Dog Bark Park Inn

This quirky bed and breakfast is housed inside Sweet Willy, a two-story building shaped like a giant beagle. Built by chainsaw artists, it offers visitors a chance to sleep inside a piece of canine-themed art. Inside, the dog motif continues down to the smallest decorative details.

Admission: Free to visit the grounds and gift shop; lodging rates apply for overnight stays
Hours: Grounds and gift shop open daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (April through October); Lodging by reservation
Duration: 30-45 minutes
Parking: Free on-site parking
Access: Gift shop and grounds are wheelchair accessible; the interior of the inn requires climbing stairs

Created by chainsaw artists Dennis Sullivan and Frances Conklin, the Dog Bark Park Inn opened in 2003 as a testament to their love of canine carving. Known locally as Sweet Willy, the world's largest beagle stands 30 feet tall and serves as a fully functioning, two-bedroom guesthouse.

Inside, guests will find a cozy, dog-themed interior complete with canine-shaped headboards, jigsaw puzzles, and decorative carvings. The property also features a gift shop where visitors can watch the artists at work carving smaller wooden dogs.

This quirky roadside landmark perfectly captures the spirit of classic Americana road trips. Its whimsical design has made it an iconic stop for travelers exploring the scenic byways of northern Idaho.

Ratings

hotel

Comfort

4.3/5

Cleanliness

4.8/5

Location Convenience

3.5/5

Value for Money

4.6/5

Amenities

3.8/5

Noise Level (Quietness)

4.7/5

Check-in Ease

4.9/5

Character

5/5

Pet Friendly ✓Free Breakfast ✓Kid Friendly ✓Free Parking ✓

Visitor Tips

◆ Book your stay well in advance, as the single-unit beagle guesthouse is highly popular and books up months ahead.
◆ Stop by the visitor center and gift shop to meet the artists and purchase a hand-carved wooden dog of your own.
◆ Don't miss the opportunity to take photos with Toby, the smaller 12-foot beagle standing next to Sweet Willy.

Heads Up

◆ The sleeping loft inside the dog's head is accessed via a steep ladder, which may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility.
◆ As a rural destination, nearby dining options can be limited, especially during the off-season.

Common questions

Can you actually sleep inside the giant dog?

Yes, the giant beagle structure is a fully functioning two-story bed and breakfast that accommodates overnight guests.

Do you need a reservation just to take photos with the giant dogs?

No, visitors are welcome to walk around the property, take photos, and visit the gift shop for free without booking an overnight stay.

How many guests can sleep inside the Dog Bark Park Inn?

The accommodation sleeps up to four people, featuring a queen-size bed and two twin-size futon mattresses located in the loft.

Are real dogs allowed to stay overnight inside the inn?

Yes, well-behaved pets are welcome to stay with their owners for a small additional fee, provided you notify the hosts in advance.

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