From long, sunny days to bonfires at sunset, and spectacular fireworks to barbecues, there’s no wrong way to start off the summer season, but if you’re asking us, lounging poolside at a beautiful B&B sounds like a pretty good start. In celebration of the summer solstice, we’ve rounded up some of the coolest bed and breakfast pools.

For many of us, vacations offer the chance to finally catch up on our ever-mounting stack of books we’ve been collecting. Your inner bibliophile will be happy to know that some  B&Bs are now catering to book-lovers with literary-themed suites, lending libraries, and reading nooks filled with classics? We know. What a novel idea. Check out some of these storybook settings to unleash your inner bookworm.

Fairview Inn, Jackson, MS

Steeped in the rich history of Jackson Mississippi, the Fairview Inn offers the charm and hospitality of yesteryear in the heart of the Belhaven historic district. With 17 rooms in the colonial revival mansion, the Fairview Inn is dripping with true southern charm. Plus, the inn offers close proximity to local downtown Jackson’s Arts, Theater, Museums and Shopping, delicious brunch at the 1908 Provisions Restaurant. Raft cocktails can be enjoyed at its on-site bar, dubbed appropriately, The Library Lounge, reimagined from an original 1908 library at the Fairview Inn. Celebrating famed Mississippi authors and stacked with a Civil War book collection; contemporary fiction and non-fiction works of famous writers like Eudora Welty, John Grisham, William Faulkner, Willie Morris and Tennessee Williams, the Library Lounge really offers a taste of all things Mississippi. Catering to both Fairview Inn guests as well as the public, the intimate lounge setting offers a quiet corner for cozying up with a good book and reading until your heart’s content.

The Spencer Hotel & Spa, Chautauqua, NY

To fully embrace your inner bookworm, retreat to The Spencer Hotel & Spa, the only literary-themed hotel in the United States. Trust us, from the personalized libraries in each guest room to the hand-painted murals dedicated to famous authors, you’re sure to be in bibliophile bliss. Located in the heart of Chautauqua, ranked #1 on Smithsonian’s America’s 20 Best Small Towns, The Spencer Hotel & Spa features 24 guest suites dedicated to the lives and works of famous authors. Journey to Africa with Isak Dinesen as you slumber under a safari tent and embrace the wildlife that surrounds this beautiful suite. For the ultimate romance story, stay in The Browning’s Suite which pays homage to the love story of Robert and Elizabeth Browning with a dreamy palette. Adventure with Alice in Wonderland in the Lewis Carroll suite or follow the river into the woods with the Brontes children in the Brontes Suite. Each suite comes appointed with a thoughtfully curated library and musical selections in keeping with the period. Best of all, if you can curl up with a good book on Victorian sofas, chairs or rockers on one of the front porches overlooking the famous Chautauqua Amphitheater.

Sometimes the smallest of towns make for the greatest of weekend getaways. Better yet, a small town with a big city feel is a travelers dream. Set in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, New Hope is home to eclectic shops, beautiful vistas, premier riverside dining, an impressive theater scene, and numerous cultural attractions. Since it was incorporated in 1837, New Hope has grown to be one of the most sought-after and beloved American small towns. This vibrant, artsy riverside town is a true hidden gem with historic charm bustling with things to do.Here’s everything you need to know before you plan your trip, from what to do and where to stay.

What to Do:

All aboard! Leave your subway card at home and relive the golden age of rail travel. Explore the scenic Bucks County countryside and experience a glimpse into travel of the bygone era on a historic 1925 steam locomotive. The New Hope & Ivy Railroad pulls passengers through sprawling hills and valleys on a nine-mile scenic journey while a guide narrates the history and folklore of the railroad, passing towns, and points of interests for travelers.

Shopping, anyone? Head to Main Street and you’ll find yourself surrounded by dozens of unique shops and boutiques popular among locals. From hand-crafted antiques and jewelry to European fashions and designer apparel, you’ll be sure to find something that strikes your fancy. After a stroll down the shop-lined Main Street, head across the walking bridge and cross the state line to nearby town Lambertville, NJ. There, you’ll find an antique mall dating all the way back to 1839. With over 50 dealers selling specialty items, browse the artisan jewelry, furniture, vintage clothing, and more.

