Next time you’re standing in front of the cooler deciding which frosty brew to enjoy while you’re soaking in the summertime rays, skip over the tried and true brands and opt for a craft beer to help keep you cool and refreshed during the warmer months.

As the move towards more locally produced goods continues to grow, small, independent breweries are finding a following of aficionados who share their affinity for craft beer. Take a moment to indulge in a frosty one and pay homage to these trail blazers during American Craft Beer Week, taking place May 13 – 19. If you’re a beer enthusiast, you can help commemorate the brewing art and tradition by getting some hands-on experience and learning how craft beers are made.

The Brewpud at the Woodstock Inn Brewery located in North Woodstock, NH

Raise a pint at the Woodstock Inn Brewery, located in the heart of New Hampshire’s White Mountains. You will get a chance to roll up your sleeves and take part in every step of the seven-barrel brewing system. But don’t worry; there will be ample time to savor a pint at the inn’s Brew Pub and a hearty brewers dinner before indulging in some R&R in your room’s rejuvenating Jacuzzi.

The Sherwood Forest Bed and Breakfast located in Saugatuck, MI, has partnered with the Saugatuck Brewing Company to help you create your own batch of beer. Enjoy a full breakfast at the inn and take a dip in the outdoor hand-painted underwater-themed pool before heading to the brewery. With the hands-on help from some of the brew masters themselves, you will choose from over 70 recipes, ranging from light to dark, and utilize professional brewing equipment in order to produce sixty 22 ounce bottles. (The brewing process takes about three to four hours.) Your brew will be ready in two-weeks time, and you can even design custom labels for a professional feel.

So, celebrate American Craft Beer Week by filling up your mug with the taste of some locally brewed beer or planning a getaway to explore beer trails and learn about the craft-brewing process. Not sure where to start? Try using our bed and breakfast finder.

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It’s not easy being No. 1. There’s a lot of pressure to live up to the hype. Comparisons are always made and disagreements often follow. But, oh does it feel so good to be on top!

Nantucket, the small island off the coast of Massachusetts, was named the “Top Island in the World” by National Geographic in 2012. As a National Historic District, Nantucket has changed little architecturally since the 17th century. From the magnificent beaches and lighthouses, to the beautiful landscape, cobblestone streets, and historic homes, Nantucket is a refreshingly unique island destination.

The Wauwinet

In the late 1600s whales were found off shore, and between 1750 and 1840 Nantucket was one of the major whaling ports in North America. Today, locals and visitors enjoy whale watching, biking, art galleries, fine dining, and the serene atmosphere of this quaint island. You can discover the beauty of Nantucket (and some delicious wine) at the Nantucket Wine Festival from Wednesday, May 15th through Sunday, May 19th. Celebrated for over 16 years, this event features grand tastings, a harbor gala, wine seminars, and restaurant wine events.

You can round out your wine-infused weekend by staying at a Nantucket bed and breakfast where you can raise a toast courtesy of the inn’s wine collection. The Wauwinet historic inn nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Nantucket Bay features 32 luxury rooms and four charming cottages. Each room is decorated with one-of-a-kind furnishings, with hand-stenciled finishes, and fresh Nantucket wildflowers. Before the festival, whet your palate in the award-winning wine cellar, and then enjoy spa treatments that are inspired by local herbs and flowers. Take advantage of the Connoisseur Package and you won’t be disappointed by the gourmet meals at Topper’s, named the No. 1 overall restaurant on Nantucket.

Brant Point room at the Brass Lantern Inn

Built in 1838, the Brass Lantern Inn effortlessly combines the ambience of a historic B&B with contemporary rooms and furnishings to make your stay uniquely special. The main inn offers 15 guestrooms with en-suite baths and a two-bedroom family suite. Located in the Old Historic District, you will be just a short walk from the ferry terminals, the Whaling Museum, and the restaurants and shops. Relax and enjoy your tea and home-baked cookies on the garden patio before the wine and cheese reception at the inn, hosted by one of the Wine Festival luminaries.

Aren’t you curious why Nantucket was named “Top Island in the World?” Visit our “Nautical Nantucket” Pinterest board to help you plan your trip now and find out why whale watching, quiet nature walks, and the simpler way of life, are the perfect pairings for a fantastic getaway.

