Brisbane House: Restored Historic Stone House in the Country

Photo gallery for Brisbane House: Restored Historic Stone House in the Country

A rustic stone house with a steep gabled roof, multiple windows, and a well-maintained lawn.
A dining area with a wooden table, a vase of flowers, and a fruit bowl.
A four-poster bed with a patterned bedspread, a wooden nightstand with a lamp, and large windows with curtains.
An enclosed patio area with a table set for dining, wicker furniture, and a view of a grassy landscape.
A living room with a staircase, a green table, a white armchair, and a colorful stained glass door.

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area

Highlights

  • The great outdoors
    Guests love the outdoor space here.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.

Popular amenities

  • Dog-friendly
  • Toys
  • Breakfast included
  • Barbecue grill
  • Air conditioning
  • Garage parking available

Explore the area

View in a map
Arena, WI
  • Place, Wisconsin River
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Tower Hill State Park
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Place, American Players Theatre
    ‪13 min drive‬
  • Airport, Madison, WI (MSN-Dane County Regional)
    ‪49 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Main Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Third floor--Queen

1 Queen Bed

Third floor--Twins

2 Twin Beds

2 bathrooms

First floor full bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Main house, second floor full bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Office
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

Add dates for prices

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About the neighborhood

Arena

Located in Arena, this vacation home is in a rural area and on a river. American Players Theatre and Driftless Historium & Mount Horeb Area Historical Society are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Spring Green General Store and Folklore Village. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing and snowboarding, or check out other outdoor activities such as snowmobiling and sledding.
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Map
Arena, WI

What's nearby

  • Wisconsin River - 9 min drive - 15.0 km
  • Tower Hill State Park - 10 min drive - 15.6 km
  • Buckeridge's Home and Gallery - 11 min drive - 17.5 km
  • Spring Green General Store - 12 min drive - 18.9 km
  • American Players Theatre - 13 min drive - 17.8 km

Getting around

  • Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) - 50 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Arena Cafe - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Grandma Mary's Cafe - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪1855 Coffee House - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Iron Amethyst Inn & The 2One Speakeasy - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Heck's Market - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Brisbane House: Restored Historic Stone House in the Country pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

How much does it cost to stay at Brisbane House: Restored Historic Stone House in the Country?

As of Oct 30, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Brisbane House: Restored Historic Stone House in the Country on Dec 31, 2026 start from $652, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Brisbane House: Restored Historic Stone House in the Country?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Brisbane House: Restored Historic Stone House in the Country?

Check-out is at 12:00 PM.

Where is Brisbane House: Restored Historic Stone House in the Country located?

Situated on a river, this vacation home is 2.9 mi (4.7 km) from Wisconsin River and within 9 mi (15 km) of American Players Theatre and Spring Green General Store. Spring Green Golf Course is 9.6 mi (15.4 km) away.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 36 out of 37 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 37 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 37 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 37 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 37 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was very good as advertised
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We stayed here 5 years ago and it was wonderful to be back. It's gorgeous and clean and obviously loved. The house and grounds are in great condition--comfy beds, great new 1st floor bathroom. It's amazing how much work has been put into this historic home to modernize it. We highly encourage you stay here.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 5, 2026
Lesley, thank you again for coming back and for another wonderful review. You're some of the best guests we've ever had :)
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was our second time staying here and it did not disappoint! This historic property has clearly been restored with love and intention. The house is clean and comfortable, communication with the owners is excellent, and the hospitality and welcoming spirit of the home is evident in every corner. The yard is gorgeous and the location is perfect for exploring all the Driftless Area of Wisconsin has to offer.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 8, 2026
I was hoping I would get a chance to broadcast how kindly Jenny treated the Brisbane House and what a pleasure it was to host her and her family for a second time! We were impressed and love having her caliber of guest. We're so proud of the story the house has to tell and of our restoration project. It's a privilege to share it with people like Jenny.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful stay - host was accommodating, property clean, nicely decorated and historically significant, beautiful grounds.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 14, 2025
Jane thank you for your wonderful review, we're so glad you enjoyed the Brisbane House! You treated it with kid gloves and we're so grateful.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A great getaway place. Amazing home with a fun and historical story. Great space for a group of friends and close to unique attractions and small town charm.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

It’s a magical place that
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 6, 2025
Amy and her family were absolutely ideal guests! They loved the place and appreciated the history. They sent us the world's best text, "We are here and never leaving!!!" They even troubleshooted a blown fuse that didn't allow one of the bedrooms to cool down. We'd love to have them back again and you'd be lucky to host them! (I think that her full review wasn't submitted.)
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful, enjoyed our stay. Very accommodating.

