Rocking Horse Manor Bed & Breakfast, Louisville, KY

Victorian charm meets modern-day comfort

by Carrie Daut | August 12, 2011

Louisville boasts the largest Victorian district in the United States, gorgeous rows of old homes that are a must-see on any visitor’s list. But why just visit this historic neighborhood – when you can stay there too?

At the Rocking Horse Manor Bed & Breakfast, you’ll find yourself in the heart of historic Old Louisville. The six-room B&B offers guests accommodations much more intimate than the large downtown hotels, while still only minutes away from all of the city’s top attractions.

Built in 1888, Rocking Horse Manor is a 3-floor stone mansion constructed in the Richardsonian Romanesque style. The beautifully restored home features original stained glass, pocket doors, hand-carved fireplace mantels and high ceilings.

Guests can choose from five standard rooms (the Irish Rose Room, Chelsea’s Garden, Louise’s Country Cottage, Patricia’s Hideaway or the Sellinger Anniversary Suite) or splurge for the 3-room Grand Victorian Suite.

(Insider Tips: Although it’s the smallest room, the Irish Rose Room has some of the prettiest 123 year-old stained glass windows in the entire home. Chelsea’s Garden is uniquely furnished with an elegant four-poster Queen Anne bed.)

All rooms at the Rocking Horse Manor have private baths, feather beds, individual temperature control, cable TV and wireless internet. All guests also have access to the home’s backyard patio and courtyard, the library and parlor, and the third-floor sitting room with mini-office – perfect for business travelers.

Room rates range from $105 - $195 per night (excluding Derby weekend and special events), a steal of a deal when the gourmet breakfast is factored in too. Enjoy a daily breakfast of muffins, quiches, breads, fresh fruits and more, served on white lace and delicate china. Complimentary snacks and beverages are also available in the evenings.

Since 2005, the Rocking Horse B&B has consistently been rated the #1 B&B in Louisville by TripAdvisor.com. And in almost every single one of the 100+ reviews, travelers comment that owners John and Ricardo are incredibly helpful, welcoming and informative.

(Insider Note: And they immediately respond to emails! Extra points!)

Rocking Horse Manor Bed & Breakfast is located at 1022 South Third Street, less than two blocks from the Historic Old Louisville Visitors Center and less than a 10-minute drive from downtown. Email them at rockinghorsebb@iglou.com, or call 502-583-0408 or 1-888-HORSE-BB. For online booking, photos and more information, visit their website at www.rockinghorse-bb.com.