As the New Year approaches, do you have any regrets over unfulfilled 2017 resolutions? Did you dream of one day sleeping within the walls of a big mansion? If so, don’t despair. This 2017 goal can still be met if you stop daydreaming and start packing. Surround yourself with palatial windows, extravagant furnishings, stately columns, and sweeping staircases when you change your address for a week (or two) and go big on your next getaway at a B&B mansion. The luxury and splendor that awaits you will make you want to change your address permanently!
The Duke Mansion, Charlotte, NC
The doormat, bath towels, and dinner napkins may not have your monogrammed initials on them, but a few nights at The Duke Mansion in Charlotte, NC, will make you feel like royalty. Built in 1915 and oozing Southern charm, this renovated colonial revival mansion has 20 luxurious guest rooms, private baths with king and queen size beds, and four and a half acres of beautiful gardens and grounds. Sip sweet tea in the inviting pergola or relax in a comfortable rocking chair with a good book in one of the screened-in sleeping porches. Just two miles from downtown Charlotte, guests can explore the shopping strip, movie theaters, and great local restaurants. But why would they want to? Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the comforts that are found at Duke Mansion might make it hard to leave the property. This treasure encourages guests to enjoy every detail of elegance and grandeur (the large water fountain and 300-year-old poplar tree that greets you upon your arrival) the true Southern way: at a slow pace.
Sully Mansion, New Orleans, LA
A covered front porch to escape the heat and enjoy a refreshing glass of lemonade; a comfortable parlor room to enjoy a good book; and complimentary wine available anytime, all add up to the relaxing ambiance you will find at Sully Mansion. This New Orleans, LA, boutique inn was designed by renowned architect Thomas Sully in 1890. The tall 14-foot ceilings, stained glass windows, upstairs foyer and library area exudes charm and invites guests to sit back, relax and admire the stunning original architecture. The porch and comfortable wicker chairs are also perfect for enjoying the live oak in the front yard and watching the neighborhood attractions. The location is perfect for exploring the Garden District and admiring the areas well kept mansions, gardens, cemeteries and houses or to visit the charming shops and restaurants along Magazine Street. Downtown NOLA and the French Quarter are a short trolley or car ride away. When you return to the mansion, sink into the luxurious linens and comfortable bed for a peaceful night sleep as you dream about your breakfast of fresh baked goods and delicious chicory coffee.
Vrooman Mansion, Bloomington, IL
Details like fireplaces in every room, stained glass windows, a grand staircase, and the two-story English style foyer complete with inglenook, all evoke images taken from the pages of a history book. At Vrooman Mansion, in Bloomington, IL, guests who visit this impressive mansion will feel as though they have stepped back in time. The antique period furniture, large mirrored armoire, and marble top dresser will make you feel like royalty. The charming elegance and luxury continues when you enjoy a gourmet breakfast of grilled peach half, quiche with sun-dried tomatoes, and French toast and fruit at the home’s original hand-carved dining table where First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt once dined. Sitting at this table looking up at the beautiful dome brass light fixture at the heart of the beamed ceiling, makes guests feel as though they are wrapped in old world charm and genuine warmth.
Cameo Heights Mansion, Touchet, WA
You may not be wealthy enough to live in a mansion, but you can enjoy the rich and varied world of wine at Cameo Heights Mansion, in Touchet, WA. Celebrate in style in Washington wine country. Located on the majestic bluffs overlooking the Walla Walla River, this mansion rises over a lush 400- acre orchard and vineyard. This retreat offers seven spacious suites with air-jetted tubs, gas fireplaces and comfy robes. Take advantage of the day spa, theater room, The Vine dining room with seven-course dinners, hot tub open year-round, fire pit with complimentary s’mores, and free tours of Oasis Fruit, the on-site orchard/vineyard. Enjoy a lovely breakfast on the patio overlooking the pool and the lovely views. Is it any surprise that this mansion is located on Oasis Road? Escape to this ultimate romantic getaway and pamper yourself. You and your loved one deserve the very best.
The Twelve Oaks Bed & Breakfast, Covington, GA
Can’t make it to Hollywood, CA, to see movie stars, their homes, and visit famous filming locations? Then visit the “Hollywood of the South” Covington, Georgia. Glitz and glamour have become synonymous with the small town of Covington, GA. Many movies and TV shows have been filmed in this charming town, and many tourists and locals are left star struck when they walk down the street and see a famous star. One big star, and main attraction in Covington is The Twelve Oaks Bed & Breakfast. Built in 1836, this 12,000 square foot mansion is considered to be one of the most stunning examples of antebellum architecture in the south. From the picturesque pool, relaxing gazebo and pergola, and wraparound southern porch, Twelve Oaks is the ultimate in relaxed elegance. Take in the old school charm (antique ribcage shower and tub), sink into the plush beds with Egyptian sheets, and wrap yourself in the soft Turkish robes. In the morning, enjoy a fresh home-cooked southern breakfast of sausage gravy and biscuits, peaches and cream stuffed French toast, and strawberry shortcake pancakes with bourbon whipped cream. As you take a leisurely stroll along the trails to walk off those extra helpings at breakfast, the breathtaking old homes from the past will make you feel as though you are on the set of a movie.
Woolverton Inn, Stockton, NJ
A blissful setting that encourages relaxation, indulgence, and romance, Woolverton Inn, in Stockton, NJ, is a nature lover’s dream getaway. Located near the Delaware River and surrounded by 300 acres of rolling farmland and forest, there is no shortage of privacy and breathtaking views at this luxurious country inn. There are 13 cottages and guest rooms with comfortable featherbeds, Egyptian cotton towels, fresh flowers, and bed linens that helps guests experience tranquility at its best. After enjoying afternoon refreshments of Belgian Chocolate Chip Cookies, spiced nuts, lemon biscotti, and fresh fruit outside on the expansive front porch, guests will want for nothing. Before retiring for the night, enjoy the serene setting of sheep grazing in the pasture behind the inn. This historic 1792 stone mansion offers a peaceful and luxurious setting for anyone hoping to treat themselves to some much needed R&R in a beautiful B&B.
The Fairbanks House, Fernandina Beach, FL
Nothing says glamour and luxury like vacationing on an island! The Fairbanks House, in historic Fernandina Beach, FL, on Amelia Island, is a perfect B&B for a girls’ weekend escape, romantic getaway, anniversary weekend, or an elopement. Thirteen miles long and two miles wide, Amelia Island is a great destination for walking to local eateries, shops, farmer’s market, or taking a short bike ride to the beautiful state park and pristine beach. The beauty and comforts are also on display at the 1800 square foot 1885 Italianate villa that features luxurious furnishings, lovely sitting areas and claw-foot bathtubs in the main mansion or private cottages. Enjoy the social hour where you can meet other guests and enjoy good conversation, wine, and hors d’oeuvres. Feel pampered and appreciated all while knowing that this “green” mansion is also mindful of what is best for the environment. The most recent green addition is two electric car charging stations featuring both Tesla and universal chargers. Much like lost treasures that are often found or washed up on beaches, The Fairbanks House is definitely a hidden gem worth discovering.