Step back in time with a tour of the scenic Delaware Canal, the last functioning segment of the 19th-century towpath, which has become a haven for hikers and cyclists. Serving as part of the Delaware Canal State Park, this 60-mile long path runs directly through town, paralleling the Delaware River from Easton to Bristol.

What do famous theatrical legends such as Grace Kelley, Robert Redford, Dick Van Dyke, Liza Minnelli, and Helen Hayes have in common? Other than being the bona fide who’s who of American theater royalty, they’ve all graced “America’s Most Famous Summer Theater”, Bucks County Playhouse. Within its 70-year history, some of the most illustrious stars have entertained audiences in the town of New Hope. Now operating year long, Bucks County Playhouse is still putting on show-stopping performances and garners over 50,000 plus audience members a year. The past year’s record-breaking lineup included Robert Harling’s Steel Magnolias starring Susan Sullivan (“Castle”), Patricia Richardson (“Home Improvement”) and Jessica Walter (“Arrested Development”).

The New Hope Arts Center, a non-profit organization, showcases the work of many talented local artists with rotating exhibits displaying everything from fashion design, sculpture, woodworking, and photography. Dedicated to furthering the creative heritage of New Hope as a hub for the arts and artists, the Arts Center supports local artists by cultivating a community that creates opportunities and provides a space to create freely.

Take a peek inside one of New Hope’s original founders’ homes, the Parry Mansion. Built in 1784 by Benjamin Parry, the property has been home to four generations of direct descendants up until 1966 when it was acquired by the New Hope Historical Society. Share in the rich history as your tour guide tells stories of the past that have been passed along through generations. Each of the 11 rooms reflects a different time with furnishings from varying styles of past decades.

Where to Stay:

Pineapple Hill Inn Bed & Breakfast, 1324 River Rd, New Hope

In the 1700’s it was customary to place a pineapple on your front porch as a way of letting friends and neighbors know that they were welcome. Today, the beautifully restored Pineapple Hill Inn Bed & Breakfast is built on that same premise and creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Built in 1790 and set on nearly 6-acres, this Bucks County B&B rests between New Hope’s center and Washington Crossing Park. Featuring 9 guest accommodations, 3 suites and 6 rooms all with their own private baths, and 8 with gas fireplaces, Pineapple Hill Inn provides a home-away-from-home to guests visiting New Hope.

HollyHedge Estate, 6987 Upper York Road, New Hope

With beautiful English country gardens, elegant décor, and romantic rooms, you’ll feel like you’re living in a fairy-tale when staying at the HollyHedge Estate. Ranging from cozy to grand, each one of the inns fifteen rooms are decorated with classic Bucks County charm, complete with private baths and cable. Situated on twenty serene acres, this gracious stone manor home is the perfect place to stay for those looking for the ultimate romantic getaway.

Carriage House of New Hope, 8 East Mechanic Street, New Hope

Experience the combination of luxury and history at the Carriage House of New Hope. Each of the three well-appointed guest rooms includes custom-built shaker-style cabinetry hand-crafted by a local New Hope woodworking shop accented with contemporary stainless steel hardware, creating a sophisticated contrast to the rustic planked walls and walnut hardwood floorings.

From lazy to crazy, these Father’s Day getaway ideas are sure to wow dads of all tastes and interests. Whether he wants to perfect his golf swing, sample craft beers and tour breweries, go off the grid, or ride some waves, there’s an ideal escape for him on the list. We’ve rounded up 6 special destinations and B&Bs perfect for Pops.

For the Adventure-Loving Dad

Perched on the banks of Naknek River in beautiful King Salmon, Alaska’s Gold Creek Lodge is an Alaskan fishing and adventure lodge offering a truly remote wilderness experience. Using the adventure lodge as a luxury base camp, head out to the Naknek River where you can fish five species of salmon and trophy rainbow trout. Alaska’s Gold Creek Lodge offers the ultimate package for outdoor enthusiasts in search of adventure. This all-inclusive Ultimate Fly Out Adventure package includes first class log cabin accommodations; three meals each day, and daily float plane fly-outs. Plus, you’ll get to use top-of-the-line fishing equipment with expert licensed guides. From kayaking to paddle boarding to trap shooting, all lodge activities are included with the all-inclusive package, available for four or seven nights.

