Old Lystra Inn

Guest capacity

Up to 162 seated guests

About this venue

Once owned by Pulitzer prize winner Paul Green, this completely renovated 1890s farmhouse nestled under towering oaks offers a seamless blend of old and new. Tons of history yet it looks like something Joanna Gaines decorated.

Seated guest capacity

  • 2-162

Venue type

  • Farms, Barns, Ranches
  • Historic Estates, Mansions
  • Hotels, Inns, Resorts
  • Lodges, Retreats
  • Parks, Gardens
  • Vineyards, Wineries

Venue setting

  • Covered Outdoor
  • Indoor
  • Outdoor
1164 Old Lystra Rd, Chapel Hill, NC 27517

Our event spaces

40' x 80' Tent

The most elegant tent available.

Our tent is one of the most elegant ones available. Just renting all of the items we include would cost you as much as you'll pay for the entire event. Tent rental companies tell us that while they always show couples a tent with a liner, most of them aren't able to afford it. It gives a billowy cloud-like air instead of a harsh metallic feel.

Guest capacity

Up to 194 Seated

Up to 194 Standing

Square footage

3,200

Ideal for

Wedding reception

Guests often feel this space is

“Surprised and delighted”

Included in this room:

- 3 Crystal Chandeliers - Dimmers for total lighting control - Leg drapes - Tent Liner - 20' x 20' parquet-style dance floor - Tuscan oak cross-back chairs

40' x 80' Tent

The most elegant tent available.

Our tent is one of the most elegant ones available. Just renting all of the items we include would cost you as much as you'll pay for the entire event. Tent rental companies tell us that while they always show couples a tent with a liner, most of them aren't able to afford it. It gives a billowy cloud-like air instead of a harsh metallic feel.

Guest capacity

Up to 194 Seated

Up to 194 Standing

Square footage

3,200

Ideal for

Wedding reception

Guests often feel this space is

“Surprised and delighted”

Included in this room:

- 3 Crystal Chandeliers - Dimmers for total lighting control - Leg drapes - Tent Liner - 20' x 20' parquet-style dance floor - Tuscan oak cross-back chairs

Available services that can be provided by Old Lystra Inn

Services & amenities

  • Clean up
  • Dance floor
  • Dressing room / Bridal Suite
  • Event coordinator
  • Event rentals
  • Event staff
  • Liability insurance
  • Lighting/Sound
  • On-site accommodations
  • Set up
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Wifi

Transportation & access

  • Self parking - free
  • Wheelchair accessible

Rentals

  • Standard Chairs

Accommodations

  • Bedroom suites
  • Honeymoon suite
  • Luxury suites

Reviews

Write a review

5.0 out of 5

2 reviews

Write a review

  • Our Favorite Wedding Decision

    •Verified review
    •Katie B.•Jun 13, 2025

    Working with Tony and Beth at Old Lystra Inn was an absolute dream from start to finish. After spending countless hours searching for the perfect venue, my husband and I knew immediately that this was the one the moment we pulled up the driveway. Tony greeted us with a late-evening tour that felt incredibly personal, not at all rushed—and it set the tone for everything that followed. The property itself is breathtaking. The grounds are impeccably maintained and filled with charm, and so much is included in the rental package—tent, dance floor, chairs, tables, and more—which made planning far less stressful. It was a huge relief not having to coordinate all those big logistics separately. Beth and Tony were a constant source of support leading up to the big day. Whether it was a quick stop by to walk the grounds, a late-night email, or one of our many questions (and there were a lot!), they always made time for us. We never felt like “just another couple” in a long wedding season. Instead, they made us feel like our day truly mattered—like we were getting married in a place that had heart and soul, not just beautiful scenery. On the day itself, Tony was everywhere—behind the scenes making things happen and helping everything flow effortlessly. We can’t overstate how much that meant to us. Thanks to his quiet dedication, we were able to be fully present and just enjoy the day. We are endlessly grateful to have had our wedding at Old Lystra Inn. It was the best day of our lives, and Tony and Beth played such a meaningful role in making that possible. We can’t wait for the day we get to return as guests and relive the magic from a different perspective. Highly, highly recommend!

  • Best Venue!

    •Verified review
    •Regan C.•Nov 14, 2024

    Beth and Tony are truly the most accommodating and lovely venue owners. We just had our November 2024 wedding here and I can't say enough good things about them. Their property and home are beautiful & clean, and they were easy to work with.

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