Too often, elegant B&Bs are either unwilling or unable to accommodate families; this Essex, New Hampshire landmark openly welcomes children — and has the room to make them comfortable. A big yellow wedding cake of a mansion right on the historic town green, the home has a number of large, comfortable rooms and suites decorated in a sumptuous mix of Colonial antiques and stylish modern fixtures. Two of the suites can accommodate a family of six with a queen bed, fold-out sofa, and adjoining room with queen or two twins.

Downstairs is a funky New American restaurant with windows looking out onto the bandstand. Guests at the hotel get 20-percent off their meal. The inn is centrally located in the historic center of town, just two blocks from Phillips Exeter Academy and an easy walk to all of the quaint downtown shops and eateries.