Beds, Breakfasts, and a Whole Lot of Charm: What Is a B&B?

January 2, 2026

a breakfast platter sitting on a bed

If you’ve ever wondered what makes a bed and breakfast different from a hotel, you’re not alone—they are unlike in many ways! While both do offer a place for you to sleep at night, a bed and breakfast, or “B&B,” provides a far more personalized experience that many travelers have come to love. Here’s a brief overview of what makes a bed and breakfast worth your time and money.

It’s All in the Name

There’s a reason they’re called “bed” and breakfasts; they provide amazing lodging to their guests! Instead of dozens or hundreds of rooms, B&Bs typically offer only a limited handful of guest rooms. This smaller size means a more peaceful and quieter atmosphere, plus since each room is uniquely decorated, it won’t feel even close to standard hotel space. These rooms generally have many thoughtful amenities too, ranging from televisions and Wi-Fi to full-fledged private bathrooms.  

Food Cooked with Love

Of course, breakfast is a key part of any bed and breakfast stay! Unlike the quick (and often fairly lacking) continental breakfast spreads that many hotels offer, B&Bs are always whipping up fresh, home-cooked meals in cozy dining rooms or sunlit kitchens. Many innkeepers are either incredible cooks themselves or employ chefs who pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients and tasty family recipes. Of course, many B&Bs also serve lunch and dinner. You certainly won’t ever go hungry or feel indecisive when staying at a B&B! 

The Right Amount of Personalized Hospitality

You’ll truly feel like a VIP while staying at a bed and breakfast. They’re often run by owners who live on-site and take a great amount of pride in hosting their guests. From greeting you by name to sharing insider tips on the best local spots, their hospitality will feel genuine, and you’ll feel welcome from the moment you walk through the front door. Of course, you’ll still have plenty of privacy whenever you need it!

A Local & Truly Authentic Stay

Staying at a bed and breakfast offers a deeper connection to the destination. Many B&Bs strive to accurately reflect the history and culture of their surroundings, whether that’s through décor, architecture, or stories told by the hosts themselves. For those hoping to experience a place like a local, rather than a tourist, a B&B is the perfect choice.

At a bed and breakfast, you aren’t just a name on a spreadsheet or a room number; you’re a valued guest, and in many ways, you yourself are becoming a part of their story! That said, if you’ve got upcoming travel plans, you’d be wise to consider making your lodging arrangements with a local B&B.

About the Buttonwood Inn

The Buttonwood Inn on Mt. Surprise has proudly served guests in North Conway and the White Mountains for over 75 years, offering a cozy place to stay and enjoy everything the region has to offer during the wonderful winter season! If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to book a visit, you can call or reach out online for more information or assistance. Telephone: (603) 810-0642.