For the Dad Who Loves a Good Brew

This Father’s Day, skip the set of golf balls, the tie, and avoid the barbecue set Instead, brew up something special for Dad that he can really savor—a weekend overflowing with immersive beer experiences. Located in the heart of New Hampshire’s White Mountains, the Woodstock Inn Station & Brewery has it all for your suds-loving Dad. From educational experiences such as brewery tours and hands-on “learn to brew” Brewer’s Weekend set in their unique micro-brewery, to stopping by the onsite Brew Pub and sipping on some of their signature, award-winning ales. On Father’s Day, the Woodstock Inn Station & Brewery is hosting an all-you-can-eat buffet piled high with stuffed French toast, sticky buns, a prime rib and ham carving station, made-to-order omelet bar, and more. It will be a hoppy Father’s Day, for sure.

For the Dad Looking to Catch a Wave

Surf’s up in New Smyrna Beach! Known for its expansive water views, salty coastal breeze and signature Southern-style breakfast dishes, the Black Dolphin Inn in New Smyrna Beach boasts a European-inspired “barefoot elegance” along the Indian River Lagoon. The 14-room Inn is tucked in a quaint Old Florida beach town, renowned as being one of the Top 20 Beach Towns in the world by National Geographic and one of the best surf breaks on the Eastern Seaboard. So whether Dad is in need of a refresher or maybe he has never even seen a surfboard, Black Dolphin Inn offers a surfing adventure package for all ages and levels of wave-riders. With the Surfing-Safari package, Dad will enjoy a one-hour surf lesson with a certified instructor including all necessary surf gear from the board to the wetsuit to the surf wax. Oh, and a six-pack of locally crafted beer comes as a bonus.

For the Golfing Dad

Is your Dad a golf-lover? The LODGE at Spirit Hollow offers one or two-day packages with unlimited golf. That’s right, unlimited golf. While visiting Spirit Hollow, Dad will be able to perfect his swing with unlimited golf, along with breakfast and dinner at The Claret Jug, Spirit Hollow’s onsite restaurant named affectionately for the Open Championship. With its championship golf course, ranked number two in Iowa by Golf Digest and Golf Week, the inn offers an exceptional golf experience.

For the History Buff Dad

If Dad gets just as excited about American history as Nicholas Cage does in National Treasure, he might want to consider staying at the Morris House Hotel this Father’s Day. A historical landmark steeped in longstanding Colonial tradition on Father’s Day, the Morris House is a National Historic Landmark transformed into one of Philadelphia’s finest luxury boutique hotels. Complete with all the comforts of a B&B, like it’s fresh-brewed coffee, Revolutionary-era lounge, and sumptuous five-course meals served on-site at the M Restaurant, Dad is sure to enjoy his stay. Just a short stroll from one of Philadelphia’s most photographed treasures, the Morris House is perfectly placed in America’s most historic square mile. With so many historic gems hidden throughout the neighborhoods of Philadelphia, from the Walnut Street Theater, to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, the Morris House offers a window into the colonial past.

For the Dad Who Wants to Get Away From it All

Want to go off the grid? Fall off the Map? Disappear for the weekend? Why not do it in style? If your Dad is in serious need of some R&R, check out the award-winning Cedar Crest Lodge in Pleasanton, Kansas. Less than an hour from Kansas City, the property is set on over 100 acres featuring sweeping views, serene walking trails among trees and ponds, and a tranquil outdoor pool. Dad can enjoy the wonder of nature whether he’s out fishing at the lake or cozying up by the fire pit. And, with a breakfast spread fit for a king, Dad will be treated to a two-course dining event featuring delicious stuffed French toast, pumpkin pancakes, and frittatas.

