Historic Charm Meets Modern Comfort on the Kansas Prairie Vickers Schoolhouse at Crimson Ridge Flower Farm ★★★★★ “Truly a treasure! So cozy and quaint!”
Looking for a peaceful countryside escape that feels a world away—but is still close to everything? Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a girls’ weekend full of laughter and relaxation, this beautifully restored 130+ year-old schoolhouse offers the perfect mix of nostalgia, charm, and comfort.
Nestled among quiet prairie fields just 20 minutes south of Olathe, KS, the Vickers Schoolhouse invites you to step back in time and slow down—with all the modern comforts that make a stay easy and restful. ________________________________________
Your Flower Farm Escape (Now in Our Second Season – 2026) Crimson Ridge Flower Farm blooms just beyond your doorstep. Guests are invited to stroll the perimeter, take photos, and enjoy what’s in season—just kindly leave the blossoms for all to enjoy. On occasional Saturday mornings (in season), stop by the Crimson Ridge Farm Stand for freshly arranged bouquets. A simple, beautiful way to take a piece of the prairie home with you. ________________________________________
The Stay This original one-room schoolhouse has been thoughtfully reimagined into a cozy, three-bedroom retreat. Surrounded by prairie grasses and wide Kansas skies, it’s a place to breathe deep, reconnect, and settle into a slower pace. 🛏 Sleeps 6 comfortably • 1 Queen Bedroom (Main Floor) • 2 Loft Bedrooms (Queen Beds) – accessed via ladder stairs (not suitable for small children or guests with mobility concerns) Two full bathrooms (main floor) Fully stocked kitchen with breakfast bar + dining for 6 Electric fireplace in the living room Smart TV, Blu-ray player, and complimentary Wi-Fi Washer & dryer available for guest use ________________________________________
Things to Do (or Not Do at All) Outdoor spaces, including the hot tub, fire ring, and trails, may be shared with one to two guests staying in Matilda the vintage school bus 150 feet away on the prairie. ✔ Roast marshmallows at the fire ring ✔ Soak in the hot tub under a prairie sunset ✔ Wander the prairie trails and enjoy the flower farm from the perimeter ✔ Nap in a loft or read on the bed swing ✔ Sip local wine just down the road ✔ Spin on the vintage 1940s “Ocean Wave” merry-go-round (yes, really) ✔ Explore nearby cider mills, wineries, antique shops, lakes, and trails ________________________________________
Nearby Attractions • 15 miles to Hillsdale Lake & Jayhawk Marina • 12 miles to Mile Zero of the Flint Hills Rail Trail • 11 miles to Isinglass Estate • 9 miles to Louisburg Cider Mill • 6 miles to Somerset Schoolhouse Speakeasy & Boutique • 6 miles to Nighthawk Winery • 5 miles to Lake Miola Trailhead • 3 miles to groceries + essentials + restaurants • 1.6 miles to Fossil Springs Winery • 0 miles to Miami County Wine Trolley Pickup
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A Little Bit of History This one-room schoolhouse educated local children from 1891 to 1966. Over time, it became a cherished community gathering place before being restored into a private home in 2016. A full renovation in 2023 transformed it into the modern retreat it is today—where history, comfort, and nature meet in a quiet, meaningful way. ________________________________________
A Note on Travel Life happens—we understand. We recommend purchasing travel insurance when you book to protect your trip in case plans change unexpectedly.
