Looking for the ultimate romantic getaway? These picture-perfect bed-and-breakfasts will not disappoint!
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.Learn more.
The 20 Most Charming Bed-and-Breakfasts in America
Updated Aug. 15, 2024
When I look back on my many years of travel, my most memorable trips involved staying at small properties—especially bed-and-breakfasts. On one North Carolina trip, the innkeeper sat down with my husband and me to chat about food and travel over a glass of wine. He told us about the furnishings in the elegantly restored home, which were purchased in far-flung places around the globe—it was fascinating. He also offered us a taste of snake wine that he’d brought back from Asia and had been saving for a special occasion. (In case you’re wondering, while we were flattered that we were that occasion, we graciously passed on the offer.)
Unlike large, and sometimes sterile, hotels, these intimate accommodations are a welcome respite after a long journey or a busy day of sightseeing. They’re incredibly cozy, often furnished with fireplaces and incredible decor from another time, and they tend to be romantic. But you also get to socialize with other guests over wine and appetizers, and in the morning, you gather around a communal table over a scrumptious homemade breakfast and talk about your plans for the day. You may make new friends during your visit and even stay in touch with the owners for years to come, as we have.
Get Reader’s Digest’s Read Up newsletter for more travel, tech, cleaning, humor and fun facts all week long.
Via Tripadvisor.com
Best for An uber-romantic stay with French flair and Southern hospitality
86 Cannon
Charleston, South Carolina
Step into the salon for a glass of complimentary champagne when you arrive at 86 Cannon, a boutique three-story property situated in the heart of Charleston’s historic district. The inn’s five elegant rooms and suites, featuring midcentury design and classic French decor, are perfect for an intimate adults-only getaway. And the timeless architecture of the property (in a quiet, residential part of town) has been beautifully preserved and updated with fresh touches including cozy piazzas, a courtyard garden and an inviting third-floor library where guests can peruse a vintage book while sipping a glass of wine.
In the morning, the cafe offers a European Continental-style breakfast with homemade yogurt, granola and locally sourced pastries. There’s also a complimentary wine-and-cheese pairing at 5 p.m. that you can enjoy indoors or outside on the piazza. Guests of the property rave about the gracious and attentive staff who made them feel at home during their stay. And if you want to check out the city, 86 Cannon is located just a short distance from Charleston’s famed restaurants and nightlife.
Pros:
- Perfect for an adults-only getaway
- Complimentary use of Linus bicycles throughout your stay
- Personalized concierge service
Con:
- Children are not permitted
Via Tripadvisor.com
Best for An inviting mountain getaway
Abbington Green Bed & Breakfast Inn and Spa
Asheville, North Carolina
Located in the historic Montford neighborhood, just a mile from downtown Asheville, this charming bed-and-breakfast was designed by Richard Sharp Smith, one of the architects involved in the construction of George Vanderbilt’s Biltmore Estate. The Colonial Revival–style home features eight guest rooms and suites with king-size beds, whirlpool tubs, showers, fireplaces and Comphy spa sheets. My husband and I stayed in one of the two pet-friendly suites located in the carriage house (which sits behind the main house) when we visited. The suite was perfect for us with the pup, since we had easy access to walk him outdoors. While at the property, we also enjoyed taking in the mountain views from the spacious outdoor porch and strolling through the English gardens. The inn also offers couples massages.
The owners and innkeepers, Dean Whiteford and Cherie Thorn, prepare and serve a homemade gourmet breakfast crafted with organic and local ingredients every morning in the dining room. Thorn also bakes all the breads and cookies in house. The couple will even curate a picnic basket for lunch outdoors or a trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Before heading out for dinner on the town, stop by for the afternoon social hour, which offers complimentary cheese and charcuterie plates and local beer, ciders and wine. While enjoying your drink, be sure to peruse Whiteford’s artwork on the main floor, or pick up the guitar in the living room and play a song.
Pros:
- Close proximity to downtown Asheville and the Biltmore Estate
- Pet-friendly accommodations
- On-site electric car charging station
Con:
- Geared more toward adults than families (though children 12 years or older can be accommodated in the carriage-house suites)
Via Tripadvisor.com
Best for An elegant seaside retreat
The Francis Malbone House
Newport, Rhode Island
This antiques-filled home offers a quiet respite from Newport’s bustling downtown waterfront district. Even though the Francis Malbone House is located in the middle of it all on Thames Street, you can escape the crowds once indoors with beautiful living areas and cozy fireplaces, which are especially lovely during a chilly New England winter. In the warmer months, sit outdoors and enjoy a lovely manicured courtyard with a fountain.
The historic home, dating back to 1760, features 18 beautifully appointed rooms and suites in the original mansion and in the courtyard wings. All accommodations have private baths, luxury Italian linens, fireplaces, flat-screen TVs and plush robes. Queen Anne furnishings grace the public spaces, along with rare paintings and antique prints. Some spaces, like the dining room, are reminiscent of homes in Colonial Williamsburg.
Come with an appetite in the morning for a hearty two-course breakfast served with freshly baked pastries. And don’t miss a guest favorite: afternoon tea, which is served between 3 and 6 p.m. every day. The menu changes daily and features delectable sweet and savory snacks and light bites.
Pros:
- Close to the marina and other Newport attractions
- Offers wheelchair-accessible facilities, handicapped parking and other accessible features
Con:
- Summertime is very busy, so spring, fall and winter are better options if you want to avoid the crowds
via tripadvisor.com
Best for A historic stay away from the crowds in the French Quarter
Ashton’s Bed & Breakfast
New Orleans, Louisiana
Ashton’s Bed & Breakfast offers a quiet romantic retreat away from the revelry of Bourbon Street—yet it’s not too far from the famed restaurants, nightlife and fun of the Big Easy. The historic property, located in a residential neighborhood halfway between the French Quarter and City Park, has eight distinct guest rooms in the main house or patio wing. Each themed room (think: Jazz Festival and Mardi Gras) accommodates up to two guests and features private baths, luxury linens and toiletries, individually controlled heating and cooling controls, and more. Some rooms also have BainUltra ThermoMasseur whirlpool tubs.
You’ll be treated to a homemade breakfast each morning that may include New Orleans specialties like Mardi Gras eggs Benedict with Cajun tasso hollandaise or bananas foster Belgian waffles. Guests say that owner and innkeeper Patrick Ashton’s breakfasts are one of the highlights (and some of the best meals) during a trip to New Orleans. After a day of exploring in the city, they also appreciate the peace and quiet back at the inn—enjoying the cool shade of a 400-year-old live oak on the rear patio or rocking away in a cozy chair on the front veranda.
Pros:
- One fully accessible guestroom (Mardi Gras) and accessible routes around the property
- Free and secure off-street parking
- Complimentary snacks and beverages
- The property only allows service dogs
via tripadvisor.com
Best for A casual coastal getaway in a charming harbor town
Inn at Onancock
Onancock, Virginia
This intimate bed-and-breakfast, located in a Victorian-era home in the walkable historic district, offers just five accommodations. Each room at the Inn at Onancock has a theme (I stayed in the South of France–inspired Provence Room) and features a private spa-style bathroom and toiletries, spa robes, luxurious linens and a feather-topped queen- or king-size bed. Guests gather in the living room in the evening to chat with new friends over wine and inn-made hors d’oeuvres during the property’s signature Wine Down Hour. In the morning, you’ll wake up to a butler tray outside your door with your preference of coffee, tea or juice. Afterward, everyone gathers downstairs for a three-course gourmet breakfast before heading out to the beach, taking the ferry to Tangier Island, going sailing or browsing the local shops, galleries or museums.
The innkeepers, Matt and Kim Spuck, can help plan a trip for you to visit Assateague Island to see the famous Chincoteague ponies. They can also arrange other adventures for you—and place flowers and other treats for your arrival if you’re celebrating a special occasion. The inn has changed ownership since my stay, but guests come away with the same feeling I had when I left the property years ago: The inn is lovely, the owners are fabulous hosts and you arrive as guests but leave as friends.
Pros:
- One pet-friendly room (for up to two dogs), the Maine Room
- An intimate atmosphere and personal attention by the owners
- A WOW! Wine Down on the Water on a private boat
Con:
- The inn does not permit children under the age of 10
via tripadvisor.com
Best for A culinary adventure for couples in Texas Wine Country
Cotton Gin Village
Fredericksburg, Texas
If you’re looking for an adventure with a bit of Southern history, rustic cabins with modern amenities and what one guest described as a “Little House on the Prairie” stay, then Cotton Gin Village is the bed-and-breakfast for you. Located in historic Fredericksburg in Texas Hill Country (and Texas wine country), the seven cabins on the property are like stepping back into pioneer days gone by, with original 1800s log structures that were handcrafted and relocated from Tennessee and Kentucky.
Both the seven original log cabins and seven newly constructed cottages, built in the style of a Texas Hill Country German Fachwerk (or building), feature rustic furnishings and plush beds, wine chillers, Keurig makers, fireplaces, HD televisions and other upscale amenities. Outdoors, guests will find walking paths with ivy-covered walls, Koi ponds and waterfalls, and homey country-inspired decor like rocking chairs, chimineas and empty whiskey barrels.
In the morning, a hot breakfast is delivered in a handmade Amish basket to both the cabins and cottages. There is also an on-site restaurant, Cabernet Grill, that serves Texas Hill Country cuisine paired with local wines. Guests who have stayed at the property love the peaceful accommodations, indulgent breakfasts and delightful dinners.
Pros:
- A unique setting for a quiet adult getaway
- Highly acclaimed restaurant on the property
Cons:
- Only service dogs are allowed
- Located 2.5 miles from Main Street, so you’ll need a car to head into town
Via rhythmofthesea.com
Best for Romantic views of the Atlantic Ocean
Rhythm of the Sea
Cape May, New Jersey
This seaside Swiss chalet–style retreat along the southernmost point of the Jersey Shore offers guests unrivaled views of the ocean just steps away from the beach. The grand salon, other public areas and eight rooms and suites are decorated with mission oak furnishings from the Stickley collection, art glass lanterns, mica lamps and soothing natural tones. And most accommodations have ocean views and come with queen- or king-size pillow-top mattresses, private bathrooms, silky microfiber robes and essential-oil bath products. You’ll also have access to a concierge, bicycles, an outdoor shower and complimentary use of towels and beach chairs while at the beach.
During your stay at Rhythm of the Sea, you’ll get to enjoy your morning coffee with ocean views and a hot, chef-prepared breakfast (served to your room), which alternates between savory baked-egg dishes and sweet offerings such as a French-toasted brioche with a fruit compote. The property’s chef-owner has an impressive culinary pedigree, including stints at three-Michelin-star Le Moulin de Mougins in France, so you might want to plan a visit during Valentine’s Day weekend, when “Chef Lu” prepares his special chef’s dinner.
Pros:
- Located directly across from the beach, with complimentary on-site parking
- A short walk along the promenade to the Victorian Village and Washington Street Walking Mall
- Chef-owned property
Cons:
via merchant
Best for An intimate couples celebration, such as a honeymoon or an anniversary
The Mermaid & The Alligator
Key West, Florida
Loyal guests head to Key West year after year to experience the relaxed vibe and casual elegance at this adults-only bed-and-breakfast nestled is a lush tropical setting in Old Town, not far from famed Duval Street. The intimate Victorian property (built in 1904) has just six stylish rooms and suites in the mansion that feature beautiful, themed decor. The Treetop Suite, on the third floor, offers a king bed and a large soaking tub and is reachable only by a 40-step staircase. There are also three laid-back, but colorful, Conch Cottage Rooms located in the historic 1880s cigar-maker cottage.
Plenty of cozy outdoor seating, including a private cabana, is available throughout The Mermaid & The Alligator, and there are quiet indoor spaces for reading a book or playing board games. Guests can book a massage in the garden, where they’ll hear the soothing sounds of the fountain, or opt for the privacy of the cabana. This romantic getaway includes breakfast every morning in the garden, with a daily hot entree and freshly baked muffins, bagels, cereals, yogurt and more. Snacks are served throughout the day, and there’s a complimentary wine-and-cheese hour in the afternoon. Let’s just say there’s a reason there are so many repeat guests, including that they often become friends with the owner!
Pros:
- Accessible entry and passage doors, accessible parking and an accessible swimming pool
- On-site parking (on a first-come, first-serve basis)
- Located 3.5 blocks from Duval Street
Con:
- No pets allowed other than service dogs
via tripadvisor.com
Best for A “best of both worlds” stay, with easy access to the city and nature
The Bradley Boulder Inn
Boulder, Colorado
After spending a few days in Boulder this past fall, I can say with certainty that the Bradley Boulder Inn has one of the best locations in town. Situated just steps away from Boulder’s Pearl Avenue, in the heart of downtown, this quiet bed-and-breakfast, in a spacious Craftsman-style building, is an ideal locale from which to explore the city’s exciting restaurants and shops. It’s also super close to the University of Colorado Boulder and the area’s many hiking trails. Free on-site parking is a big plus in a town where you must pay to park and it’s hard to find a spot, especially if you’re visiting during a college football weekend.
The property’s 12 rooms feature high-thread-count linens and custom beds, private en suite bathrooms with TempleSpa bath amenities, original artwork and large windows or French doors—and six rooms have fireplaces. The nightly rate includes a home-cooked breakfast; an afternoon wine-and-cheese hour; complimentary coffee, tea and soft drinks; and access to One Boulder Fitness Center. In the cooler weather, you can gather in the common area around the river-rock fireplace to warm up after days spent outdoors. Many guests learn about the inn by word of mouth, make lifelong friends during their visits and return time and again because, they say, there’s no place like the Bradley.
Pros:
- Centrally located
- Complimentary access to a local fitness center
- Large living area with a stone fireplace
Cons:
- Children under 14 years of age are not permitted
- The property only allows service animals
via merchant
Best for An elegant couples getaway in a stately Southern mansion
Verandas
Wilmington, North Carolina
Lovingly restored by its previous owner, Chuck Pennington, and his partner, Verandas is a gorgeous bed-and-breakfast that exudes Southern elegance in the historic area of downtown Wilmington. Pennington filled the home with English and American antiques and many pieces of objet j’art, paintings and other furnishings that he found during his travels. He shared many stories with my husband and me about the property and his life when we visited years ago (including why he had the snake wine from Asia that I mentioned earlier). We enjoyed his company so much that we continued to stay in touch for many years after our visit.
The eight elegantly appointed guest rooms feature queen- or king-size four-poster or sleigh beds, marble bathrooms with large oval tubs, and state-of-the-art climate controls. Cozy public spaces include two parlors, four verandas, a screened-in porch and a garden terrace.
Hearty gourmet breakfasts made with locally sourced ingredients are a real treat—especially since they’re served in the formal dining room on antique china and with vintage silverware. And with the gracious Southern hospitality, you’ll feel like you’ve been invited as a guest to stay in someone’s beautiful home for a weekend getaway.
Pros:
- Elegant decor with special touches and personal items
- Scrumptious daily breakfast
- Quiet and relaxing atmosphere
- Located just two blocks from the Cape Fear River
Cons:
- Non-accessible property that doesn’t have an elevator
- Geared toward adults, with no children under 12 permitted
via tripadvisor.com
Best for A welcoming retreat when exploring Portland and coastal Maine
The Chadwick Bed & Breakfast
Portland, Maine
The innkeepers, Erin Abraham and Zack Jellis, their daughter—and their three rescue Siberian huskies—are your gracious hosts at the Chadwick Bed & Breakfast. Guests love the delicious home-cooked breakfasts (whipped up by Abraham), the ideal location and the added bonus of getting to pet the pups during their stay. The original home was built in 1891, and today, the property has four distinct guest rooms (that have recently been refreshed) with either a queen- or king-size bed, an electric fireplace, a private bathroom and modern amenities.
In the morning, guests will awake to a gourmet breakfast in the dining room with locally inspired dishes like Maine lobster eggs Benedict with lemon-herb butter. There are also 24-hour-a-day snacks and hot and cold beverages; complimentary access to Netflix, HuluPlus and Amazon Prime Video; and a garden with Adirondack chairs and a fire pit to stay warm on cool Maine evenings. The property is also focused on sustainability, boasting green initiatives like composting and using eco-friendly Comphy bed linens, low-energy LED light bulbs and more.
Pros:
- Conveniently located near Portland’s Arts District and the Old Port
- Off-street parking
- Recently renovated accommodations
Cons:
via tripadvisor.com
Best for A romantic couples getaway in Florida
Bayfront Marin House
St. Augustine, Florida
The main building, located in St. Augustine’s historic district and across the street from Mantanzas Bay, features 17 distinct rooms and suites with names like Napoleon, Princess Margaret and Marie Antoinette. Amenities may include soaking tubs, electric fireplaces, sitting areas, and water or Bridge of Lion views. There are seven pet-friendly accommodations, including the Burgess Suite, which is where I stayed with my husband and our pup.
One of the features they added around the time of our visit a few years ago has remained in place: Guests receive text communications about breakfast and happy hour. They can place their orders via text and request where they’d like it delivered—to their room, on the patio or in the gazebo. They can also use texts to request ice, extra towels or other amenities.