As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, classic Northeastern cities and beach towns come alive. From the island region of Martha’s Vineyard to Connecticut’s famous Gold Coast, sun-filled summertime fun awaits travelers looking for a beach escape. We’ve rounded up some of the top destinations and coastal enclaves along the Northeast, and the best places to stay. Here are our top picks:

Kennebunkport, Maine

Home to the freshest New England cuisine, beautiful beaches, rocky shores, and even the Bush family summer home, Kennebunkport is made up of everything that makes Maine well…Maine, but on a much smaller, less touristy scale. Get the true Maine experience and stay in a former sea captain’s home, a quaint B&B called The Captain Jefferds Inn, conveniently located within a short walking distance to Dock Square, Kennebunkport’s town center. Enjoy a full, three-course breakfast each morning in their beautiful dining room before hitting the town and taking in all of the gorgeous lighthouses and preserves, pristine local beaches, golf courses, and more. Each of the inn’s 16 charmingly appointed guest rooms are individually decorated and feature impressive amenities such as private baths and some with gas fireplaces or wood-styled stoves to add to the romantic ambiance.

Ledyard, Connecticut

Set along the Thames River and located just minutes from the famous coastal town of Mystic, Ledyard is a water-lover’s haven. Abbey’s Lantern Hill Inn is the perfect place to stay for summer travelers seeking the best of both worlds: the intimacy of a secluded getaway alongside the thrill of nearby attractions. So very close to the famous town of Mystic and casinos such as Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun, the inn is within optimal proximity to entertainment and attractions, yet feels so far away from it all. Serving as a quiet getaway in the country and nestled on six acres of picturesque woodlands, the B&B is situated among the beaches of Southeastern Connecticut and Rhode Island. A boutique bed and breakfast, Abbey’s Lantern Hill Inn features six rooms as well as a dog-friendly cottage, all tidy and inviting, complete with wood-burning fireplaces and Jacuzzis to soak in the serenity.

Cape Cod: Brewster, Massachusetts

With a quiet, bucolic feel and a laid-back pace, the Lower Cape town of Brewster is home to a number of stunning conservation areas, biking, quaint antique shops, and beaches. If you’re looking to experience a colonial seaside town filled with history, lined with tree-shaded streets, and quaint shops, you’ll love the “Olde Cape Cod” feel that Brewster embodies. Brewster By The Sea Inn, a 9-room, luxury boutique bed and breakfast, includes modern baths with artisan amenities, farm-to-table breakfasts, and a bright, calming, and comfortable ambiance. Built in 1846, the gracefully restored Main House offers four exquisite guest rooms and a grand parlor complete with a cathedral ceiling, perfect for relaxing at the end of a long day exploring. Dine alfresco on the inn’s sun-filled patio among gorgeous gardens, then return to your room and indulge in homemade lavender spritzers and salts, while getting cozy in their plush, robes and sumptuous Turkish towels.

Ocean City, New Jersey

From boardwalk eats and candy shops to beautiful beaches and nearby parks, Ocean City has received the title of “The #1 family beach community in the country” by the Travel Channel. Boasting with eight miles of sparkling ocean and bay beaches, two and a half miles of boardwalk, and free outdoor entertainment during the summer season, this Northeastern coastal town is especially popular among families. Located away from the downtown crowds, Inn The Gardens B&B is set in what is known as New Jersey’s quiet residential “Gardens” section but is also only 8 miles from Atlantic City for those looking to explore the nightlife scene. Start your day with a mouth-watering breakfast before walking a short distance to the beach and bustling boardwalk. You’ll even receive complimentary beach tags when staying at the inn (a huge bonus!). With 7 modern guest rooms and two first floor apartments, this charming colonial property offers everything you need for an Ocean City getaway: accessibility to the beach, boardwalk, bay, and eateries, a bike rack to store your bikes, free Wi-Fi, and year-round specials.

