Located in South East Lake, this cottage is within a mile (2 km) of sights such as Southern Museum of Flight and Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve. The cottage includes a kitchen, a patio, and a dining area.
Southern Museum of Flight - 1 min drive - 1.1 miles
Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve - 3 min drive - 1.3 miles
New Bethel Baptist Church - 4 min drive - 2.0 miles
University of Alabama at Birmingham - 9 min drive - 9.1 miles
UAB Hospital - 10 min drive - 9.3 miles
Getting around
Birmingham Station - 15 min drive
Birmingham International Airport (BHM) - 14 min drive
Restaurants
Little Caesars Pizza - 8 min walk
Church's Texas Chicken - 9 min walk
Starbucks - 7 min drive
Daiquiri Factory - 8 min walk
Chick-fil-A - 7 min drive
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Ruffner Retreat House | Fenced Yard & Group Stay
Welcome to Ruffner Retreat House—a beautifully updated historic home designed for comfort, connection, and convenience. With 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and space to accommodate up to 7 guests, this inviting retreat is perfect for families, friend groups, or anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing stay just minutes from Birmingham’s best attractions.
Inside, you’ll find high ceilings, spacious rooms, and thoughtful updates throughout, blending modern touches with the charm of a classic home. The open dining area greets you as you enter and flows seamlessly into the living room, creating a natural gathering space for meals, conversation, and downtime. The living room features a Smart TV, comfortable seating, and a queen sofa bed for additional sleeping space. While the decorative fireplace is not functional, it adds a cozy, character-filled focal point to the room.
The fully equipped kitchen is located just off the dining area and includes everything you need for preparing meals, including a dishwasher and ample essentials. Whether you're cooking a full dinner or just brewing your morning coffee, you’ll feel right at home.
This home offers a versatile sleeping setup to comfortably accommodate larger groups:
A spacious primary suite with a king bed, Smart TV, large closet, and private ensuite bathroom Two additional bedrooms, each with a full bed (one includes a tucked-away washer and dryer for added convenience) A bunk room featuring two twin-over-twin bunk beds—perfect for kids or group stays A queen sofa bed in the living room for extra guests
Both bathrooms are updated and feature shower/tub combinations, offering convenience for both quick mornings and relaxing evenings.
Step outside to enjoy the backyard space, complete with a charcoal grill, a picnic table, and a cozy bistro set for two—ideal for casual outdoor meals or winding down after a day of exploring.
The home is conveniently located near Ruffner Mountain and East Lake Park, and just a short drive (about 15 minutes) from downtown Birmingham, Birmingham Botanical Gardens, and the Birmingham Zoo. Its location also makes it especially convenient for travelers coming through the nearby airport.
For ease of access, guests will park in the gated area behind the home, accessible via the alleyway. Entry is through the back door using a digital keypad, with your unique code provided prior to check-in. Once inside, you’ll have full, private access to the entire home.
Family-friendly and pet-friendly (with a fee), Ruffner Retreat House is designed to make your stay easy, comfortable, and memorable. A pack ’n play/travel crib is also available upon request for those traveling with little ones.
Make yourself at home—we’d love to host you!
The cottage is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and a patio. There's space to spread out with 4 bedrooms and a dining area. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a fenced private yard, and a coffee maker.
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Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
Garden
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Rules
*Guest must sign Renter Agreement. *Minimum age to rent is 21 Welcome! We look forward to hosting you. We want everyone to have a pleasant experience
Pets
This property welcomes pets
Service animals exempt from fees
Children and extra beds
Children allowed: ages 0-17
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 21
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a deadbolt lock.
Property is also known as
orp5b7502ex
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do near this cottage?
This cottage is situated in South East Lake, close to Birmingham Zoo, Birmingham Race Course Casino, and Avondale Brewing Company. You'll also find A.G. Gaston Gardens and Southern Museum of Flight within a short drive.
How much does it cost to stay at Ruffner Retreat House | Fenced Yard & Group Stay?
As of May 10, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Ruffner Retreat House | Fenced Yard & Group Stay on May 11, 2026 start from $348, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Will I be able to park at Ruffner Retreat House | Fenced Yard & Group Stay?
No, there isn't parking at this cottage.
Is this cottage next to a casino?
No, this cottage is not connected to a casino.
Will I find an indoor pool at this cottage?
No, there is no indoor pool at this cottage.
Is Ruffner Retreat House | Fenced Yard & Group Stay a good place to stay for couples?
Amenities that appeal to couples at this riverfront cottage include a smart TV and a kitchen along with a garden.
Does Ruffner Retreat House | Fenced Yard & Group Stay have a hot tub?
No, there isn't a spa tub at this cottage.
Does this cottage provide breakfast?
No, this cottage doesn't offer breakfast.
Will this cottage allow pets to stay for free?
Although pets can't stay for free, they are welcome at this cottage.
Does Ruffner Retreat House | Fenced Yard & Group Stay have connecting rooms available?
No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this cottage.
What is the closest airport to this cottage?
The closest major airport to this cottage is Birmingham International Airport (BHM), which is 3.3 mi away (14 minutes by car).
Can I book a room with a balcony at Ruffner Retreat House | Fenced Yard & Group Stay?
Yes, every cottage at Ruffner Retreat House | Fenced Yard & Group Stay comes with a patio.
Ruffner Retreat House | Fenced Yard & Group Stay Reviews