======== Other Details to Note ===========
→ Historic Home Care Vickers Schoolhouse is a lovingly restored 19th-century landmark, and Matilda is a vintage school bus with systems different from a traditional home. Please use care with the features throughout your stay. If anything needs attention, let us know—we’re happy to help. ________________________________________
→ Arrival, Parking & Access • Schoolhouse guests: use the driveway directly adjacent to the Schoolhouse • Matilda guests: use the east farm driveway through the double green gate • Park only in designated gravel areas • No driving or parking on the grass ________________________________________
→ Security Deposit A refundable security deposit ($500 for Schoolhouse / $200 for Matilda) is collected prior to check-in through our independent guest portal. Funds are released back to your card after post-checkout inspection. ________________________________________
→ Lofts & Safety (Schoolhouse) Loft sleeping areas are accessed by ladder-style stairs and may not be suitable for small children or guests with mobility concerns. Ceiling heights are just under 6 feet—please use care and mind your head. ________________________________________
→ Children & Safety For everyone’s safety: • Children must be supervised at all times on the property Hot Tub: • No children under 5 • Ages 5–15 require direct adult supervision Matilda (School Bus): • Matilda-only bookings: children are not permitted • Full Prairie Stay (combo bookings): children are allowed in Matilda only with full adult supervision due to sensitive systems Our goal is simple—to keep everyone safe and your stay a happy, restful memory. ________________________________________
→ Early Check-In & Late Check-Out Availability varies. When possible, early check-in or late check-out may be offered for an additional fee. ________________________________________
→ Reservation Changes We understand plans can shift; however, we are unable to accommodate date changes within 72 hours of check-in. ________________________________________
→ Pets Policy Pets are welcome at the Schoolhouse with prior approval and a $100 non-refundable fee. Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate pets in Matilda due to her compact size.
• Max of 2 pets • Dogs (≤50 lbs, insurance-approved breeds) • Pets must not be left unattended unless crated • Please bring protective coverings for furniture • Clean up and dispose of all pet waste before departure ________________________________________
→ Noise Monitoring & Security Cameras A noise monitoring device is in place in the common area (no audio is recorded). Exterior security cameras monitor entrances only. There are no cameras inside. ________________________________________
→ Shared Amenities The hot tub, fire ring, and prairie trails may be shared between guests staying at the Schoolhouse and Matilda. Please be respectful: • Keep noise at a reasonable level • Leave spaces as you found them • Replace the hot tub cover after use • Do not enter other guests’ accommodations or private areas ________________________________________
→ Fresh Air Policy Smoking or vaping is not permitted anywhere inside or on the property. ________________________________________
→ Parties & Events Events, parties, and unregistered guests are not permitted. ________________________________________
→ Quiet Hours Quiet hours are from 9:00 PM to 7:00 AM. Please keep noise to a minimum to respect the peaceful nature of the property.
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Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
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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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
About the area
Paola
Located in Paola, this cottage is in a rural area and near a water park. Paola Golf Club and Somerset Ridge Vineyard and Winery are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Hillsdale State Park and Miami County State Park. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and hunting.
Miami County Medical Center - 5 min drive - 6.1 km
Lake Miola - 7 min drive - 6.8 km
Wallace Park - 7 min drive - 7.8 km
Miola Lake - 8 min drive - 7.2 km
Paola City Hall - 8 min drive - 8.5 km
Getting around
Kansas City International Airport (MCI) - 63 min drive
Restaurants
McDonald's - 7 min drive
Simple Simon's Pizza - 9 min drive
Sonic Drive-In - 7 min drive
Arby's - 7 min drive
Jackson Cafe & Coffee Shop - 9 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Cozy Historic Schoolhouse w/ Hot Tub + Views pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.
How much does it cost to stay at Cozy Historic Schoolhouse w/ Hot Tub + Views?
As of 8 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Cozy Historic Schoolhouse w/ Hot Tub + Views on 9 June 2026 start from AU$571, 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.
How much is parking at Cozy Historic Schoolhouse w/ Hot Tub + Views?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Cozy Historic Schoolhouse w/ Hot Tub + Views?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Cozy Historic Schoolhouse w/ Hot Tub + Views?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Cozy Historic Schoolhouse w/ Hot Tub + Views located?
Situated in a rural location, this cottage is 2.8 mi (4.5 km) from Miami County Medical Center and within 6 miles (10 km) of Veterans Memorial Park and Wallace Park. Paola Free Library and Miami County Kansas Historical Society & Museum are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
The modern space was so well done, yet still appreciate the old school house character with even the old bell cupola! They had everything we needed for a weekend family gathering in a beautiful country setting. We cooked out for the group on their Blackstone grill! The hot tub was clean and an extra bonus for us! Thank you to the hosts!!
