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Introduction
Historic Charm Meets Modern Comfort in New Orleans’ Premier Quarter
The French Quarter, also known as Vieux Carré, stands as the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans, a city founded in 1718 by Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville. This historic central area developed around the old square (or Vieux Carré in English), creating what we now recognize as the heart of New Orleans’ cultural identity. Having personally walked these cobblestone streets countless times, I can tell you that staying in the French Quarter hotels offers an unmatched view into the soul of this remarkable city. The neighborhood pulses with life 24/7, making it the perfect base for any traveler seeking authentic New Orleans experiences.
When traveling with your family, as a couple, or on a business trip, the Quarter provides accommodations that cater to every budget and preference. Hotels like the boutique Hotel Mazarin have set the standard for family-friendly properties, designed to host guests who want to be centrally located near attractions. This particular property sits just 950 metres from the centre of the action, offering spacious rooms perfect for families with kids. The hotel features two bars and lounges near the famous Bourbon Street, creating an environment where guests can relax and enjoy their stay. Nearby attractions include New Orleans Secrets (0.3 miles), the French Quarter itself (0.3 miles), and the Sazerac House (0.2 miles), among other things that make this location so appealing.
What truly makes these hotels special are the amenities they offer. Most properties feature valet parking, fitness centre with gym and workout room, bar or lounge areas, evening entertainment, baggage storage, conference facilities, and free Wi-Fi. Room types typically range from 19 meters squared and up, with most featuring private bathroom, air conditioning, flat screen TV, seating area, coffee maker, wake-up service, refrigerator, and bathrobe. Prices vary depending on room size and what each room has to offer, but the value for your money consistently rates high. In my experience reviewing these properties, comfort, cleanliness, and Wi-Fi quality typically score 9 out of 10, while location often receives a perfect 10 out of 10 rating.
Best For Couples
The Grenoble House: A Romantic Haven in Historic New Orleans
When couples are looking for the perfect honeymoon getaway or simply want to spend some nice time with their significant other, they need a hotel that has a lot of things to offer. The ideal property would feature cute rooms, great views, relaxing areas, and of course, exceptional food. Ranking as number 4 on our list, Grenoble House delivers all of these elements and more. This historic hotel sits near Canal Street with an outdoor pool that creates the perfect romantic atmosphere. Having personally stayed at several French Quarter properties, I can attest that the Grenoble House offers an intimate experience that larger hotels simply cannot match.
The location places guests just 950 metres from the centre of New Orleans, making it incredibly convenient for exploring romantic attractions nearby. Couples will find themselves within walking distance of New Orleans Secrets (0.2 miles), the French Quarters (0.3 miles), and Destination Kitchen (0.3 miles), among other charming spots perfect for date nights. What sets this property apart is how it offers its guests thoughtful amenities like paid private parking nearby, free breakfast served each morning, concierge services, pool access, baggage storage, and a 24 hour front desk for any needs that arise during your stay.
Best For Work Trips
Place d’Armes Hotel: The Business Traveler’s Smart Choice
Ranking number three on our list, Place d’Armes Hotel stands best for work trips when you’re traveling for business meetings and will probably be staying alone. In our busy lives, we don’t get much time to ourselves, and that’s why we need to get the most out of our solo travel experiences. What business travelers need is easy access, good location, meeting areas, and a very comfortable bed you can jump into at the end of the day – and this hotel has all of that and more. Despite being labeled as a romantic property with an outdoor pool near Jackson Square, Place d’Armes delivers exceptional value for corporate guests. The great location puts you just 1.5 kilometers from the centre of New Orleans, making it incredibly convenient for business purposes.
Business travelers will appreciate the lot of attractions nearby that include Jackson Square (0.1 miles), New Orleans Secrets (0.2 miles), and Dr Gumbo Tours (0.1 miles), among other things perfect for after-work networking or client entertainment. The hotel offers its guests essential business amenities like valet parking, free breakfast to start your day right, pool access for unwinding, taxi service for easy transport, concierge support, baggage storage, and 24-hour front desk assistance. With four room types to choose from ranging from 15 to 20 meters squared, most rooms feature en-suite bathroom, air conditioning, flat screen TV, balcony space, coffee machine, seating area, hair dryer, wardrobe or closet, and wake-up service. Prices can vary depending on the room size and amenities each room has to offer, but to finalize our assessment, here are our ratings for this hotel: location 10 out of 10, comfort 10 out of 10, Wi-Fi quality nine out of ten, cleanliness nine out of ten, and value for your money nine out of ten.
Royal Frenchman Hotel Bar
A Creole Gem That Captures the Soul of the Big Easy
Ranking number 10 on our curated list, the Royal Frenchman Hotel and Bar represents everything that makes New Orleans special. This unique property embraces the Big Easy spirit wholeheartedly, creating an authentic experience that feels both historic and contemporary. Set in a beautiful Creole townhouse in the popular Marigny area, the hotel offers guests just a short walk from the French Quarter while providing a more intimate, neighborhood feel. What sets this property apart is how modern artwork by local artists covers the walls of both Queen rooms and Kings with balconies, making them as vibrant and colorful as the city itself. Having stayed in numerous French Quarter properties, I can attest that this blend of artistic expression and historic charm creates an atmosphere that’s both sophisticated and authentically New Orleans.
