Audubon Cottages

First built in the late 18th century, and named after naturalist and writer John James Audubon -- who lived in one of the cottages in the first half of the 19th century -- the Audubon Cottages has managed to stand the test of time with thorough renovations and continuous maintenance.The complex, taking up half a block in the French Quarter, has a strong residential feel to it, with seven standalone cottages that open onto tranquil private or semi-private courtyards with running fountains, exposed brick, and lush greenery. All units are built around what is said to be the oldest pool in New Orleans, but there’s little else on-site, so those who want a full-service hotel might want to check out the hotel’s sister property, the Dauphine, located a block from the Audubon Cottages. There is, however, a butler on the premises, and guests have access to the Dauphine’s parking lot and valet services.Cottages here feel exclusive and feature great amenities, including flat-screen TVs, Keurig coffeemakers, iPod docks, and free breakfast delivered every morning. The unique decor has been hand-picked for each unit by the owners.While the pool and the multi-room suites might make it a convenient pick for families, the quiet, romantic property is mostly geared towards adults.

The Audubon Cottages are located in the heart of the French Quarter, a block from Bourbon Street’s nightlife, and two blocks from the cute boutiques and art galleries on Royal Street. It is also four bocks form the Central Business District, so those interested in exploring beyond the French Quarter (highly recommended) can easily walk to the streetcars along Canal Street, or even to the Museum District.It’s not easy to find the entrance, as there is only a small plaque next to a green door that remains locked during the day. Look for a dark green door located on Dauphine Street, between St. Louis and Toulouse streets, next to an impressive white mansion with Corinthian columns on the front porch.- 22-minute drive to Louis Armstrong International Airport

• A block from nightlife on Bourbon Street
• Two blocks from shopping and art galleries on Royal Street
• 5-minute walk to St. Louis Cemetery No.1
• 6-minute walk to the Central Business District
• 6-minute walk from Jackson Square
• 6-minute walk to Congo Square
• 7-minute walk to the riverfront Woldenberg Park
• 9-minute walk from renowned Café du Monde
• 16-minute walk to the Warehouse District
• 22-minute walk to the Museum District

The Audubon offers seven upscale, individually decorated one- and two-bedroom cottages, all with high-end amenities and tons of unique touches. All but Cottage #6 have separate living areas (some with non-working fireplaces) filled with antiques, chandeliers, Audubon-style nature prints, and homey details such as vases, curated books, and porcelain plates.Every cottage has French doors with plantation shutters that open onto a private or semi-private courtyard with lush plants, a classic running wall fountain, and wrought-iron furniture. Some cottages are said to be haunted -- one of them by a country-music-playing soldier -- while others have hosted celeb guests such as Elizabeth Taylor.- Flat-screen TVs in bedrooms and living spaces

• iPod docks in every room
• Free Wi-Fi
• Keurig coffeemakers and wide selection of free coffee
• Free beverages restocked daily
• Wet bars in some units
• Archive toiletries
• Hardwood floors
• Freezer and mini-fridge in most cottages
• Cottage 5 and adjoining Cottage 6 can be rented as a three-bedroom unit.
• Two-bedroom cottages have two bathrooms each

All seven cottages were built around a beautiful heated saltwater pool located in a tranquil European-inspired courtyard with lush plants. It is thought to be the oldest pool in New Orleans, and with its exposed brick walls, statues and wrought-iron loungers, it feels like it belongs in a charming patio in Tuscany.- Free use of towels

• No lifeguard on duty

• Free Wi-Fi
• Butler services include unpacking and providing tourist information
• Free breakfast delivered to room daily
• Turndown service
• Special rates for airport transportation
• In-room spa services by Le Jardin Spa
• Free local phone calls
• Valet parking for a few at sister property Dauphine Orleans Hotel
• In-room beverages restocked daily