the librarian has the answers

So many excellent questions…

Frequently Asked Questions

You can’t take the librarian out of Clare, so of course she’s provided all the important questions and answers — she just hopes you will actually read them.

Please contact us if you have any other questions or need clarification.

Are children allowed?

We strive to provide a peaceful and relaxing experience for all of our guests while preserving the character of our historic home.

Children ages 10 and older are welcome and may stay in our guest rooms when accompanied by a responsible adult.

Families with younger children are welcome to inquire about booking the entire inn. When both guest rooms are reserved by the same party, we may be able to accommodate children under 10 on a case-by-case basis. This allows families to enjoy the home together while ensuring the comfort, safety, and privacy of all guests.

If you are traveling with children, please contact us before booking. We’ll be happy to discuss your needs and determine whether our historic home is the right fit for your family.

How accessible are you?

While we have worked to preserve its original character and charm, the home’s historic design presents accessibility challenges.

Guest rooms are located on the second floor and are accessed by a staircase. There is no elevator and there are five steps required to enter the main floor. As a result, our property is not suitable for guests who require step-free access. We do have a chair-lift located on our back stairs, which are narrow and steep, so while it is useful it’s not wheelchair friendly.

The Florence Room is our most accessible guest room, with a walk-in shower that includes a bench, large spacious bathroom and a tall toilet with grab bar.

We are committed to welcoming all guests and are happy to answer questions about our accommodations so you can determine whether our B&B is the right fit for your needs. If there is anything we can do to make your stay more comfortable, please contact us before booking, and we will gladly discuss the layout of the home, measurements, etc.

Do you allow pets?

Pets are not allowed and this is because Clare is allergic to pet dander. Thank you for understanding. For guests who require a service animal, please contact us before booking so we can discuss how best to accommodate. 

What is the check-in and check-out time?

Check-in time is from 3 PM and check-out is by 11 AM. If you need to arrange a different time, please contact us in advance to accommodate your request.

How do I make a reservation?

A valid credit card is required to secure all reservations. A tax of 15.75% is added to all bookings, 4% of this goes directly to our local tourism office. Accepted payment methods are Visa, Mastercard and Discover. Balance is due 30 days prior to arrival.

What is your cancellation policy?

Reservations may be cancelled for a full refund up to 30 days prior to arrival. For cancellations 14-29 days prior, we offer a 50% refund. All cancellations within 14 days or less and early departures are non-refundable.

Because we have only two guest rooms, last-minute cancellations have a significant impact on our small business. We appreciate your understanding and encourage guests to consider purchasing travel insurance to protect against unexpected changes.

Is parking available at the B&B?

Yes, we offer free parking for our guests. There is a designated parking area on-site, beneath a nice shady live oak tree.

What time do you serve breakfast?

Breakfast is included and generally served from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Please inform us in advance if you need a different time and if you have any dietary restrictions or preferences.

Can I have a visitor?

Only registered guests are permitted inside the inn unless prior approval is obtained. When booking both rooms, we can generally allow visitors and this is an excellent place to have a small gathering with friends and family. Please ask in advance and we will let you know if we can accommodate.

Do you allow smoking on site?

To ensure a clean, comfortable, and enjoyable environment for all guests, Bank Street B&B is a smoke-free property. Smoking, vaping, and the use of marijuana or other cannabis products are not permitted anywhere inside the home or on the property, including guest rooms, porches, balconies, and outdoor common areas.

We recognize that cannabis may be legal for medical or recreational use; however, because the odor can linger and affect the experience of other guests, and because this is our home, we are very strict on this policy. Thank you for understanding.

Tampering with or disabling smoke detectors is strictly prohibited. Failure to comply with this policy may result in additional cleaning fees and, if necessary, termination of the stay without refund.

Do you allow alcohol on site?

While we cannot sell alcoholic beverages, guests are welcome to bring their own wine, beer, or spirits to enjoy during their stay. Some of our best festivals in Lake Charles involve rum and bourbon, and we encourage our guests to support local distilleries. Our inviting parlor, library, and outdoor seating areas are wonderful places to unwind with a favorite beverage, whether it’s an afternoon glass of wine or a relaxing nightcap after a day of exploring. We simply ask that all alcoholic beverages be consumed responsibly and with consideration for the comfort and enjoyment of our other guests.

Excessive intoxication, disruptive behavior, or alcohol-related disturbances will not be tolerated and may result in termination of your stay without refund.

What if other guests are disruptive?

We are committed to providing a peaceful, welcoming, and respectful environment for all guests. We ask that everyone treat fellow guests, hosts, neighbors, and our home with courtesy and respect at all times.

Disruptive or inappropriate behavior—including excessive noise, intoxication that disturbs others, verbal abuse, threatening or aggressive conduct, harassment, illegal activity, or intentional damage to the property—will not be tolerated. Guests whose behavior unreasonably interferes with the comfort, safety, or enjoyment of others, or who pose a risk to the property or its occupants, may be asked to leave the premises immediately. In such cases, no refund will be provided for any unused portion of the stay.

We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain the peaceful atmosphere that makes Bank Street B&B a special place to stay.

Do you have a lost & found?

Items left behind will be held for 30 days and may be returned at the guest’s expense.

Do you offer net rates for travel professionals?

Yes, please contact us directly for special rates for licensed travel agents and tour operators.

Can I use your B&B as a photography location?

Yes, Clare’s sister and father are professional photographers so we love supporting you! We have several spaces indoors & out that are ideal for professional photos or videos. Contact us for fees and scheduling.

We are also happy to work with brides seeking a place for wedding photos, bridal prep parties, etc.

Please keep in mind this is our home, so you must get permission to take photos anywhere on our property and always be respectful.

Do you allow wedding events at your property?

No, and this is because we are a home within a residential neighborhood. There are several excellent wedding venues within a short drive from here, and we are a great place to get ready and sleep when attending nearby events.

We DO work with couples seeking a place for wedding photos, bridal prep parties, etc. Contact us to see if we’re a good fit for your plans.

Can I host a party or meeting at your property?

It depends on your requirements and size of the group. We have limited parking and are located in a residential neighborhood, so large gatherings are a definite no. We are ideal for tea parties, small social gatherings, family dinners, and other intimate gatherings. Contact us to discuss what’s possible.