Natchez: Bed & Breakfast Capital of the South

Imagine sipping a tall glass of something cool and refreshing in an elegant front porch rocker, or in the verdant gardens of one of Natchez’s many bed-and-breakfasts. Known as the B&B capital of the South, Natchez welcomes visitors to stay awhile with more than 45 B&B experiences, many of them in historic homes. (The city also has plenty of traditional hotels and Airbnbs). You’d be hard-pressed to find another city its size offering so many charming places to stay.

Among the best known and highest rated Natchez bed-and-breakfasts is Historic Oak Hill Inn, an eight-time Trip Advisor Travelers’ Choice winner. Known for its attentive service and sprawling gourmet breakfast, Oak Hill Inn features three luxurious suites, a dining room, parlor, library, front porch, and gardens that transport guests back to 1835—the year the house was built. Guests are greeted with that most Southern of intoxicants, a Mint Julep, along with homemade chocolate chip cookies. Oak Hill’s attentive and personable owners, Donald McGlynn and Douglas Mauro, are happy to take you on a tour of this grand property and detail their restoration process, which won the 2005 Restoration Award from the Historic Natchez Foundation. Book a room, or grab a group of 6-8 friends and rent the whole house!

Known for “Victorian Southern comfort,” the Devereaux Shields House envelops guests in comfort, with all the trappings of an historic inn combined with modern luxury. Slip into summer relaxation by booking a massage in the private spa room, a calming space that accommodates both individuals or couples. Enjoy Swedish, deep tissue, or hot stone massage techniques and feel the tension melt away. The Devereaux Shields House features well-appointed rooms in three different buildings, giving you a range of options for décor and size. Some are even pet friendly! Enjoy a gourmet three-course breakfast and afternoon drinks on the porch, in the sitting room, or in the gardens.

Another of Natchez’s famed B&Bs is the Burn Luxury Inn, once used as a Union Army headquarters and a fine example of Greek Revival architecture. The home was originally built in 1834, and has been restored to its original magnificence, with high style décor and beautifully manicured gardens. Best of all, the Burn features a refreshing pool that’s perfect for an afternoon dip. Grab your favorite summer read, get comfy in a lounge chair and let your cares fade away. Later, take a stroll through the English style gardens, which feature hundreds of camellias and azaleas, as well as rare Cunningham Firs and Monkey Puzzle trees. Wake up to an exquisite Southern breakfast featuring everything from seasonal fresh fruit and homemade muffins to French toast and eggs and bacon.

With so many fabulous options to choose from in Natchez, expect to find just the right accommodations for a winning summer stay.

Visit visitnatchez.org for additional information.