Rathbone Mansions

For those of us here in Louisiana searching for that perfect blend of historic charm, modern comfort, and a peaceful atmosphere right in the heart of New Orleans, Rathbone Mansions is truly "our go-to place to stay in the Big Easy!" This remarkable property isn't just one building, but two historic pre-Civil War mansions, built in the mid-1800s, located directly across the street from each other on the picturesque Esplanade Avenue. Each room is uniquely appointed, reflecting a contemporary take on traditional New Orleans design, complete with wooden floors and often iron-wrought balconies. It's a place that feels private and quiet, offering a serene escape after a day of exploring, yet is incredibly walkable to all the iconic sights. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family trip with your furry friend, or a relaxing staycation, Rathbone Mansions provides a charming and comfortable base for your New Orleans adventure.

Guests consistently rave about the "beautifully appointed" rooms, the "comfy beds," and the "large and spacious" layouts that often feel more like an apartment than a typical hotel room. Imagine enjoying your morning coffee, complete with real half-and-half, on a private covered patio, or taking a refreshing dip in the "very nice and clean" pool surrounded by "lush flora." The attention to detail, from in-room amenities like microwaves and refrigerators to the stellar customer service, truly sets Rathbone Mansions apart. It’s a place where you can unwind in peace, knowing that the vibrant energy of the French Quarter and Frenchman Street is just a short, pleasant stroll away, making it an ideal choice for us locals who cherish both the excitement and the tranquility that New Orleans offers.

Rathbone Mansions are ideally located at 1244 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA. This address places them on the grand and tree-lined Esplanade Avenue, a historic boulevard that acts as a charming boundary between the French Quarter and the vibrant Faubourg Marigny and Treme neighborhoods. This location is a significant advantage, as it offers the best of both worlds: a tranquil, residential feel that provides a peaceful retreat, while still being incredibly close to all the action.

The accessibility from Rathbone Mansions is consistently highlighted by guests as "awesome." You are "walking distance to Jackson Square, etc." and just "an easy 10-minute walk to the iconic jazz clubs, bars, and live music venues of Frenchmen Street." This means you can easily explore the historic landmarks, sample delicious local cuisine, and experience the famous New Orleans nightlife without needing a car. Bourbon Street, the French Market, and St. Louis Cathedral are all within a 15-minute walk. For those who do drive, "parking was affordable (but reserve when you book, as there are only 4 spaces), and car was secured and easy to access if we needed." While on-site parking is limited and comes with a fee ($25 per night), free off-site parking within 25 feet may also be available with reservations. Additionally, public transportation, such as the North Rampart at Esplanade Stop, is just a 3-minute walk away, providing convenient access to other parts of the city. This excellent walkability combined with parking options makes Rathbone Mansions a highly convenient choice for navigating New Orleans.

Services Offered:

• Limited Hour Front Desk: Staff are available during specific hours for assistance and inquiries.
• Express Check-in/Check-out: For a smoother and quicker arrival and departure.
• Daily Housekeeping: Ensures rooms are kept clean and tidy throughout your stay.
• Complimentary Wireless Internet: Free Wi-Fi is available in all guest rooms and public areas.
• Outdoor Swimming Pool & Hot Tub: A shared outdoor pool and hot tub are available for relaxation, surrounded by lush gardens.
• Tour/Ticket Assistance: Staff can help guests plan and book local tours and attractions.
• Private Parking: On-site self-parking is available for a fee (currently $25 per night), though limited, so reservations are highly recommended. Free off-site parking within 25 ft may also be available with reservations.
• Air Conditioning & Ceiling Fans: All rooms are equipped for comfort in the New Orleans climate.
• Pet-Friendly Accommodation: Dogs are allowed in select rooms (up to 2 total, up to 100 lbs per pet) for an extra charge of $50 per pet, per stay. Service animals are exempt from fees.
• Coffee/Tea Maker in Rooms: Including "real half and half, not the powdered stuff" as a delightful touch.
• Microwave & Refrigerator in Rooms: Convenient amenities for storing and preparing snacks or leftovers.
• Free Filtered Water: Available in common areas.
• Picnic Area & Garden: Enjoy the serene outdoor spaces.
• Laundry Facilities: May be available, inquire directly with the property.

