Most likely you won't be attending the Presidential Inauguration of Barack Obama on January 20, 2009. Like the majority of people around the world, you'll be watching the historic event on TV. And you probably won't be spending a night at the White House any time soon, either.
Never fear. While the Obama family will soon be taking up residence at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, you don't have to be a famous celebrity, well-known politician or a deep-pockets donor to sleep in the White House. A popular online B&B directory and reservation network, BedandBreakfast.com, has put together a grouping of B&Bs with a White House theme or connection. Rates start at $125 per night.
Portland's White House B&B, Portland, OR: My husband and I stayed here about ten years ago during a weekend getaway to the Rose City. It's a dead ringer (shown in the photo here) for the real deal. The circa 1911 B&B features 14 pillars and a fountain in the front. Inside are European chandeliers, a formal dining room, sweeping staircase and a grand ballroom. There are five guest rooms in the main house and three in the carriage house.
White House Inn and Spa, Napa, CA: The inn is white, but its theme is green. Describing itself as Napa's "first hip green hotel," this white-columned inn features 17 newly appointed rooms. The Presidential Suite has two floors, two baths and a double spa tub. The inn is within easy walking distance of downtown Napa.
The White House, Nantucket, MA: Located in the heart of Nantucket and adjacent to the Jared Coffin garden, it's more about the exterior color than any Presidential theme. On site is one of the island's whaling antique shops, complete with a resident scrims hander. Guest rooms feature Ralph Lauren bedding, private baths and views of the town. No breakfast served here; vouchers are given to guests so they can enjoy breakfast at a nearby restaurant.
1 Church Street, The White House B&B, Belfast, ME: Built by James P. White, this is one of the most photographed homes on Maine's coast. The home's interior includes ornate plaster ceiling medallions, marble fireplaces and intricate moldings. A park-like triangle of grounds and gardens surround The White House.
Inn of the Patriots and Presidential Culinary Museum, Grover, NC: Sure, it's white on the outside, but the big draw here is former Executive Chef to the President. Martin Mongiello has a collection of Presidential memorabilia including a large photo display, White House china, Presidential letters and even wooden Easter eggs rolled on the White House lawn. Take a guided tour through the collection and enjoy breakfast and afternoon treats created by Mongiello.
The White House Inn, Blackburg, SC: This inn resembles a smaller version of the Presidential White House, although the name comes from its previous owner, Jim White. Stay in either the White House Suite with its private bath and kitchenette or the Rose Garden Room overlooking a view of the inn's Rose of Sharon Trees.
The Texas White House, Fort Worth, TX: Guest rooms feature private baths, some complete with double whirlpool tubs or private saunas. On-site massages are also offered at the inn, which is close to Fort Worth's attractions and downtown offices.
The Little White House B&B, Fredericksburg, VA: This B&B, built in 1740, is part of the oldest house in historic Fredericksburg. The house is situated on a bluff above the Rappahannock River, across from the boyhood home of George Washington. It has been visited by Presidents Adams, Coolidge and Cleveland and is a family-friendly inn. Plus it's a great base to explore the history of nearby Fredericksburg.
A Williamsburg White House, Williamsburg, VA: The owners of this inn have a passion for Presidential politics, which resulted in the opening of their B&B. Dine in the Reagan Dining Room, read in the Kennedy Library and select from the Lincoln Bedroom Suite (complete with Ford's Theater sitting room) or the newer West Wing. It features FDR's Suite, complete with photos of his time in office. A great spot for political junkies with its large collection of Presidential photos and White House collections and within walking distance of Williamsburg.
White House Inn, Wilmington, VT: This inn was built as a summer house in 1915 and features 14 fireplaces, finely crafted French doors and two-story terraces supported by soaring pillars. There are 16 guest rooms with private baths and period pieces. Enjoy a cocktail or dinner in one of the three cozy dining rooms.