The Bradford House B&B Inn is one of three Bradford Properties.Badforn House, Bradford Inn, Bradford on the Lake. photo: Jeffrey Hobson
Choose the Two Day Getaway
Cameron's Crag library may be all the entertainment you need on a rainy evening in Branson. Photo Jeffrey Hobson
Three days, and two nights at a B & B may be the most replenishing way to use your precious vacation days and dollars. A couple of B & B getaways sprinkled throughout the summer may be an even better respite than a full week’s vacation in the same spot. It may even be better on the budget.
B & Bs are the way to go, if you want a real break from the routine. Be warned, one night is not enough, always plan your stays for at least two nights.
B&Bs are like having a friend in a place you’ve never been. The B&B Inn Keepers serve as Concierge Extraordinaire, and share the inside scoop that only locals know. They will recommend a good restaurant, not a pricey tourist spot.
5 Best B&B On A Budget Ideas
1. Ask for a discount. Such as a senior discount, or member discounts such as AAA or AARP. Are you affiliated with a Friend of the (zoo, museum, etc) Remember to ask for a military discount, alumni association, hospital volunteer.
Southmoreland designed this guest room in honor of August Mayer who developed the park and boulevard system for Kansas City, Missouri as first president of the Commission of Parks. photo: Jeffrey Hobson.
2. Travel flexible. Most B&B guests only have the option of staying at a B&B on weekends. If you can travel midweek, you may find rates lower than the typically busier weekends.
For example: Come a few days before or after the festival weekend celebrating peak of tulip or azalea season.
3. Avoid peak season rates. Come the week before higher seasonal rates increase. You may luck out with good weather and fewer crowds. Checkout the seasonal rates and know what to expect for that region or climate. Avoid the peak of fall foliage season, three day holiday weekends and spring break.
4. Stay an extra night. Multiple night stays of 3 or more nights are usually discounted.
5. Last-minute travel deals.Make it a game. Look for last minute deals. Example: often, you can get a 20 or 30% discount if you make reservations for the same day you call. If a B&B has unsold rooms, they will bargain with you.
What do you want from a B&B? The Dear's Rest B&B is a peaceful retreat. photo PBH
5 More Things to Remember
- You are the best advertising. The internet has helped B&Bs reach an international audience. Many Inn Keepers attribute an uptick in business to the internet and online reviews by their guests. Be sure to write a review. After all, you trusted reviews from fellow travelers before you made your reservation. Right?
- Just Ask. Want to make this weekend all about her or all about us? Most B&Bs can arrange for a bottle of bubbly, chocolate covered strawberries, or a bouquet of wildflowers on your arrival.
- Do Not forget to mention the baby or the little purse dog. Are you planning to bring baby? Ask before you make the reservation.
- Allergic to Eggs Benedict or fresh squeezed OJ? All dietary concerns are graciously handled. Let the B&B know when you make your reservation. Remind the Inn Keeper again when you arrive.
- Want to invite a friend to breakfast? Usually Inn Keepers are very accommodating, if you give them advance warning notice. Mention this when you make reservations
If you have difficulty climbing steps, mention it. Be prepared for extra high beds, extra deep claw foot bath tubs, no elevators and limited accessible parking. Chances are your B&B was built many years before homes were built with ADA requirements.
Amenities, like this shady little nook at Walnut Street Inn, is a bonus for birdwatchers and readers. photo: PBH
At the Walnut Street Inn every day begins in elegant surroundings with good coffee and breakfast on your schedule. photo: Jeffrey Hobson
If easy access is a consideration, ask the Inn Keeper for a room suggestion and about availability before you book a room. Camerons Crag in Branson MO.
Special Thanks To These Ozarks Bed and Breakfasts:
The Bradford Inn in Branson, MO
The Bradford House in Branson, MO
The Dears Rest B&B in Ozark, MO
Walnut Street Inn in Springfoeld, MO
Camerons Crag in Branson, MO
