Empire House Hotel

10/10

Exceptional

04 Apr 2026

Judi

Beautiful location overlooking the river. Staff was very friendly. Mattress could be replaced. It sinks in the middle quite a bit. It was ok for a night, but would have been rough any more than that. Otherwise, we really enjoyed our stay!

Partner

8/10

Excellent

30 Mar 2026

Elena

Beautiful area across from the Ohio River

10/10

Exceptional

23 Feb 2026

Catherine

Room was so nice and cozy. The owner, Marsha was wonderful and I appreciated the hospitality.

Self

10/10

Exceptional

20 Feb 2026

Lloyd

It is an historic building with six accommodations (2 suites, 2 deluxe queen rooms, and 2 standard rooms, I think they said). Our standard room was a little small but comfortable-- very clean and well appointed with a queen bed, flat screen TV, full size coffee maker, and full bath with shower. There are a refrigerator and microwave available in the 1st floor hall, as well as an assortment of small snacks and bottled water. The owner is quite cordial and the price of our standard room was very reasonable. The hotel overlooks the Ohio River with porches from which you can watch the boats go by. There are several restaurants and shops in walking distance, and the Rising Star casino is a short distance away.
.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

16 Feb 2026

Christopher

It was excellent no complaints here loved it

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

18 Jan 2026

Robert

The owner was super nice and made us feel like we were family.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

28 Dec 2025

Gabe

Everything was awesome! Marsha is great!!!!!! Room was spectacular and clean. Thank you again!!

Business Self

10/10

Exceptional

15 Nov 2025

Charlene

Marsha, the hostess was wonderful. To be able to sit on the porch and look at the river was amazing.

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

24 Oct 2025

Lynne

It was perfect for my needs. Low keyed, quiet and in a nice location. Marsha was so friendly! I will definitely stay again

8/10

Excellent

19 Oct 2025

Bill

No pets on this trip. Extremely quite

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

16 Oct 2025

Sandra P

Yes

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

27 Sep 2025

bill

Katie was very enthusiastic and helpful. Marsha , you should be proud of her. Thank you.

8/10

Excellent

17 Aug 2025

Jessica

Great customer service

Business Partner

10/10

Exceptional

03 Aug 2025

John

This classic hotel, in near-constant service since the 19th Century, is a pleasant place to rest after a busy day. It is near the riverfront walk, and the town of Rising Sun is a calm place to spend some time.

Just outside of town is a wolf refuge that is well worth the time to visit, and the drive along the river from and to the Interstate is beautiful.

When the owner saw that we were all one family, she moved us from our two rooms into a three-room suite at no additional charge, which we greatly appreciated.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

22 May 2025

Maria

Absolutely adorable historical guesthouse. The hostess was very helpful pointing out restaurants nearby and showing off the history of the hotel.
The only thing I would change is to reduce the number of \"plug-ins\" as the scent was a little overpowering. We unplugged the one in our room and opened the window for a while, making it more to our liking. I would definitely stay here again.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

18 May 2025

Eric

Beautiful view!

10/10

Exceptional

11 May 2025

William

Very beautiful and quiet, great sleep. The hostess was wonderful

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

10 May 2025

Daniel

The lady Marsha is the best ! She was very helpful and very quick with responses ! Awesome experience with with a very homey feeling ! Will definitely book again !! 10 stars !!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Business Self

10/10

Exceptional

21 Apr 2025

Robin

EXCEPTIONAL

The owner is OUTSTANDING. She is (top notch) when it comes to hospitality.

Self

10/10

Exceptional

19 Apr 2025

Patricia

Beautiful old inn at a great price

Very friendly, the room was clean and the bed was comfortable. The room was reminiscent of your grandma's house, but with modern amenities. We had a beautiful view of the river. The town is really pretty, with several places to eat within a very short walk. The Kings Landing bar and grill had fantastic burgers. We were in the area for a toy show, but will definitely be back with friends soon.

Business

6/10

Pleasant

16 Mar 2025

Donald

Location facing River. Older property but knew for price not to expect much. Could be little cleaner and need new mattress.

Leisure

10/10

Exceptional

26 Feb 2025

chris

Very nice owner, friendly and kind. I highly recommend! Hoping to visit this area again soon. Found all of the folks in this area to be extremely nice.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

17 Feb 2025

Debra

Lovely stay

Had a lovely stay at the Empire House Hotel. The hostess was very welcoming, the location across from the river is lovely, our dog was welcomed and they are very pet friendly. Would recommend.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

09 Feb 2025

Verified traveler

Very nice

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

01 Feb 2025

Cary

Empire House is perfect

Perfect stop on Ohio River scenic route right on the river gorgeous view. Will stay again!

