The Times - Serving Waitsburg, Dayton and the Touchet Valley

WAITSBURG - - As Waitsburg becomes increasingly popular among travelers, more small-scale, downhome lodging is springing up around town to accommodate them, according Karen Stanton-Gregutt, owner of Waitsburg Cottages.

Together with the owners of several other lodging establishments, Stanton- Gregutt presented to members of the Commercial Club last week an overview of existing and new properties where quality accommodations are available for nightly and weekly stays.

Based on the Times' calculations, there should be at least 30 lodging rooms with an occupancy of at least 50 available by next spring when the hotel under development next to the Main Street post office is expected to be open.

In addition to Lyle and Marcie Perkins' Hiromi's Vacation Rental, Pam and Larry Conover's PJ's Rental Vacation and Nothing New Lodging now owned and operated by Leroy Cunningham, Stanton- Gregutt and her husband Paul Gregutt have added Waitsburg Cottages this year, starting with the "Three Maples Cottage" at 424 West Third St. and soon opening the "Tea House" at 514 West Third.

Meanwhile, Times Publisher Imbert Matthee is expected to be done with the renovation of the historic Stimmel home at 329 Main Street, that will become a six-room guest house with three bathrooms known as the "Seven Porches."

All lodging entities are listed on the city's website, which steers visitors to the individual owners for details and bookings.

Because of its proximity to Walla Walla, its cycling events, and its own food and drink places, Waitsburg is of growing interest among bikers and wine enthusiasts, presenters said.

For more information on the lodging businesses, contact: Lyle and Marci Perkins Hiromi's House info@hiromisvacationrental.com 509-337-6028 Karen Stanton-Gregutt Waitsburg Cottages kstanton@Mac.com 206-409-8399