With more than 60 lighthouses--more than any other state--it's not surprising that Maine is sometimes known as the "Lighthouse State". "You're going to spend five days in Victoria?" exclaimed an incredulous but well-traveled friend. "

We live in the Kansas City area, and would like to get away for a few days. What would you suggest? "I guess we're not in Kansas anymore," said Dorothy to Toto when they landed in Oz. That's just how I felt, following the undulating ribbon of country road that leads to the Circle S Ranch. Unlike Dorothy, I was in Kansas--at a wonderful ranch that's been in owner Mary Beth Stevenson's family for generations. The barn-style inn has 12 guest rooms, many with a whirlpool tub or fireplace, plus spacious common areas, and a welcoming porch. Hiking trails criss-cross the 1200-acre property, and the many attractions of Lawrence--home of the University of Kansas--are just an easy drive away. More inns… Further west near I-70, is Council Grove, the last outfitting point on the Santa Fe Trail. Stay at the Cottage House Hotel (800-727-7903), and ask for one of the suites or the front cottage, eat at the Hays House, oldest restaurant west of the Mississippi, and explore historic sites from the Old Calaboose Jail to the Last Chance Store. Travel an hour more and you'll come to Lindsborg in the Smoky River Valley, homesteaded in the 1860s by Swedish immigrants. Still known as Little Sweden, you'll delight in its charming art galleries, Swedish-style restaurants and shops, and welcoming B&Bs. We had a delightful stay at Morning Mist B&B. More inns… Find a B&B | Specials | Recipes | Message Boards | Gift Certificates | Store | Book Online