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

04 Jan 2025

Gaylynn

Cozy and beautiful

Our stay was wonderful. The owner is absolutely the best. Empire is so cozy, it doesn't feel like other hotels. Its more like someones home. We had a beautiful view of the Ohio river. We hope to go back when its warm out. It has a beautiful porch to relax on. Thank you Marsha.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

16 Oct 2024

terry

Unique and historic building. Marsha was so pleasant and informative. Will definitely return

Leisure Partner

4/10

Poor

05 Oct 2024

wendy

Liked the historic building. Even thought it was old it could have been cute. It was poorly painted inside and everything was dingy and needed a good cleaning, from the ceiling fan, shower curtains, bedspread, chairs, carpeting. The bed was ok.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

25 Sep 2024

Michael

This is an amazing house if you are ready for a different experience from an ordinary room. We felt like we were guests in a private home without the owner being involved in our visit . She made sure we were informed and had everything there for our comfort. We were very satisfied with our two day stay.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

18 Sep 2024

Tracy

Beautiful view from the porch and the proprietor was very nice and flexible with check in. We stayed in the upstairs suite and it was quite spacious with a mini fridge and microwave. This is a 200 year old building so it’s not perfect & modern like a new hotel but that’s part of the charm. It could use some updates (the mattress needs to be replaced) but it’s comfortable in every other way. I would definitely stay again if I’m ever in the area.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

03 Sep 2024

Phil

What an interesting place to stay! It’s hard to believe that it is over 200 years old. It is a stone’s throw from the Ohio River. So many quaint touches in the room! We will definitely stay there again when we’re in the area.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

27 Aug 2024

Crystal

Loved this place. Will stay again.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

20 Aug 2024

Anne

Excellent room, very comfortable, wonderful staff.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

10 Aug 2024

Janet

Charm. That's the first word to describe this property. Built in 1816, much of the original ediface is used for travelers. An ample porch greets you with picturesque views of the Ohio River. The hotel is right off Main Street, and the architecture has been preserved to attract tourists who like to soak in americana.

The room had its own lock and Marsha, the hostess gives travelers their own key to the room and the front door. Our room was a part of the original property. It now consists of a queen iron bed, 2 wingback chairs, 2 windows that look onto the porch, a filled-in fireplace, a secretary, a tiny area that is just right for a microwave and fridge with a coffee pot and coffee. The bath comes with a ball-and-claw tub with a shower attachment and surrounding shower curtain.

We got a great rate. If you like a very firm mattress, you are in luck! Even though history has been preserved, central heat and air are provided and a ceiling fan to keep away stuffiness.

If you are looking for cleanliness, you have it here! The property could do with a good renovation but the colorful accents provide personality and character. Besides to renovate would mean a rise in rate. Remember that.

We ate really good Mexican food for dinner and an EXCELLENT breakfast at the Main St. Diner. But take a couple of days to relax and soak up the rest it provides. You wont go wrong.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

31 Jul 2024

Peggy

This is an amazing gem tucker away in rural Indiana if you like history or just beautiful views of the river this is the place for you lots of dining and entertainment options within walking distance as well

Leisure Pet

10/10

Exceptional

20 Jun 2024

Jerald

The Empire is a 200+ year old building that has been a restaurant in its history, but has been renovated into a very nice inn. The check in was quick and easy. The host was extremely accommodating and very friendly. We ended up getting an upgrade for our stay to the suite, due to someone wanting to stay an extra day. We were very pleased with our room and our stay.

10/10

Exceptional

19 Jun 2024

Christina

Historic Water front property!

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

18 Jun 2024

Leslie

Very nice hotel. The owner was kind and helpful. Cute little room. Theres a shared refridgerator. It seems more like a hostel vibe than a traditional hotel (which i loved!).

Leisure Friends

10/10

Exceptional

12 Jun 2024

Veanne

The hotel and town was like being in a storybook......the facilities were excellent and we would highly recommend this as a definite stop on your route.

10/10

Exceptional

11 May 2024

Sarah

This is a super cute hotel in a beautiful, small town. The owner of the property is an absolute gem!! She is friendly. She is welcoming. She works with your schedule, and she makes you feel more than welcome! Had an easy check-in, and are loving our stay!! Totally worth it!

