Louise S. McGehee School, New Orleans

Make sure to have a gander at the Second Empire-style mansion that architect James Freret whipped up for sugar tycoon Bradish Johnson back in 1872. Fronted by mighty Corinthian columns, it's like a grand opera house decided to take root in the Garden District. The crown jewel of sugar planter cribs, it boasted all the ritzy bells and whistles of its era. Just imagine, it had a conservatory (for when you needed some extra oxygen), a marble pantry (to keep your marble collection safe, obviously), a grand circular staircase (perfect for dramatic entrances), and even a fancy-dancy elevator – because nothing says "I'm loaded" like an elevator in the 1800s. Oh, and it's also got a basement – a rare treat in the city.

Since 1929, this place has been put to good use as a private school for girls. They turned a stable into a cafeteria, and the gym? That's a spiffy refurbished carriage house. And let's not forget about the gardens, where you'll find some seriously magnificent magnolias and ginger trees. While you're at it, be sure to admire the steep mansard roof with its wrought-iron parapet and the quirky bull's-eye window right on the front. This mansion doesn't play second fiddle to anyone!