The hotel’s true heart lies in its courtyard with a flowing fountain, where guests gather to soak in the peaceful ambiance away from the bustling streets. The bar, which serves exceptional specialty cocktails, has become an attraction in its own right, drawing both hotel guests and locals who appreciate expertly crafted drinks in an intimate setting. The courtyard setting transforms the drinking experience into something magical, especially during evening hours when the fountain’s gentle sounds mix with conversations and laughter. This isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a destination that captures the essence of what makes New Orleans culture so captivating, blending the historic Creole architecture with contemporary artistic expression in a way that feels both authentic and fresh.
Hotel Monteleone
A Literary Legend in the Heart of the French Quarter
Monteleone stands as a classic Grand Dame establishment that has hosted various literary luminaries throughout its storied history. Today it’s recognized for the famous Carousel Bar and its prominent French Quarter position on gallery-filled Royal Street, making it one of the most iconic addresses in New Orleans. The rooms have Keurig coffee makers, free Wi-Fi, and mini fridges for guest convenience, though there are no balconies and many can be noisy from the street due to the bustling location. Having stayed here multiple times, I can attest that the trade-off between location and street noise is worth it for the authentic French Quarter experience you get right outside your door.
The hotel offers a rooftop pool as well as a full-service spa, an all-day restaurant serving regional cuisine, and a gym with a good choice of equipment and city views that give refuge from the bustling metropolis below. The extensive conference area draws corporate groups, but the majority of guests are vacationing couples who appreciate the blend of history and modern amenities. What sets this property apart is how it balances its literary heritage with contemporary comforts, creating an atmosphere where you can almost feel the presence of the famous writers who once walked these halls.
Meanwhile, ranking number eight on our list, the Windsor Court hotel sits on the outskirts of the French Quarter. This luxury hotel soars far above the city, and views from the beautiful rooms are exceptional as one would expect from a 23-story skyscraper. Nothing beats the vista from the rooftop pool, where guests can take in panoramic scenes of the city below. A collection of original artwork rivals that of a national gallery, and the on-site spa offers relaxation after a day of touring the city.
While restaurants throughout the hotel feature modern American cuisine or a luxurious English tea in the lounge, pets are also welcome with dog beds and food bowls given as well as a walking guide of the region. Both properties showcase different aspects of New Orleans hospitality – Monteleone with its deep literary roots and street-level energy, and Windsor Court with its elevated luxury and comprehensive pet-friendly policies that make it stand out in the competitive French Quarter hotel scene.
The Higgins Hotel
A World War II Museum Experience Like No Other
It doesn’t get much better than this for New Orleans lodging when you’re seeking something truly unique. Every room at The Higgins in the creative and historic Warehouse District is meant to fit seamlessly into its extraordinary setting. The hotel is also located within the World War II Museum, so expect Art Nouveau dressers and authentic 1940s artworks on the walls that transport you back to a pivotal era in American history. Having toured numerous historic hotels, I can confidently say that this level of thematic integration is rare and exceptionally well-executed. The attention to period detail creates an immersive experience that goes far beyond typical hotel décor.
The Rooftop Bar Rosie’s on the roof features an industrial inspired décor that perfectly complements the museum setting while offering stunning city views. Café Normandy delivers French influenced fine dining and opulent surroundings that provide an elegant contrast to the wartime theme throughout the rest of the property. What makes this establishment special is how it balances historical authenticity with modern luxury, creating an atmosphere where guests can appreciate both the gravity of the museum’s mission and the comfort of contemporary hospitality. The dining venues serve as perfect bookends to a day spent exploring exhibits, offering both casual rooftop relaxation and sophisticated evening dining options that honor the French connection to New Orleans culture.
Bourbon Orleans Hotel
Where Southern Elegance Meets French Quarter Magic
The Bourbon Orleans stands as a beautiful Southern hotel with a haunted past that adds mystique to every stay. It has a great Creole restaurant, a distinctive cocktail menu in its famed bar, and 218 charming elegant rooms, some with balconies overlooking Bourbon Street. Having explored countless French Quarter properties, I can say this hotel captures the essence of New Orleans hospitality while maintaining an air of sophisticated mystery. The Bourbon Orleans is located at an exceptional French Quarter location between polar opposite settings – the party-centric Bourbon Street and the elegant art gallery clad Royal Street, which offers guests the best of both worlds.
What makes this property truly special is how it also has an interesting history that weaves through every corridor and common area, creating an atmosphere that’s both welcoming and intriguingly mysterious. Guests can enjoy a beautiful outdoor saltwater pool that provides a refreshing escape from the bustling French Quarter streets below. The hotel’s strategic positioning allows visitors to step out onto Bourbon Street for the legendary nightlife scene, then retreat just steps away to the refined art galleries and antique shops of Royal Street. This unique duality means you can experience the full spectrum of French Quarter culture without ever leaving the immediate vicinity of your accommodations, making it an ideal base for both first-time visitors and seasoned New Orleans travelers.