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

15 Apr 2024

james

Nice small town on the banks of the mighty Ohio River

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

01 Apr 2024

Alyssa

Host was very accommodating - I was able to check in after 8 PM and pay upon arrival. The room was cozy and had everything I needed. It was a huge bonus that I was able to bring my dog with me.

Leisure Pet

10/10

Exceptional

01 Apr 2024

Nick

Almost perfect. Place is outdated for sure but that's part of the experience so I wouldn't let that negatively impact the assessment of this place. The area including Lawrenceburg nearby is amazing. Picture perfect little town and everything is very clean. The hotel is right on the riverwalk with access to it's beautiful porch if you want to sit outside and relax at night.

My advice: Bring a towel and a hand towel. I'm sure the towels were very clean but they were white and you could tell they were old. Clean...but old. Probably what I would do next time but other than that? We WILL be back everytime we're down there if rooms are available.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

24 Mar 2024

Kelsie

Very clean. A tad outdated but everything works! The owner was very helpful and friendly. We plan to stay here again!

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

17 Mar 2024

Joshua

Empire House

Amazing place. Great river views.

10/10

Exceptional

15 Mar 2024

Verified traveler

Charming Empire House

Very quiet and peaceful, the over 200 year old hotel had charm. Management was friendly and helpful. We would gladly stay there again. The view of the Ohio River and the walkway was a nice treat. Price was quite affordable as well.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

15 Mar 2024

Christal

This property is a gem!! We had a wonderful experience and already planning our next trip back!!

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

21 Feb 2024

Doug

I liked everything about the property.Very clean. The Property owner was very nice and attentive to our needs.Just like staying at my parents house.It was rustic and had good views of the Ohio river.Will definitely stay there every time I come back to Rising Sun Indiana

Business_and_leisure Partner

8/10

Excellent

03 Feb 2024

Carma

Hostess was friendly and helpful. The room was cozy. Bed and pillows were average. Overall it was a good place to stay for the price.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

26 Dec 2023

karen

It was a perfect place and location for us

Leisure

2/10

Poor

01 Nov 2023

Scott

I spoke to the owner, Martha and she will confirm my credit card to your company needs to be credited for the entire amount charged as we never even got there. I spoke to Martha and she told me to contact Travelocity for credit as this has happened to them previously several times due to where they are located. The online hotels, etc. all show them as closer to the freeway than they actually are. I tried to get a hold of someone to speak to online however; your website only asked specific questions that had absolutely nothing to do with the comments and questions I needed to ask in regards to get our credit. Therefore; I will be expecting a full credit applied to our credit card ending 3940 by tomorrow at the very latest. As far as giving an online review, I will check my credit card pending charges to ensure that the credit has been received and posted against my pending charges on my card.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

21 Aug 2023

Keith

One of the reasons I love traveling is to find wonderful gems like this place. I randomly picked this hotel on my way across the country. It was the perfect place sitting right on the Ohio river. I loved every aspect of the hotel and the town. I will be coming back on a regular basis now. Thank you Marsha for the hospitality.

10/10

Exceptional

05 Jul 2023

Mary

Perfect location!

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

12 Jun 2023

mark

Marsha, was a great host!
Quick walk to dinning, shopping, local vendors. Short 5 min drive to casino.

On the river, relaxing views from the top deck

10/10

Exceptional

19 May 2023

Ruth

Owner was fantastic and very hospitable - has a huge heart and helped us above and beyond what anyone could have expected.

Quaint town with many fun little details, and homey historic room. Fun trip, made that way by our hosts.

Business_and_leisure Pet

10/10

Exceptional

22 Apr 2023

Karen

Thumbs up

Oh my what a treat. It was a diamond. The location, the town, the shops, the scenery, the peacefulness. Surely it's the scene of a Hallmark movie.

Business

10/10

Exceptional

19 Apr 2023

Rick

Quiet, peaceful with view of the river. Great price and friendly staff.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

20 Mar 2023

Adam

Our stay was enjoyable in every manner and aspect. The suite was genuinely the best value ive ever gotten for a hotel. It feels like youre stepping back in time straight unti a scene from a Humphrey Bogart movie when staying there, while also enjoying the modern amenities. Plus, she lady who runs the hotel is very hospitable and kind. The view of the Ohio River is wonderful as well!

Leisure Family_with_children

10/10

Exceptional

20 Mar 2023

kevin

Early 1800s house that's well kept.

