Owners of bed and breakfasts, the immensely popular trend of the 1980s and 1990s, faced a decline in interest among vacationers for a while in the 2000s.
Perhaps it was because of the shared bath concept or the hotels and resorts popping up on the accommodation scene with their myriad 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.
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.
Fernandina Beach, Florida
Located on Amelia Island in northeast Florida, Fernandina Beach offers 13 miles of pristine beaches, a rich history, a range 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.
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 charming bed and breakfasts that feel like a warm Southern hug.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 insects 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.
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.
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.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.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.
