When we think of Southern hospitality, we often imagine rocking chairs on wide porches, the smell of fresh biscuits wafting through the air, and warm greetings from people who feel like family. Across the South, Black-owned bed & breakfasts are redefining this experience—blending culture, heritage, and heart into unforgettable stays that go beyond the ordinary.
These B&Bs aren’t just places to sleep. They are spaces of rest and restoration, infused with history, soul food, and stories that speak to resilience and creativity. For women looking to reconnect with themselves, celebrate sisterhood, or just enjoy a change of scenery with purpose, Black-owned inns offer an experience steeped in authenticity.
Here’s a look at some standout Black-owned bed & breakfasts in the South worth planning your next getaway around.
1. The Urban Oasis (Atlanta, GA)
Tucked in the heart of the city, rooted in creativity
Located in Atlanta’s eclectic Cabbagetown neighborhood, The Urban Oasis lives up to its name. Owner and artist Beverly “Bev” Vega transformed a former warehouse into a colorful, art-filled retreat with rooms named after her children and grandchildren. This is no cookie-cutter B&B—think bold murals, cozy spaces, and a vibe that’s equal parts gallery and guesthouse. Guests rave about Bev’s warmth, her killer homemade granola, and the peace they find in this uniquely urban retreat.
2. Clevedale Historic Inn and Gardens (Spartanburg, SC)
Where history whispers and elegance lingers
Owned and operated by Cheryl and George Miller, Clevedale is a true Southern jewel. This 1913 Colonial Revival estate sits on four lush acres and offers a serene, story-filled escape. Every room is named after African American trailblazers, and the property hosts weddings, tea parties, and cultural events that celebrate Black excellence. Whether you’re enjoying a candlelit breakfast or walking the garden path, you’ll feel wrapped in legacy and love.
3. Akwaaba Bed & Breakfast Inns (Multiple Locations)
A heritage brand built by a woman with a vision
Award-winning journalist-turned-entrepreneur Monique Greenwood has created a network of luxurious B&Bs under the Akwaaba brand, with properties in the South including Akwaaba D.C. and The Mansion at Noble Lane in Pennsylvania (close enough to be worth the drive). Greenwood’s mission? To give Black travelers beautiful spaces where they feel seen and celebrated. The décor is Afrocentric and elegant, and the hospitality is five-star—from soul food brunches to wine socials on the veranda.
4. Oak Spring Bed & Breakfast (Starkville, MS)
A cozy retreat steeped in Southern charm
A lesser-known gem, Oak Spring is run by retired educators John and Gracie Curry. Located just outside of Mississippi State University, the B&B is known for its warm, down-home hospitality. Guests often arrive as strangers and leave as family—especially after Gracie’s famous sweet potato pancakes. The Currys have made Oak Spring a haven for couples, families, and solo travelers alike who want peace, quiet, and a taste of the real South.
Why Support Black-Owned B&Bs?
Traveling with intention means more than finding a great place to stay—it’s about investing in communities and creators who often go overlooked in mainstream tourism. When you book with a Black-owned B&B, you’re supporting entrepreneurship, cultural preservation, and generational wealth. You’re also ensuring that stories, spaces, and experiences reflecting Black excellence continue to flourish.
Plan Your Soulful Stay
Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend, a solo recharge, or a girls’ getaway rooted in culture and connection, these Black-owned bed & breakfasts in the South offer more than just a bed—they offer belonging. As you plan your next mini-escape, consider checking in to a place where you’ll be welcomed not just as a guest, but as kin.
Real Women travel with purpose. Real Women rest with power. And there’s no better place to do both than in the heart of the South, where Black hospitality reigns.
Got a favorite Black-owned inn or hidden gem we should know about? Drop us a line—we’re always looking for places where Real Women feel at home.
By Tiffany Carter for Real Women Atlanta
