Forget dated décor, shared bathrooms, and hovering hosts that are oftentimes associated with B&Bs. Today’s offerings include mouthwatering morning meals alongside locally roasted coffee, comfy-as-a-cloud mattresses, impressive amenities, and Instagrammable digs that you (and all your friends) will “like.” Read on for three of our favorite bed-and-breakfasts both near and far.

 

1) The Parsonage

198 Haight Street, San Francisco, CA, 415-863-3699, theparsonage.com

We all know the best way to really see a city is to live like a local, and with a stay at The Parsonage, you can do exactly that. Built in 1883, the historic landmark on the corner of Laguna and Haight is the home you wish you lived in. The quintessential San Francisco façade—multi-story Victorian with tall, narrow windows and decorative detailing—is sans signage…ensuring it really is a hidden hotel gem. 

Sited away from the city’s touristy and more boisterous blocks like Union Square and Fisherman’s Wharf but within walking distance to up-and-coming ‘hoods like Hayes Valley, Mission, and Haight Asbury, the setting couldn’t be more ideal. Luckily, looks and location aren’t deceiving, however. Step inside and you’ll be greeted with antiquities aplenty; a parlor that provides Port and other evening digestifs alongside a bevy of books; and canine Carson, a Portuguese water dog that’ll immediately have your heart.

Each of the five guestrooms is named after a famous female figure and features private bathrooms with towel warmers, San Francisco-made mattresses, and plenty of personal touches. 

Innkeepers Joan and John clearly believe breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Rise and shine to the savory smells of thick-cut bacon, sourdough waffles, a “Chef’s Souffle,” or toast from Tartine Bakery (offerings change daily) wafting up to your room then head to the dining room to indulge in the multi-course, communal experience. Between the unforgettable fare and conversations with guests from around the globe, it’s a morning meal worth waking up for. 

 

Why We Love It: The hands-on, hospitable hosts; homey vibe; and location 

 

Perfect For:A weekend in the Bay with your bae 

 

2) The Dove Inn

711 14th Street, Golden, CO, 720-608-1714, doveinn.com

It’s all in the details at this recently renovated bed-and-breakfast in Golden, Colorado, (home of Coors Brewery and Red Rocks Amphitheater) that prides itself on having “a new look but an old soul.” Just off the town’s main drag is where you’ll find the 1866 inn that’s full of old-timey charm alongside all the conveniences you crave.

The eclectic design strikes a perfect balance between farmhouse fresh and classic Victorian—think exposed brick walls, tufted sofas in bold hues, original wood floors, and a hand-built belt fan in the living room—that you’ll absolutely adore. 

An automated check-in and checkout system isn’t only easy peasy but means no awkward encounters or forced conversation with the innkeepers and a sense of total independence. 

Whichever room you choose (there are 10 total), you’re in for a treat. Though sizes and styles vary, you can expect a space with funky light fixtures and furniture; white marble tile, brass fixtures, and glass showers or soaking tubs; and crisp, high-quality linens.

Come morning, help yourself to a cup of joe at the custom-built coffee bar that even includes a cold brew kegerator, in addition to kombucha, fresh fruit, yogurt, granola, and gluten-free goodies—all sourced from area purveyors—before taking on the town’s nearby hiking trails, breweries, or historic downtown district.

Between the adorable details, hip décor, and proximity to the town’s main drag, The Dove Inn is indeed “golden.”   

Why We Love It: Nitro cold brew and kombucha on tap; modern amenities like flat-screen TVs featuring Netflix; and the behind-the-scenes service model 

 

Perfect For: Design lovers who go gaga for modernism and minimalism

 

3) Park Victorian

195 Park Street, Auburn, CA, 530-330-4411, parkvictorian.com

Take a step back to yesteryear with a stay at Auburn’s very own white house. Originally built in 1874 and the home of Edmund Snowden, the town pharmacist, it was recently restored and has emerged looking better than ever.

Sitting on six acres adjacent to Old Town Auburn with views of the iconic courthouse, the property boasts lusciously landscaped gardens and six spectacular rooms, a public parlor, gourmet kitchen, and dining room.     

Guests can expect to sleep in modern digs, replete with plenty of natural light, organic mattresses and bedding from Old Town Auburn’s Tucked In, refinished fir flooring, en suite bathrooms with marble vanities, charming period pieces, and fun features like an original exposed brick chimney. Each space is named after a notable Auburn citizen, including Claude Chana—credited with leading a small band of fellow Frenchmen to the area in May 1848 and discovering gold—and 20th century Auburn pioneer Viola Wrigley. 

Breakfast is made fresh daily by innkeeper Laurie and includes items like sinfully delicious cinnamon buns, strata, and fresh fruit—ensuring you have plenty of energy for a day of play.

Once you manage to peel yourself away from the premises, the inn is within close proximity to an array of outdoor activities (hiking, biking, whitewater rafting), in addition to award-winning wineries, breweries, and restaurants. 

 

If you’re looking to get away without going far away, Park Victorian is the perfect spot to stay. 

 

Why We Love It: Close to home but feels a world away; fun packages, including a “Stay & Dine” option that features dinner for two at Carpe Vino 

 

Perfect For: Outdoor enthusiasts who love hiking and biking but appreciate creature comforts like hot showers and cozy beds


By Megan Wiskus

Park Victorian photos by Permanent Glimpse Photography. The Dove Inn photos courtesy of The Dove Inn. The Parsonage photos by Megan Wiskus.