The Golden Lamb
Ohio's oldest continuously operated hotel, offering historic rooms and classic American dining with a rumored haunted past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate feel
The Golden Lamb
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate feel
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ohio's oldest continuously operated hotel, offering historic rooms and classic American dining with a rumored haunted past.
"A stellar dining experience and what we have come to expect from The Golden Lamb. We love this place!"
Book Dining in Advance
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend dinners, to avoid long waits. :ticket:
Ask About Room History
Inquire about the historical significance of your room when checking in for a unique experience. :hotel:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sister Lizzie's Sugar Pie
Restaurant
A sweet, historical delicacy that's a must-try for dessert lovers. Often served complimentary for special occasions!
Historic Guest Rooms
Hotel
Sleep in rooms that have hosted presidents and literary figures. Each room offers a unique glimpse into the past.
The Tavern Atmosphere
Tavern
Enjoy a drink in a cozy, old-world setting. Perfect for soaking in the inn's rich history and local charm.
Deviled Eggs
Restaurant
Generously sized and packed with flavor, these deviled eggs are a frequently praised appetizer.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History (and Potential Haunts!)
Dining Delights & Room Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Dining in Advance
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend dinners, to avoid long waits. :ticket:
Ask About Room History
Inquire about the historical significance of your room when checking in for a unique experience. :hotel:
The oldest hotel and longest continuously running business in Ohio is the Golden Lamb Restaurant & Hotel in Lebanon. Modern presidents stop there to give stump speeches during election season, and presidents throughout history have spent the night. Oh, and it is believed to be haunted.
What is the creepiest hotel in the Columbus area?
Try the House Specialties
Don't miss the deviled eggs, prime rib, or Sister Lizzie's Sugar Pie for an authentic taste. :chef_knife:
Be Prepared for Spooky Tales
The Golden Lamb is known for its ghost stories; embrace the history and potential hauntings! :ghost:
Where to Stay in Dayton for Ren Faire
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Dining in Advance
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend dinners, to avoid long waits. :ticket:
Ask About Room History
Inquire about the historical significance of your room when checking in for a unique experience. :hotel:
Try the House Specialties
Don't miss the deviled eggs, prime rib, or Sister Lizzie's Sugar Pie for an authentic taste. :chef_knife:
Be Prepared for Spooky Tales
The Golden Lamb is known for its ghost stories; embrace the history and potential hauntings! :ghost:
Service Can Be Slow
Patience is key, especially during busy times. Enjoy the ambiance while you wait. :hourglass:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Golden Lamb offers a deeply historic and charming dining and lodging experience, with many praising the classic American cuisine and the inn's preserved 19th-century atmosphere. While the food and ambiance are often highlighted as positives, some guests have noted slow service during busy periods and occasional inconsistencies with certain dishes or drinks.
"Update: We celebrated our 34th anniversary at the Golden Lamb this afternoon and it was, as usual, an amazing dining experience. Steve was our waiter (he's waited on us before and he was attentive, on the spot and also talked us through a few new things on the menu - he's always great). The food was absolutely wonderful and never disappoints. We had their cheese platter appentizer - always fantastic with a lot of variety including their house made butter crackers - we always order this great starter. We order a couple glass of the nice, sweet Golden Lamb Moscato and coffee. Steve quickly realized we were going through the coffee very quickly and brought us our own pot. My got the Deviled Eggs w/o the ham (she's a vegetarian) and the shrimp coctail as her "dinner" - she said both were amazing - the deviled eggs were big (4 egg halves loaded) and she loves the dijonaisse sauce it comes with. She also had their homemade tomato bisque and I had the chicken spaetzel - so fresh and tasty - nice serving size. I order the Prime Rib for dinner and it was stellar. I order it rare and the kitchen absolutely nailed it. I took half of it home because piece was so big. The red wine sauce was amazing as were the smashed redskins with garlic and the homemade onion straws. We got a free piece of Sister Lizzie's Sugar pie for our anniversary which we were not expecting. If you have never had this sweet delicacy, you should try it. Another stellar dining experience and what we have come to expect from The Golden Lamb. We love this place as part of our Christmas tradition every year, but we've been trying to get there more often because it is always a great time out (it's about 45 minutes drive for us - well worth the drive time). As usual I forgot to take pictures."
Pat Savelli
"My friend recommended we come here. When I heard it was historical, I was definitely intrigued. We enjoyed our burgers. There were things on the menu that I would definitely like to try when I return again, which I fully plan on doing. (That Couscous, Mushroom & Vegetable "Cobbler" sounds amazing!) Our server, Karen, was a delight and had a snappy sense of humor. As a bartender for over half my life, I treasure excellent service, and it's exactly what we received"
Craig Wheeler
"Recently went for the time while in town and were very pleased with historical charm of the restaurant, the building and the food. The cheese curds and tangy ranch were delicious, the yeast rolls and apple butter were so good! The tenderloin sandwich our boys had I actually liked better than the fried chicken. The tenderloin was very, well tender and flavorful! While I did like the flavor and skin on the chicken it was a bit dry. The salmon needed salt but then was good and cooked properly. The bourbon smash was light on bourbon and the martini wasn’t the best but overall it was a nice experience and dinner. Service was slow to be recognized and to get drinks but once we ordered food it was timely."
shaggy 505
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Golden Lamb is located in Lebanon, Ohio, about a 45-minute drive south of Columbus. Take I-71 South and follow signs for Lebanon. Parking is available nearby.
Public transportation options directly to Lebanon are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to reach The Golden Lamb. Consider ride-sharing services if you're coming from a nearby city.
There is typically street parking available around the inn, and some nearby public lots. It can get busy on weekends, so be prepared for a short walk.
The historic nature of the building may present some challenges. It's best to call ahead to discuss specific accessibility needs for dining or lodging.
Yes, Lebanon is a charming town with a historic downtown area. You can enjoy a stroll before or after your visit to The Golden Lamb.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and on weekends, as the restaurant is very popular. You can usually book online or by phone.
The restaurant and hotel have different hours. The restaurant typically serves lunch and dinner, while the hotel is open for bookings year-round. Check their official website for the most current hours.
There is no admission fee to enter the restaurant or common areas of the inn. You only pay for dining or if you book a room.
While you can see some of the historic decor from the dining areas, a full tour of the guest rooms is generally only available to hotel guests.
The Golden Lamb often hosts special events, holiday meals, and packages. It's worth checking their website or contacting them directly for upcoming offerings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Popular choices include the deviled eggs, prime rib, tenderloin sandwich, and Sister Lizzie's Sugar Pie. Many reviewers rave about the cheese platter appetizer as well.
Yes, they have vegetarian options like the Deviled Eggs (without ham) and a Couscous, Mushroom & Vegetable "Cobbler." Vegan options may be limited, so it's best to inquire when ordering.
Dining prices are moderate to high, reflecting the historic setting and quality of ingredients. Entrees typically range from $20-$40.
Yes, the yeast rolls and apple butter are often mentioned as delicious homemade accompaniments to meals.
They offer a selection of wines, including a sweet Golden Lamb Moscato, cocktails, and coffee. Some reviewers noted the bourbon smash was light on bourbon.
🎫 👻 Haunted History
The Golden Lamb is widely considered one of Ohio's most haunted hotels. Numerous guests and staff have reported paranormal experiences, making it a popular spot for ghost enthusiasts.
Reports include disembodied voices, apparitions, unexplained noises, and objects moving on their own. The hotel embraces its haunted reputation.
Yes, you can book a stay in one of the historic rooms, many of which are associated with paranormal activity. It's part of the unique experience.
While the hotel plays into its haunted history, many guests and locals believe the stories are genuine, based on numerous reported experiences over the years.
The inn has a long history dating back to 1803, with many notable guests and events. The sheer age and the stories accumulated over centuries contribute to its haunted reputation.
📸 📸 Photography & Ambiance
Focus on the architectural details, antique furnishings, and cozy lighting. The tavern and dining rooms offer great opportunities for atmospheric shots.
Absolutely! The cozy, historic atmosphere, dim lighting, and classic American cuisine make it a popular choice for romantic occasions.
It's a blend of historic charm, old-world elegance, and a touch of spooky mystery. Expect a cozy, intimate, and memorable experience.
Yes, you are generally welcome to take photos, especially in the dining areas and common spaces. Be mindful of other diners and hotel guests.
The preserved 19th-century decor, antique furniture, and the inn's long history create a unique and immersive atmosphere that transports you back in time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting for lunch to avoid the busiest dinner crowds. While the historic nature means some areas might have stairs, the main dining areas are generally accessible. It's a great opportunity to spark curiosity about history and local legends.
👻 Ghost Hunters & Paranormal Enthusiasts
Be prepared for stories of apparitions, unexplained noises, and spectral presences. The inn's staff are often happy to share the lore, adding to the thrilling atmosphere. Embrace the spooky side and see if you can experience the inn's famous hauntings firsthand.
🏛️ History Buffs
Consider staying overnight to fully immerse yourself in the historical ambiance. The inn's rich past, from its founding in 1803 to its role in shaping local and national history, offers a unique educational experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through History
Beyond its historical significance, The Golden Lamb is also famed for its alleged hauntings. Numerous guests and staff have reported encounters with spectral figures, unexplained noises, and other paranormal phenomena. This reputation for being haunted adds an intriguing layer to the visitor experience, drawing in those curious about the supernatural. The inn doesn't shy away from this aspect, often sharing its ghost stories with guests, making a stay here a potentially thrilling adventure.
Culinary Delights and Dining Experience
While the food is generally excellent, some guests have noted that service can be slow, particularly during peak hours. It's advisable to make reservations, especially for weekend evenings, to ensure a table and a smoother dining experience. The menu also includes some unique items, such as a Couscous, Mushroom & Vegetable "Cobbler," which has piqued the interest of many diners looking for something different. The beverage selection includes wines and cocktails, though some have found certain drinks to be less potent than expected.
The Haunted Reputation
This haunted reputation is a significant draw for many visitors, who come specifically to experience the spooky side of The Golden Lamb. The hotel embraces its spectral guests, often sharing tales of hauntings with patrons. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, the stories and the atmosphere of the historic inn can certainly create a thrilling and memorable experience. Staying overnight offers the best chance to encounter any resident spirits.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit