Jefferson Hotel Tips by VeronicaG

The Jefferson Hotel: Quaint and Historic

We had the pleasure of viewing the Mardi Gras parade from the balcony of this historic hotel. The Jefferson Hotel seems to be encased within a Victorian time capsule! (pictures 2-3)

This structure began its life as a cotton warehouse, but was converted to a hotel in the early 1900's. It was known as the Crystal Palace during the "flapper days" of the 1920's.

All twenty-five rooms seem to be simply, but authentically furnished, each having its own bathroom. Its location is smack dab in the middle of the main street, convenient to antique shops and restaurants and Mardi Gras Parade route.

We paid $5 each to enjoy the parade from its iron balcony--a small amount to be sure considering the fun we had from this perch!

UPDATE: On our most recent visit we had lunch at *Lamache's Italian Restaurant, which is located off the lobby of the hotel. You'll be treated to the best bowl of Minestone Soup you've probably ever tasted--order it as a first course!

(picture 4) *Lamache's Italian Restaurant serves lunch on Saturday and Sunday from 11:30am-2:00pm and dinners Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday from 5:00 p.m-9:00 p.m.

Address: 124 W. Austin St., Jefferson,Tx

Comparison: less expensive than average

Phone: 903-665-6177

Price: less than US$20

Theme: Hotel

Website: http://historicjeffersonhotel.com

Scarlett O'Hardy's: Part 2--Antebellum Style B&B/Scarlett O'Hardy's

We lodged in Aunt Pittypat's room at Scarlett O'Hardy's. The massive carved bed and graceful period style furnishings established the fact that this was a room which was beautiful, as well as, a cozy oasis. I felt completely whisked away to another age!

However, as a nod to the times, a small tv was perched on a piece of furniture near the bed. Plantation shutters kept the room adequately darkened against the early morning light.

I loved the claw-footed tub in the roomy bathroom. It reminded me of the one we had in our 130 year old Pennsylvania house! We've already signed up to return in December for another Historic House Tour, but we're on the waiting list...so I hope it works out!

*Aunt Pittypat's room at this time was $135 per night.

Address: 410 Taylor St., Jefferson, Tx

Comparison: more expensive than average

Phone: 903-665-1939

Price: US$180 and up

Theme: Bed and Breakfast

Website: http://www.scarlettohardy.com

Scarlett O'Hardy's: Antebellum Style B&B--Scarlett O'Hardy's

We lodged at Scarlett O'Hardy's on our second visit to Jefferson and were treated like royalty. We lodged in Aunt Pittypat's room, one of five romantically furnished rooms in this B&B modeled after the antebellum mansion from Gone With The Wind.

Although this B&B was constructed in modern days, it resembles the Old South in it's decor. Lavish furnishings and bright, highly detailed wallpaper blend to create a lovely ambience. The owner, Bobbie Hardy was a vivacious host!

Each morning we'd be called to the dining room for a sumptuous breakfast. One morning we were served Stuffed French Toast with Crispy Bacon Strips, Muffins, OJ and Fruit Soup. Our last morning we sampled Sausage Roll-ups, Mini Muffins, Fresh Fruit Salad, OJ and an Egg Casserole. Breakfasts were fantastic!

Bobbie's passion for the movie, Gone With The Wind, led her to create a museum containing many objects and collectibles from and related to the film. The museum sits to one side in a separate building and very interesting to tour.

Unique Qualities: An elegant B&B with first class treatment

Address: 410 Taylor St., Jefferson,Tx

Comparison: about average

Phone: 903-665-1939

Price: US$120-180

Theme: Bed and Breakfast

Website: http://www.scarlettohardy.com

Excelsior House: The Second Oldest Hotel in Texas

Not many places can boast hosting the likes of Ulysses S. Grant, Rutherford B. Hayes, Oscar Wilde and Lady Bird Johnson. The Excelsior House lodged many famous travelers since the 1850's and continues to offer rooms to those who travel to Jefferson, Texas.

The hotel sits close to the historic town center and its wonderfully restored buildings. One step inside and you experience what it must have been like to live in the hey-day of this busy riverboat town. The lobby is comfortable and refined, with polished woodwork and antique furnishings (picture 2).

A pretty fountain bubbles in the tidy courtyard, where one can relax and enjoy a peaceful moment to plan your next activity (picture 3).

Prices begin at $119 and feature period-style rooms with lovely antique furnishings.

Address: 211 West Austin St., Jefferson, Tx

Phone: 903-665-2513

Price: US$80-120

Theme: Hotel

Website: http://www.theexcelsiorhouse.com