Inns are generally establishments or buildings where travelers can seek lodging and, usually, food and drink. They're typically located in the country or along a highway. History and origins Found in Europe, they possibly first sprang up when the Romans built their system of Roman roads two millennia ago. Some inns in Europe are several centuries old. In addition to providing for the needs of travellers, inns traditionally acted as community gathering places. "Inn" in more recent times has o… (More on Inn)