August isn’t just the last full month of summer; it’s also Black Business Month. What better way to spend the rest of the season than by visiting one of the best Black-owned bed and breakfasts for a weekend getaway or a much-needed staycation? These unique homes embrace guests with thoughtful decor, warm them with decadent meals made from fresh local produce, and surround them with fascinating, rich history.
To help you cap off summer and highlight businesses that deserve recognition, we’ve found some spots worthy of your travel bucket list. Here are some of the best Black-owned bed and breakfasts to visit across the United States.
The Oak Bluffs Inn
Owned by Rhonda and Erik Albert, The Oak Bluffs Inn is one of Martha’s Vineyard’s most celebrated bed-and-breakfasts. The Victorian home, built in 1870, has hosted Black celebrities including bell hooks, Spike Lee, and Samara Joy. It’s both an iconic Black landmark on the island and the ideal spot for a cozy summer escape.
The Captain Farris House
Located in South Yarmouth, Massachusetts, The Captain Farris House is a breathtaking inn near Cape Cod’s beaches, restaurants, and attractions. Built by a sea captain in 1845, it’s retained much of its 19th-century charm thanks to owners Jeff and Carol Watson, who pride themselves on providing guests with luxury stays complete with gourmet breakfasts that feel like an indulgence.
Akwaaba Mansion
The Akwaaba Mansion in Brooklyn offers the perfect urban staycation for anyone seeking refuge from New York City’s intensity. Opened in 1995 by husband-and-wife team Glenn Pogue and Monique Greenwood (former editor-in-chief of Essence magazine), this 1860s home features grand fireplaces, Jacuzzi tubs, and a spacious porch where you can settle in with morning coffee before the day begins.
Six Acres
Sitting in the heart of Cincinnati, Ohio, Six Acres carries significant African American history within its walls. The home was formerly owned by abolitionist Zebulon Strong, who used it as a safe house for Underground Railroad operations. Today, owner Kristin Kitchen runs it as a haven for all who walk through its doors, honoring that legacy while providing sanctuary to modern travelers.
The McClelland House
Owned by Choolwe Kalulu, the McClelland House in Napa County, California, is a restored Victorian masterpiece built in 1879. The moment you approach its doors, elegance announces itself. Inside, you’ll find sophisticated bedroom decor and a wine-and-cheese happy hour showcasing the best of Napa County’s bounty. It’s a stay you won’t forget.
The Mansion at Noble Lane
Another property from Monique Greenwood and Glenn Pogue, the Mansion at Noble Lane sits in Bethany, Pennsylvania. Originally built in 1903 as a country estate, this picturesque inn now serves as an ideal retreat for wellness-focused getaways outside the city. Think spa massages, saunas, facial treatments, and adventures in the nearby Pocono Mountains.
The Keystone Inn
Sibling trio Patrick, Stephen, and Christine Campbell are the proud owners of the Keystone Inn in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. They purchased the property in 2020 during the pandemic and immediately set about creating the perfect relaxing escape. Constructed in 1913, this inn retains its beauty year-round, guaranteeing a stunning historical stay no matter the season.
Wellspring Manor & Spa
Wellspring Manor & Spa in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, is a gorgeous boutique inn designed for complete relaxation. Opened in 2018 by Kevin and Lisa Brown Alexander, the property is nestled in nature and offers various wellness packages. If comfort is your priority, this is where you’ll find it.
Clevedale Historic Inn and Gardens
Owned by husband and wife Pontheolla and Paul Abernathy, Clevedale Historic Inn and Gardens is ideal for a comfortable vacation in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Expect the mouthwatering aroma of authentic Southern breakfast waking you in the morning, while cultural events hosted by the owners keep you entertained with local history throughout the day.
The Orchid Bed and Breakfast
The Orchid Bed and Breakfast in Jackson, Mississippi, is the perfect pit stop on a road trip. Owners Jason and Katrice Thompson have deep ties to the area. Katrice’s family was among the first Black families to move into Woodhaven, a 15-minute drive from the property. Today, the home stands as a historical site on the National Register of Historic Places.
Ye Olde Manor House
Surrounded by three acres of land and well-tended gardens, Ye Olde Manor House is the perfect place to unwind after a hectic week. The property opened in 2007 after owner couple John Anderson and Karen Fulbright-Anderson retired. They take pride in the delicacies they prepare for guests and have outfitted the residence with an indoor pool, fruit orchard, and vegetable garden. If you’re stopping in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, this is your destination.
Arbor View Bed and Breakfast
Head toward Long Island and you’ll find Arbor View Bed and Breakfast. After purchasing the house in 1998, owners Wilfred and Veda Joseph poured their love into the property, fully restoring it into the fabulous inn it is today. The home blends modern comfort with 18th-century charm, making it the perfect seaside stay complete with spa activities to ease you into vacation mode.
The Cochrane House
If you’re an art lover, the Cochrane House was made for you. This 19th-century home in Detroit, Michigan, overflows with art for admiration, and its open downstairs layout encourages mingling with fellow guests while your private bedroom offers retreat when you need it. Opened by sisters Roderica and Francina James in 2018, this B&B is waiting to offer you a fantastic stay in downtown Detroit’s heart.
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