Martha’s Vineyard: Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts

Effortlessly blending both the past and present with a touch of bohemian, Vineyard Haven is home to the Martha’s Vineyard ferry port, boutique shops, restaurants, golf courses, beautiful beaches, and a myriad of water activities. Laid-back, relaxed and unassuming, this Martha’s Vineyard town also hosts a number of celebrities – you may very well bump into David Letterman or the Obamas. The Nobnocket Boutique Inn is the definition of island luxury, but with a twist. Set on 1.5 acres of lush gardens and woods, Nobnocket’s pristine exterior exudes luxury. Designed with curated collections of contemporary furnishings from leading modern designers and artists (Marcel Wanders, Moooi, Caligaris, Knoll, and Sarah Holl to name a few), the inn boasts spacious and airy common areas, a bright sunroom, a sun-filled outdoor patio, and a private veranda. Each of the artfully designed rooms features chic decor, en-suite bathrooms, individually controlled heating and AC, Bluetooth radio/speakers, luxurious Frette linens and towels, sophisticated Gilchrist & Soames toiletries, and more.

Do you know who is celebrating one epic birthday this year? If you guessed the second largest country in the world, Canada, you’re correct. The sesquicentennial marks the anniversary of the Canadian Confederation, when all of the country reunited. With 150 years under its belt, the nation is celebrating with festivities throughout all of its provinces and territories.  And the best part? They have a party gift for you!

You are invited to explore the country’s national treasures with a free Discovery Pass. All of their national parks, national historic sites, and national marine conservation areas operated by Parks Canada are accessible.

The biggest day for celebrating is July 1, Canada Day, however, you don’t have to wait.  In June, celebrate at Ottawa’s multi-award-winning 65th Canadian Tulip Festival, showcasing the capital’s official flower as a symbol of international friendship with millions of tulips.  Later that month, check out The Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival, North America’s largest dragon boating festival where the four-day celebration will offer free admission to a variety of entertainment such as concerts, amusement attractions, sports demonstrations, various artisans, exhibitors, delicious culinary treats, a children’s area, and non-stop racing.

Need a break from all of the hoopla?

Those celebrating in Ontario and looking for some peace and quiet outside of the birthday festivities are in luck as the incredibly tranquil Connemara House located in Greely delivers just that.  Guests staying at the inn will experience quiet seclusion while being surrounded by towering trees yet still being within close proximity to the bustle and attractions of the country’s capital. Tucked in the southern end of Ottawa, Ontario, Greely is largely rural yet only a short 27 minute drive from Parliament Hill, one hour from Upper Canada Village in Morrisburg, two hours from Montreal, and 45 minutes from Merrickville.

Connemara’s rooms are each appointed with handmade quilts and Canadian-made pine beds. Fill up in the inn’s kitchen or dining room with a delicious made-from-scratch breakfast like Peggy’s homemade quiche or Angus’s fruit salad.

Named after the perfectly preserved land in Connemara, Ireland, where St. Patrick would often retreat after hours spent preaching, the innkeepers strive to maintain the utmost warm and comfortable atmosphere. Welcoming guests with the same hospitality practiced eras ago; Angus and Peggy hope to offer all guests a retreat of their own, with the goal of having everyone leave the inn refreshed and rejuvenated in mind, body, and spirit.

Like we said, there will be nonstop sesquicentennial celebrations all year. So whether you’re planning a visit during the Ottawa Jazz Festival or Escapade in June, the Mosaicanada or Ottawa Bluesfest in July or Cityfolk in September, check out the Connemara House for some restful accommodations and party like it’s 1867!

This Thursday, May 25th marks a special occasion for oenophiles everywhere: National Wine Day. And even though technically every day can be National Wine Day with the right attitude, why not uncork and relax at a beautiful B&B? Looking for ways to celebrate this glorious day? The real question you should be asking is – red or white? Go beyond the call of happy hour and discover inns from Ohio to California that will leave you drunk (in love).

Whether you like sweet or dry, red or white, finding a picturesque spot to sip your favorite varietal adds to the enjoyment.

Iris Inn Bed & Breakfast, Waynesboro, VA

Nestled on 12 wooded acres on the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Iris Inn Bed & Breakfast in Waynesboro, VA, offers guests a romantic retreat in one of their six private cabins. Take some time to slow down and enjoy a refreshing glass of wine from the porch overlooking the tranquil Shenandoah National Forest. If you’re an oenophile at heart, you can savor a complimentary wine tasting at the inn or visit one of the 28 wineries located nearby.

