9 Charming Bed-and-Breakfasts Perfect for a Festive Christmas Getaway

Natchitoches, Louisiana

Celebrate Christmas like a Steel Magnolia at this charming B&B where many scenes from the beloved 1989 movie were filmed. The guest rooms are named after characters from the movie, so choose one that reflects your favorite Steel Mag: Shelby, Clairee, Ouiser, Jackson, or Annelle.

Natchitoches isn’t a town to miss at Christmastime, either. Come December, the quaint downtown is decked in garland, cloaked in over 300,000 twinkling lights, and transformed into a magical setting for its annual Festival of Lights. Grab an eggnog daiquiri, meat pie, and have yourself a Louisiana Christmas. steelmagnoliahouse.net

Read more about the Steel Magnolia House Bed & Breakfast

Dahlonega, Georgia

Tucked in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this small town is the perfect place for Santa to make a surprise appearance. The day after Thanksgiving, Dahlonega’s Old Fashioned Christmas kicks off a month-long celebration that unfolds throughout the historic town square, and this cheery red hotel is just steps away.

Get ready for charming festivities like its hometown parade, town tree lighting, and holiday market on Candy Cane Lane. If you’re looking for something a few miles outside the hustle and bustle, book a room at the modern farmhouse-style Limelight Inn. dahlonegasquarevilla.com

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

This Smoky Mountain gem makes the ultimate Christmas getaway—no, seriously. Thanks to attractions like the Incredible Christmas Place (the South’s largest holiday-themed store) and The Inn at Christmas Place, Pigeon Forge celebrates Christmas all year long. So if you can’t make it this holiday season, you can head there in July!

The Bavarian-style inn might not exactly fit the bill for a B&B, but it makes up for its big size with super homey Christmas perks like breakfast with Santa and a warm plate of cookies in your room every night. innatchristmasplace.com

Read more about The Inn at Christmas Place

Aiken, South Carolina

If you want a taste of true Southern merrymaking, look no further than this classic South Carolina spot. Its holiday extravaganza is packed to the brim with festive events that are both community-oriented and welcoming to short-term visitors. And you’ll have the best seat in the house when staying at The Willcox.

It allows you to tailor your stay with as much Christmas cheer as you desire, including options such as the hotel’s signature Elf Tuck-In for kids, a festive faux or live Christmas tree in your room, and a special a one-on-one meeting with Santa himself. thewillcox.com

Charlottesville, Virginia

Have yourself a very merry Charlottesville Christmas at the Oakhurst Inn. Located in an historic neighborhood, this 35-room inn offers trolley rides to the Downtown Mall for all of your holiday shopping and dining needs. During the holiday season, you'll find that Charlottesville quiets down as college students head home after finals.

Book one of the rare tours of Monticello at night to see the mansion decorated for Christmas as it would have been in Jefferson’s time: full of greenery, candlelight, and 18th-to-19th century holiday hymns like “Oh, Come, All Ye Faithful.” Hint: Don't miss out on the Oakhurst Inn Café, and its cozy breakfast options. oakhurstinn.com

Harrodsburg, Kentucky

Enjoy a simple old-fashioned Christmas, Shaker-style. The village is dressed up in classic holiday ornamentation for families to enjoy alongside activities like tea time with Mrs. Claus, Christmas brunches, holiday caroling, toy crafting with elves, and a timeless favorite: hot chocolate around the bonfire. Breathe in the crisp Kentucky air, and enjoy stunning countryside views. shakervillageky.org

Oxford, Mississippi

You might think this cottage is unassuming at first glance, but step inside and expect to be blown away. It’s done up in Southern-goes-trendy décor that makes it look like a sorority house of B&Bs—which is more than fitting for its locale in Oxford, Mississippi.

You’ll receive homemade goodies upon arrival, be treated to an in-house Southern breakfast each morning, and have access to a self-serve bar cart during your stay. Not to mention, it’s within walking distance to historic Oxford Square where you’ll be doing most of your holiday shopping. Oxford has tons to offer during the Christmas season, so take advantage while all the students are off campus and celebrating at home. thez-oxford.com

Amelia Island, Florida

If you’re dreaming of a coastal Christmas, a relaxing escape at this cozy B&B is just the thing. It decks itself out in holiday decorations—trees, lights, and all!—every season and offers a special package that ramps up the Christmas cheer with homemade treats, carriage tours, and more. It’s perfect for a couple spending a quiet Christmas or seeking a weekend getaway before the craziness begins. williamshouse.com

Thomasville, Georgia

Expect an old-fashioned, Norman Rockwell Christmas in this small South Georgia town—minus the snow. Book a room at The Paxton, where you'll find trees in all the rooms and the common areas dressed up in a classic mix of citrus, greenery, cotton, and feathers. Each December, the Whitneys, the hotel owners, say thanks to approximately 50 of their friends, neighbors, and guests (some of whom have been visiting The Paxton for over 15 years) with an extravagant oyster roast. thepaxton1884.com