This property was beautiful. It was perfect for our family and pets.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 15, 2022
Lori, it was a pleasure hosting you and your family at a very important time in your lives! Thank you for coming to Brisbane to celebrate. You were terrific guests and I appreciated the prompt communication, your respect for the house rules, and your appreciation for our restoration project! We'd love to welcome you back another time (also, I think you left two dog bowls...would you like me to send them to you?).
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great family stay!

House was incredible. Host was super helpful and overall stay was great. Hope to come back soon!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Jan 26, 2023
Hayne and his family and two dogs were super guests! Hayne was terrific at keeping in touch and asking questions. He was interested in the area and sounds like they loved the house itself. He and his family were really considerate and respectful of Brisbane and left it clean and tidy. I hope they come back in the summer to experience another season at Brisbane. We'd love to host them again! (Hayne, where did you end up going for dinner?)
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great restored historical property built in 1868

Great setting in the country, fantastic brick home, well equipped, a labor of love restoration, most congenial host.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 27, 2023
5 stars for Delores, and I think I missed "communication" by accident. She gets 5 stars for that, especially! We had a number of exchanges and I was pleased she and her quilt-loving friends were able to stay at the house. She was kind and responsible and I highly recommend Delores! She is welcome back any time!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Brisbane House

The Brisbane House was absolutely beautiful. Enjoyed our visit and can’t wait to return someday. It was by far one of the best vacation rental homes we have stayed in.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 28, 2021
Bill and Jan, we’re so happy! Thank you for the glowing review. You were five star guests yourselves! We’d love to host you again. Hope your relatives loved it, too.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Staying at Brisbane House is a rare experience—the house itself is both historically significant and extremely well appointed and comfortable, but the art inside, all by artists of color, is extraordinary. We were completely wowed while also finding everything we needed for a high-end weekend experience—very comfortable beds, well stocked kitchen, amazing grounds and a dreamy screened in porch. Can’t wait to return!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Response from Management on Oct 5, 2026
Joel, thanks for coming back and bringing the gang! It's a treat to have you all and...make it a habit :)
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Brisbane House

We spent 3 nights at this fantastic place and it was absolutely amazing. The restoration of the house is second to none. We are already planning a trip back in a few months.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on May 29, 2022
Christian, what a lovely and glowing review, we're so glad we could delight you! You are some of the world's best guests, we'd welcome you back in an instant!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful historic renovation

Such a unique and beautiful house, with every room redone with care and imagination. I would love to live there.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 9, 2022
Lars, you were a terrific guest! Thank you for appreciating our restoration efforts and for treating Brisbane so kindly. You're welcome back any time, it was a pleasure to have you all!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Historical, Whimsical Retreat

What a delightful home! A perfect mix of hospitality, history, relaxation, and restoration. The house was very clean and comfy, and surprisingly roomy for such an old house. Beautifully renovated property and the hosts were a delight to work with. Close proximity to so many fun attractions, and yet also very quiet and private. We hope to be back soon!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 6, 2022
Jenny, what a kind review, thank you. We're so glad you discovered some delightful surprises! You all were wonderful guests we'd welcome you back any time! You left the sweetest notes in our guest books and some very nice self portraits, the art fits right in :)
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Second Stay!

Our family loved this house last summer so we returned for another vacation. Sam is a great host, everything was immaculate, with plenty of supplies and everything we might need. This year we enjoyed Cave on the Mounds, Taliesin, and American Players Theatre. We can’t wait to return!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 24, 2023
Tanya and her family were absolutely amazing guests--it was a pleasure to communicate with her (again) and help her craft the best vacation possible. She left the place incredibly clean and even started the wash. Super conscientious and we'd be lucky to have her back again. Icing on the cake were the drawings and critiques left by her kids. Some young savvy travelers in the making! The absolute best!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely place to be

We spent 3 nights while attending 6 plays at American Players Theater. The Stone House is perfect for such an outing. Samantha is very responsive and welcoming. We hope to be back in 2024.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 31, 2023
Melinda, we loved welcoming you and your group back to Brisbane! Thank you for your stay and for being engaging and delightful guests. We'd love to host you again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect getaway

Exactly what we were hoping for. Great rest and relaxation. The house was perfect; everything you need, nothing you don't. Our mini-schnauzer Henry LOVED playing fetch in the yard as we relaxed by the campfire. Thanks for a lovely time Sam and Bruce!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 29, 2021
Yay, you had a campfire and so happy Henry loved the yard, too. You were impeccable guests and we’d be luck to have you again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely unique house

This house was a treat. From the unique decorative touches and art in every room to the cozy handmade quilts on the beds, this property was a lovely place to get away for the weekend. We especially enjoyed the interesting history of the Brisbanes in the living room! Thank you for sharing this marvel with us.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Nov 3, 2023
Graham, what a pleasure it was to have you and your family at Brisbane. You were terrific at the communication from beginning, middle and end. Thank you for the kind remarks and for treating the place so lovingly. We wanted to impress you and hope we did! You're absolutely welcome back any time and our highest recommendation to any future hosts!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautifully restored, historic house in lovely setting

