New Orleans holds a special place in my heart, and it’s a favorite for many—not just during Mardi Gras, but all year round, thanks to its bustling schedule of conferences, music festivals, and party scenes. If you’re planning a visit, picking the right hotel can make all the difference. Here are my top recommendations from numerous visits:
1. Villa Convento – Nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, this historic hotel exudes old-world charm with its arched check-in desk, wood-paneled walls, and hallway chandeliers. It’s rumored to be the inspiration for the song “House of the Rising Sun.” While breakfast isn’t provided, you can enjoy complimentary local coffee and tea all day. The rooms, adorned with antique furniture and artwork, offer a quaint, budget-friendly stay. Amenities include flatscreen TVs and complimentary toiletries, with some rooms featuring minifridges. A communal fridge and microwave in the lobby are also available.
2. Inn at the Old Jail – This unique boutique hotel was once a jail and later a library, now transformed into a charming accommodation by two brothers. It features a rooftop deck and a full guest kitchen. Rooms vary, with some keeping historical quirks like inmate carvings on the walls. They’re furnished with antique items and queen beds with memory foam mattresses, plus bathrooms featuring classic subway tiles. Located in Tremé, it’s perfect for exploring authentic Creole and Cajun cuisine.
3. St. Charles Coach House – Situated in the Lower Garden District, this hotel blends modern amenities with historical architecture. Recently renovated, it offers contemporary rooms with lots of natural light, desks, comfy chairs, and Keurig coffee makers. The bathrooms are spacious with fun tiled floors and walk-in showers. With no breakfast service, Avenue Café nearby is a great spot for morning meals. Plus, a streetcar stop right outside makes city exploration easy.
4. Creole Gardens Inn – This bed and breakfast in the Garden District operates out of a 19th-century antebellum mansion. The hosts provide a warm welcome and serve a delicious breakfast with items like quiches and sweet pastries. Rooms vary in size and style, featuring bold decorations and eclectic furniture. This spot offers a taste of true southern hospitality in a relaxing, picturesque setting.
5. Serenity in the Marigny – Combining the luxury of a high-end B&B with the amenities of a resort, Serenity offers stylish rooms and a spa on-site. Enjoy a rooftop hot tub, sauna, and a healthy breakfast spread with the owners, who are great for local tips. Rooms are chic, with modern art and private entrances, and the bathrooms boast rainfall showers.
6. Maison Métier – For a touch of luxury in the Warehouse District, this five-star hotel features a unique cocktail bar accessible through a secret bookcase. The hotel offers a classic yet funky ambiance with colorful furniture and patterned rugs. Rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, with stunning bathrooms that include deep soaking tubs. Guests can enjoy complimentary morning coffee or tea delivery, making it a refined yet interesting choice for a luxurious stay.
These hotels each offer something unique, ensuring your stay in New Orleans is as memorable as the city itself.
