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 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?
December 1, 2007: 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
December 2, 2007: Camden, Maine, hosts a busy weekend of Christmas by the Sea events November 30-December 2, 2007, and on Sunday, December 2, members of Bed and Breakfasts and Inns in Camden will open their doors for holiday tours from 1-4 p.m. The inns will display holiday stars painted by local artists; the stars will be auctioned December 7 to raise money for the Keep Maine Warm Fund.
December 8-9, 2007: Get in on the yummy fun as 17 participating inns in New Hampshire's Mount Washington Valley offer visitors an opportunity to sample holiday cookies. You'll take home recipes for the sweet treats you've sampled, and if you visit all 17 inns, you'll receive a brass keepsake ornament and a chance to win a $250 gift certificate for the participating inn of your choice. Though you need not stay overnight, you'll get two free tour tickets if you stay two nights at any participating inn. 603-356-9772/877-854-6535
December 8, 2007: Visit Cape Cod's grand oceanfront resorts, intimate B&Bs and historical sites, all decked out in their holiday best. 508-945-5199
December 7-9, 2007: Tour eight historic inns along Vermont's Battenkill River and enjoy seasonal refreshments and festive holiday decorations. 800-443-9442