Kris A.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Apr 2026
Thank you so much for the sweet review, Kris—it truly means the world to me! I’m so happy to hear that you enjoyed your stay and that the Schoolhouse was a great fit for your group. It was an absolute pleasure hosting you all, and I’d be delighted to welcome you back anytime. Come back and stay now that we have the historic bus ready for guests as well!
We had a lovely time out in the country at the Vickers School House over the 4th. Perfect for family boardgames, reading, and some beautiful sunsets.
Jim E.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 17 July 2025
It was such a pleasure hosting you guys! Thanks for coming down. Any time you need a break from the bustling neighborhood, we'd love to have you back. :) Thank you for the glowing review!!
We rented this for a baseball tournament and it was perfect. Cozy, modern and close to everything.
Ryan M.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 29 May 2025
Ryan, thank you for this wonderful review! We wish you could have gotten more time to enjoy the place. Come back again and we'll give you a special rate!
Thank you so much for your wonderful review, Dylan! You two were model guests and we're thrilled to hear that you found your stay cozy and enjoyed the well-kept surroundings at Vickers Schoolhouse. Our team takes great pride in ensuring a welcoming and pristine environment for our guests. We would love to have you back for another delightful visit soon. Safe travels until then!
My wife and I greatly enjoyed our stay here. Lara did a fantastic job hosting, supplying snacks and everything that we needed. Would highly recommend staying here!
Connor Cotton
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 17 May 2025
Thank you so much for this glowing review, Connor! We sure appreciate you staying with us at the Schoolhouse and for being such great guests.
Our group really enjoyed our stay at the Vickers Schoolhouse. The property is cute, clean, and had everything we needed for a comfortable stay! I highly recommend this place if you are looking for a cute little spot away from the city.
Natalie B.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug 2023
Thank you so much for your kind review, Natalie! We appreciate your care for the property during your stay. Hope to see you again, soon!
Such a cool, unique and comfortable home. It was spotless when we checked in and had everything we needed. Lara was an excellent host. I can't wait to stay again on our next trip to Paola.
Mark B.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug 2023
Yayyy! I'm so glad you guys enjoyed your time at the schoolhouse. It is such a special place - we LOVE sharing it with great guests like you, Mark!
Just what we were looking for, a place to disconnect. Very comfortable space inside and out. Would definitely stay again.
Thank you for sharing your property...
David F.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug 2023
Aww, thanks, David for the great review! We sure loved having you guys at the schoolhouse. Hope to see you again, soon!
Beautifully renovated, clean and the perfect spot for our annual girls get-together! Lara is an excellent host, very hospitable and prompt to respond.
Tara S.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Sept 2023
Tara, thank you so much for the great review! We're tickled that you and your friends' mommy weekend at the Schoolhouse hit the spot! You all are welcome back any time - hope you'll come stay with us again!
We loved the schoolhouse! It was decorated so adorable. It had everything we needed. The kitchen was fully stocked. The grounds were beautiful! The hot tub was a bonus for our cool nights! They even supplied towels for the hot tub. We will be back to enjoy this charming old school house!
Donna W.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Oct 2023
Donna, thank you so much for the great review! We couldn’t have been more tickled to host you and your friends on your special weekend. Can’t tell you how much it makes us smile to know you enjoyed your stay! Thanks for taking such good care of the schoolhouse while you were there!
We were so blown away by the cleanliness, charm, and decor and design of the whole place. It was so beautiful and a wonderful experience spending each night by the fire pit and in the hot tub. The area was secluded enough to feel truly in the country, while it was less than an hour from the city. The owners were very nice and helpful, and quick to respond. We loved our whole experience and will definitely be back!
Sophia O.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Oct 2023
Sophia, thank you for the wonderful review! We sure enjoyed having you stay. Hope your birthday was the best and we’d love to see y’all next time!