What a treat to stay an old stone house that has been so lovingly restored. From the modern art to the fluffy towels to the marble kitchen countertop - the property was filled with surprises and delights. The location is super convenient to Madison, Taliesin and Devil's Lake. The property owners couldn't have more accommodating or welcoming. So grateful for the getaway.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Nov 4, 2021
Lauren, what a lovely review, thank you so much and I'm so so happy you were able to relax and be comfortable here (as well as being surprised and delighted). You'll always be welcome back, you were picture perfect guests!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Dream house!

This property is gorgeous, easily the most comfortable and cleanest stay we’ve ever had. The pictures do not do it justice. The owners thought of everything re: amenities, and the art and interior detail is inspiring. Congrats for preserving something so beautiful and thank you for sharing it with us!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 4, 2022
Tanya, and you're dream guests! Thank you for all of your appreciation and we're so happy you found it just right for you. The highest compliment you could pay is to share with your friends and come back yourselves! Until then...
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Escape from Fireworks

Brisbane House is a gem! Sam and Bruce did an amazing job restoring this beautiful home. Plus communication with Sam is top notch, always working to improve the vacation. Our goal was get away from the city fireworks (for the dogs) over the holiday. We got just take at Brisbane plus the country living. Hope to be back.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 10, 2023
Katie and her friends were terrific guests and I was glad to host them away from (most) fireworks! Katie was responsive, respectful, and posted photos and left a sweet note in our book. We'd be glad to have them back--the two- and four-legged!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

APT weekend

I rented this property for an annual couples weekend that includes a couple of performances at nearby American Players Theatre. We have stayed in many properties over the years and absolutely loved this one. We enjoyed the beautiful renovation and stylish decor, and we appreciated that the home had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. We love to cook and have fancy meals, and the kitchen was well equipped for our culinary adventures. We also appreciated that dogs could join us. The beds were also very comfortable. Overall a delightful stay, and we plan to return.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 29, 2022
Sherry, you all were fantastic guests and we were so happy to host you. I tell you, you take the cake for culinary creativity by stuffing the squash blossoms you found in the yard, I love that! Thank you for sharing your fun photos with us and being all around terrific people. You treated our place with kid gloves and we'd be lucky to have you back. Sam & Bruce
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Terrific

It is a privilege to stay in this impeccable home with such a storied history and excellent preservation. We were 6 friends who had come to American Players Theater. Even though we got rained out of 2 of the 6 plays, we will exchange the tickets for next year and hope to stay again at Brisbane House. The hosts are incredibly welcoming and gracious. Thank you for a great time.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 12, 2022
Melinda and her family and friends were simply terrific guests! They were very communicative, were respectful of the house in every way, and left a very sweet note. Also, there was something small that needed fixing and instead of ignoring it, they informed me, and therefore I could take care of it right away. We so appreciated their stay and we're excited to welcome them back again: sorry not sorry it rained so they will stay once more! Thank you so so much, Melinda for choosing to stay at Brisbane and we can't wait to host you again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Home and Property

Upon our initial glance, the home is unique, lovely, and great for a weekend getaway. Once we arrived and took in all that is offered, we were happily surprised about the history of the house and the original owner, the original artwork decorating the walls, and stillness of the surrounding property. Brisbane house is a wonderful home and property for weekend getaway or extended stay. The wonderfully updated interior and amenities are great. Additionally, the proximity to the eastern driftless area of Wisconsin, the Spring Green/Arena/Mazomanie areas, and a nearby prairie remnant are well worth the stay. We hope to stay again soon.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Nov 3, 2021
Paul, I loved your first impression and even more, your experience once you got there! Thanks for taking the time to fully soak up the house and the surrounding area. You were terrific guests and I'd love to host you again sometime. Thank you!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stunning Historic Property

We loved this historic property right outside of Madison in Arena, a charming area of the Wisconsin countryside. The house has been lovingly restored and our hosts were so thoughtful with beautiful touches throughout the home like fresh flowers in the rooms and lavender soaps in the bathroom. The kids absolutely loved the Kringle in the freezer and got to pick wild asparagus from yard. The house sits on an enchanting piece of property with beautiful trees and lots yard to enjoy. The next time we are on the area, we will be back again at the Brisbane House.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Jun 16, 2022
Zinnia, you and your family were superb guests, we were delighted to host you! It was a pleasure to get to chat with you a bit. Thank you for enjoying all Brisbane has to offer and for your support of our preservation project. We'd love to have you back any time. Thank you!
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