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Pets hold a special place in our hearts. And, if you’re a pet owner, you understand the bond you share and that feeling you get when you walk in the door and are welcomed by a warm “woof” or “meow.” Getting showered in unconditional love by your furry four-legged friend when you get home can be highlight of your day, and you’ll feel that same warmth at a pet-friendly bed and breakfast.

Bringing Fido along on your getaway means you can indulge in some R&R together. But even if you can’t, there are many B&B mascots at the inns who are always excited to meet new guests. You can see it in their wagging tails of hear it in their soft purrs. Whether playing a game of catch alongside the beautiful manicured gardens or lounging on the inn’s peaceful porches, these mascots will keep you company and make your stay as memorable as possible.

In honor of National Pet Week, taking place May 5 – 11, we are showcasing some of the top canine hosts and feline ambassadors you might encounter on your next getaway:

A historic New England bed and breakfast, The Inn at English Meadows located in
Kennebunkport, ME, not only offers guests chic and luxurious accommodations, but it is also home to Bailey. This adorable Goldendoodle enjoys spending time at the beach and is always there to greet guests when they arrive. Missing your own tail-waggin’ companion? Bailey would be more than happy to accompany you during breakfast on the inn’s patio.

You’ll enjoy awe-inspiring views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains on the six quiet country acres surrounding the Casa Escondida located in Chimayo, NM. Griffin, the inn’s cat, will be awaiting your arrival and can offer a special turndown service: He’ll “warms” your bed before you settle in for the night. A nice scratch behind the ear is all he asks for in return.

Planning on heading down the Mt. Hood Scenic Byway? Then be sure to make a pit stop at the Old Parkdale Inn located in the Hood River Valley of Parkdale, OR. While you’re there, take a picture with Tilly to commemorate your time spent at the inn. It could be featured on her very own Facebook page!

Looking for the “purr”-fect place to soak up the sun? Then pack you bags and head to Santa Rosa Beach, FL, where the cozy and quaint Hibiscus Coffee and Guesthouse is located. Spend the afternoon at the beach or in the “Backyard of Love” where friendly inn feline, Hef, is more than happy to indulge in a little “lap lounging” in the sun or the shade.

These mascots are just some of the furry friends you might encounter on your getaway. Make sure to visit our “B&B Mascots” Pinterest board to see who else you might meet along the way!

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Mom. It’s one word, for many of us, that conjures up special feelings and heart-warming memories. They’ve been by our sides and supporting us along the way, without asking for much in return. So, what’s one way to show Mom how much she means? By treating her to a “mom”-mentous getaway with a special someone, her girlfriends, or whomever she chooses!

Rendezvous, Palm Springs, CA

Instead of Mom sharing in the cooking duties, why not treat her to a little breakfast in bed? She’ll have the M-O-T-H-E-R of all getaways at the Bayfront Marin House located in Saint Augustine, FL. When she arrives she’ll be treated to a relaxing (M)assage. In the morning, a full southern breakfast will be delivered to her in bed paired with freshly squeezed (O)range juice. A (T)ray of delicious desserts awaits her in her room after she enjoys a cocktail at the inns (H)appy hour overlooking the bay. Finally, Mom will set off for a (E)xquisite dinner at a local restaurant and conclude her night with a (R)elaxing soak in her double Jacuzzi.

At the Wildwood Inn located in Estes Park, CO, you and Mom can spend a little quality time together. Spend the day indulging in a three-hour spa treatments including Swedish massages, Rejuvenation Silk Body Glows and European Spa Facials. After, catch up while soaking in the private hot tub on your suite’s deck. A delectable gourmet dinner awaits where you can raise a toast to Mom.

Wildwood Inn, Estes Park, CO

When was the last time Mom got away with her girlfriends? At the Rendezvous in Palm Springs, CA, she and her best gal pals can reminisce in the Pretty In Pink room, where Marilyn Monroe actually stayed in the 1950s, as they savor chocolate covered strawberries and a chilled bottle of bubbly. A trip to the Desert Hills Premium Outlets is in order followed by a refreshing dip in the pristine pool and sips of Rendezblue, the inn’s signature drink made at the poolside vinyl bar.