Perfect get a way for any occasion. The level of detail and design is very much appreciated. Just about anyone can rehab a home for vacation rental purposes, but converting a one room school house into a homey retreat is quite the feat. Stay here, you will love it!
Kelly V.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug 2023
Wow, Kelly! I’m honored! Your compliment means a lot to me, especially coming from a design industry professional such as yourself! Thank you!! I’m tickled your family enjoyed themselves this weekend. Y’all come back any time!
We booked this house for a bridal party and then the bride and groom stayed at the house after the wedding. It was perfect. Just a comfy and cozy place. Such an amazing view overlooking the pond and the hot tubs was just an amazing touch! Even for the cool night it was!
Morgan C.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug 2023
Awww, thank you so much, Morgan! We were delighted to be a part of the special weekend. Hope you'll come back soon!
We had a great visit with family while staying at this perfect VRBO! This place was very clean (cleanest VRBO we have ever stayed at), the internet was great, the AC worked awesome, and it was nicely decorated inside and out. Lara is VERY responsive and nice! The location is 5 minutes from town, which was nice because there wasn't a lot of traffic noise, but close enough should we run into 'town' for a forgotten item. I would recommend this VRBO to anyone, and we will be staying here again when we visit family. Thank you Lara for being such a great host!
Carolynn S.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug 2023
It was such a joy to have y’all stay at the Schoolhouse, Carolynn! We couldn’t be happier that you enjoyed your stay, and we look forward to your next visit! Thanks for such a sweet review!
The cabin is in the country and is very nice and relaxing with pond to look out over, fire pit, hot tub, and grill area. We unfortunately didn't get to be there as much as we would have liked but would like to go back sometime when we have more time to enjoy everything. The only downside is that the loft bedrooms are pretty high up so would need younger people to climb up and sleep there. My 20 and 21 year old really loved them though. Host was extremely nice and accommodating as my plans hadn't worked out as I had hoped so really appreciated this.
Elaine G.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug 2023
Thanks you for the great review, Elaine! We were tickled to have you stay with us and love that you enjoyed your time. Come back when you have a chance to relax at the property and really soak it in!
You just don't expect something this beautiful in a small town in Kansas. It's an ordinary old school house until you walk in. Granite counter tops, modern kitchen, cozy bedrooms. Beautiful well appointed bathrooms. It feels as if these owners really care about you. It's almost like you're staying at your bohemian grandma's house. She has banaids, and toothbrushes, body soap and shampoo, spices and coffee, soft sheets and comforters and "forts"for those who can go to the loft. There are two lofts, beautiful stairs! It looks as if the stairs are built from the desks of this old school house, but I did not confirm that with the owner. I didn't go up... I am afraid of heights, but my grandsons loved them. The coffee bar has regular and decaf coffee for you to use, and some tea. Beautiful mugs and creamers. Order your groceries ahead of time from Walmart and pick them up on your way to the school house. It's clean, neat, beautiful, completely supplied and very comfortable. The host is extremely responsive. There are wineries in the area to visit, we did not. As remote as this place is, there are still things to visit in the area. Just enjoy this place. it's awesome.
Merry E.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Aug 2024
Hi Merry,
Thank you so much for your beautiful review! We're absolutely thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your stay at the cute little schoolhouse. Your description captured the essence of what we hoped to create—a cozy, welcoming, and well-appointed retreat that feels like a home away from home.
We put a lot of love into maintaining the cottage, ensuring that it’s not just a place to stay but a memorable experience. It tickled us to see how much joy you and your grandsons found in the lofts and the little touches we’ve provided.
It's great to hear that you enjoyed the modern amenities, and we’re glad the boys enjoyed the lofts, and we hope you felt at ease with everything you needed right at your fingertips.
Your comparison of the schoolhouse to a bohemian grandma's house made us smile—it’s exactly the warm, welcoming vibe we aim for! And thank you for the tip about ordering groceries ahead of time; it's a great suggestion for future guests.