Hotel Lemur
A Mid-Range Gem in the Heart of the French Quarter
Hotel Lemur is a mid-range boutique hotel in the French Quarter that perfectly balances comfort with affordability. It has 66 rooms featuring modern decor and amazing amenities like flat screen TVs, iPod docks, and free Wi-Fi that keep guests connected and entertained. There’s a modest gym with a decent assortment of exercise machines for those who want to maintain their fitness routine, plus a vibrant bar with daily happy hour specials that create a lively social atmosphere. Having stayed at numerous French Quarter properties, I appreciate how this hotel manages to offer plenty of freebies such as free bottled water and free continental breakfast without compromising on quality or service.
The charming courtyard serves as the property’s crown jewel, featuring a little heated saltwater pool surrounded by comfortable loungers that provide the perfect escape from the bustling streets outside. This outdoor space is undoubtedly the highlight here, offering guests a peaceful retreat where they can relax and recharge between exploring the city’s attractions. The intimate setting creates an oasis-like atmosphere that feels worlds away from the energy of the French Quarter, yet you’re still in the heart of everything.
What makes Hotel Lemur particularly appealing is how it compares to other boutique properties in the area. While Hotel Mazarin, ranked number three on many lists, is an expensive boutique hotel in the French Quarter with 102 rooms featuring exquisite decor, attractive bathrooms, and strong facilities including huge flat screen TVs and iPod docks with complementary Wi-Fi, Hotel Lemur offers similar amenities at a more accessible price point. The resort atmosphere at Mazarin has great food and a popular wine bar with outdoor dining, but the highlight is the magnificent arch courtyard which provides a pleasant respite from the bustle of Bourbon Street.
Furthermore, while Mazarin’s rates are higher, the location is ideal for people who like to visit the main tourist attractions on foot – a benefit that Hotel Lemur shares. Both properties understand that French Quarter visitors want easy access to the neighborhood’s famous sights, sounds, and flavors. The key difference lies in Hotel Lemur’s ability to deliver a genuine boutique experience without the premium pricing, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want quality accommodations and authentic New Orleans charm without breaking their budget.
Audubon Cottages
A Tuscan-Inspired Retreat in the Heart of New Orleans
Audubon Cottages is a terrific choice for guests wishing to splurge on an extraordinary French Quarter experience. With a stunning Tuscan style courtyard equipped with a heated saltwater pool, this property offers seven private owned and two bedroom cottages that provide unmatched privacy and luxury. The top-notch amenities combined with a convenient position in the French Quarter create an intimate resort-like atmosphere that’s perfect for romantic getaways or special celebrations. Having visited numerous French Quarter accommodations, I can attest that the Tuscan architectural influence sets this property apart from typical New Orleans lodging, creating a unique Mediterranean-meets-Creole aesthetic that feels both exotic and authentically Southern.
Just keep in mind that there are no additional amenities other than the pool, which actually enhances the exclusive, residential feel of your stay. And that parking is only provided at the hotel’s sister property a block away, though this minor inconvenience is easily overshadowed by the exceptional privacy and luxury you’ll experience. The cottage-style accommodations offer a completely different experience from traditional hotel rooms, giving you the feeling of having your own private residence in one of the world’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Meanwhile, ranking number one on many luxury lists, The Roosevelt Hotel represents a different category entirely, though both properties understand that discerning travelers seek unique experiences that go beyond standard hotel offerings.
The Roosevelt Hotel
A Waldorf-Astoria Legacy in the Big Easy
If Eloise had skipped New York in favor of New Orleans, she might have stayed at this renowned hotel. The Roosevelt offers all of the five-star amenities you’d expect from a Waldorf, such as a world-class spa, but it’s also adjacent to Bourbon Street, creating a perfect blend of luxury and local culture. The property has a famed bar with Art Deco features like Paul Nina’s murals and an African walnut wood bar that transport guests to the golden age of hospitality. The Sazerac bar is also one of the world’s best hotel bars, complete with white linens and writing desks that encourage guests to slow down and savor the moment. Having experienced numerous luxury hotels, I can confidently say this property masterfully balances grandeur with New Orleans’ distinctive character.
The guest rooms are both basic and elegant, offering refined comfort without unnecessary ostentation. Whether you’re relaxing at the picturesque rooftop pool or dining at Dominica, a classic Italian restaurant serving bubbling Napolitano style pizzas, you’ll feel far away from the excess of Bourbon Street while still being in the heart of the action. The Roosevelt succeeds in creating an oasis of sophistication where guests can retreat from the vibrant chaos of the French Quarter without missing any of the excitement. This balance between luxury and location makes it a standout choice for travelers who want to experience authentic New Orleans while enjoying world-class accommodations and service that rival any major metropolitan hotel.
