Savor American History This 4th of July at a Bed and Breakfast

Independence Day is meant to be a time when we all remember the struggles and triumphs of our founding fathers. Where better to rediscover the history of the United States than a bed and breakfast. Here are some locations that offer both historic ambiance, romance and plenty of Fourth of July fun.

Boston, Concord Bed and Breakfasts Serve Up History, Romance

Concord is one of the United States’ most historic towns. Not only was it here that the Revolutionary War began, but it also was home to some of the most celebrated Americans. Authors such as Nathaniel Hawthorne and Ralph Waldo Emerson lived here, as well Henry David Thoreau. Visitors can tour the Old North Bridge , the site of the Battle of Lexington and Concord, which is part of the Minute Man National Historic Park. On the Fourth of July, there is a Picnic in the Park event at Emerson Field, which includes a parade and live music.

The Colonel Roger Brown House, built in 1775, is one of several bed and breakfasts in Concord. The Colonial home features guest rooms decorated with antiques, and each room includes a small kitchenette. Ralph Waldo Emerson and Louisa May Alcott both previously owned the land where The Hawthorne Inn now stands. The bed and breakfast was built in 1870, and includes antique-filled rooms, some with canopy beds.

From the Old North Church to the site of the Boston Tea Party, Boston is all about the Fourth of July. Take a stroll along the two-and-half-long Freedom Trail and you’ll be taking a trip back in time and gaining plenty of knowledge about the American Revolution. After a day exploring Boston and a night enjoying the city’s world-famous display of pyrotechnics with the Boston Pops, you will happily retreat to your bed and breakfast and settle down for a great night’s sleep.

The Clarendon Square Inn, located in a historic, six-story townhouse, is close to many Boston attractions. Guest rooms are decorated with a modern flair that complements the inn’s historic ambiance. The College Club, another historic choice, includes eleven guest rooms, each decorated with antiques. The College Club is also home to the nation’s oldest women’s college club, and is host to many interesting events throughout the year. The inn is a short walk from the Charles River, a perfect viewing spot for Fourth of July fireworks.

Let Freedom Ring at a Pennsylvania Bed and Breakfast

Visit the site of the first Continental Congress or snap a picture of the Liberty Bell. These are just of the historic attractions you’ll enjoy in Philadelphia. The city celebrates all day on July 4. The Party on the Parkway Festival, located along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, offers plenty of family-friendly fun, including a parade in the early evening. As night approaches, enjoy a Liberty Concert and Fireworks Event.

At the Thomas Bond House, you’ll enjoy close access to all the fun and the historic charm of a home built in 1769. The Pennsylvania Bed and Breakfast is located in Independence National Historic Park. The period decor includes four-poster beds and reproductions, all done in Federal style. The home is within walking distance of Independence Hall and close to restaurants, museums, shopping and live theater.

Enjoy Bed, Breakfast and History in Washington, D.C.

For the total Fourth of July experience, why not spend the holiday in the nation’s Capital? Washington, D.C.’s bounty of historic sites is seemingly endless. Independence Day celebrations begin with a parade along Constitution Avenue and ends with a breathtaking fireworks display above the Washington Monument.

DuPont Circle, resting at the intersection of Massachusetts, Connecticut and New Hampshire avenues, was once home to some of the wealthiest of the city’s restaurants. The picturesque neighborhood is filled with architectural gems and none so fine as the Swann House. The Richardson-Romanesque-style manor home boasts a second-story balcony and a turret. The interior still includes many of the original features, such as carved marble fireplaces, crown molding and wall panels. Guest rooms are decorated in a romantic style with a selection of antiques, and some rooms include a fireplace. The bed and breakfast is close to all of the city’s popular attractions, shops and restaurants.

Celebrate Independence at a Texas Bed and Breakfast

Popular with tourists, Texas Hill Country boasts several charming towns that will remind you of days gone by. Chappell Hill is such village. Throughout the year, the town hosts a historic home tour, scarecrow festival and bluebonnet festival, but on Independence Day they hold what is known as “the Best Little Small Town Parade in Texas.” Watch as parade floats, antique cars, cowboys and even a marching kazoo band entertain the crowd. Residents of Comfort, Texas, have declared their burg “the Most Patriotic Little Town in Hill Country,” and celebrate with a parade and huge barbecue, as well as a family-friendly carnival.

Texas Hill Country is famous for its bed and breakfasts. For those who seek the privacy of a quaint, country retreat try Kriegal’s Guest Haus in Chappell Hill. The innkeepers offer a room in the main historic home, which dates to 1868, and private accommodations in the Country Cottage. Part of the cottage once served as summer kitchen for the main house. The Holekamp House Bed and Breakfast in Comfort, is another Texas Hill Country Bed and Breakfast. The historic home features five individually decorated guest rooms, as well as a rustic wood-paneled cabin with a two-person Jacuzzi tub.

Go West for a Memorable Fourth of July

Throughout the Southland, you’ll find plenty of Fourth of July celebrations as well as some great California bed and breakfasts. Victorian charm in San Diego and the posh setting of Millionaire’s Row in South Pasadena are among the choices.

The Victorian Heritage Park Inn is part of a seven-acre historic park that includes more than half a dozen restored Victorian buildings. Two of the structures are part of the inn. The guest rooms are decorated in an opulent, period style with antiques. The bed and breakfast is close to many major San Diego attractions. Firework shows at Mission Bay and Sea World are just minutes away.

When you think Pasadena, you probably think about the Rose Parade. But this historic town offers plenty of other attractions. There are historic homes, museums, luxury shopping and great restaurants to enjoy. For Independence Day fun, head to the Rose Bowl where you can enjoy a concert and huge fireworks show. The Bissell House Bed and Breakfast, located in the town’s Orange Grove Mansion District, is close to all the fun. The historic Victorian features six beautifully appointed guest rooms filled with amenities, such as luxurious bath products, pillow-top beds, and fluffy bathrobes. The Garden Room includes a two-person Jacuzzi tub. Two other guest rooms have an antique clawfoot tub. A full, gourmet breakfast is served on a table set with fine china, crystal and fresh flowers.

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