We’re delighted that you found our place clean, neat, and comfortable, and that you felt well-cared for. Even though you didn’t visit the local wineries this time, it sounds like you still had a wonderful time exploring the area.
Thank you again for your kind words and for choosing to stay with us. We look forward to welcoming you back any time you need a cozy retreat!
Warm regards,
Lara
We are a group of girlfriends who always get together for our holiday gathering after the hustle and bustle of the season - this year we decided that a getaway close to home was in order. We found this property in between all of us and fell in love. Adorably decorated, in the country, but close to town, room to relax together, fix meals, play games, laugh and just enjoy our friendship. We couldn’t have asked for a better place for our weekend - the cold, snowy weather made it even better for us to hole up. We will definitely be back! We hope to make this an annual retreat for us!
Dawn S.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug 2023
Thank you so much, Dawn! It always puts a smile on our face when our guests have a remarkable stay. Thanks for taking care of the schoolhouse and hope you'll head back soon!
A cozy getaway. The Vickers School provided comfortable accommodations for our wedding weekend stay. The owners were quick to respond with any questions we had during our stay. It was so quiet at night which is a plus for this light sleeper.
Jennifer T.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug 2023
Yay! We're so glad you had a great experience at the schoolhouse! That's what we strive for with each guest who stays. Sounds like your weekend was something special! Thanks for staying with us!
This is a unique property! The home, originally built as a one-room schoolhouse, has been beautifully and creatively reimagined as a modern lofted home with a chef's kitchen, renovated bathrooms, and fabulous porches and patios. Imagine a Brooklyn hipster pad in rural Kansas -- if you can -- and that's pretty much what you'll find. We had a wonderful stay for a long-weekend of cycling races in Emporia (just over an hour away) and enjoyed the backyard firepit, the gorgeous hilltop views at sunset, and the mowed walking trails. Plus lots of birdwatching (and being watched by birds)! The region is apparently known for its vineyards; sadly we did not get to visit any of them but we had a wonderful time at the schoolhouse nonetheless and hope to be back next summer. If this place is available, book it without hesitation and enjoy!
Lisa H.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug 2023
Wow! Thank you for that amazing review, Lisa! The schoolhouse is a treasure and we love that you are just as dazzled by it as we are! You guys were fantastic guests and we look forward to your next stay. Next time you’ll have to check out a countryside wine tasting carriage ride! Thank you again!
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Levi H.
13 Nov 2025
Levi H.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Dorothy K.
25 June 2025
Dorothy K.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2025
Dorothy, thank you so much for rating the Schoolhouse 5 stars! We sure enjoyed having you stay!
About the host
Hosted by Lara
Hi! I’m Lara. My husband and I live just outside Kansas City on a little slice of heaven. We share our space with four kids, two cats, two dogs of our own, the occasional foster pups and a bird.
We do not reside on the schoolhouse property, and always allow our guests privacy. While you'll receive instructions and codes for self check-in electronically, I am available by message or text should you have a need. We are committed to providing a great stay for guests.
We are excited to share our unique destination with you, and strive to make your stay delightfully memorable. Let me know how I can make your stay more enjoyable!
Why they chose this property
When we first saw this beautiful property, our jaws hit the ground. We couldn't believe our fortune to be able to secure ownership of such an incomparable property. We love it so much we just have to share it! We can't wait to host your stay!
Established in 1869, you'll be staying in the historic Vickers Schoolhouse, its own countryside landmark.
Situated on 3 acres in rural Miami County, you'll experience tranquility and wide open spaces that afford great views of breathtaking sunsets. Swing on the old tree swing, or on the old school swing! Sip tea and grill a steak on the back porch. Or, grab a friend for balance and take a spin on the old merry-go-round.
Your resting place feels like it's a million miles out in the country, but restaurants, grocery stores and everything you need are as close as a 6 minute car ride.
What makes this property unique
You’ll have full access to the schoolhouse, 3+ acres of prairie, beautiful sunsets, dark night sky, a huge fire ring and deep roots of history reaching back to the western frontier.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests