Since the film awards season is well under way, it's a great time to discover a little bit more about some of our favorite nominees. While meeting them in person seems pretty unlikely, you can still walk in their footsteps -- so to speak -- with a visit to the hometowns they hail from. Here is a roundup of a few to consider checking out, and checking into, with no designer dresses or tightly tailored tuxes required.
In Foxcatcher, funnyman Steve Carrell transforms both physically and emotionally to play eccentric millionaire John du Pont. Historic Concord, MA, where Steve was born, has also undergone plenty of changes throughout the years, yet its spirit of warm hospitality hasn't altered -- especially at Hawthorne Inn. It features seven vibrant rooms, all with private baths, telephones, CD/DVD players, bathrobes and wireless internet access, as well as lots of literature, ancient artifacts, artworks and antique furnishings for guests to enjoy.
There may be controversy surrounding American Sniper, but we can't deny Bradley Cooper gives a top-notch performance. Born in the City of Brotherly Love, this native son makes his Philly-area fans very proud. Another exceptional performer in the category of hospitality is The Lafayette Inn in Easton, a perfect Philadelphia weekend getaway that's just two blocks from Lafayette College and 20 minutes from historic Bethlehem. With loads of activities ranging from mule-drawn canal boat rides to colorful visits at the Crayola Factory, this inn makes an ideal home base with its 18 guestrooms complete with private baths and antique furnishings.
Born by the Bayou, Southern belle (previous Oscar winner) Reese Witherspoon is New Orleans' first daughter of drama. In Wild, her character's journey of self discovery endures numerous bumps and bruises -- to her body and soul -- so there is no doubt she would definitely enjoy a stay at Terrell House Bed & Breakfast. This three-story, Italianate-stucco-over-brick mansion, located in the center of the Garden District (one of the oldest sections of the city), was built in 1857. In the Main House, guests can relax on porches and balconies framed in cast iron, as well as the classic courtyard with fountains and lush vegetation. Period English and American antiques merge with modern amenities to provide ageless elegance alongside total comfort.
Julianne Moore's powerful portrayal of a college professor who learns that she has developed early-onset Alzheimer's disease is a career-defining performance in "Still Alice." Her strength should come as no surprise to her supporters, however, since her birthplace is Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Located in nearby Fayetteville, Gloria and Edgar's B & B is a charming inn that is just as memorable. It features four guestrooms with comforting amenities such as air conditioning, cable TV and wireless internet. In addition, hair dryers, irons and ironing boards are available. There is also ample meeting space on-site, a garden gazebo with garden patio and BBQ grill and a cozy common room with couch, chair, TV and fireplace. Guests start the day with hearty breakfast. They can also indulge in a unique massage therapy experience too.