Our Story · Est. 1871
A Building That Refused to Be Forgotten
How a veteran-owned family took a 150-year-old boarding house and saloon and gave it a second life, and a purpose.
The Historic Le Vélo Inn
Le Vélo Inn sits at 1425 N 2nd St. in Historic Frenchtown, one block from the Katy Trail. The building opened in 1871 as a boarding house and saloon, and today it holds six historic suites and two courtyard cottages, restored by one family with original brick, hardwood floors, and staircases preserved.
Each suite is a unique ode to the past, named for a bicycle invented in the 1800s and furnished with vintage-inspired pieces, antique accents, and every modern amenity.
1871 to Today: A Building Reborn
Once a boarding house and saloon on N 2nd St., now a veteran-owned boutique inn in Historic Frenchtown.
1871TodayFrom 1871 to Today
A Boarding House and Saloon Opens
In the river town of St. Charles, in what is now Historic Frenchtown, our building opens its doors as a gathering place for travelers, workers, and dreamers.
The Golden Age of the Bicycle
The Velocipede, the Penny Farthing, and the Swiftwalker roll into American life. A spirit of adventure and freedom takes hold, the spirit that gives our inn its name.
A Family Takes On the Impossible
Rather than let 150 years of history crumble, our family committed to a painstaking restoration, preserving the character of every original detail possible while rebuilding the property for its next century.
Le Vélo Inn Opens
Six suites in the historic building and two courtyard cottages open to guests, each themed after an 1800s bicycle, gathered around a private courtyard with a bubbling boulder, gazebo, and custom firepit.
History With a Higher Purpose
Every stay writes a new chapter, because a portion of every booking supports nonprofits serving families, patients, and children around the world.
Meet Bill & Susanne
Le Vélo Inn is owned by Bill, a U.S. Navy veteran, and run alongside his wife Susanne as a true family business. Their sons help when they are away, so there is always a family member who cares about your stay.
Service did not end with the Navy. It shaped how they run this inn: show up, take care of people, keep your word, and leave things better than you found them.
Veteran & Military OfferWe Notice the Moments That Matter
We are not a corporate hotel, and we do not want to feel like one. When we learn a guest is celebrating, Bill, Susanne, and our housekeeping team look for a way to surprise them. It is a random act of kindness, not an amenity.
A Handwritten Welcome
A card from Bill, Susanne, and our housekeeper may be waiting in your suite.
A Touch You Did Not Expect
Perhaps decorations or a message on the TV screen, chosen by our team for you.
A Gift From Our Family
If a toast is part of it, we ask whether you prefer champagne or sparkling juice.
"I usually ask if someone would prefer champagne or sparkling juice. I want to respect everyone’s preferences, whether they want alcohol or not."Susanne, Le Vélo Inn
Our surprises are gifts, not guarantees. They are never a standard service, and no two are alike. We ask about preferences so each one fits the person it is for.
See Milestone SurprisesSmall Enough to Care. Bold Enough to Make a Difference.
Le Vélo Inn is not a chain or a franchise. It is a local family's labor of love.
Local & Family Owned
We live here, we restored this building ourselves, and we personally care for every guest. Your stay supports a St. Charles family and the causes we champion.
Hospitality With Heart
From customized robes to hand-picked antiques to personal notes, every touch is intentional. We treat guests the way family should be treated.
Stewardship & Service
We are stewards of a historic building, a beloved neighborhood, and the generosity of our guests. Giving back is not a marketing line here. It is why we exist.
Come Be Part of the Story
Six historic suites, two courtyard cottages, one family's mission.
Check AvailabilityAbout Le Vélo Inn and Its Owners
Who owns Le Vélo Inn?
Bill and Susanne own and run Le Vélo Inn as a family. The inn is veteran-owned, and Bill served in the U.S. Navy.
How old is the building?
The building dates to 1871. It was a boarding house and saloon, and it has been carefully restored with original brick, hardwood floors, and staircases preserved.
Why are the suites named after bicycles?
Each suite honors a bicycle from the 1800s, such as the Velocipede, Swiftwalker, Penny Farthing, and Tri-Wheel. The theme celebrates the golden age of cycling and the nearby Katy Trail.
Is Le Vélo Inn family-run?
Yes. Bill and Susanne are personally involved, and their family helps care for guests. You are not booking with a corporate chain.
What does "Stay in 1871. Give back every year." mean?
You stay in a building restored from 1871, and a portion of what you pay goes to nonprofits making a difference today.
More answers in our Le Vélo Inn Guide & FAQ.
A veteran-owned, family-run, lovingly restored 1871 boutique inn in Historic Frenchtown, where luxury, history, and generosity share the same address.
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Suite Details
