This Bed and Breakfast in Newark Exudes Vintage Charm and Hospitality

Last updated on April 25, 2025.

As you drive along an unassuming neighborhood street in Newark, NY, you’d never expect to come across such a grand and beautiful estate. But that’s exactly what you’ll find at Vintage Gardens. Owned by Kimberlee and Michael Meeks, this bed and breakfast in Newark treats guests to a timeless stay and a delicious meal. If an historic home with sprawling gardens and impeccable hospitality is what you seek, keep reading.

The History of Vintage Gardens Bed and Breakfast in Newark

Vintage Gardens started its story as a tudor-style mansion built in the heart of Newark in 1844. The property changed owners several times throughout its first couple decades. But it didn’t earn its notoriety until Albert E. Jackson and Charles H. Perkins took ownership in 1864. During their inhabitance, the house was remodeled twice and rebuilt once.

The Jackson & Perkins Company

The Jackson & Perkins Company was a renowned horticultural firm in the United States. The team farmed the land, growing grapes, raspberries, and various vegetables. But what they are best remembered for was their flowers. Jackson & Perkins was a major distributor of flowers across the state. Most notably roses. Over the years they developed hundreds of new rose varieties in their experimental gardens. They were so successful in fact, the company won an award for the “Dorothy Perkins Rose” from the National Rose Society of Great Britain.

What was once as large as 14.21 acres is now a humble 2.66 acres, including the house, formal gardens, and some forest. But the house maintains so much of its period architecture and historic charm. From the gorgeous original hardwood floors to the stunning curved staircase at the center of the house, there are so many details to enjoy. Each room is thoughtfully decorated with beautiful antiques. Not so surprisingly, the estate is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Staying at Vintage Gardens Bed & Breakfast

Having stayed at a wide variety of inns, hotels, motels, and other places around the world, staying at a charming bed & breakfast always brings me joy. And Vintage Gardens is one of the most enjoyable spots. Kimberlee was so hospitable from the first moment we arrived, giving us a tour of the house and telling us stories. A plate of warm cookies was waiting for us in the sun porch.

The house features 5 guest rooms, with a mix of private and shared bathrooms. Each room is named after a unique flower. The two suites are Asian Lily and Heirloom Peony. American Beauty, Tea Rose, and The Garden are the bedrooms. Each room has its own unique style and views of the property. In the bathroom you’ll find signature toiletries, lush towels, and soft robes. And if you’ve forgotten a cosmetic item at home? Just ask one of the owners for a spare.

Additionally, guests have access to several common rooms in the house. Shelves of books await you in the library. Or you can cozy up by the fireplace in the parlor. But the enclosed front porch was my favorite place to relax for a bit.

A Gourmet Breakfast

Undoubtedly the best part of staying at a bed & breakfast is the fresh, homemade meal in the morning. It beats eating out at yet another restaurant – and you’ve already paid for it. Breakfast at Vintage Gardens was no different. Kimberlee started our meal with fresh cinnamon rolls accompanied with a martini glass of fresh fruit.

She sources all of her ingredients locally – including some grown right on property. Our strawberries were drizzled with a balsamic glaze and mixed with edible flowers. For our entrée, we each had a personal asparagus and cheese quiche. Juice, coffee, and tea were available with the meal.