There’s no doubt that most cities in the United States possess their own feel. The hustle and bustle of New York; the old world vibe of Boston; the glitz and glam of Miami and the southern California cool of Los Angeles, but when it comes to cities that are unlike anywhere else, New Orleans, Louisiana may just take the biscuit. This cultural haven drapes itself along the banks of the Mississippi River, and visitors will be thrilled to find out that New Orleans is home to some of the best hotels in America.
With a population of just under 400,000, part of New Orleans’s charm comes from having the size of a large city, yet not having swelled into a great metropolis, ensuring a weekend stopover is just as viable as a whole week exploring the second-largest city in the Deep South.
New Orleans is recognized around the world for its historic Mardi Gras celebrations — the first is thought to have happened in 1699 — that occur for the two weeks before and during Shrove Tuesday. Great parades pop up across the city with decorated floats and a carnival-like atmosphere. This is the time of year when the city of New Orleans reaches its peak, the best hotels will all be full as travelers flock to experience the atmosphere. For many this will be the best time to visit, others may desire a quieter period.
But there’s so much more to New Orleans than Mardi Gras. There’s the city’s unmatched music scene as the birthplace of Jazz and a hub of funk, rhythm and blues, and rock and roll – the airport is even named after the great Louis Armstrong. A stroll through the balconied streets of the French Quarter is like stepping back in time, with French and Spanish Creole architecture and enough bars on Bourbon Street to keep you going into the early hours of the morning.
So for travelers looking to explore a spot that’s regularly referred to as the most unique city in the United States, here are the best hotels in New Orleans.
The Windsor Court
New Orleans is known for the heavy French influence, it’s unmissable wherever you turn, but The Windsor Court takes its ques from another European superpower. Developed by New Orleans businessman and self-proclaimed anglophile James “Jimmy” Coleman Jr in 1984, today, The Windsor Court remains one of the best hotels in the city.
Here, grand guestrooms and suites convey a level of grandeur that pairs wondrously with the hotel’s extensive art collection, valued at over $10m, with some pieces dating back to the 17th century. It’s not just the rooms that are well-appointed, when it comes to dining guests can enjoy classic fine dining, afternoon tea or perhaps something a little more lively by heading to the polo club for cocktails, which often features live jazz – this is New Orleans after all.
Head up to the rooftop and you will discover a 65ft saltwater pool that is heated in the winter and ideal for cooling off in the summer. The pool bar and cabanas combined with unmatched views of the city ensure it’s the perfect spot to spend of few hours.
Top suite: James J. Coleman, Jr. Presidential Suite
Guests looking for the most refined stay will be delighted by the old-world charm of the James J. Coleman, Jr. Presidential Suite. Named after the hotel’s founder, this expansive abode has been recently reimagined, yet still conveys its feel of European luxury. Stretching across 2,800 sq ft of the 22nd floor, this two-bed, two-bath suite continues the traditions of the hotel’s original developer with its links to English design and love of Polo.
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thewindsorcourt.com
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Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans
You don’t develop a reputation that’s as good as The Four Seasons without being one of the best in the business, and to the surprise of absolutely nobody, The Four Seasons New Orleans continues the trend. Positioned in the center of the action in the city’s famous French Quarter, Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans makes the ideal base for those looking to explore authentic New Orleans and is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in the city.
This expansive tower on the banks of the Mississippi provides guests with ample space and unmatched riverfront views. Rooms and suites have been exquisitely appointed featuring bright tones and large windows that help to flood the space with light.
The dining is similarly elevated. Those looking for authentic Creole cuisine should head to Miss River from acclaimed chef Alon Shaya, while Chemin à la Mer provides of Four Seasons with a classic steak and seafood option.
Top Suite: Presidential Suite
The impressively sized 2,439 sq ft Presidential Suite is located on floor 17, revealing northern views of both the river and the French Quarter. This one-bedroom suite is highlighted by tasteful crimson red accents and includes both a private office and exercise room. Entertaining is also a breeze with the dining table that’s suitable for 10 guests.
fourseasons.com
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The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel
The Waldorf Astoria brand is one that’s synonymous with luxury and nowhere is this highlighted like The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, which is surely one of the best hotels in New Orleans. Having operated as a hotel since 1893, this hotel truly hums with the history of New Orleans, transporting guests, if just for a moment, back to the golden age.
While this property is not afraid to lean into its period features, its rooms are decidedly contemporary with a bright and airy feel and a host of modern amenities. The hotel bar, The Sazerac Bar, is a New Orleans institution that has been faithfully restored and makes the ideal meeting spot before a night on the town.
The hotel spa is also widely considered one of the finest in the Deep South, providing a host of treatments that can be personalized for the individual. Travelers looking for an elevated stay in the heart of the action just off Canal Street
Top Suite: Presidential Suite
At The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel it’s the Presidential Suite that reigns supreme. Purpose-built for impressing and entertaining friends, the largest presidential suite covers 1,930 sq ft and features a separate living area and dining table for six. The three presidential suites can also be connected to create a multi-bedroom abode with a residential feel.
rooseveltneworleans.com
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The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans
Located inside a 1908 Beaux Arts Maison Blanche building, The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans bangs the energetic jazz-infused drum of this great city and is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in New Orleans. The property comes with all the bells, whistles and exemplary service that’s partly responsible for ensuring customers of The Ritz-Carlton keep coming back, while also paying homage to the uniqueness of New Orleans.
Far from the standard beige hotel fare, the rooms at The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans exude character, with tasteful hints of color giving each space its own personality. The suites follow much the same vein and cater to those looking for a little extra room.
The dining follows a similar authentic tone, expect farm-to-table Louisiana-style cuisine with plenty of shrimp, grits and bouillabaisse over at M Bistro, which serves distinctly southern-style cuisine. Or relax with a drink in the Davenport Lounge and listen to regular performances from Jeremy Davenport and his band.
Top Suite: The Residence
For travelers looking to stay in maximum comfort, The Residence pushes the boundaries of what a hotel suite can be. This expansive two-bedroom penthouse provides an impressive dining room, a fully equipped kitchen, four sizable grand fireplaces and a private rooftop terrace. Guests staying in The Residence all get access to the Maison Orleans Club Level, with its own concierge and exclusive lounge.
theritzcarlton.com
The Westin New Orleans
Residing at the end of Canal St and next to the grand Mississippi, The Westin New Orleans finds itself at the center of all the action. Just steps away from the boutique shops of Royal Street and the permanent buzz of Bourbon Street, this hotel makes the perfect base for some city exploration and rounds off our list of the best hotels in New Orleans.
Here, the rooms and suites are considerably larger than the region’s average, with vast riverside windows that flood each room with light. When it comes time for drinks, the views continue at Observatory Eleven, the hotel’s 11th-floor bar that looks down onto the river. While Bistro at the Bend keeps things casual serving punchy Cajun cuisine.
Top Suite: Presidential Suite
Possessing everything one could expect from a contemporary luxury suite, the Presidential Suite at The Westin New Orleans spreads out over 1750 sq ft. The one-bed, 1.5-bath stay provides a separate living area and dining room that makes it perfect for entertaining. While the impressive views help to give those who stay a true sense of place.
thewestin.com