Ready to Rock

Rock Inn is officially Eddy County's newest business. Located along U.S. Hwy. 281, in the former USDA building, it's situated in the heart of the community- and that community is in the heart of the business.

From the overall concept and name, right down to the decor on the walls, the New Rockford community of the past, present and future has been at the forefront of the project.

Travis and Amy Steele purchased the former USDA building in 2019 after praying for an opportunity to start a business that would help support their family and the community. "We saw a need for more lodging here, and it felt like a good fit for the property, community and our family," says Travis, a New Rockford native.

The Steeles live just outside of New Rockford on their family farm and bison ranch with their four children. They wanted to create something that could help create memories and serve generations to come in New Rockford. "We hope that it will contribute to the success of our community," says Travis.

As the Steele family dedicated their time, finances and energy to the renovation of the building, Rock Inn eventually became an extension of their home. And effect that can be felt upon walking into the building. The eight-room Rock Inn offers guests a beautiful lodging experience that is both comfortable and welcoming.

Whether guests are familiar with the New Rockford area or are visiting for the first time, they will see pieces of New Rockford's story throughout. The entire property tells a story of the community through historic photos of New Rockford featured, artwork made by artists with local ties, and even repurposed materials from within the community.

The inn is unique, as it operates somewhere between a traditional hotel and an Airbnb or VRBO. While there are regular check-in times and staffed lobby hours, coded locks on the main entrance and each guest room allow for guests to check-in even if staff are not on site. Staff is always just a phone call away should guests need anything. This unique operation makes the experience convenient for both guests and the owners, who also run a family farm, bison ranch and care for their four young children.

The rooms at Rock Inn offer guests and families fully-equipped kitchenettes, a dining area, smart TVs, large bathrooms, desks and armchairs. Guests can choose from rooms with two queen beds, a single king bed or a king suite, which has a separate living area with a sofa sleeper. An additional convenience is access to on-site laundry.

In another opportunity to serve guests and the community, Rock Inn created "The Wallow", a meeting room available for rent with the capacity to seat up to 35 people. Specifically designed for meetings, events and family gatherings, the space is equipped with a countertop, sink, refrigerator and smart TV. With the spacious and cozy lobby just outside the room's french doors, The Wallow is both modern and relaxed.

Rock Inn is excited to open its door to guests and the community, however, due to COVID-19 concerns, non-guest visitors will be restricted until further notice. "We were so excited to finally open our doors to our community, and while we are still open to guests, we have to hold off on our open house until social distancing is lifted," says Travis, as they plan to hold a community open house event in the future, to celebrate their opening and give community members the chance to tour the facility.

Guests can visit Rock Inn online at https://rockinnnewrockford.com to view the facility or book rooms for future dates.