But it’s her day, so her choice about the getaway she would most enjoy. With a BnBFinder Travel Gift Certificate, good at over 1,500 bed and breakfasts, she can decide where she wants to go and when because it never expires. It’s a one-of-a-kind getaway experience that gives twice – once when she receives the certificate and again when she redeems it for a relaxing getaway.

Need a little inspiration to “wow” mom for Mother’s Day? Make sure to visit our “‘Mom’-mentous Mother’s Day Gift Ideas!” Pinterest board for special treats and getaway ideas just for Mom.

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Did you know that strawberries are the only fruit with the seeds on the outside? The tiny little flecks covering the outside of those juicy strawberries are all you need to start your own garden because the average strawberry has at least 200 seeds! And since they’re the first fruit to ripen in spring, it’s no wonder the whole month of May is dedicated to enjoying the strawberry’s succulent flavor.

Whether you enjoy picking them fresh from the garden or farmers market and incorporating them into a delicious breakfast smoothie or enjoying as a cereal topping, add a little sweetness to your mornings this May in honor of National Strawberry Month. This delectable bed and breakfast recipe for Strawberry Croissant French Toast from the innkeepers at the Brewster House Bed & Breakfast located in Freeport, ME, is the perfect way to get started:

Strawberry Croissant French Toast

Strawberry Croissant French Toast

Ingredients:

4 large croissants – day-old (stale)
3/4 cup milk
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (use 2 tsp if you like)
2 tablespoons butter
Whipped cream — (optional topping)
Powdered sugar

Fresh Strawberry Syrup

1 quart fresh strawberries — sliced
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon orange rind — grated

Directions:

In a saucepan combine all of the strawberry syrup ingredients and let stand 30 minutes or until sugar dissolves. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, 5 minutes or until warm.

Slice croissants in half lengthwise. Whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla. Pour into a shallow dish. Dip croissant halves into egg mixture, coating well.

Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large nonstick skillet (or griddle) over medium heat. Add four croissant halves, and cook about 2 minutes on each side or until puffy and golden brown. Repeat procedure with remaining butter and croissant halves.

Serve the strawberry syrup over the french toast. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and top with whipped cream if desired.

Serving Ideas: Sprinkle a strawberries and blueberries on top for a colorful presentation.

NOTE: If croissants are not stale, they will not absorb the batter as fully, and will not plump as much when cooked.

For more delicious inn-spiration for your morning meal, explore our “Delicious Breakfasts” Pinterest board!

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What’s so exciting about cheering on 20 thoroughbred horses as they run a 1.25 mile race for the title of “Kentucky Derby Winner?” The sheer adrenaline rush of watching what has been called “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports” on Saturday, May 4th, is enough to make this a must-see event. But there’s more. From the grace and speed of the horses and the lush blanket of 564 red roses (the Derby is referred to as “The Run for the Roses”) awarded to the winner, to the stunning hats, gowns, and suits worn by the spectators watching the race, there is beauty everywhere you turn.

The Samuel Culbertson Mansion

The inspiration for the race was drawn from the Grand Prix de Paris horserace in Paris when Colonel Meriwether Lewis Clark attended in 1863. He was so impressed by what he saw that upon his return to America, he organized the construction of a beautiful new horseracing facility for the Louisville Jockey Club. Today, this facility is known as the Churchill Downs. The first Kentucky Derby race took place at this track in 1875 to the delight of 10,000 spectators.

If you’re traveling to watch the 139th running of the Kentucky Derby this week, why not brush up on more of city’s history by staying at a Louisville, KY, bed and breakfast? The Samuel Culbertson Mansion is a Georgian Revival mansion located in the heart of the Old Louisville National Historic District. This inn boasts a rose garden with over 100 varieties of roses (the red rose is the official flower of the Kentucky Derby). Choose from the four comfy rooms and three suites to rest your head after a day at the races. The courtyard garden is ideal for relaxing on a warm, sunny afternoon while enjoying tasty treats. End your day indulging in a Mint Julep, the official drink of the Kentucky Derby, at the bar or while you unwind in the luxurious whirlpool spa.

Inn at Woodhaven

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Main House and Carriage House of the Inn at Woodhaven were built in 1853 by prominent Kentucky farmer Theodore Brown (the Rose Cottage was added in 1998). The eight spacious guest rooms with 14-foot tall ceilings and floor-to-ceiling diamond paned windows are tastefully furnished with elegant antiques. The three porches overlooking the lovely gardens are perfect for enjoying a hearty breakfast each morning. Walk off your morning meal with a scenic tour of the Louisville parks, museums, and shopping attractions, all conveniently located near the inn.

