Looking for an accommodation with a little extra charisma? Most B&Bs are already anything but standard compared to their hotel counterparts, but these inns take it to the next level. From unique architecture to colorful histories, these B&Bs offer something out of the ordinary for your next getaway.
Fairytale
This iconic B&B combines 19th-century elegance with the whimsically, free spirit of the 60s. Originally built in 1895 in a blend of the Eastlake and Queen Anne Victorian styles, the mansion got a major facelift in 1963, when a local artist unwittingly started the Colorist Movement by painting the house bright shades of peach and cream. The chosen palette, combined with the mansion's elaborate trimming, meant that it now bore a striking resemblance to a gingerbread house. Today, The Gingerbread Mansion, located in Ferndale, California is one of the most photographed B&Bs in the United States.
Lighthouse
This beautifully restored active Victorian lighthouse sits atop an island in the strait separating the San Francisco and San Pablo Bays. The East Brother Light Station was built in 1873 as a navigational aid for mariners traversing the surrounding waters, and now offers guests an experience that feels a world away from nearby cities. Five guest rooms feature rustic décor and magnificent views of San Francisco, Mount Tamalpais, and the Marin coastline.
Monolithic Dome
The word monolithic comes from the Greek, meaning "one stone," which is exactly what you will find in Lowell, Indiana at Thyme for Bed . Located on 10 serene country acres, this structure's impressive design can sustain 300 mph winds. Disaster-resistant and energy-efficient, Thyme for Bed offers guests a truly one-of-a-kind getaway.
Brewery
Forty Putney Road Bed & Breakfast located in Brattleboro, Vermont is a beer lover's dream. Every Saturday night this eco-friendly B&B hosts a beer tasting at their on-site pub, which offers over 30 local craft beers. This cicerone's destination also offers a "Good Sport Package" - they'll stock your in-room fridge with 6 different local microbrews and hard ciders, as well as a selection of local gourmet meats & cheese.
Boat
Docked in the Toronto harbor, just steps from downtown attractions like the CN Tower and Rogers Centre, is the Making Waves Boatel . The 65-foot yacht has an elegant interior with three guest rooms, and three decks that offer panoramic views of Lake Ontario, the lively waterfront promenade, and the stunning Toronto skyline. This imaginative B&B is the perfect alternative for those looking beyond the traditional hotel room.