• Hyatt Regency Baltimore (Baltimore, Md.; tel. 410/528-1234): If you're planning a trip to Baltimore, the Hyatt's location and its spiffy new decor make it a must. Staff here, as well as the incomparable view and the Inner Harbor location, make this more than "just a Hyatt."
  • The Annapolis Inn (Annapolis, Md.; tel. 410/295-5200): This sumptuous Georgian-style house was originally the home of Thomas Jefferson's physician in the 1770s. A three-course breakfast is served on fine china in the cranberry-red dining room. Selling points include Jacuzzis, a room with its own deck, and experienced, welcoming hosts.
  • The Tilghman Island Inn (Tilghman, Md.; tel. 800/866-2141): Waterfront rooms take full advantage of the inn's setting on Knapps Narrows on the Eastern Shore. The bedrooms are spacious and comfy, and the welcome is warm.
  • The Westin Annapolis (Annapolis, Md.; tel. 410/972-4300): A bit of 21st-century styling has hit this 18th-century town, and we are so glad. No views to speak of (go to the Annapolis Marriott Waterfront for that), but amenities here are a delight.
  • Rock Hall inns: The Inn at Osprey Point (tel. 410/639-2194) and Inn at Huntingfield Creek (tel. 410/639-7779), two of the Eastern Shore's most gracious getaway locations, are in tiny Rock Hall. Osprey Point offers rooms with a view. Huntingfield Creek is surrounded by fields with water access. Both are serene and beautifully appointed.
  • The Stonebow Inn (Grantsville, near Deep Creek Lake, Md.; tel. 800/272-4090): Location makes the Stonebow, a restored 1877 Victorian, a good bet. It's right on the Casselman River, beside the Spruce Forest Artisan Village, a few minutes from Deep Creek Lake, and as far from the hustle and bustle as you want to be.
  • The Addy Sea Bed & Breakfast (Bethany Beach, Del.; tel. 800/418-6764): In a resort filled with condos and rental houses, this B&B offers cozy charm surrounded by beach and surf. It's quiet enough for romance but close enough to beach fun.
  • Lighthouse Club Hotel (Ocean City, Md.; tel. 800/371-5400): This hotel was designed for romantic beach getaways. Leave the kids at home and come here for secluded luxury with a view of the bay. Some rooms have fireplaces and Jacuzzis, too.
  • Hotel du Pont (Wilmington, Del.; tel. 800/441-9019): Not only is this a showcase of marble, carved paneling, and DuPont's latest fibers, but it also offers its lucky guests palatial surroundings, terrific amenities, and some of the best dining in town.
  • The Inn at Montchanin Village (Montchanin, Del.; tel. 800/269-2473): This cluster of buildings was once home for workers of the DuPont powder mills. Now they're charming guest rooms and suites, set in beautiful gardens, located just a few miles from the du Pont homes and gardens.
  • Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.