About the Vevay Swiss Inn

Nestled in the heart of Vevay, Indiana, along the picturesque Ohio River, the Vevay Swiss Inn is classic old Americana where people are friendly. Often cited as one of the oldest operating inns in Indiana, it offers a journey into history, hospitality, and authentic local flavor.

Solo travelers welcome: We proudly offer a small, safe, and comfortable place to spend the night.

Explore the unique beauty of downtown Vevay, or venture to nearby Madison's historic downtown (25 minutes) or the stunning waterfalls of Clifty Falls State Park (25 minutes).

A New Chapter

In November 2024, the Swiss Inn, a historic business in the community, became part of Detmer Properties LLC led by Allen Detmer. We are excited about what can be done at this site with the partnership of the local community.

The Swiss Inn at one time was a popular destination for people in the tristate, offering rooms as well as a very popular steakhouse. Renovations on rooms and event space started in January 2025.

"They have several rooms ready to rent and the rooms are beautiful! I would encourage locals to use the Swiss Inn when you have out of town visitors in."

Our Rich History

1833

Original Federal Architecture: The LeClerc House was established on land purchased from Nicholas Longworth. Mr. LeClerc, who had learned the confectionery business, took charge of the hotel, which operated until 1894.

1850

Formerly known as the Franklin House, Robert LeClerc (August 22, 1809 - July 22, 1856), an Odd Fellow and encampment member, tore down the frame structure and constructed a three-story building. After his death, his wife, Julia Morerod LeClerc (December 10, 1812 - July 6, 1895), a member of the pioneer Swiss families of Vevay, successfully carried on the hotel business while rearing nine children. She was known as an expert in the business, managing the culinary department to the satisfaction of the most fastidious guests. She was also a faithful member of the Presbyterian Church since 1851. Her legacy lived on through her granddaughter, Julia LeClerc Knox (1870–1965), who became a noted local historian and preserved much of Vevay's early history in the Indiana Magazine of History.

1896

Oscar Williams purchased the LeClerc House from Julia LeClerc's heirs. In 1900, he began management and changed the name to the Williams Hotel.

Early 1900s

Owned or managed by Webb, Clendening & Butler. The hotel became known as the Butler House.

1924

Mr. and Mrs. E. Downey purchased and remodeled the Butler House, officially changing the name to the Swiss Inn.

1943

On August 11, the Swiss Inn was destroyed by fire. Mrs. Minnie Downey, who had owned the business for 18 years, decided not to rebuild.

1944

A Community Effort: Local citizens donated the ground for a new structure. Under sponsorship of the local Kiwanis Club and Jacob E. Barnhart, the community enthusiastically pledged the purchase price for the building site within a week. As reported by the Vevay Reveille on January 27, 1944: "...So enthusiastic was the response that by the first of the week the members announced the money had been pledged."

1947

The new Swiss Inn opened the week of March 27, featuring modern rooms with baths, a coffee shop, and dining rooms. In November of that year, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Fehr purchased the Inn from Leonard J. Springfield and his son Louis.

1948 - 2000s

Ownership passed through many hands, including Mr. and Mrs. Paul Rix (September 1948), Bob and Margaret Lee Brown (1964-1974), and later owners including Pete Gray, Garland Updike, Darrell Hansel, Butch Konkle, Mark Miles, Mark McNair, and Melissa Hughes. A few name changes to the Inn also took place during this time.

2013

The Swiss Inn name returned when Ron Hocker purchased the building, which underwent a facelift and remodeling under the management of his daughter Stacy Hocker Streett and her husband Tim Streett. They established 10 guest rooms with private baths, a guest kitchen, and dining areas.

2024

Detmer Properties LLC acquires the Inn, starting a new chapter of renovations and community partnership.

2026

The first floor underwent major renovations to introduce three beautiful, easily accessible guest rooms, bringing the Inn's total number of guest rooms from 10 to 13. Featuring brand-new walk-in showers, these ground-floor accommodations provide a comfortable, stair-free experience for all our guests.