Only one lucky horse and jockey can rejoice in the sweet taste of victory when they are crowned Derby winner. But countless visitors to Louisville can proclaim themselves winners when they visit a charming B&B during the Kentucky Derby or any other time of the year.

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Considered the birthplace of jazz, New Orleans’s musical roots run deep in its history. The convergence of the spiritual sounds created by slaves with the jubilant music of churches, all mixed with Ragtime rhythms and blues, the city created its own treasured sound that echoes down Bourbon Street in the French Quarter and beyond. Every spring the stage is set for a celebration of music and culture in the heart of this enchanting city.

Jazz Festival room at Ashton’s Bed & Breakfast

From jazz and rock to gospel and hip-hop, the streets of New Orleans will come alive as the city celebrates the 43rd annual New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival taking place Friday, April 26th through Sunday, May 5th. Thousands of revelers will flock to the city to indulge in a colorful array of music, arts and NOLA’s world-renown cuisine.

Planning a trip to the festival? Many historic New Orleans bed and breakfasts will put you walking distance or a streetcar ride away from all of the festivities. Built in 1884, the Park View Guest House combines timeless elegance and southern hospitality and features period antiques and plush furnishings. In the morning you can soak in the sights and sounds of the city while sipping a cup of coffee from your own balcony overlooking Audubon Park. Take advantage of the inn’s location on St. Charles Avenue and enjoy a picturesque streetcar ride to the fairgrounds.

1896 O’Malley House Bed & Breakfast

Step back in time at the 1896 O’Malley House, a beautiful Colonial Revival centrally located in Mid-City near the Garden District. After settling into your suite, enjoy the complimentary snacks, wine, or beer before planning your day courtesy of the Inn Concierge iPad (available in second floor suites only).

Apart from the music, New Orleans also is famous for its food. And you won’t be disappointed when you awake at the 8-room Ashton’s Bed & Breakfast located in the Esplanade Ridge Historic District. They serve up mouthwatering breakfasts every morning including New Orleans favorites such as Sweet Potato French Toast and Mardi Gras Eggs Benedict. Black and green onyx and marble hand-carved mantles can be found adorning the antebellum mansion and a massive 300-year old oak tree provides shade for the large patio out back.

If you’re looking to put a spring in your step this season, make your way to New Orleans this month where the soothing sounds of the blue note await you. Our “No Place Like New Orleans!” Pinterest board will give you a virtual tour of all things NOLA including historic sites, tasty cuisine and beautiful B&Bs.

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Did you know the first Earth Day celebration took place in 1970? It was organized as a grassroots “environmental teach-in” after witnessing the effects of the Santa Barbara, CA, oil spill, and became the stepping stone to mark the beginning of the modern environmental movement. Earth Day, celebrated annually on April 22, is now considered the largest civic observance in the world.

Even though the commemoration lasts for one day, sustainable practices can be incorporated all year long. Not only can you include important steps around you own home such as turning off the lights when not in use, using energy-efficient appliances and recycling, but also when you’re on the road courtesy of an eco-friendly getaway.

The Bella Ella Bed & Breakfast, Canandaigua, NY

At The Bella Ella Bed & Breakfast, a six-acre horse farm located in Canandaigua, NY, take a dip in the inn’s organic swimming pond or grab you fishing line and see if you can reel in any of the bass or perch that reside there. Each morning the smell of a full country breakfast made with inn’s own homegrown vegetables and fruits will awaken you. If you mention you enjoy eco-friendly sites, the inn will take 10% off your room rate.

Nestled in the heart of the Sonoma Valley, the Melitta Station Inn was a former stage-couch stop built before the arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad in 1887. This charming
Santa Rosa, CA, bed and breakfast offers six delightful rooms that run entirely on solar power, with any excess power being recycled back to the local power company. You can save 5% on your stay when you request that the inn only launder your linens and towels after your stay.

Turn Earth Day into Earth “Every” Day by incorporating simple, eco-friendly practices into your daily life. Looking for some ways to get started? Make sure to visit our “Eco-Friendly Cleaning Tips” board on Pinterest and learn easy ways to be earth-friendly at home.

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As far as travel is concerned, North Carolina has a little bit of everything. Whether you’re looking for sublime mountain views and drives, sand and surf, or the concrete jungle of a bustling city, the Tar Heel State will satisfy your taste for a diverse destination.

What it also has covered is beer – and lots of it. Why else would the state call itself the “place for beer lovers?” April is the inaugural North Carolina Beer Month and it’s being commemorated at the more than 75 breweries located throughout the state. You can take a tour of the beer-making facilities, learn about its origins (beer possibly dates back to 9,500 B.C.) and savor a few frosty ones. You can even make a weekend of it by staying at a North Carolina bed and breakfast located in town.

Carolina Bed & Breakfast, Asheville, NC

Did you know that Appalachian region, including Western North Carolina, was where bluegrass music originated? In Blowing Rock, NC, you can sip a few brewskies while enjoying the sounds of bluegrass during the NC Brews Walkabout on April 27th. Raise a toast at breweries such as Oskar Blue Brewery or Boone Brewing Co. while tapping your toes to the sweet musical sounds. Upon return to the comforts of your private cottage at The Village Inn, you can relax in a rocker on the front porch while, walk the beautiful gardens by the stream, or soak in the Jacuzzi tub.

The Best Firkin (cask) Beer Festival, taking place in Asheville, NC, also on April 27th, will feature more than 34 breweries competing for The Best Firkin title. Or, you can test your sea legs on the Asheville “Brews Cruise” that takes you on a mobile tour of the local breweries. After a full day at either event, return to the Carolina Bed & Breakfast, a charming inn that boasts front and rear porches, a magnificent bay window overlooking a quiet garden, and five spacious guest rooms in the main house and a separate cottage. Fresh cookies, inviting fireplaces, and Jacuzzi tubs await you after the non-stop beer festivities.

So, take a cue from the state of North Carolina and celebrate April with an ice-cold mug of your favorite beer. Want to learn more about Asheville, or as it was voted, “Beer City USA?” Visit our “It’s All About Asheville” Pinterest board for a virtual tour of top local attractions and fabulous B&Bs.

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A lightly toasted English muffin topped with ham or Canadian bacon sitting under a poached egg with creamy hollandaise sauce drizzled all over. Sound appetizing? If so, then start preparing for National Eggs Benedict Day on April 16.

The origins of how the dish was created are unclear, but the most famous story was printed in The New Yorker in 1942. Lemuel Benedict, a Wall Street broker, was at the Waldorf Hotel trying to find the perfect cure for his hangover, so he ordered the ingredients together and the classic eggs benedict was born. Regardless of how the dish originated, it has become a staple at breakfasts and brunches over the years with so many different variations on the original recipe.

Maine Lobster Benedict

For a vegetarian option, try the Northwest Eggs Benedict recipe from the Chambered Nautilus Bed & Breakfast Inn, a Seattle, WA, bed and breakfast. Instead of the traditional ham, enjoy the delicious taste of smoked salmon on top of your favorite artisan bread. If you travel to Portland, ME, lobster will most likely be on your culinary menu. So why not dig your claws into some for breakfast? The Chadwick Bed & Breakfast offers their signature Maine Lobster Benedict that is lightly dressed with a lemon scallion hollandaise.

Eggs Pomodoro

The Azalea Inn & Gardens located in Savannah, GA, serves up Eggs Pomodoro, a unique spin on the tasty breakfast dish this is served with a delicious pesto sauce on a warm flaky biscuit. Sometimes there is nothing better than the original. If you’re looking for a classic Eggs Benedict then spend a weekend at the Island Manor House Bed & Breakfast located in Chincoteaque Island, VA. They keep it simple at the inn’s restaurant with creamy hollandaise sauce atop perfectly poached eggs and ham.

Whether they’re serving it up traditionally or adding a little twist, these bed and breakfast innkeepers know how to tickle their guests’ taste buds every morning. Want to see what other breakfast treats our innkeepers are whipping up? Visit our “Delicious Breakfast” Pinterest board.

Do you have your own unique eggs benedict twist? Email your recipe and a picture to press@BnBFinder.com and you could be featured in our next newsletter!

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