Only blocks from the Frenchmen Street music scene, Claiborne Mansion is one of the most historic hotels in New Orleans, situated in an elegant cottage facing Washington Square park (New Orleans call very large homes cottages.) The Claiborne Mansion building dates from 1855, but the comfort level is 21st century making it popular with celebrities looking for something unique, hip and exclusive although it eschews the glamour of the more high-profile places to stay in New Orleans.

The hotel guests are indulged in luxury, surrounded by antiques and high ceilings, polished floors and chandeliers; this is certainly one of the more elegant boutique hotels in New Orleans. Victorian style with a Creole touch-and it’s all masterminded by a capable staff. An even smaller cottage in the rear offers extra privacy. The large rooms facing onto Dauphine Street are the grandest and provide the perfect vantage point for Mardi Gras in New Orleans as many maskers walk the streets around the Claiborne Mansion.