Frequently Asked Questions

Policies

How do I make a reservation?

Reservations can be made on-line or by calling (816) 226- 7405. At the time of reservation, a deposit of one night’s stay plus applicable taxes (6.3% local and 9% occupancy) will be charged to your card. The remaining room balance will be charged automatically one week prior to check-in. Incidentals are payable at checkout. If you wish to change the original form of payment please notify us at check-in. Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express accepted.

When is check-in & check-out?

Guests may check-in any time after 4:00pm up to 8:00pm. Please contact us regarding the time of check-in. Checkout is by 11:00am. Please contact the host regarding a request for early check-in or late checkout and the applicable fees of minimum $20.00 per hour.

What is your cancellation policy?

Because of our size, cancellations affect us significantly. Changes or cancellations may be made to your reservation until 7 days prior to your arrival. Changes or cancellations within 7 days of arrival will result in forfeiture of the deposit, NO EXCEPTIONS. Refunded deposits will be 10% less of the deposit collected. This applies to all room/s you have on hold with your credit card. In the case that you do not show for your reservation the deposit is forfeited, and the entire stay will be charged. We do not refund for cancellations due to weather. You are of course welcome to transfer your reservation to a friend or family member.

Early Departure

We realize that plans can change, and you may have to shorten your visit. Rooms vacated before the checkout date are still responsible for the entire charge of the original reservation.

Travel Insurance

We realize that cancellations are sometimes beyond your control. For this reason, we recommend purchasing travel insurance for peace of mind. The insurance option is available at check-out on the booking platform.

Do you allow smoking on property?

There is absolutely no smoking in any guest room. Smoking is permitted outside and away from your guest room. There is an ash tray pedestal on the back patio. Evidence of smoking in or near a guest room will result in a $250 charge to the credit card on file for the room in question.

Do you allow children?

We love children and so for their safety, Children under 7 are not allowed, as our Historic Inn is not equipped for child safety. Any child under the age of 13 requires pre-approval from the host. Children over the age of 13 shall be entered as adults. Please note they must be well behaved. No running, jumping or loud banging that may disrupt the other guests.

Do you allow pets?

We love fur babies and have two sister cats named Tinker and Faith (who are mostly blind and deaf). They are housed in a detached garage and are allowed in the sunroom when it is not in use. The sunroom has a separate ventilation system from the main house so that dander is minimized. Tinker and Faith are never allowed in the guest rooms. We do not allow outside pets, but here is a wonderful veterinarian for boarding just one mile from the inn if you are traveling with a pet. Please call for pet boarding and information.

Is parking included?

Parking is a first come first serve basis in the lot. With a little work we can fit 5 cars in the lot. There is only room for (1) vehicle per room. All other cars must park in the nearby public lot.

Am I allowed to have guests during my stay?

We are happy to have you stay at The Historic Browning Bed and Breakfast while you are visiting your family and friends in the area, however, our parking is extremely limited! Please have all family and friends find alternate parking while they are visiting so other patrons of the B&B may find parking during their stay.

What happens if I accidentally damage something during my stay?

We do understand that accidents happen so please inform us when it occurs. (Spilling of drinks, wine, lotion/creams, broken glass or beds, etc.) Please do not eat hot foods, pizza, etc. in your guestroom as grease or heat can damage duvets, linens and furniture to which you will be responsible for. Please do not use white towels for makeup removal, instead use dark colored washcloth or tissues provided. Any excessive damage that occurs from gross negligence or any disregard for our policies that results in any lost revenue, the relevant guest will be held financially responsible for the cost of all repairs and/or lost revenue. (Please do not use room linens/guest towels to clean shoes, wipe up spills, etc., and believe it or not, DO NOT COLOR YOUR HAIR in the Inn. It can ruin paint, sinks, floors and of course, linens. Thanks!) Please ask for an old towel or cloth if needed. Just please respect the Inn as it's our home that we share with you!

What if I lose my room key?

Keys that are lost or taken home and not returned, will have a $25 charge for replacement cost of all keys lost or taken.

Do you have a lost and found?

We are happy to package and send articles left behind after checking out. All costs associated with the shipment of the items are the responsibility of guest. We keep lost and found items for a maximum of 30 days from being found.

What is your privacy policy?

We respect and are committed to protecting your privacy. We may collect personally identifiable information when you visit our site. We will not sell your personally identifiable information to anyone.

Amenities

Do you provide linens, towels & toiletries?

For each guest room, we provide the following:

-1 clean pair of linens
-2 hand towels
-2 bath towels
-2 wash cloths
-Shampoo crafted by Embers Candle Bar
-Conditioner crafted by Embers Candle Bar
-1 bar of soap crafted by Embers Candle Bar
-Lotion crafted by Embers Candle Bar

Do you provide coffee?

Do you like coffee-only with my oxygen. We take coffee very seriously at the Historic Browning. We have a Keurig located in the kitchen that is fully stocked with Scotty P's Big Mug Coffee and a brewer onsite with Scotty P's breakfast blend. We also provide dry creamer, sugar & "to go" coffee cups. Please note: we provide several k-cup pods for your stay. If you need more k-cups than provided, please purchase your own.

Do you provide breakfast?

We do NOT provide breakfast at the guest house. The one exception are our wedding packages. However, you can upgrade your experience by buying our homemade donuts & coffee package. The homemade donuts and coffee package comes with 12 signature Browning donuts and a package of Scotty P's Breakfast Blend Coffee. There are several local restaurants & coffee shops within walking distance of the guest house as well.

Do you provide onsite parking? Is it free?

We do provide FREE onsite parking for up to 4 cars. Please respect our neighbors and do NOT park in business lots. Violators could be towed at the owner's expense.

Do you have an iron or ironing board?

We do have irons and ironing boards on property for guest use.

Do you provide amenities for children?

We do NOT have amenities for children (i.e. pack n' play, cribs etc.) You are welcome to bring these items if you need them.

Can we use the kitchen?

You are welcome to use the kitchen on property to prepare meals and store food items. Our kitchen is stocked with basic items like plates, cups, frying pans etc.

Can we use the washer and dryer onsite?

No. The washer and dryer are for guest house staff only.

Do you provide housekeeping during our stay?

No. We do not provide housekeeping.

The guest house is beautifully cleaned prior to your arrival.

Do you have hair dryers onsite?

Yes. We have one hair dryer in each guest room.

Can we store items in your refrigerator?

Yes, you may store items in our refrigerator.

Is there free wifi?

Yes, we provide free wifi through google fiber. The wireless password is available in all guest rooms on a chalkboard.

Even with google fiber, our house is historic and there are areas where wifi is spotty at times. Wifi works best in the kitchen & dining room if you need workspace.

Do you have a TV in a main area of the house?

No.

40 inch Smart TVs are only located in the following guest rooms: 1 king room & 2 queen rooms.

Do you provide sugar and creamer for coffee?

Yes, we provide sugar and creamer for your coffee at no additional cost.

Do you provide tea?

Yes we provide a fully stocked tea bar for you to enjoy.

Do you have any COVID amenities?

Yes we do. For each room we provide two pre-packaged masks and two pre-packaged hand sanitizer wipes. We also have hand sanitizer placed throughout the guest house.

About the House & Local Area

How many bedrooms & bathrooms does the guest house have?

The guest house has 4 bedrooms and 4 full bathrooms.

The bedrooms include: 1 king room, 2 queen rooms and 1 full room.

The bathrooms include: 2 stand up showers only; 2 tub/shower combos.

How many square ft. is the guest house?

The guest house is a little over 3,000 sq. ft

How far is downtown Lee's Summit from the guest house? Is is walk-able?

Downtown Lee's Summit is a short 2 block walk from the guest house. It is extremely walk-able and easy to get to.

How far are you from the Amtrak station? Can I walk?

We are only 4-5 blocks from the Amtrak station. If you don't mind carrying your luggage, we are walk-able from the station.

What local attractions does Lee's Summit have?

Lee's Summit is a thriving community with several opportunities to eat, shop & play.

Please visit our local attractions page for all Lee's Summit has to offer!

Is the house exclusively ours?

Yes. When you rent the guest house, it is exclusively yours for up to 8 guests.

Do you have cameras onsite?

For guest safety, we have cameras on the full exterior of the home. This also guarantees are no event policy and unauthorized usage of the bridal suite isn't occurring.

We do not have ANY cameras on the inside of the property.

How many parking spots does the guest house have?

The guest house can comfortably fit up to four cars in the driveway. Please do not park in neighboring business lots or you might be towed at your expense.

Do you have a VCR or DVD player onsite?

No, we do not have a VCR player or DVD onsite.

Where is the Lee's Summit Tourism Page?

The Lee's Summit Tourism page is located HERE

Where can I find information on downtown Lee's Summit?

You can find information HERE

Can I rent an individual room?

No. You must rent the whole house for your getaway!

How do I check in?

We have a convenient key-less entry for check in. We send detailed check in instructions a few days before you stay.

Wedding Packages

How far in advance do I need to book my wedding package?

Our weekends book quickly at the guest house. We highly recommend you book wedding packages at least a year prior to your date.

However, please check our calendar for availability because there are exceptions.

