Musical History Comes Alive at Bed and Breakfasts
History buffs glory in the architecture, ambiance and stories found in many bed and breakfasts, but why not take your trip to past a step further and enjoy a unique musical experience. Many cities and towns celebrate their history through music festivals and concerts. Whether it be the storytelling charms of folk music or the spiritual revival of a gospel sing, you’ll soak up history while dancing or singing along. Add to that a stay at a cozy bed and breakfast, where hospitality and relaxation are the order of the day, you may be disinclined to rejoin the fast-paced modern world. Let the following destinations inspire your next getaway.
West Virginia’s Country Roads Offer Trip Back in Time
A scenic two-hour drive takes you from the sites of Washington, D.C. to Shepherdstown, W.V. This picturesque hamlet is the state’s oldest town and the historic Thomas Shepherd Inn is perfect and romantic spot from which to enjoy the town’s unique musical offerings. Each week, musicians gather at a local general store and perform traditional mountain music. Dances and a variety of concerts are held each month. An annual dulcimer festival and theater productions are other popular, tuneful options.
Enjoy the Sounds of the South North Carolina-Style
Not only is the 1900 Inn on Montford a short drive from the famed Biltmore Estate, the historic inn was designed by one of the Biltmore’s head architects. The decor and design aren’t the only fun for history buffs. Twice each week, guests can relax on the front porch and the sounds of banjos and harmonicas as local musicians immerse the crowd in a concert of local heritage music. Add to that the convenient distance to the myriad attractions of Asheville, and you can hardly find a better vantage point from which to enjoy your trip to North Carolina and the spectacular Blue Ridge Mountains.
Enjoy Heritage Music in the Great Smoky Mountains
If you’re a music lover, the Great Smoky Mountains might just be a perfect place for your next vacation. Guests at the local Hilton’s Bluff Inn enjoy cozy, country rooms with quilt-topped beds, a tranquil woodsy setting, and close access to all that nearby Pigeon Forge has to offer. Concerts at the Smith Family Theater feature everything from bluegrass to the golden oldies of rock and roll. Dollywood is another musical Mecca offering a variety of performances ranging from local heritage music to Southern gospel, as well as a variety of festivals throughout the year.
Festival Showcases Appalachian Musical Heritage
The Ponderosa Lodge in Lookout, WV is located just a few miles from Camp Washington-Carver, a mountain cultural arts center with a summer season of music and events including the Appalachian String Band Festival, one of the largest old-time music festivals in the country. The scenic beauty of the New River Gorge and Babcock State Park is nearby, and West Virginia heritage arts and crafts are gathered at the Tamarack Arts Center just down the highway. The Lodge’s layout and location make it a perfect place to plan a family retreat or group outing to enjoy the sounds and sights of the area!
Make Musical Memories in North Texas
The tradition of bluegrass music is celebrated throughout North Texas and the American Heritage Bed and Breakfast in Granbury is a perfect location from which to enjoy it all. Romantic decor, whirlpool tubs, antiques, and a wrap-around porch will put that spark of romance into your vacation and the local music venues will have you dancing and singing. Each spring, a variety of country and bluegrass artists perform at the popular Brazos River Music Fest. Granbury Live offers a variety of live music. In nearby Glen Rose, bluegrass concerts are held at local parks.