Old Monterey Inn, Monterey, CA

In the heart of beautiful Monterey, CA, the Old Monterey Inn will transport you to another place and time. Embodying the spirit of Old World romance, you will be enveloped by the lush gardens while sipping your favorite varietal from your own secluded private patio. Quiet sitting areas where you can listen to the soothing sounds of the water fountains are located around the grounds. Savor nightly hors d’oeuvre before a gourmet dinner in town.

El Farolito Bed & Breakfast, Santa FE, NM

Surround yourself with colorful culture and relaxation when you make your way to Santa Fe, NM. Only a few blocks away from the downtown historic area lies the secluded El Farolito Bed & Breakfast, with its traditional adobe architecture and intimate casitas. Tucked away amongst gardens and walled-in patios, you can soak in the picturesque sunset with a chilled glass of white wine from your very own private patio.

Lakehouse Inn & Winery, Geneva-on-the-Lake, OH

The Lakehouse Inn & Winery in beautiful Geneva-on-the-Lake, OH, offers 5 traditional B&B rooms and 3 suites (all with private baths), 3 vacation rental cottages, and the luxurious Beach House, for the ultimate lakefront experience. The property features a spa with a variety of rejuvenating treatments using wine, including their Signature Cabernet Massage and the all new Stomping of the Grapes Spa Pedicure and Spa Manicure. They also provide wine tastings onsite. Located in Ohio Wine Country, the Lakehouse Inn is within a 10-minute drive of more than a dozen wineries.

Friends Lake Inn, Chestertown, NY

Sit back and sip on some of the amazing vino options included on an award-winning wine list at the charming Friends Lake Inn located in the midst of the Adirondacks. The inn’s onsite restaurant features delectable New American/French influenced cuisine and an impressive wine cellar honored by as Best of Excellence by Wine Spectator magazine. With 25,000 bottles from around the globe, tempt your pallet with some of the regions this Finger Lakes inn focuses on – French, Italian, and Napa, California.

So, on your next getaway make sure to uncork some fun! Take a trip to a vineyard or enjoy a dinner pairing with delicious varietals on a food and wine getaway.

Peach season is nearly upon us, so what better way to celebrate than with a delicious Peaches and Cream French Toast recipe from the luxurious Twelve Oaks Bed & Breakfast in the heart of Georgia. With its creamy, pillowy filling and juicy, ripe peaches, you’ll want to serve this for breakfast AND dessert. Here’s how to make it…

Ingredients:

Cinnamon
4 oz. cream cheese
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 egg
1 cup milk
1 tbsp vanilla extract (the inn uses Neilson Massey Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla)
1 tsp orange extract (the inn uses Neilson Massey Orange Extract)
Powdered sugar
Maple syrup
Jam or jelly

Directions:

1. Preheat a griddle or pan to 350 degrees. Soften the cream cheese by either letting it sit out for a bit or in the microwave using the soften function if it has one. Once softened, mix the jam or jelly into the cream cheese. Add some cinnamon to taste.

2. Remove the skin and the seed from the peaches and take three of the peaches and cut them up into chunks in a small bowl. Add a little granulated sugar (to taste depending on how sweet the peaches are). Macerate them just briefly with a fork or a potato masher just until they are soft and somewhat spreadable.

3. Using a serrated knife, slice each piece of Texas toast ¾ of the way just so you can open it, stuff it, and then close it back. Open a piece and, on one side, spread about 1 Tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture. On the other side, spread the macerated peaches and then close it back.

4. For the batter to dip the bread into, whisk one egg into the milk. Add vanilla and orange extracts and lots of cinnamon. Put each piece of bread into the batter for around 10 seconds on each side before putting it on the hot griddle (you may need to butter or spray your griddle or pan if it isn’t seasoned). Once golden brown on each side, remove and slice diagonally down each piece. Sprinkle fresh chopped peaches on top along with confectioner sugar. Drizzle maple syrup. We like to serve it with sausage from a local farm.

Enjoy!

Like diamonds? How about crystals? If you’re all about gems, consider vacationing in one of the most geologically rich destinations in the world: Arkansas.

Historically, there are only two areas in the world known to produce the best quartz crystals: Brazil and Arkansas. And when it comes to Arkansas quartz, your best bet is to head to the Mount Ida region, a.k.a. The Quartz Crystal Capital of the World. This place is so saturated in quartz crystals you might just pick one up right off the ground.

With crystal and gem shops lining city streets selling not only locally mined quartz crystals but also imported gems and crystals like fluorite, citrine, and amethyst, Mount Ida is sure to delight any rock hound. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can go on your very own treasure hunt for these precious stones. The surrounding region offers many dig-your-own experiences in the quartz crystal deposits of the Ouachita Mountains. And when we say mines, we really just mean pits and exposed hillsides,  – not the dark cavernous mines you might be imagining.

Never mined anything before? BnBFinder has got you covered with what to pack for quartz mining. Since the process can be a bit of a mess, make sure to wear gloves for protection, old clothes, and shoes that you do not mind getting dirty. Layer with a jacket and a long sleeved shirt. Bring a sun hat and sunblock, plenty of water, and a three-pronged gardening tool. Mines are open year-round, but summers in Arkansas can get pretty hot. Arkansas winters are fairly temperate, making for optimal mining weather.

Named one of the Top 25 Small Hotels, Lookout Point Lakeside Inn, offers a luxury Bed & Breakfast experience for your unforgettable gem-hunting getaway in the Ouachita Mountains. Innkeeper Kristie Rosset says her guests enjoy mining at the Ron Coleman Mines in Jessieville, Arkansas, about a 30-minute drive from the inn. Guests are guaranteed to find quartz crystals while educating visitors on how to dig and clean up them up. You can also purchase training and protective gear, like protective gloves and eye-wear at Ron Coleman.

Also popular for mining is the Crater of Diamond State Park, the world’s only diamond-producing site open to the public, only 90 minutes from the inn. Most visitors won’t make a fortune from this ancient volcanic ground, but with 40 other rocks and minerals in the area, you’re sure to find something interesting. Lookout Point offers a Creating Memories Family Fun Vacation to guests including passes to the Ron Coleman quartz mine. Also nearby are local hiking trails, the Hot Springs Fine Arts District, and the Magic Springs Amusement Park.

Thanks to teachers, the lives of millions of children are forever changed each and every day. They passionately guide, educate and empower children with the tools to become successful, confident and compassionate adults. Being a teacher can certainly be tough, so take the time to share your gratitude for the educators leading the students in your community and #ThankATeacher during Teacher Appreciation Week, a dedicated time to show appreciation for all teachers. These two B&Bs show their gratitude for educators everyday, offering discounts on overnight accommodations for full-time teachers.

Stone Haus Bed and Breakfast, Hermann, MO

At the incredibly charming Stone Haus Bed and Breakfast in Hermann, Missouri, guests enjoy their stay in a traditional B&B in a beautifully restored nineteenth century stone home. Sited on a bucolic nine-acres of property overlooking historic Hermann, Missouri, Stone Haus offers five spacious rooms and suites each with a private bath and sweet little nooks tucked throughout the home. Enjoy outdoor living spaces along the property and take a soak in their outdoor hot tub. Stone Haus offers a 10% discount for teachers and their family members with a valid identification card.

Glynn House Inn, Ashland, NH

Lovingly described as “New Hampshire’s Finest Small Inn,” the historic Glynn House Inn is tucked in the heart of the White Mountains and Lakes Region in Ashland. Offering a romantic retreat and unrivaled hospitality, the inn offers exquisitely decorated guest rooms with private baths, fireplaces, luxury linens, and comfy bathrobes. Enjoy a scrumptious, multi-course, gourmet breakfast each morning in the elegant Victorian dining room. Offering their appreciation for full-time teachers, the Glynn House offers a 15% discount when staying three or more evenings throughout the year.

Looking for a perfect gift for teacher appreciation week? BnBFinder Travel Gift Certificates are easy as 1-2-3. Plus, certificates can be accepted at participating inns and start at just $20. Your teacher can choose from 1,500 participating B&Bs in the U.S. and Canada. From sailing from your coastal retreat in Bar Harbor Maine to a pampering spa getaway on the California coast – our BnBFinder gift certificates offer something for every teacher looking to make the most of his or her school break.