May I use the bridal suite if we don't stay overnight?

We have a "bridal suite" day package that doesn't require an overnight stay. For information on our wedding packages, please click here

Do I have to book a wedding package to use the bridal suite?

Yes. Our bridal suite is exclusively for wedding packages only. It is a separate room in the house with mirrors, a makeup bar and several outlets.

You cannot rent the guest house (standard rates) and use the bridal suite.

Do you provide discounts on wedding packages?

We do not provide discounts on wedding packages.

However, we do have specials during low season (January, February & March).

What is in the bridal suite?

The bridal suite is a separate room only used for bridal hair & makeup. It has a long makeup bar, mirrors, several outlets and multiple hooks to hang dresses.

Hair and makeup artists absolutely love our space and so our wedding parties!

How many people can fit in your bridal suite?

The bridal suite can hold 6 people comfortably. However, all our wedding packages also include full use of our spacious main-floor. The rest of your party can comfortably sit in our living room, dining room, kitchen and deck (weather permitting).

Can I invite my photographer onsite to take pictures?

You are welcome to invite your photographer onsite to capture pictures of your big day.

Can I check in early?

All our wedding packages include an early check in. We allow our wedding parties to check in at 1:00 p.m. (standard guests are 3:00 p.m.)

Is there an onsite staff person to help?

An onsite staff person is there to support all wedding packages.

They can handle any questions you have about the property, help take pictures and check in with guests.

Can we bring in our own alcohol, food & drinks?

Yes, you may bring in your own alcohol, food and drinks. Please make arrangements with staff if you have large items or require a significant amount of refrigerator space.

Do you have weddings onsite?

We do not host weddings onsite anymore. We specialize in your get ready moments only.

Do you have to use your wedding vendors?

No. You have the freedom to select your own wedding vendors and we have no restrictions.

However, if you want recommendations we have several vendors we trust & love.

COVID 19

Do you have different policies during COVID 19?

COVID 19 has been extremely difficult for everyone. We know it's hard to make travel plans.

We still enforce our standard cancellation policies (for reservations made after April 1, 2020).

Do you have different cleaning practices?

We've always been slight neat freaks. However, we spend more time wiping down high touch surfaces in-between stays and following CDC guidelines.

Does your staff practice social distancing?

GUEST HOUSE STAYS: During guest house stays there are no staff onsite. However, if something comes up and you need staff support, we will follow recommended social distancing practices and wear a face mask for your safety.

WEDDING PACKAGES OR EVENTS: If you have an onsite staff person for a wedding package or onsite event, they will practice social distancing and wear a mask.

Do you provide any special amenities during COVID?

We want to make your experience of traveling during COVID as safe as possible. We provide the following in each room: 2 pre-packaged face masks and 2 pre-packaged sanitizer wipes. We also have hand sanitizer on property for you to use as well.

Is my guest house rental private?

Yes. Your guest house rental is private. No one will enter the home during your stay unless you need staff support. If staff are required to enter, they will wear a mask and practice social distancing.

Do you have a detailed COVID plan I can view?

Yes. We take our COVID practices very seriously. Our detailed COVID plan is taped to the back sliding glass doors. If you have specific questions, we are always happy to answer them!

Do you "rest" the guest house in between stays?

We do not rest the guest house in-between private stays. However, we practice strict CDC guidelines around cleaning and have a detailed COVID plan taped to our sliding glass doors.

Gift Cards

Can I purchase a gift card online?

Yes, you can purchase a gift card online HERE

How long are your gift cards valid?

Gift cards are valid for up to a year after your purchase.

Can you mail me a gift card?

Yes, we are happy to mail you a gift card. When purchasing your gift card online, please designate that.

Can I purchase an e-gift card?

Yes, you can purchase an e-gift card here

My gift card expired, can I still use it?

No. Gift card purchases must occur a year after purchase.

Staff Support Onsite

Do you have a front desk staff?

No, we do not have a front desk staff at the guest house.

If you need to make a reservation visit HERE

I have a question about the guest house, where do I go?

Visit our FAQS
https://www.thebrowningls.com/frequently-asked-questions.htm

E-mail us at
stay@thebrowningls.com

Call us at
816-226-7405 (please note: we do NOT have a front desk staff and calls may take up to 24 hours to return)

Text us at
816-226-7405

Can someone meet me on property when I check in?

The guest house has a convenient key-less entry for self-check in. We do not meet guests on property for check in. However, we are available over the phone if you have absolutely any questions during your stay.

I have a question I need answered quickly. What's the fastest way to get a response?

Please text us at:
816-226-7405

Do you provide house-keeping during our stay?

