Janesville's Scarlette House, is in the heart of the Court House Hill Neighborood - the entire area is on the National Register. And, 25% of Wisconsin'sNational Register homes are in Janesville. Walk to antique shops and restaurants ... and of course, make the Scarlette House your home-base for taking in Beloit Snapper games!

Our Milwaukee Brewers are beloved here in Wisconsin, but we also have an affinity for the Class ‘A’ clubs – namely the Appleton Timber Rattlers (the Class A affiliate of the Brewers) and the Beloit Snappers (the Class A affiliate of the Minnesota Twins).  Their games are not only a bargain, they’re great fun and you get to see the stars of tomorrow.   For Rattlers’ games, stay at The Roost B&B or Franklin Street Inn.  If you’re taking in a Snappers’ game, try the Scarlett House in nearby Janesville.

We’ve been on a mission lately to dispel misconceptions about B&B travel, and that includes the myth that all inns are old or old-fashioned.  To that end, we bring you “Doily Decision 2012.”  Cast your vote – pro-doily (perfectly apropos for those who favor sophisticated, historically significant inns) or no-doily (contemporary styling all the way, and there are lots of inns like this too) – at our facebook page .  The polling closes May 29, with the final tally to be announced June 1.  By voting, your name will also be entered in a drawing for a gift basket filled with items that faithfully represent today’s B&B experience, with myth-busting treasures like spa robe, high-end pillow,  artist-created coffee mugs, iPod, and a $150 gift certificate good for a getaway to the member B&B of your choice!  

Admire or Retire?

Trash or Treasure?

Have you ever gone whitewater rafting?  In Wisconsin, now’s the time, as spring is when the rivers are high with meltwater and spring rains.  We recommend the Peshtigo River, which offers a nice, long stretch of active whitewater.  Inns located in north-eastern WI include Lakeside B&B in Florence and Inn at Pinewood in Eagle River.  The Wolf River has Class II and Class III rapids, great for experienced paddlers looking for a rush.  Crandon’s Courthouse Square B&B and Marinette’s Lauerman House Inn, M&M Victorian Inn and Riverside Manor B&B are closest to outfitters along the Wolf. 

Guests at The Inn at Pinewood, Eagle River, a log resort, can enjoy the private lake by boat or by balcony view. A true Wisconsin 'up north' experience.

First, the beds – they are not old and squeaky.  That myth seems to persist because there are lots of historic inns in Wisconsin.  Just remember, historic does not equal old and squeaky.

Next, the bath – B&Bs have private baths.  No shared bathrooms anymore.  Looking for a spa-quality designer bath?  Try Westphal Mansion Inn B&B in Hartford, Speckled Hen Inn in Madison, or The Roost B&B in Appleton.

Finally, privacy – innkeepers do not make their living hovering.  You will be left alone.  Whether that’s at breakfast, on the front porch hammock, in the library, watching a movie, strolling the gardens…well, you get the picture.

Whew, we feel better now, and hope you do too!

The Roost features five comfortable, contemporary suites and rooms for the leisure or business traveler, each equipped with luxurious bedding, fireplaces, air-jet whirlpool tubs, private baths and other amenities.

While many of our guests were reaping the benefits of the record-breaking warm temperatures in March, like being able to play golf earlier than usual or hop on the bike for a round-trip exercise boost, the maple syrup producers were hard at work, tapping the trees weeks earlier than usual. Thought you’d like to know that Wisconsin ranks No. 4 in maple syrup production, just behind Vermont, New York and Maine. Will maple syrup yields be down because of this wild weather? There’s a good chance of that. But do not fret, our innkeepers are on top of this, and will make sure pancakes and waffles get their share of maple-y goodness. Plus, there’s always the fruit topping alternative once the orchards and farms start producing here, which could be earlier than you think! Here’s a recipe from Brayton B&B in Oshkosh for Crème Brulee French Toast with Streusel Topping, served with strawberry jam, no maple syrup required. 

Crème Brulee French Toast with Streusel Topping
Plan ahead as this dish needs to refrigerate overnight; Makes 4 Servings 

1 stick butter
1 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons corn syrup
1 loaf cinnamon bread
5 large eggs
1 ½ cups half & half
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
CRUMB TOPPING
¼ cup brown sugar
½ stick butter
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ cup chopped pecans

In a saucepan over medium-high heat, bring butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup to a boil. Stir frequently. Pour the mixture into an 8×8 inch baking dish. Layer the bread over the glaze, 2-4 slices high, making them fit the pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, half & half, and vanilla until combined. Pour over the bread, cover, and chill overnight.

The following morning: Preheat oven to 500 degrees F. Bake, uncovered, for 15 minutes. In a small bowl, mix together the crumb topping; sprinkle over the baked French toast. Bake an additional 10 minutes. Serve with strawberry jam.

Locally sourced, freshly made, hearty, gourmet, lively conversation, savor-in-your-room ... that's what makes breakfast at a B&B a better way to start your day.