With so much happening in New Orleans, it’s important to choose wisely where to stay. For early birds or light sleepers, avoiding Bourbon Street is a good idea, but for those who love to party, it’s perfect.
I instantly fell in love with New Orleans on my first visit. There’s an amazing energy that just draws you in, and after my second trip, I’m already planning a third. New Orleans is packed with fun and cool things to do and see, making it one of the best cities in the US.
Luckily, there are plenty of great places to stay.
French Quarter:
If it’s your first time in New Orleans, the French Quarter is ideal. Also known as Vieux Carré, meaning “Old Square,” this historic heart of the city is a must-see. Despite its name, the architecture is largely Spanish because the area was rebuilt during Spanish rule after a fire.
The French Quarter is the bustling center of tourism with many hotels, restaurants, shops, and bars. Situated along the Mississippi River, it offers beautiful views and pleasant riverside parks. It’s also home to Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral, making it perfect for exploring on foot.
Top Hotels in the French Quarter:
1. This historic hotel, dating back to 1838, features a heated rooftop pool, a fitness center, and the award-winning Rib Room where you can try classic New Orleans cuisine.
2. Centrally located in the French Quarter, this hotel has a cool courtyard-style architecture with a pool and some rooms offering private hot tubs and patios for ultimate relaxation.
3. Close enough to Bourbon Street to join the party but far enough to avoid the noise, this charming hotel boasts the unique Carousel Bar, an actual revolving bar that’s one of the best in New Orleans.
Bourbon Street:
For those who want to be right in the action, Bourbon Street is the place to stay. Known for its wild nightlife, Mardi Gras celebrations, and other festivals, it’s a vibrant area. The hotels here are right on top of the action, so it’s not the place if you’re looking for peace and quiet.
Top Hotels on Bourbon Street:
1. This spot feels more like a resort with on-site restaurants and bars, some rooms featuring wrought-iron balconies perfect for people-watching, especially during Mardi Gras.
2. Offering a cozy boutique experience with only 14 rooms, this restored house is right next to Lafitte’s Blacksmith Bar & Shop, one of the oldest bars in New Orleans.
3. Although not technically on Bourbon Street, this hotel is close by and features a Prohibition Era-inspired speakeasy, making it a great start to your night out.
Garden District:
For a peaceful and laid-back experience, the Garden District is a fantastic choice. Known for its beauty, development here started with few homes per block allowing for large gardens. Now, it’s home to many incredible mansions, some owned by celebrities.
Top Hotels in the Garden District:
1. This hotel offers chic decor with standard rooms and large suites, a fitness center, and easy access to the French Quarter via streetcar.
2. Parisian Courtyard Inn provides a personalized B&B experience with delicious breakfast and rave reviews about its amazing staff.
3. This Victorian home turned hotel is beautifully restored and locally owned, offering rooms with antique decor and balconies.
Faubourg Marigny:
For a more local experience, try Faubourg Marigny, a small neighborhood east of the French Quarter. Known for its live music on Frenchmen Street, it’s a great spot for music lovers. The adjacent Bywater has become a hipster haven with a vibrant artistic community.
Top hotels in Faubourg Marigny:
1. This boutique hotel is set in a 19th-century Creole home, perfect for bar-hopping on Frenchmen Street. Enjoy their $3 martinis during Happy Hour.
2. This upmarket hotel, set in a former church and schoolhouse, features unique rooms, parlors, a sunroom, a cafe, and more.
3. The Mansion on Royal, another beautifully restored building, offers well-appointed suites, a hot tub in the backyard, and proximity to the riverside Crescent Park.
Central Business District (CBD):
If you’re visiting New Orleans for a conference, sporting event, or a big concert/festival, staying in the Central Business District (CBD) is convenient. It’s close to the Superdome and the Smoothie King Center, and not far from the French Quarter via streetcar.
Top Hotels in CBD:
1. Next to the Superdome and Smoothie King Center, this 4-star hotel offers a variety of rooms and on-site restaurants and bars.
2. Located near Lafayette Square and the World War II Museum, the Drury Plaza has an outdoor pool, fitness and business centers, and free snacks and drinks in the evening.
3. This hip boutique hotel features turntables and guitars in rooms, an on-site music venue, and a rooftop pool with a bar.
New Orleans is full of amazing places to stay no matter what you’re looking for. Just make sure to book early during big events like Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest as rooms fill up fast and prices can skyrocket. Have a great trip!