Features / Highlights:

• Two Historic Pre-Civil War Mansions: The property consists of two beautifully preserved mansions (built in 1850) that offer a unique historical ambiance.
• Prime Location on Esplanade Avenue: Provides a quiet residential feel while being within easy walking distance of the French Quarter and Frenchman Street.
• Private & Quiet Atmosphere: Guests consistently praise the peaceful environment, allowing for great sleep.
• Beautifully Appointed & Spacious Rooms: Rooms are large, comfortable, and uniquely decorated, often feeling like an apartment with kitchenettes (refrigerator, microwave, coffee machine).
• Outdoor Pool & Hot Tub: A very nice and clean pool area with a relaxing vibe, surrounded by lush flora, perfect for unwinding.
• Excellent Customer Service: Staff are described as stellar, quick, welcoming, and timely in correspondence.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Accommodates dogs in select rooms, making it a great option for those traveling with pets.
• Convenient In-Room Amenities: Memory foam mattresses, flat-screen TVs with cable, designer toiletries, hair dryers, and ironing facilities are standard.
• Private Patios/Terraces: Some rooms, like Room 1A, feature private covered patio areas, offering additional outdoor space.
• Proximity to Public Transportation: The North Rampart at Esplanade Stop is just a 3-minute walk away.
• Affordable Parking: While limited, on-site parking is a valuable amenity in this area.

Promotions or Special Offers:

While specific, time-sensitive promotions are always best confirmed directly with Rathbone Mansions, historic boutique hotels like this often provide special offers to enhance a guest's stay. Given their emphasis on a quality guest experience, you might find:

• Direct Booking Savings: Many independent hotels offer their best rates and exclusive perks when you book directly through their official website or by calling them, bypassing third-party fees.
• Extended Stay Discounts: For those planning a longer visit to New Orleans, special rates might be available for stays of multiple nights (e.g., 3+ nights).
• Seasonal Specials: Look out for promotions tied to specific times of the year, major New Orleans festivals (like Jazz Fest or Mardi Gras outside of peak dates), or off-peak seasons, which could include reduced rates or added amenities.
• Pet-Friendly Packages: Given their pet-friendly policy, they might occasionally offer packages that include waived pet fees or special treats for furry companions.

For the most current and accurate promotions, it's highly recommended to visit the Rathbone Mansions official website or call them directly. They may have unadvertised deals or special rates for returning guests or Louisiana residents.

Contact Information:

Ready to discover your new "go-to place" in the Big Easy? Here’s how you can connect with Rathbone Mansions:

Address: 1244 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA

Phone: (504) 309-4479

Mobile Phone: +1 504-309-4479

You can also typically find more information and book directly through their official website. Their customer service is known to be "stellar," so don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or special requests for your stay.

For us Louisianians, Rathbone Mansions is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended choice for a hotel stay in New Orleans. Its location on Esplanade Avenue offers that perfect "private and quiet" retreat, yet you’re still within easy "walking distance to Jackson Square" and the vibrant live music scene of Frenchman Street. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the city’s energy without the constant noise and crowds right outside your door, which is a big plus for those who know how intense the Quarter can be. The fact that it consists of two beautifully restored historic mansions means you're not just booking a room, but stepping into a piece of New Orleans' rich past, with each room offering unique charm and modern comforts like spacious layouts, kitchenettes, and memory foam beds. The availability of affordable and secure parking, a lovely outdoor pool, and their pet-friendly policy truly cater to a wide range of needs, including those of us traveling with our beloved pets. The "stellar customer service" and attention to detail, like real half-and-half for coffee, truly make you feel at home. Rathbone Mansions truly delivers on comfort, convenience, and an authentic New Orleans experience, making it a place where many locals, like the reviewer, plan on returning again and again.