New hotel to bring eclectic flair to Albany
By David H. Waller
In a town celebrated for its rich history and western charm, the Stone Rabbit Hotel is poised to add another layer of intrigue and hospitality to Albany. Owned by Mike and Betsy Parsons, the hotel blends historical restoration with an eclectic vision, creating a space that promises an unforgettable guest experience.
A Historical Foundation
The hotel occupies two two-story buildings, one of which formerly housed the Albany National Bank. During renovations, layers of plaster were removed to reveal the stunning original rock walls. Betsy noted, “All the rock work has been re-tipped and resealed. These walls were hidden under plaster, and once we uncovered them, we knew they were a treasure.” The tin ceilings, another impressive feature of the building, are original and have been meticulously preserved.
The original bank vault remains intact, serving as a nod to the building’s storied past. Reflecting on this, Betsy shared, “This building has so much history, and we’ve tried to maintain its character while creating something entirely new.”
Modern Amenities with Historical Charm
The Stone Rabbit Hotel features five uniquely designed suites, three of which are already complete, with the remaining two nearing completion. Each suite offers a distinct vibe and outdoor space, and one suite on the ground floor is ADA-compliant. Betsy described the suites, saying, “I want every room to transport you somewhere else—whether it’s the feeling of being in Europe or something with an eclectic, worldly touch. I didn’t want this to be just another Western-themed property.”
Behind the hotel, what was once a large parking area has been transformed into a private courtyard. “We built a large adobe wall to enclose the space and added a fireplace,” Betsy explained. “It’s going to be a space where guests can relax and enjoy their stay.”
Adding to the charm of the hotel, rabbits are found throughout the décor. “There are rabbits everywhere,” Betsy said with a laugh. “Some are hidden, and some are in plain sight. It’s part of the fun, and ties back to the hotel’s name.”
A Vision Born from Childhood
The idea for the hotel was sparked in 2019, but progress was delayed by the pandemic. Reflecting on that time, Betsy shared, “We were just getting into the design process when the pandemic hit, and it put everything on hold. But I used that time to refine the vision. I wanted to create something unexpected and special for Albany.”
The name of the hotel has personal significance for Betsy. “When I was growing up, Ann Blanton had a gift shop with this little cement rabbit that was so detailed. I told my mom I wanted it, and she said, ‘You don’t need a stone rabbit.’ That memory stuck with me, and when we were deciding on a name, it just felt right,” she explained. “Now, everything is printed with the Stone Rabbit name, and it’s become such a part of this project’s identity.”
Thoughtful Touches for Every Guest
Guests of the Stone Rabbit Hotel will receive a curated goodie bag at the end of their stay, filled with locally branded items, including Albany coffee and custom stone rabbit soap. Betsy emphasized her commitment to providing a memorable experience: “It’s all about the details. I want people to leave here feeling like they’ve been transported to a different place.”
The hotel’s lobby will function as a central hub, with a staff member present at all times. While technically an Airbnb-style check-in process will be used, the lobby will provide a personal touch and may also feature retail options in the future.
Future Plans Under the Stone Rabbit Name
The Stone Rabbit brand won’t stop with the hotel. Betsy shared that three additional Airbnb properties are under development in Albany and the surrounding area. “These properties will have the same attention to detail and charm as the hotel,” she said. “We want to offer a range of options for people visiting Albany.”
A New Era of
Hospitality in Albany
Reflecting on Albany’s long-standing need for lodging options, Betsy recalled a conversation with a visitor who mentioned how much they loved visiting the town but felt the lack of accommodations was a challenge. “That really stuck with me,” Betsy said. “I knew there was an opportunity to create something special here, and I think people will be excited to stay.”
The Stone Rabbit Hotel is expected to open its doors in December, just in time to welcome guests for the holidays. With its focus on thoughtful design, historical preservation, and unparalleled guest experiences, the hotel is set to become a cornerstone of Albany hospitality.
“We’ve poured so much into this project,” Betsy said. “I just hope that when people come, they feel the love and care that went into every detail.”
