Esplanade Avenue is well-known to Jazz Fest visitors, as it is one of the thoroughfares to the Fair Grounds. It is also an historic street and a treasure trove of B&B's, for those who prefer to forgo hotel life. Esplanade Avenue rims the French Quarter at one end, and leads to St. Louis Cemetery No.3 and City Park at the other, so it is a great place to stay while visiting New Orleans. Here are some of our choices.
Lanaux Mansion
The Lanaux Mansion at 547 Esplanade is located on the edge of the French Quarter, and is famous for its history as well as for its accommodations. There is the Enchanted Cottage, the Johnson Room, the Weiland Room, and the Lanaux Suite, each with its own charms. All rooms have access to the Victorian Garden. Lanaux Mansion was the setting for the movie "The Curious Case of Benjamin Buttons," starring Brad Pitt. Check out the website.
H.H. Whitney House
The H.H. Whitney House is an elegant Italianate 19th century building. It has 3 guest rooms and 2 suites, with queen size beds and amenities such as robes, slippers,private balconies, and CD players. It is furnished in period antiques, and features a tropical garden with a swimming pool and hot tub. H.H. Whitney House is located at 1923 Esplanade.
Degas House
Formerly the home of impressionist painter Edgar Degas, this home at 2306 Esplanade is 11 blocks from the French Quarter. It has 9 rooms with fireplaces, private baths, and private courtyards. Furnished with antiques, it also offers continental and Creole breakfast. Find out about the Degas House and tour.
Five Continents
This Greek Revival mansion has 3 suites (the Eurasian, the European, and Asian suites) and the North American Cottage. Its 19th century charm is enhanced by oriental carpets, 8 fireplaces, and luxurious linens. Hot gourmet breakfast includes Louisiana Shrimp Benedict and Baked Pear French Toast. Modern touches include television and internet access. Visit the Five Continents website for reservations.
Melrose Mansion
Melrose Mansion was designed by Jamers Freret and built in the 1880's. There are 5 master suites (including the romantic Doncecio Honeymoon Suite), 4 junior suites, and some "Napoleon" suites. The rooms are furnished with antiques and have luxurious baths with Jacuzzis. There is a heated pool, wine cellar, and 24 hour conceriege service. Continental or gourmet breakfasts are included; you can enjoy wine, fruit, and cheese in the evenings. White-gloved service in "The Parlor" offers cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. See more at Melrose Mansion.
Ashton's
This antebellum mansion hosts 8 guestrooms with private baths, and either king or queen-sized beds. 4 of the rooms have ThermoMasseur tubs in the bathrooms, and also include aromatherapy products. All rooms have internet access and spa amenity products, along with many other features and services. Complimentary snacks and beverages are served in the dining room, along with full gourmet breakfasts. The mansion boasts a 300 year-old oak tree in its garden. Only 8 blocks from the Quarter, Ashton's website has more particulars.
The House On Bayou Road
Not precisely on Esplanade, The House On Bayou Road is just off the Avenue, where the street divides onto Bayou Road. We couldn't resist including this charming B&B in our recommendations. This plantation house was built in 1798, this B&B has 11 rooms,including a private Creole cottage. All rooms have king or queen beds and private baths, some with Jacuzzi tubs. The rooms also include embroidered robes and slippers, make-up mirrors, internet access, and (our favorite amenity) complimentary sherry. The property features a swimming pool and outdoor hot tub, and the room rates include a plantation breakfast. As a bonus, Creole and Cajun cooking classes taught by New Orleans chefs are available. The House On The Bayou is located at 2275 Bayou Road.
