, oatmeal, and toppings (chocolate chips, sprinkles, powdered sugar)
• Coffee Bar with Keurig, French Press & Drip Coffee makers, creamer & flavorings like Caramel Latte, Chocolate Creme & Sugar-Free Hazelnut.
RELAX, COOK & GATHER
• Living Room: Cozy couches, blankets, fireplace, Smart 4K Roku TV, desk
• Dining Room: Large table for 6+, perfect for meals, games, puzzles & more
• Kitchen: Fully stocked with full-size appliances, cookware, utensils & dishes
MODERN AMENITIES WITH VINTAGE CHARM
• Two Bathrooms (Full upstairs, half downstairs) stocked with toiletries
• Spacious Off-Street Parking (Motion-activated security light)
• Walkable Location – Steps from dining, attractions & a short drive to Ames & Des Moines
EXCLUSIVE GUEST PERKS! (No Other Stay Offers These!)
We’ve partnered with local businesses to offer you exclusive discounts & freebies during your stay:
• NO hidden CLEANING FEES
• Rail Explorers: FREE Tote Bag (1 per reservation)
• Seven Oaks Rec: 15% OFF activities (except snow tubing)
• Lavender Basket: $10 Gift Certificate (Pretzels, Boba Drinks & More!)
• Midtown Crossing: 10% OFF 1 ticket of Axe or Dart Throwing
• Serenity Spice & Tea: FREE Cup of Tea per guest
• Chrysalis Healing Center: 10% OFF services/treatments
• Mrs. Slobberworth’s: Special Guest Discount
• Bottled Bliss: Special Guest Discount
(Full details at 607GuestHouse.com)
KNOW BEFORE YOU BOOK: No Fine Print, Just Transparency
We want your stay to be amazing, but please note:
• No pets allowed (Cleaning fee applies if a pet is brought on the property.)
• Rate Based on Occupancy, Additional guest(s) fee may apply
• No smoking, vaping, e-cigarettes indoors (Designated outdoor area available)
• No parties/events (Family gatherings with approval are welcome—just ask!)
• Max 10 registered guests (No overnight unregistered guests—please update your reservation)
• Security Notice: Property has a Ring Smart Doorbell at the front entrance.
Ready to book? Have questions? Text, email, or call anytime!
Visit 607GuestHouse.com to see local events & plan your stay.
With so much to enjoy—history, comfort, and special bonuses—you’ll want to "EXTEND YOUR STAY Because "WHERE YOU STAY should be part of YOUR DESTINATION EXPERIENCE, too."
Property manager
Alison
Premier Host
Languages
English
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Breakfast included
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Have a question?
BetaGet instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.
Similar properties

Natural Nesting Grounds - Boone, IA
Natural Nesting Grounds - Boone, IA
- Breakfast included
- Kitchen
- Washer
- Dryer
10.0 out of 10, (3 reviews)
House Rules
Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 20
Check out before 11:00 AM
Children
Children allowed: ages 0-17
Baby gate provided-don't leave children unattended
Events
Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
Host's Expressed permission required for gathering
Pets
No pets allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Designated smoking area outside on back patio.
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site; maximum attendees: 16
Note from host: Host's Expressed permission required for gathering
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
About the neighborhood
Boone
Located in Boone, this vacation home is in the city center. Honey Creek Golf Club and Seven Oaks Recreation are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad and Museum and Iowa Arboretum. Furman Aquatic Center and Trailhead Park and Arboretum are also worth visiting. Be sure to check out the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

