Trace Your Musical Roots at a Bed and Breakfast
Heritage music -- the melodic sounds of bluegrass, gospel, folk, country, Celtic, and Appalachian instruments and song - has been passed down through our American generations and is experiencing a resurgence in popularity across the United States. Often, along with the festivals and concerts, you'll find breathtaking natural scenery, traditional crafts and artisans, wonderful restaurants featuring local specialties, and of course, the perfect bed and breakfast nearby. Here are some suggestions for your musical interlude.
West Virginia's Country Roads Offer Trip Back in Time
A scenic two-hour drive takes you from the sites of Washington, D.C. to Shepherdstown, W.V. This picturesque hamlet is the state's oldest town and the historic Thomas Shepherd Inn is perfect and romantic spot from which to enjoy the town's unique musical offerings. Each week, musicians gather at a local general store and perform traditional mountain music. Dances and a variety of concerts are held each month. An annual dulcimer festival and theater productions are other popular, tuneful options.
Savor North Carolina's Musical Heritage
With the Blue Ridge Mountains as its backdrop and the Biltmore Estate as its local treasure, Asheville, N.C. is an amazing vacation spot. Add to that a city famous for its local arts and crafts and an amazing mix of live music experiences, and you hardly have a reason not to visit. If you crave a cozier setting than the Biltmore, the 1900 Inn of Montford truly is the next best thing. Designed by one of the Biltmore's top architects, the National Register inn offers romantic rooms with fireplaces, whirlpool tubs and king-size beds. You don't even have to leave the inn to enjoy some of the local heritage music, as local artists arrive twice weekly to serenade guests on the home's enormous veranda.
Smoky Mountain Scenery, Melodies Enchant Travelers
Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Hilton's Bluff Inn, is just a few miles from all the musical attractions of nearby Pigeon Forge. Dolly Parton's world famous theme park, Dollywood, is nearby and offers an array of arts and crafts as well as musical performances from country, bluegrass, gospel, and of course local heritage artists. The Smith Family Theater is another local hotspot where guests can enjoy concerts featuring a wide variety of musical styles. After a day of singing along, relax on the inn's deck or porch and enjoy the cozy, country surroundings.
Festival Showcases Appalachian Musical Heritage
The Ponderosa Lodge in Lookout, WV is located just a few miles from Camp Washington-Carver, a mountain cultural arts center with a summer season of music and events including the Appalachian String Band Festival, one of the largest old-time music festivals in the country. The scenic beauty of the New River Gorge and Babcock State Park is nearby, and West Virginia heritage arts and crafts are gathered at the Tamarack Arts Center just down the highway. The Lodge's layout and location make it a perfect place to plan a family retreat or group outing to enjoy the sounds and sights of the area!
Musical Theater Carries on North Texas Traditions
Guests at the American Heritage House Bed & Breakfast can enjoy a variety of music and theater which carry on the heritage musical traditions. Granbury Live has 'Branson-style' music shows and the Brazos River Music Fest offers bluegrass and country music in the spring. Newly built in the Federal style and furnished with elegant antiques, this B&B offers true Southern hospitality and charm - and a gourmet multi-course breakfast - to make you feel welcome in this popular destination area.
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About the Author
Jane Leisteiner loves B&Bs and writing. For additional information on Texas bed and breakfast inns or Tennessee Bed and Breakfasts go to the American Historic Inns site and search 19,000 B&B inns.
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by: JaneLeisteiner
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