Virginia Bed and Breakfast

• The Morrison House - 116 South Alfred St.; Alexandria, VA 22314; (703) 838-8000; (866) 834-6639 - This 45-room hotel in Alexandria's historic Old Town is housed in a charming 18th century townhouse. Guest rooms are luxuriously furnished with four-poster beds and other period antiques, brass chandeliers, and decorative fireplaces.

Shenandoah Valley

The Shenandoah Valley, in western Virginia, is nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Allegheny Mountains along the Virginia/West Virginia border. It is one of the most scenic areas of the state and home to the Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive as well as the historic cities of Roanoke and Staunton.

• Frederick House - 28 North New St.; Staunton, VA 24401;(540) 885-4220; (800) 334-5575 - Located within walking distance of Staunton's historic downtown districts and the numerous antique store and restaurants located there, the Frederick House is a collection of five carefully restored 19th century residences, housing 23 spacious guest rooms and suites. All accommodations are decorated with period antiques and feature air conditioning and cable TV. Some units include fireplaces, separate living rooms, and private decks and balconies.

Central Virginia

Central Virginia includes the state's horse country and many of its burgeoning wineries. Located in the shadow of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this lovely area is home to Thomas Jefferson's home, Monticello, Charlottesville, the University of Virginia, and historic Richmond, the former capital of the Confederacy. The region also includes a number of charming Virginia bed and breakfast inns, a great way to get a feel for "Old Virginia" history, food, and hospitality.

• The Dinsmore Bed and Breakfast Inn - 1211 West Main St.; Charlottesville, VA 22903; (434) 974-4663; (877)-UVA-STAY - This gracious 19th century home was designed by Thomas Jefferson's builder. The eight-bedroom Federalist townhouse features a bricked courtyard where afternoon refreshments are served as well as a pool, hot tub, and fitness room. Accommodations are furnished in period antiques and include private baths and air conditioning. A full Virginia breakfast is included in the rate.

Tidewater

The Virginia Tidewater region includes the first settlement at Jamestown as well as historic Colonial Williamsburg, once the capital of Virginia; the battlefield at Yorktown; the resort city of Virginia Beach, and the Navy's port of Norfolk. Historic plantations still stand along the James River. The living is relaxed and easy along the Tidewater.

• The Fox and Grape Bed and Breakfast - 701 Monumental Ave.; Williamsburg, VA 23185;(757) 229-6914;(800) 292-3699 - This two-story Colonial inn is just five blocks from Williamsburg's restored area. Guest rooms are decorated with antiques, folk art, and handmade quilts. A sweeping front porch is the ideal place to enjoy the delicious homemade breakfast, served daily.

Virginia is filled with history, scenery, antiques, and southern charm. Staying in a bed and breakfast allows visitors to glimpse a bit of the state's past as well as get to know the present from your gracious resident host.