For those of us who frequent bed and breakfasts or country inns, the myriad of statesmen, writers, actors and other adorned personalities who once visited these places is one of many characteristics that makes the experience so unique.

For instance, guests staying at the opulent John Rutledge House Inn in Charleston, S.C., may proclaim not only that George Washington once dined there, but that first drafts of the U.S. Constitution were drawn up in the mansion's ballroom. The home's builder, John Rutledge, was no slouch himself in the context of American history. Rutledge, was not only a writer and signer of the Constitution, he also served as South Carolina's first governor and a Supreme Court justice. A stay at Rutledge's home is to experience a little piece of American history.

Much of our nation's history is preserved at inns and bed and breakfasts. Authors Samuel Clemens and Jack London, as well as President Theodore Roosevelt were among the famous guests at the Vichy Hot Springs Resort & Inn in Ukiah, Calif. Although the lodging facilities have been updated, the 1860s naturally sparkling mineral baths remain unchanged. As you relax in a mineral bath, it's not hard to imagine the days when guests were able to discuss "Tom Sawyer" or "The Call of the Wild," with the authors.

From famous writers to famous actors to young socialites, Hacienda del Sol has seen them all. The 1810 adobe home, guest casitas and surrounding acres have seen many uses throughout the years. In the 1920s, a college preparatory school catered to the young women from prestigious families, such as the Vanderbilts. A few years later, it would be host to writer D.H. Lawrence and artist Georgia O'Keefe. And in the late 1940s and 50s, actors such as Spencer Tracy and Katherine Hepburn were frequent guests. In fact, today's guests can still stay in Tracy's favorite casita.

Named for a Civil War Veteran and four-term congressman, The Colonel Taylor Inn B&B and Gift Shop, has quite a list of historical guests. Its namesake is notable, as well. The Colonel fought in the Battle of Fredericksburg against General Lee, but advised his superior General Ambrose Burnside against the attack. Unfortunately, Taylor was correct and the Union troops suffered terrible losses during the attack. After the war, Taylor built this gracious home where he later hosted several presidents, such as William McKinley, James Garfield and Rutherford Hayes.

With its picturesque location and period dcor, history truly comes to life at The General Lewis, an 1834 Federal-style home now serving as a relaxing bed and breakfast. Among the notable guest book signers are Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson. An authentic 19th-century stagecoach rests under an arbor, still looking as though it is ready to transport guests to hot springs on the James River.

Many of these historic hotels, bed & breakfasts and country inns would be worthy of interest and historic recognition even without the famous guests. But it's always nice for travelers to reminisce their journeys with the knowledge that George Washington did indeed once sleep here.