Nice room with period correct furnishings. My host was wonderful and I hope to return soon.

Self

8/10

Excellent

04 Mar 2023

Roy G

Very friendly staff.

Leisure Family

8/10

Excellent

21 Feb 2023

Kevin

It was cool, I liked the old house feel

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

05 Feb 2023

Cheryl

This place was Amazing. Great View, Clean, Very Friendly,...Really loved this place, will definitely return.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

12 Dec 2022

Madeline

Great little spot to stay on the river, in a nice quiet town. Would definitely come back!

Friends_and_family Friends

10/10

Exceptional

08 Dec 2022

russell

Very unique and like staying at your Grandma's house, homey and clean, and cared for property.

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

17 Oct 2022

Sandra

We enjoyed our view of the Ohio River; small community, decor and feel of 1950 or so. Historical location.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

06 Oct 2022

Lee

Staying at the Empire House Hotel is like stepping back more than 100 years in time, except with all the amenities of a modern first class hotel. Coffee on the veranda, watching barges on the river must be what it was like.
The room was spacious and immaculate. The efforts of Marsha to assist us as needed to make the stay enjoyable were greatly appreciated. And, lastly, Rising Sun is a jewel with many things to do and see, or just relax.

Leisure

10/10

Exceptional

01 Oct 2022

Charles

Five Star

Everything about our visit was amazing. The view was breathtaking. The lady who checks you in is very welcoming and nice. The rooms where very clean. Parking right in front of the building. I highly recommend this place and I’ll definitely be staying here when I visit the area again.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

26 Sep 2022

Joyce

Great place! Like staying at grandma’s house.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

12 Aug 2022

Joseph

Historical atmosphere,quiet, friendly towns people.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

24 Jul 2022

Jordan

Great experience

The owner was very friendly and made check in easy, our room was clean and we would recommend to our friends to stay here and would stay again

Partner

6/10

Pleasant

21 Jul 2022

Sabrina

We called as we were 15 minutes from the property as directed. When we arrived, we called again and were told that we'd be let in the house in a few minutes. 15 minutes later, after waiting in the heat and humidity, she finally sent her son to open the door.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

21 Jun 2022

Daniel W.

Proprietor was very friendly and helpful. The facility was exactly as advertised. Beautiful views.

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

12 Jun 2022

Rachel

Very nice and quiet. Loved sitting on balcony looking at river.

Business_and_leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

07 Jun 2022

Thomas

Friendly, quiet, convenient parking, charming room. Would like to see a handy recycling bin, but otherwise we had everything we needed ready to hand.

Business Family

10/10

Exceptional

31 May 2022

mike

views and town!

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

27 May 2022

Ralf

Sehr schönes, kleines, ruhiges Hotel mit Flair direkt am Ohio. Der Ort Rising Sun ist klein und verschlafen. Die Besitzerin Marsha kümmert sich liebevoll um ihre Besucher und erfüllt ihnen jeden Wunsch. Wir werden wiederkommen.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

04 Apr 2022

Larry

We enjoyed our stay, very relaxing. Views were amazing. The only thing I was unhappy with and this is no fault of the owner of Empire house its all Expedia…when I was looking online for accommodations I wanted something close to Noahs Ark and it said it was 26 miles…not true. It was over a hour out of the way. We ended up because of this missing the Ark. But as I said it had nothing to do with the charm of the house, we would stay again.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

03 Apr 2022

Anthony

They Hotel was charming. We loved how it had original woodwork and doors. The owner was a very sweet woman. This will be our regular spot when coming to the casino.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

23 Mar 2022

Theo

reminded me of visiting my grandmas in the 50's and 60's

Leisure Pet

10/10

Exceptional

20 Mar 2022

Amber

Customer service was fantastic. Very simplistic check in process.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

13 Mar 2022

Ted

We loved the ambiance of this property. The antiques in the rooms and the history behind the building was very interesting. We liked it so much we stayed there on our trip down to Nashville and our trip back!

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

28 Feb 2022

Ann

Wonderful Getaway

We had a wonderful getaway weekend here in Rising Sun. The 200-year-old Empire House Hotel was exactly what we needed. Our room was small, but very clean and comfortable. Our hostess was gracious and very helpful. We enjoyed dinners at two restaurants within walking distance. We enjoyed the scenic drive along the Ohio River Scenic Byway. We'll be back.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

20 Feb 2022

Connie

Charming

The historic house was super cute...had alot of charm! If you have issues with stairs, make sure to request a downstairs room (no elevator).

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

16 Feb 2022

Jane

Loved our romantic getaway! Privacy and beautiful views of the river. Marsha the owner is the sweetest and very friendly. Have been here a few times and look forward to our next stay.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

22 Oct 2021

Susan J

Marcia/Marsha, was very welcoming. She recommended a couple of local eateries, told me about the ferry that crosses the river when I told her I was going over to Kentucky. The area was very quiet and the view of the river is great.
The building is very old and some of the rooms are small - a result of adding bathrooms to them.
My biggest issue is the room didn't have it's own temperature control. This time of year, through Fall, Winter, and Spring is fine. Not so sure about Summer.
I do hope to be able to stay here again.

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

14 Oct 2021

Bruce

Comfy, Quiet, Perfect ! Marsha the owner is very nice. Highly Recommend !

Business_and_leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

13 Oct 2021

David

Room was too crowded. Not much room to move around because of too much furniture. Nice view of the river and close to everything. Very walkable. Would definitely go back but would ask to see if they had a bigger room.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

09 Oct 2021

Donald

A great historic hotel!!

This was an incredible stay! This hotel is 205 years old!! We stayed for 3 nights! Our room was on the first floor, facing the Ohio River. Marsha was very friendly and helpful and gave us a lot of information about the area. The room was clean and had a couple of comfy chairs for relaxing and reading. The shower was in a great claw footed tub!! A real blast from the past! A little out of the way and quiet!! Only about a half hour from the Creation Museum, and another fun drive to the Ark Encounter!!! We’d stay here anytime!!!!!

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

30 Sep 2021

Bridget

We had such an amazing stay! It was very clean, cozy, homey and decorated beautifully. Marsha is such a sweet person. We will definatley be back

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

03 Sep 2021

CRAIG

QUIET AND \"OLD WORLD CHARM\"

Leisure Partner

8/10

Excellent

27 Aug 2021

David

Liked the homey feeling. Owner was great. Being along the Ohio River was good with walking paths easily accessable. Room kept cool in 90 degree weather without using air conditioner.

Leisure

10/10

Exceptional

10 Aug 2021

Jane

Best relaxing stay

My husband and I wanted a quick relaxing night away and the Empire House Hotel delivered! The owner Marsha was so friendly and the place is so homey and comfortable! The location is fabulous. Right on the river with an excellent view. We went on walks on the river and spent time looking at all the small town shops. Very close to Rising Star boat so we did that as well for a bit. We will be back very soon!

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

16 Jul 2021

Verified traveler

Wonderful place, historic, and right on the river. Enjoyed the quiet evenings and access to the walk path along the river.

Business Self

10/10

Exceptional

17 Jun 2021

Verified traveler

Historic property from the early 19th century. Doesn't have the cookie cutter feel like Corporate properties. Hotel is located in the downtown area of Rising Sun, walkable to the shops, restaurants, bar. Nice riverside view with walkways. It has a very cozy feel to it. I will definitely go back and stay at Empire House.

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

06 Jun 2021

joseph

Restful Stop

In Rising Sun for only one evening but we'll return.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

02 Jun 2021

Cynthia

Rising Sun

Marsha the owner, was very accommodating. The rooms were delightful. Hotel located right across from Ohio River. Had a large porch that you could sit to watch the boats on the river. Close to downtown. Check out the Mexican restaurant downtown. Great food.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

01 Jun 2021

Verified traveler

all good

Leisure Pet

8/10

Excellent

31 May 2021

William

Nice little hotel in a quiet little town.

Great place. The upstairs porch could use a good cleaning including some of the outdoor furniture. Overall, it is a real nice place and convenient to the Creation Museum, not as much so for the Ark; but still not too bad.
The owner is really nice and very helpful. She had several good suggestions for where to eat. We tied a few and were pleased.
There is a microwave and full size fridge available for guests and bottled water inside for drinking - the tap water has a sulphur taste. There are also some snacks available.
The owner uses plug in air fresheners and they were a bit strong. We unplugged ours and it got better. The a/c was kickin' and it was a chilly 71 degrees in the hall. We put one of our bags over the floor vent and that helped warm it up a little in our room. We prefer 76 or so.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

31 May 2021

Verified traveler

Property was unique and

10/10

Exceptional

13 Mar 2021

Verified traveler

Lovely vintage hotel overlooking the Ohio River.

Leisure Family