Boone, IA
What's nearby
- Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad and Museum - 9 min walk - 0.8 km
- Boone Speedway - 6 min drive - 4.7 km
- Seven Oaks Recreation - 8 min drive - 10.0 km
- Honey Creek Golf Club - 9 min drive - 7.3 km
- Iowa State University - 19 min drive - 23.4 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- McDonald's - 4 min drive
- Whistle Stop Cafe - 9 min walk
- Casey's General Store - 9 min walk
- Casey's General Store - 13 min walk
- Dairy Queen - 3 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window10/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Amenities
10/10
Property conditions & facilities
10/10
Eco-friendliness
10/10
Check-in
10/10
Communication
10/10
Location
10/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
Dec 27, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Cindy H.
Dec 23, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
ISU grad
Cindy H.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Diane D.
Nov 3, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Ames visit
Diane D.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Sherryl K.
Oct 25, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful place
Sherryl K.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
Brady D.
Oct 23, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great house, great location
Brady D.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
Allison D.
Oct 18, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely stay!
Allison D.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
Lisa M.
Oct 12, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
607 guest house
Lisa M.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
gayle M.
Sep 20, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wedding weekend
gayle M.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
Ann P.
Sep 16, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quaint and cute, sweet and prettt
Ann P.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Heather H.
Aug 1, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Girls Weekend
Heather H.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Dana F.
Jul 26, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quick stay
Dana F.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Edward F.
Jul 19, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Destination Wedding
Edward F.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Tobey and Brenda E.
Jul 15, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Friends Ride the Rails
Tobey and Brenda E.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Holly B.
Jun 18, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Visiting Ames area
Holly B.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Lori W.
Jun 16, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful Home
Lori W.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Deborah S.
May 28, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
nice and cozy stay.
Deborah S.
Stayed 1 night in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Meghan S.
May 26, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to stay!
Meghan S.
Stayed 1 night in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Heidi A.
May 13, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect for large family visit
Heidi A.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Barb J.
Apr 29, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Family fun.
Barb J.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024
10/10 Excellent
Catherine C.
Dec 22, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful!
Catherine C.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2023
10/10 Excellent
Felica H.
Dec 22, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was great!
Felica H.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2023
10/10 Excellent
Daniel B.
Nov 19, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great stay
Daniel B.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2023
10/10 Excellent
John W.
Nov 5, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent place to stay.
John W.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Crystal Pineda
Nov 5, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Crystal Pineda
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2023
10/10 Excellent
Jacqueline F.
Oct 2, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Girlfriend Getaway
Jacqueline F.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
About the host
Hosted by Alison

Current owners, Eric & Alison, bought this property after it had been left vacant for a few years as their first home and have worked on restoring some of its natural beauty, charm and history while incorporating modern day conveniences. The couple formerly from Illinois, raised a family in the home while restoring it until they moved to "newer" Boone home built in 1870. We love the character and charm that "vintage" homes bring and it takes a special person to appreciate the "challenges" that they often present too, but it is rewarding to see History Come Back to Life!
Why they chose this property
Next to downtown Boone, it's walking distance to many attractions and restaurants including: Boone Scenic Valley Rail Road & Rail Explorers, Boone River Valley Brewing, Downtown Boone, Mamie Eisenhower's Birthplace and a short drive to the Ames and Des Moines areas. If safety is your concern, this friendly neighborhood property is located 5 blocks or 0.3 miles from the Boone Fire Department and located 5 blocks or 0.3 miles from the Boone Police Department.
What makes this property unique
This is a ONE-OF-A-KIND vacation rental to EXPERIENCE. Formerly owned by Railroad Tycoon, John Insley Blair, this is a 150+ years old home that was built in 1867. The same year the first railroad tracks were laid in Iowa. Immerse your stay in the Boone, Iowa experience with the added artwork, decor and charm themed with Trains, Iowa and the Midwest in this vacation property referred to as the 607 Guest House.
The home’s interior has been restored to bring back some of its natural beauty, charm and history, while incorporating modern day conveniences like a heated bathroom floor and Zoned Central Air Conditioning System. From refinishing the 150+ years old heart pine floors to restoring the interior wood windows with functional weights & pulleys and maintaining the original lead glass window panes, it’s an ongoing process that we will continue to the exterior. While you enjoy the Iowa/Midwest history and train decor throughout this home built in 1867, please remember to leave a 5-star review for others to find this unique experience too.
*BONUS*
The 607 Guest House is excited to be a PREFERRED PLACE TO STAY with the Rail Explorers, Boone, Iowa Division! When you stay at the 607 Guest House and attend your Rail Explorers Reservation, mention you're staying at the "607 GUEST HOUSE" and you will receive a FREE Rail Explorers Tote Bag. This Explorers exclusive bag will be perfect for carrying all your belongings on board your rail bike while you enjoy the breathtaking, scenic views of your Boone, Iowa tour. (You get 1 bag per Rail Explorers Reservation when you mention the 607 Guest House.)
The home’s interior has been restored to bring back some of its natural beauty, charm and history, while incorporating modern day conveniences like a heated bathroom floor and Zoned Central Air Conditioning System. From refinishing the 150+ years old heart pine floors to restoring the interior wood windows with functional weights & pulleys and maintaining the original lead glass window panes, it’s an ongoing process that we will continue to the exterior. While you enjoy the Iowa/Midwest history and train decor throughout this home built in 1867, please remember to leave a 5-star review for others to find this unique experience too.
*BONUS*
The 607 Guest House is excited to be a PREFERRED PLACE TO STAY with the Rail Explorers, Boone, Iowa Division! When you stay at the 607 Guest House and attend your Rail Explorers Reservation, mention you're staying at the "607 GUEST HOUSE" and you will receive a FREE Rail Explorers Tote Bag. This Explorers exclusive bag will be perfect for carrying all your belongings on board your rail bike while you enjoy the breathtaking, scenic views of your Boone, Iowa tour. (You get 1 bag per Rail Explorers Reservation when you mention the 607 Guest House.)
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback