17 of America's Most Charming Bed & Breakfasts
17 of America's Most Charming Bed & Breakfasts
Bed and breakfasts are more than just a charming place to spend a quiet weekend away. These inns typically offer unique insight into an area's history, culture, and cuisine all in one place. And these days, some of the most luxurious bed and breakfasts—like Rabbit Hill Inn in Vermont and Wentworth Mansion in Charleston—offer amenities typically only found in the most exclusive hotels and resorts.
Whether you're looking for coastal charm by the sea for a long weekend in Nantucket, intimate views of Oregon's wine country, or unparalleled Southern hospitality in Thomasville, GA, these one-of-a-kind inns are truly best in class, giving you plenty of reasons to hit the road and explore your dream destination in cozy, cool digs.
The Cliffside Inn: Newport, RI
The Cliffside Inn lies in the heart of Newport's historic district and is just steps away from the best sights and sounds of the idyllic beach town. And this B&B is a sight to see in and of itself, with eclectic, artistic details that serve as a nod to the inn's former owner, a local painter named Beatrice Turner, who moved in at the turn of the 20th century.
Fireplaces in every room, afternoon wine and refreshments, private outdoor garden spaces in multiple suites, and an excellent inventory of beach accessories make The Cliffside Inn the perfect place to treat yourself to an effortless summer getaway.
Black Walnut Inn & Vineyard: Dundee, Oregon
Located in the heart of Oregon's burgeoning wine country, Black Walnut Inn & Vineyard is the perfect place to experience old-world charm and the region's best vino. Set atop 100 acres of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vines, the inn offers spectacular views of Mount Hood and Mount Jefferson, which guests can enjoy from spacious private balconies.
Those looking to whet their appetites with more than a glass (or two) of wine can enjoy weekend dinner service from the inn's chefs and romantic picnic meals to enjoy lunch with a view. Spa-quality amenities, deep soaking tubs in every room, and a dazzling local wine list from the area's most celebrated wineries. You'd never guess you were just an hour's drive from Portland—or outside of Italy.
The Paxton: Thomasville, GA
Thomasville, Georgia, is a quintessential Southern town that is famous for its historic main street, local cuisine, and vast array of events that take place during the holiday season. The Paxton owners Charlie and Carol Whitney are the perfect locals to have at your disposal, as they own the city's most popular antiques store and invest a great deal of their lives into making this city a lovely place to live and visit. Charlie is a popular local artist and preservationist, while Carol is a renowned hostess and home cook. What more could you want?
The pair has lovingly restored and preserved this charming 19th-century home into a gorgeous place to rest, have sparking conversation, and enjoy one (or seven) of the inn's famous biscuits.
Rabbit Hill Inn: Lower Waterford, VT
This prestigious bed and breakfast is one of the most highly awarded properties on this list, most recently snagging the #39 spot on Travel + Leisure's list of the best resort hotels in the world in 2020. Just a few moments at the 18th-century estate seated on the border of Vermont and New Hampshire's White Mountains will show you why.
Somehow, Rabbit Hill Inn is as majestic inside as it is on the exterior. Every one of the 19 guest rooms is uniquely different—one featuring Art Deco and the other traditional—and many have luxe amenities, like whirlpool tubs and private porches. Guests can also enjoy Four Diamond dining from the comfort of the inn, with farm-to-table cuisine at your fingertips. Plus, there are complimentary pastries served every afternoon to enjoy after a scenic hike or enjoying a book by the fire.
Deer Path Inn: Lake Forest, IL
Whether you're a Chicagoan looking for a quick and quiet getaway or are looking to spend a week enjoying Lake Michigan's natural beauty, Deer Path Inn is an exquisite place to enjoy both. The inn offers European charm in the heart of America, and the property was modeled after a 15th-century manor house in Kent, with traditional English countryside interiors.
European-style menus, creative cocktails, luxurious rooms, and an ideal location near the best of Lake Forest offers just a few of the many reasons to visit this widely acclaimed bed and breakfast.
Port d'Hiver: Melbourne, FL
This amazing property is set just 200 feet from the Atlantic Ocean, about halfway down the coast of Florida. This 1916 home was carefully restored by its current owners to serve as a bed and breakfast, complete with tropical gardens, private courtyards, a pool, hot tub, and fire pit.
Not only is this highly awarded property home to thoughtfully curated rooms, but it also has a hefty list of amenities, like in-room massages, beach bikes and accessories, and a fitness center. Port d'Hiver is the perfect place to kick back and enjoy Old Florida charm on a quiet stretch of shoreline at any time of year.
Shinn Estate Farmhouse Inn: Mattituck, NY
Shinn Estate Vineyards on the North Fork of Long Island is also home to a romantic bed and breakfast set in a historic farmhouse. Not only do you get a complimentary breakfast here, but also a wine tasting!
Other fabulous amenities include a daily happy hour, free access to vineyard tours, newspaper delivery, and homemade chocolate chip cookies delivered to your room daily. Plus, you're set in an idyllic scene for a romantic weekend away from city life, allowing you to experience Mattituck's slower pace of life, beautiful beaches, charming shops, and farm-to-table restaurants.
Castle in the Country: Allegan, MI
This 1906 Victorian mansion was restored into Michigan's most popular B&B and has served as a haven for those looking to relax and enjoy the small-town charm near the Lake Michigan shoreline. Set on 65 acres, Castle in the Country is filled with quaint amenities, like a gazebo set near a lily pond, woodland walking trails, and a private lake for water sports. It's also home to a private spa, delicious meals delivered to your room, and close proximity to the area's best attractions.
The Mansion at Noble Lane: Bethany, PA
Seated in the beautiful Pocono Mountains. The Mansion at Noble Lane is a striking former Woolworth estate spanning 22 acres. This boutique B&B houses 14 chic guest rooms and plenty of space to find peace of mind. Walking paths, a two-story gym, spa, and an Olympic-size pool are just a few of the incredible amenities offered at The Mansion at Noble Lane.
Guests will love ending the day at the fire pit lounge to enjoy Champagne and s'mores, and there are plenty of fun activities—like wine tasting and jewelry beading—offered for groups traveling together. You'll never want to leave this immaculately restored estate once you step foot on site!
Belmont Blvd Bed & Breakfast: Nashville, TN
Nestled on a quiet street just steps away from 12 South, a Nashville hotspot for drinks, dining and shopping (along with Hillsboro Village and Vanderbilt University), Belmont Blvd Bed & Breakfast is the perfect place to enjoy the best of Music City without being in the center of the hustle and bustle. This beautiful home is decorated with a blend of antiques that tell the story of the owners' origins in Australia and Alabama, while the breakfast menu offers straight-from-the-garden fare inspired by their global travels.
Claw-foot bathtubs, spacious rooms, and a lovely outdoor space in which to enjoy your morning coffee make this place the perfect choice for those looking for a Nashville getaway. You're both just close enough—and just far away—from the noise of Broadway.
Inns of Aurora: Aurora NY
Inns of Aurora lies in the eponymous storybook village, seated in the pristine Finger Lakes region. The property consists of five distinctly stylish inns, all of which come with a vast array of luxurious amenities. From a daily complimentary happy hour, dozens of outdoor activities, a village market, and farm-to-table restaurants, you'll be tempted to never leave the property. Now, all you have to do is decide which historic inn you'll spend the weekend visiting! That's our kind of dilemma.
Portland's White House: Portland, OR
Portland's White House offers the perfect Pacific Northwest getaway for those seeking romance, or just a reprieve from city life, as it sits just minutes away from the capital city's hustle and bustle. This stunning Greek Revival mansion in Portland's historic Irving District was built in 1911 and has been lovingly restored to its former glory for the modern age by the current owner, Frank Groff.
From chef-made breakfasts to a wide array of tour packages and experiences, this beautiful inn has so much to offer every type of traveler. Plus, there are plenty of gorgeous common areas for hosting weddings, parties, and gatherings of all kinds. There's so much to love about this West Coast white house.
Anchorage 1770: Beaufort, SC
This historic inn is located on prime Beaufort real estate (the Beaufort river) and offers waterfront living at its finest. Whether you're looking for breakfast in bed or outdoors overlooking the bay, you can have it all at Anchorage 1770.
Whether you're a romantic, foodie, outdoorsman, or wellness enthusiast—or a combination—there is something special for you at this charming B&B. In-room massages, an array of outdoor activities, and chartered excursions are among the various experiences you'll cherish forever after a weekend in Beaufort.
The Queen Victoria: Cape May, NJ
Nestled in the heart of the historic beach town, The Queen Victoria offers the quintessential New England B&B experience—and more. The property features impeccably restored homes from the late 19th century complete with fireplace-laced parlors, British-style afternoon tea, and custom-made wallpaper that pays homage to the Arts and Crafts movement that inspired the decor of Queen Victoria's residences of the day.
This bed-and-breakfast is ideal for anyone looking to unplug and escape the speed of city life. You can request to have TVs removed from your room or suite and a complimentary bicycle for the duration of your trip, so you can cruise around the beach—just one block away—or take a quick ride to dinner without ever having to hop in a car.
Coyote Bluff Estate: Somers, MT
Just 40 minutes from Glacier National Park lies this festive and luxurious mountaintop estate set on 32 acres. Rustic elegance is paramount at Coyote Bluff Estate, with spacious suites, gourmet picnic basket lunches, private helicopter tours, in-room massages, and private aviation services. The estate also offers a luxury complimentary coffee service with fresh fruit and pastries if you'd prefer breakfast in bed.
The best in hiking, fishing, hunting, and animal-watching are right here with plenty of guided tours available to make the most of these activities. A day of outdoor activities can be capped off with a trip to the estate's complimentary whiskey and scotch bar or a glass of wine while enjoying the starlit skies.
Union Street Inn: Nantucket, MA
Union Street Inn offers the best of Nantucket right at your fingertips—where better else than a fabulously restored, 18th-century whaling captain's home? This award-winning B&B is mere steps away from the historic cobblestone streets of downtown and features uniquely Nantucket-styled rooms.
Cozy sitting areas, fireplaces, a made-to-order hot breakfast, and traditional elegance will sure make this place feel like home in mere minutes.
Wentworth Mansion: Charleston, SC
Wentworth Mansion embodies Southern charm and gentility in this breathtaking tribute to The Holy City's gilded age. Italian crystal chandeliers, hand-cut marble fireplaces, and Tiffany stained glass makes this place the perfect backdrop to enjoy this fabulous coastal town.
An on-site spa, afternoon wine and snacks, and a renowned dining room make this 19th-century manse the perfect place to spend a weekend (or more). From morning newspaper delivery to fresh-cut flowers waiting for you upon arrival, every detail is thought of—and executed perfectly—at Wentworth Mansion.
From Napa Valley to Nantucket, these beautiful bed and breakfasts are the perfect place to unwind and recharge on your next vacation.