During December, classic inns and charming B&Bs across New England dress up in holiday finery and open their doors to visitors during special inn-to-inn tours. Whether the theme is "cookies" or simply holiday splendor, this is a unique opportunity to peek inside some of the region's prettiest inns--and in some cases even historic private homes--during this warm and wonderful season. Some tours are open to day visitors, but why not plan a weekend away to fully enjoy the magic of the season?
Stockbridge Holiday House Tour
December 1, 2012: The annual Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas festivities in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, include a chance to visit some of the classic town's finest B&Bs, inns and historic homes, all decorated in their holiday finery. 413-298-5200.
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Bethlehem Holiday Homes and Inns Tour
December 1 and 8, 2012: Tour festively decorated B&Bs, inns and homes in the Bethlehem, New Hampshire, area during two Saturday afternoons from noon to 4 p.m. Tickets are just $10 per person and include a free, collectible Christmas ornament. 888-845-1957.
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Manchester, Vermont, Holiday Open House Tours
December 1 and 8, 2012: On two December Saturdays, tour historic and other lodging properties in the Manchester, Vermont, area. Each is decorated for the holiday season and will offer a special local treat. The inn tour is part of the larger Manchester Merriment event, and proceeds benefit local food cupboards. 802-362-6313.
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Annual Inn-to-Inn Holiday Cookie and Candy Tour
December 8-9, 2012: Get in on the yummy fun as 13 participating inns in New Hampshire's Mount Washington Valley offer visitors an opportunity to sample holiday cookies and candy. You'll take home recipes for the sweet treats you've sampled, and if you visit all 13 inns, you'll receive a keepsake ornament. Though you need not stay overnight, you'll get two free tour tickets if you stay two nights at any participating inn. 603-356-2642 or 800-338-1356.
Christmas in Newport Candlelight Tour of Historic Private Homes
December 26-28, 2012: See private residences in Rhode Island's historic Newport County dressed for the holiday season. Admission is $3 at each house, and tour maps can be picked up at the Newport Visitor Information Center. 401-293-0965.
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Chatham Historic Inn & Museum Tour
December 9, 2012: Visit Cape Cod's grand oceanfront resorts and intimate B&Bs, plus the Atwood House Museum, all decked out in their holiday best. 508-945-5199.
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