Bed and breakfasts, once the immensely popular trend of the 1980s
and 1990s found themselves in a decline for a while in the 2000s.
Perhaps it was because of the shared bath concept or the
hotels and resorts popping on the accommodation scene with their myriad of
amenities and benefits that made these once-coveted places less alluring to the
traveler. Or perhaps, just a shift
in travel trends.
Beds and breakfasts however have shaken off their dusty
image and they’re back in a big way. Yes, you can still stay in stately historic
mansions, former schoolhouses and old mills. But some of the trendiest
properties are also featuring themed rooms, designer furniture and on-site
activities such as wine and cheese pairing, afternoon tea, cooking classes, ski
lessons or helping out on the property’s farm.
As a true bed and breakfast aficionado, I enjoy the affordability,
personalized service, unique settings, romantic getaway opportunities,
complimentary social hours and quiet, relaxed atmospheres.
Here are some of the destinations
in the U.S. to enjoy your first or additional bed and breakfast experience.
Cape May, New Jersey
This charming seaside town located at the southern tip of
New Jersey is known for its beautiful beaches, Victorian architecture and
relaxed coastal vibe, a blend of small-town America and old-world elegance.
Cape May is also renowned for its impressive selection of
bed and breakfasts. Guests will find everything from colonial revival homes
with wraparound porches and Victorian treasures to boutique offerings with
eclectic design elements.
The Addison B&B on Amelia Island (Photo Credit: Noreen Kompanik)
Fernandina Beach, Florida
Located on Amelia Island in northeast Florida, Fernandina
Beach offers 13 miles of pristine beaches, a rich history, a myriad of outdoor
and water activities, a historic, quaint downtown, scenic beauty and a welcoming
community.
Victorian architecture is a standout here, reflected in its
many cozy bed and breakfasts that blend historic elegance with modern comforts.
But you’ll also find Italianate, old Florida and New England designs as well.
Most homes are owned and operated by local families who also
live on-property. And expect to enjoy gourmet breakfasts with that warm
Southern hospitality the island is known for.
Horse & Carriage Rides through Historic Charleston (Photo Credit: Noreen Kompanik)
Charleston, South Carolina
This captivating coastal city seamlessly blends a rich,
fascinating history, vibrant culture and true Southern charm.
Founded in 1670, Charleston is one of the oldest cities in
the U.S. renowned for its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets and
the Charleston City Market, established in the 1790s with Gullah artisans still
creating handcrafted sweetgrass baskets in the marketplace.
The city's historic
district features iconic landmarks like Rainbow Row, the Battery promenade, and
antebellum mansions which is why staying in the historic district is a must. Staying
in a historic bed and breakfast sets the stage for the ideal getaway, and there
are so many amazing options to choose from.
Dahlonega, Georgia
If you’re looking for a charming mountain town destination,
think Stars Hollow or Hallmark perfection), Dahlonega, located in the foothills
of the North Georgia Mountains, delivers with a myriad of charming bed and
breakfasts that feel like a warm Southern hug.
The site of the first major U.S. Gold Rush in 1828,
Dahlonega offers stays that range from historic homes near its storybook
downtown to vineyard-view cottages snugged among the vines. And just venturing
out a bit, you’ll found hiking trails and waterfalls, fishing and kayaking
opportunities, wine tasting rooms, leaf-peeping in the fall, and an adorable
downtown historic square.
Dahlonega Inn on Main (Photo Credit: Discover Dahlonega)
Pacific Grove, California
Nestled between Monterey and Pebble Beach, this picturesque
coastal town on the Monterey Peninsula is famous for its Monarch Butterfly
Sanctuary, where thousands of these magnificent monarchs migrate each fall and
winter.
Lovers Point Park is a popular spot for picnicking, kayaking
and catching the sunrise, being one of the few places on the west coast where
you can see the sun rise over the ocean.
For a small town, Pacific Grove sports a delightful
selection of Victorian bed and breakfasts, each providing a unique blend of
historic charm, coastal beauty and personalized hospitality.
Pacific Grove, California (Photo Credit: Noreen Kompanik)
Fredericksburg, Texas
Founded in 1846 by German immigrants, Fredericksburg still
proudly celebrates its heritage with events like Oktoberfest and Maifest.
The gem in Texas Hill Country blends wine country flair with
Southern hospitality and offers a historic main street with boutique shops, art
galleries, bakeries beer gardens and cozy cafes. From mid-March through April,
the hills are blanketed with vibrant wildflowers, the most notable, the
bluebonnets.
Fredericksburg offers a diverse array of bed and breakfasts.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat, a rustic escape or a luxury
stay, you’ll find one to suit your preferences.
Forsyth Park, Savannah, GA (Photo Credit: Kristi Dosh)
Savannah, Georgia
The city of Savannah is like a dreamy blend of Southern
elegance, spooky legends, moss-draped oaks and rich American history —all
wrapped up in a walkable, artsy, and totally photogenic package. If you've ever
wanted to step into a storybook (or a movie set), Savannah is your spot.
Georgia’s first city, founded in 1733, was laid out in a
grid of 22 beautiful public squares, each with fountains, statues and towering
oaks. Historic mansions, inns and bed and breakfasts surround these picturesque
squares, offering a multitude of places to stay. Bed and breakfasts are our
favorites, and depending on what you’re looking for, you’ll find everything
from Revival mansions with courtyards and Victorian inns with antique furnishings
to haunted places (if you dare)!
Newport, Rhode Island
Known as the “sailing capital of the world,” Newport has
deep yachting roots and regularly hosts international sailing regattas. The
coastal treasure sports a rich maritime history, legendary Gilded-age mansions
and seaside charm that makes it feel as though you’ve stepped back in time.
Newport’s downtown waterfront is cobblestoned and full of
boutiques, seafood restaurants, art galleries and colonial architecture. Bed
and breakfasts here are uniquely arrayed, reflecting the character of the home,
whether on the waterfront overlooking Narraganset Bay or on historic streets in
town.
St. Augustine, Florida B&B (Photo Credit: Visit St. Augustine)
St. Augustine, Florida
As the nation’s oldest continuously inhabited European-founded
city, St. Augustine is a city draped in layers of history and cultural
richness.
The city’s allure as a beautiful destination is woven from a
rich tapestry of historical charm, architectural elegance, and natural beauty.
The city’s cobblestone streets and well-preserved colonial architecture
transport visitors to a bygone era, creating a sense of timelessness that is
both enchanting and unique.
St. Augustine has many lodging options for visitors, but the
most popular choices are its bed and breakfasts, located in Old Town or in a
beach or waterfront setting.
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