Nestled among the tall pines of Arizona’s Rim Country, this place carries a cozy, nostalgic charm that feels both timeless and familiar. It is a place where guests instantly feel at home the moment they arrive. It’s the kind of place where the crisp mountain air seems a little fresher, the stars shine a little brighter, and time slows down just enough to make you savor every second. This special place is called The Strawberry Inn. Its story begins with Carson and Amber Eilers, a couple whose shared vision and deep connection to the area turned what was once a forgotten roadside inn into one of Arizona’s most beloved boutique getaways.
In 2016, when the inn went up for sale, Amber, who has longtime family roots in the area, knew it was meant to be. The original structure, built in the 1970s, had lived many lives over the years. It had served as offices at one point, sat vacant for a while, and later reopened briefly as a small inn before closing again. To the Eilers family, it represented potential, something special that could be brought back to life with care and creativity.
With two toddlers in tow, Carson and Amber embarked on a full renovation, pouring into every detail. Their goal was simple but ambitious: preserve the soul of the original building while infusing it with modern comforts and a design that reflected the natural beauty of Rim Country. When The Strawberry Inn reopened, it was met with overwhelming enthusiasm. They sold out their very first weekend, a sign that this quiet mountain town was ready for a new kind of hospitality, one that felt personal, warm, and deeply rooted in community.
What began as a quaint eight-room hideaway has since blossomed into a full mountain retreat with more than 30 unique accommodations. Each space, whether it’s a restored vintage Airstream, a cozy family cabin, or a tiny cottage tucked beneath the trees, has been thoughtfully designed to create a sense of comfort and calm. Inside, guests find plush bedding, curated decor, and charming touches that feel both elevated and familiar. There’s even a wheelchair-accessible option, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to experience the serenity of Strawberry.
Over time, The Strawberry Inn has become much more than a place to stay. Especially during the holidays, the property takes on a special kind of magic. As the mountain air turns crisp and pine needles dust the ground, the inn transforms into a festive retreat where the glow of string lights and the scent of cedar fill the air. Guests arriving in December are greeted by twinkling lights, lush garlands, and holiday trees that shimmer in every corner. Inside each room, cozy blankets, candy canes, and thoughtful touches create that “home-for-the-holidays” feeling that instantly warms the soul.
The Eilers family envisioned The Strawberry Inn as a place where guests could disconnect from the noise of daily life and reconnect with what matters most. Whether it’s an early-morning hike through pine forests, an afternoon browsing local antique shops, or an evening spent beside a firepit, every experience here feels intentional. The holidays bring out the inn’s best qualities, a perfect blend of nostalgia, togetherness, and understated luxury.
The surrounding communities of Strawberry, Pine, and Payson come alive this time of year, brimming with small-town holiday charm. Visitors can stroll through craft fairs, attend tree-lighting ceremonies, and even meet Santa and Mrs. Claus at local shops. Payson adds its own magic with an outdoor ice rink and community events that capture the spirit of the season. For those craving adventure, there are scenic trails perfect for winter hikes, and if the weather cooperates, snowshoeing is a favorite pastime.
Back at the inn, the feeling of warmth and togetherness continues. The team takes pride in decorating every corner, transforming the property into something truly special. Trees and garlands adorn the common areas, soft lights glow from the windows, and cozy interiors invite guests to linger a little longer. Seasonal decor and a few surprises, such as a cup of cocoa by the fireplace or a small gift upon check-in, remind visitors that it’s the little things that make a place feel like home. Premium accommodations include private firepits and hot tubs, perfect for unwinding beneath the stars.
The Strawberry Inn’s holiday season has become a time when memories are made and traditions take root. Families return year after year, couples celebrate anniversaries or engagements, and friends gather for winter getaways filled with laughter and connection. The inn has even played host to holiday proposals, each one a joyful addition to its growing legacy of love and celebration. These moments, both big and small, are what the Eilers family treasures most: creating a space where people can pause, connect, and feel at peace.
As The Strawberry Inn continues to grow, it remains grounded in the same heartfelt vision that started it all: family, community, and connection. The team is always finding new ways to make guests feel at home, whether through subtle design updates, creative seasonal offerings, or new accommodations that complement the natural landscape. Guests can even take a little piece of the experience home with embroidered robes available in premium rooms, a soft reminder of their mountain escape.
At its core, The Strawberry Inn is more than a boutique hotel; it’s a reflection of the love and care that built it. It’s the glow of a fire on a cold night, the sound of laughter echoing through the crisp air, and the simple joy of slowing down to savor the season. For those seeking a holiday escape filled with charm, warmth, and wonder, The Strawberry Inn is the perfect place to pause, breathe, and rediscover the magic of the mountains.