If you need larger accommodations, the property offers several rentals in downtown, including two one-bedroom suites, an apartment with a full kitchen and a house. All the downtown options include a hot breakfast delivered each morning; an invitation to the evening happy hour at the main location; free parking; and complimentary use of bicycles, beach chairs and umbrellas.
Pros:
- Very pet-friendly
- Waterfront location
- Children are welcome
- Popular for destination weddings and honeymoons
Cons:
- Free parking is two blocks away from the main building
- There is an additional $35 fee per day for children 16 and older, and a $20 charge per day for children ages 3 to 15
Via Tripadvisor.com
Best for A couples weekend in an opulent Southern mansion
McMillan Inn
Savannah, Georgia
A stay at McMillan Inn is like visiting another era with its extravagant decor and antiques. This beautiful 1888 Italianate Revival inn, located in Savannah’s Historic District, consistently receives excellent reviews for its accommodations, location and gracious hosts, Melissa and Eric Calhoun and their son and daughter-in-law, Joshua and Emmie. Guests of the property also enjoy the full signature Southern breakfast served each morning on fine china with sweet and savory dishes like peach pie pancakes, banana bread French toast, quiche Lorraine and hash brown casserole.
There are six garden-level rooms; five are accessible without stairs. Each room features either a queen- or king-size bed, and five rooms have fireplaces. Seven upper-level rooms are located on the first and second floors, and one room, The Montgomery, has a private elevator. For longer stays and more room to spread out, McMillan Inn offers a carriage house with a parlor and a full kitchen. In the afternoon, you’ll find peach ice tea and sweet treats like freshly baked brownies or rich butter cake to keep you satisfied until dinner.
Pros:
- Just two blocks from Forsyth Park
- Beautiful public spaces (two parlors)
- A pool and an outdoor living area
Cons:
- Children under 15 years of age are not permitted
- Only service dogs (with agreement from the owner) are allowed at the inn
Via Tripadvisor.com
Best for A relaxing getaway in Ohio’s idyllic Welsh Hills
The Welsh Hills Inn
Granville, Ohio
A visit to the Welsh Hills Inn is like coming home. And you’ll find many repeat guests return to this Midwestern vacation destination time and again to experience the gracious hospitality of the innkeepers, Bobbi and Jeff Noe, and their two dogs, Ellie and Wrigley, who greet you upon arrival. Situated on 15 acres in the picturesque rolling hills of central Ohio—and in the New England–style village of Granville—the Welsh Hills Inn is consistently ranked as one of the best inns in the country.
The property’s three distinct guest rooms and three luxury suites are furnished with queen- or king-size beds and upscale amenities such as fine linens, Beekman 1802 toiletries and terry bathrobes. The Cottage is a two-bedroom suite with adjoining rooms and a Jack & Jill bathroom that offers views of the bocce court, pool courtyard, and woods and wildlife. Guests will find comfortable public spaces indoors with fireplaces, a baby grand piano, original artwork and antiques. Outdoors, you can stroll through an English garden, sit back and relax on the wraparound veranda or take a nap in a hammock beneath the trees.
A full gourmet breakfast is prepared each morning by Jeff, and there are refreshments available through the day. Guests also gather at 6 p.m. every evening to enjoy a complimentary wine social.
Pros:
- An on-site artisan shop features locally made products like jewelry, jams and artwork
- Expansive grounds with a heated pool, clay-pigeon shooting range, fishing pond and more
- Can add on additional services during your stay, like massages and personalized yoga sessions
Cons:
via tripadvisor.com
Jade Estate Inn
Allegan, Michigan
Best for: A historic yet eclectic stay close to Lake Michigan Shore’s Wine Trail
This stunning home in a quiet neighborhood in Allegan has been catching the eyes of residents and visitors for more than 160 years. Owner Todd Green was also drawn to the beautiful historic home that was sitting empty when he and his wife, Nia Green, purchased it out of bankruptcy in 2020. As a local farmer and business owner with a background as a residential builder and renovator, Green knew the historic Italianate Renaissance home (dating back to 1863) had good bones and was structurally sound. After freshening up the interior and beautiful woodwork, the Greens opened the Jade Estate Inn later that year as the fourth bed-and-breakfast to be in the home since 1987.
Restored to its original grandeur, it’s decked with opulent furnishings and period antiques, Victorian draperies, four-poster beds and Oriental rugs. The inn’s six rooms (one located in the carriage house) feature queen or king beds and jetted tubs, and most rooms have fireplaces. A sweet or savory homemade breakfast is served each morning in the dining room. Guests have the option for a lighter continental offering or a grab-and-go breakfast. You’ll also find afternoon snacks and refreshments in the dining room in the afternoon.
Pros:
- Close to the wineries and vineyards around Lake Michigan
- A short drive from the coastal towns of Grand Haven, South Haven and Saugatuck
- Within walking distance to historic downtown Allegan
Cons:
- Guests must be 18 years of age or older
- The inn is not pet-friendly
via trip advisor.com
Best for Nature lovers looking for a little peace and quiet
BrickInn
Mt. Morris, New York
Guests love how peaceful it is both inside the BrickInn and outside in the gardens surrounding this beautiful brick Colonial home. It’s located on five acres in the small village of Mt. Morris in New York’s Genesee Valley, which is home to the north entrance of Letchwork State Park, aka the “Grand Canyon of the East.” BrickInn offers an elegant yet comfortable atmosphere for guests of all ages—and you’ll see younger people in their 20s and older couples in their 80s. Visitors love the property so much that the innkeepers and owners, Chic and Dwight Yoder, had a 35% rate of repeat guests in 2023.
The accommodations at the renovated 1915 home feature five beautifully furnished queen- or king-size guest rooms with Comphy linens, marble bathrooms with heated tile floors, Beekman 1802 toiletries and plush robes and towels. Four rooms also have fireplaces. The rooms are lovely, and the innkeepers have thought of every detail for their guests. Public areas include a large outdoor porch, a gathering room with a baby grand piano, a den with a fireplace, a breakfast room and a guest pantry. A full breakfast with pastries, fruit, juice and an entree is served at two seatings in the morning, and guests can sit outdoors on the side porch, weather permitting.
Pros:
- Refreshed and beautifully appointed rooms
- Close to the state park (where you can go hot-air ballooning), as well as wineries and breweries
Cons:
- All rooms are on the second floor, and there is no elevator
- The property is not pet-friendly
via chehalemridge.com
Best for Wine and food aficionados who also love an amazing view
Chehalem Ridge Bed & Breakfast
Newberg, Oregon
The panoramic views of vineyards and orchards is just one of the reasons to stay at this intimate property nestled in the heart of Oregon’s Willamette Valley Wine Country, located about 25 miles from Portland. The mountaintop getaway sits at 1,000 feet above the town of Newberg and affords spectacular views of the landscape and valley below. Chehalem Ridge Bed & Breakfast is also the ideal base from which to explore the region’s boutique wineries, the stunning Oregon Coast, the Columbia River Gorge and more. The innkeeper will even help you plan your itinerary during your stay.
Its five modern accommodations offer rooms with a view, private bathrooms, heated balconies, jetted tubs and/or showers and fireplaces. (The specific amenities depend on the room or suite booked.) In the morning, you’ll enjoy breakfasts prepared by a trained chef and begin with Guatemalan Antigua coffee from a local roaster. Then, sample daily treats like chai scones, melons with marionberry glaze and feta topped with mint from their garden, followed by eggs with pesto made from nasturtium leaves. And yes, guests say it’s all as delicious as it sounds!
Pros:
Cons:
- Pets are not permitted
- Children must be 12 years of age or older
via tripadvisor.com
Best for A relaxing couples getaway close to the bustling downtown of Hot Springs
1890 Williams House Inn
Hot Springs, Arkansas
Gracious Southern hospitality is one of the highlights of a visit to the 1890 Williams House Inn, which was established as the first bed-and-breakfast in the state of Arkansas, in 1980. Guests are warmly welcomed into the beautiful historic home, located just five blocks from downtown Hot Springs, by its innkeepers and owners, Cody Waite and Joe Bolina. Visitors say Waite and Bolina were the consummate hosts and very helpful in planning their trips. They also appreciated the special touches, delightful breakfasts and perfect location.
The main house has six guest rooms, while the carriage house offers three accommodations. There are two spacious suites on the first floor of the main house with king beds and fireplaces. The other rooms and suites have either one or two queen beds or a king bed, and the Copper Cottage is handicap accessible and pet-friendly.
Breakfast begins each morning with poppy-seed bread, homemade muffins or other baked goods and fruit. Daily main dishes include everything from breakfast paninis to savory quiches or stuffed French toast. Guests staying in three of the suites can have breakfast delivered to their room. You’ll also find snacks and beverages available 24 hours a day.
Pros:
- One dog up to 30 pounds is permitted in the Copper Cottage (rules and fees apply)
- Located close to downtown
- Gracious and friendly hosts
Con:
Via Tripadvisor.com
Best for A romantic weekend filled with food and wine in the heart of the Berkshires
The Cornell Inn
Lenox, Massachusetts
Guests of the Cornell Inn love the extra touches at this beautiful boutique property, mentioning the stylish decor, outdoor spaces and complimentary goodies and beverages, including the warm cider and bottle of wine waiting in rooms upon arrival. The freshly reimagined bed-and-breakfast, set in a 150-year-old carriage property in the Berkshires, features 28 individual modern rooms and suites designed by 23 different interior designers. Guests can choose from basic queen accommodations to grand suites with a fireplace, a private balcony and several seating areas.
The made-to-order breakfast menu changes daily, with healthy options like Greek yogurt and fresh fruit or heartier selections such as “Mom’s Special,” which might be something as decadent as a stack of buttermilk pancakes with thick, country-style bacon. And guests say the food is outstanding.
The Tavern, a hot-pink micro lounge, serves complimentary beverages from morning until 8 or 10 p.m. (depending on the season). While you’re there, sample the property’s homemade brownies and signature peach sangria, and inquire about neighbors that offer activities like fall apple picking and hayrides.
Pros:
- Fresh, modern take on classic bed-and-breakfasts
- Two rooms are ADA compliant and have accessible showers, and there’s an ADA-compliant ramp to the main house
- Two rooms have an extra bed to accommodate children (with an extra charge)
Con:
- Pets are not permitted
Via Tripadvisor.com
Best for A romantic getaway for couples exploring the Kentucky Bourbon Trail
Bourbon Manor Bed & Breakfast
Bardstown, Kentucky
Bourbon aficionados (like my husband) love to stay at what’s known as the World’s First Bourbon Themed Bed-and-Breakfast while surrounded by all things bourbon. Situated in Bardstown, in the heart of bourbon country, the 10-room historic property offers seven bourbon-themed accommodations in the Main House, which was built around 1820. Rooms at the Main House have private bathrooms and electric or gas fireplaces, and names like Mint Julep, Classic Sazerac, Hotty Toddy and Master Distiller’s Den. There are also three rooms in the 1800s Federal House Guest Cottage that are ideal to book for a group, since it has a shared kitchen and den.
Amenities for all accommodations at Bourbon Manor include luxury linens, Turkish towels, Gilchrist & Soames toiletries and antique furnishings. Bottled water, 24-hour coffee and tea, complimentary beverages and snacks and a full gourmet country breakfast—complete with a bourbon-infused breakfast dessert—are included with your stay. There’s also a welcome reception every evening from 5 to 7 p.m. that features the nightly cocktail specials. Guests love the fun property and rave about the cocktails and the breakfast.
Pros:
- Park-like setting
- Close to many distilleries in the “Bourbon Capital of the World”
- Spa services in the historic mansion
Cons:
- Pets are not permitted
- Children are only allowed with a cottage or full-property rental, and there’s an additional $20 fee per child
How we chose the best bed-and-breakfasts
Our selection of the best bed-and-breakfasts in the U.S. is based on personal experience, expert recommendations, user reviews and star ratings. I have stayed in countless bed-and-breakfasts around the world, but I haven’t been to all of them, of course, so I’ve also researched those that consistently receive high marks from guests. And I’m not just a frequent guest—I also do this for a living as a travel writer. I have covered B&Bs several times over the last 14 years, and let’s just say that I really enjoy doing my research on this topic!
An important note about B&Bs before booking
Most bed-and-breakfasts are geared toward adults and do not permit children, since the properties are small and typically designed for quiet and relaxing romantic getaways. Some accept pets, while others may only allow service dogs. And when it comes to booking your stay, some B&Bs list availability through sites like Airbnb in addition to accepting reservations on their website or by phone.
This list of the most charming bed-and-breakfasts in America includes private homes, inns and lesser-known gems from California to Maine, and Florida to Texas, with a wide range of options for every type of traveler. And they’re destinations to visit in and of themselves, though there’s often a lot going on in the towns where they’re located.
Originally Published: June 04, 2018