We do not provide house keeping during your stay. The guest house will be cleaned and beautiful when you check in.

Do you provide staff during wedding parties and events?

Yes, all our our wedding parties and events include one staff member onsite.

Events

How many people can your venue hold?

Our venue comfortably holds your intimate gatherings up to 35 people.

How much does it cost to host an event?

You can access event pricing here

Can we bring in our own food and alcohol?

Yes you may bring in your own food and alcohol. We do have catering partnerships if you would like recommendations.

Does our event rental include Browning staff to help?

Yes! We think it's important to have Browning staff onsite to help you. We provide 1 staff person to help with all the important event logistics.

Can we use your kitchen?

Absolutely! You can use our kitchen to prepare food items, store cold beverages and warm up items.

Does the event rental include your outdoor patio space?

Yes. If the weather permits, you are welcome to use our outdoor patio space and deck.

Can we put up decorations?

Absolutely. Our space is stunning and seasonally decorated so decor needs are often minimal. Our event staff is there to support you with putting up decor and making the space beautiful.

How do I secure an event date?

A 50% deposit of the event rental is due to reserve your date. The deposit is refundable three months prior to your date. If you cancel less than 7 days before your event, we will take the full value of your event rental.

Where do people park?

Parking at the Historic Browning can get tight during events. Therefore, we have secured parking for you a couple blocks away at Bridge Space (210 SW Market Street). This building looks like an old post office (because it was). You can enter this parking lot at the intersection of Jefferson and 3rd Street).

Please do not park in neighboring business lots or you might be towed. If you have questions about event parking, there is a staff person onsite at the Browning to assist you.

You cannot park on the street (3rd Street) in front of the Browning. This is a main road and your car will be towed.

Please do not allow guests to park over the sidewalk area in the driveway as the police will come and require you move vehicles in the driveway

How many hours does my event rental include?

Your event rental includes 4 hours total. If you want more than 4 hours, it is $75 an hour outside that window and is also based on availability.

Does setup and clean up count towards my event rental?

Yes, setup and cleanup are included in your 4 hour event rental. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate early or late departures on the event day. We typically have people waiting to use the guest house. If your event needs additional hours, it is $75 an hour to use the space. You must let us know prior to your event if you need additional time.

Do we have to setup and clean up our event?

Yes. Browning staff will be available to help you set-up and clean up after your event. The Browning staff does the majority of clean up. Typical events take 30 minutes to clean up.

Can we extend our event rental outside the 4 hour period?

Yes you absolutely can! Each additional hour is $75.

What areas of the house are included in my rental?

Your event rental includes the entire main floor of the Historic Browning: Living room, dining room, kitchen, kitchen nook, main floor bathroom, 1 main floor bedroom (for coats/purses), bridal suite, deck and patio space. There will be NO other guests onsite during your event. We just ask that no one uses the second floor during your rental time as we need to keep it clean for arriving guests after your event.

Are children allowed at events?

Yes children are allowed at events. However, please be respectful of our space with little ones. Please do not allow children to run in hallways, rough house in rooms,etc. We have lots of decor items in our guesthouse that aren’t toddler and child proof. Please watch your little ones carefully. Our event staff person is not a babysitter for unattended children and this is not a responsibility of our staff.

Is coffee, tea and water included in my event rental fee?

Yes. We provide coffee, water and tea for all events as part of the event rental price.

Do you have a TV located in any gathering space at the Browning?

Unfortunately, we do NOT have a TV in a main area. The only TV on the main floor is in our queen room and it is a 40 inch smart TV.

Can we move furniture and decor items?

Browning event staff can help you move furniture and decor within reason. We cannot move large items like our sofas.

Do you have event items we can rent?

We have event items you are welcome to use at the Browning. We have a full inventory list we are happy to provide you. Event rental items DO cost money to rent. Please see our full list below of items and their cost. Please note: If you break event items during your stay, please let the onsite staff person know. We certainly understand accidents happen, but it’s important to notify staff.

Is your space wheel-chair accessible?

Our guest house is not wheelchair accessible. We have four steps guests will have to climb to enter through the main entrance. If you are hosting an event where you need accommodations, we are happy to provide other venues we trust that will better meet your needs.

Do you have speakers onsite?

We do not have speakers onsite to play music. Most guests bring in their own bluetooth speakers to play music for events.

Do you have vendors you recommend for events?

Yes, here is a full list of vendor recommendations. These vendors have partnered with us at the Historic Browning and have proven they are exceptional at what they do. Please mention we referred you!

Catering:

Neighborhood Cafe Gourmet Catering

Farfalle Bistro

Scrape the Plate Catering

Cakes:

Cookies: