New Orleans, the vibrant heart of Louisiana, is known for its rich history, jazz music, and incredible cuisine. This city offers a unique blend of cultures that can be felt in every corner, from the bustling streets of the French Quarter to the peaceful paths of its historic parks. On my recent trip to New Orleans, I had the pleasure of staying at The Roosevelt Hotel, a place that truly embodies the spirit of the city. In this blog post, I’ll share my personal experience at The Roosevelt and introduce you to five other hotels that I’ve researched and believe are among the best in New Orleans.

My Stay at The Roosevelt Hotel: A New Orleans Classic

Location and How to Get There

The Roosevelt Hotel is ideally located at 130 Roosevelt Way, just a few blocks from the famous French Quarter. This prime location means you’re within walking distance of some of New Orleans’ most iconic sites, including Bourbon Street, Jackson Square, and the Mississippi River. I arrived in New Orleans by plane, landing at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. From there, it was a straightforward 25-minute drive to the hotel via taxi or rideshare. For those driving into the city, valet parking is available, though it comes at a premium cost.

Booking the Hotel

Booking a room at The Roosevelt was a breeze. I used their official website, which offered various deals depending on the time of year. I recommend checking the site regularly for seasonal promotions or package deals that include breakfast or spa credits. The process was straightforward, and I received confirmation within minutes. Alternatively, The Roosevelt is also listed on popular booking platforms like Booking.com and Expedia, which sometimes offer competitive rates.

First Impressions and Environment

Stepping into The Roosevelt is like taking a step back in time. The lobby is grand, with its marble floors, glittering chandeliers, and opulent décor that harkens back to its early 20th-century origins. The hotel exudes a classic New Orleans charm, blending luxury with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The staff were incredibly polite and helpful, making check-in a seamless experience. The overall ambiance was that of refined elegance, which immediately made me feel at ease.

Room and Facilities

I stayed in a King Deluxe room, which was spacious, impeccably clean, and beautifully decorated. The bed was one of the most comfortable I’ve ever slept in, and the room included modern amenities like a large flat-screen TV, a well-stocked minibar, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The marble bathroom featured a deep soaking tub and high-quality toiletries, adding to the luxurious feel.

The hotel also boasts a range of facilities that cater to both relaxation and convenience. The rooftop pool, with its stunning views of the city, was a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. I also took advantage of the on-site Waldorf Astoria Spa, which offers a variety of treatments designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. For dining, The Roosevelt’s restaurant, Domenica, served some of the best Italian dishes I’ve ever tasted outside of Italy. The hotel’s Sazerac Bar is a must-visit, known for its namesake cocktail and rich history.

Overall Experience and Rating

My stay at The Roosevelt was nothing short of exceptional. The combination of luxurious accommodations, top-notch service, and a prime location made it the perfect base for my New Orleans adventure. I would rate my experience a solid 9.5 out of 10, with only the high cost of parking being a minor downside. Whether you’re visiting New Orleans for the first time or are a returning traveler, I highly recommend The Roosevelt for a truly memorable stay.

Five More Top Hotels in New Orleans

While I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at The Roosevelt, New Orleans is home to many other fantastic hotels that offer unique experiences. Here are five more hotels that I’ve researched and believe are among the best the city has to offer.

1. The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans

The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans, is located at 921 Canal Street, on the edge of the French Quarter. This five-star hotel is known for its luxurious accommodations and impeccable service. Situated in a prime location, guests are just steps away from the vibrant nightlife of Bourbon Street, the historic charm of the French Quarter, and the shopping and dining options of Canal Street.

Facilities and Amenities

The Ritz-Carlton offers a range of facilities designed to cater to the needs of its guests. The hotel features a full-service spa, complete with a variety of treatments inspired by the city’s unique culture, including a Voodoo Ritual treatment. The on-site restaurant, M Bistro, serves farm-to-table Southern cuisine, while the Davenport Lounge offers live jazz music several nights a week.

Rooms at The Ritz-Carlton are spacious and elegantly decorated, with a focus on comfort and luxury. Each room includes a flat-screen TV, marble bathroom, and plush bedding. Guests can also enjoy 24-hour room service and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Pricing and Booking

As one would expect from a Ritz-Carlton property, the rates here are on the higher end. Prices for a standard room typically start at around $400 per night, with suites costing significantly more. Booking can be done directly through the Ritz-Carlton’s website, where they often offer packages that include breakfast or spa credits. The hotel is also listed on most major booking platforms, where you might find special deals or discounts.

Nearby Attractions

The Ritz-Carlton’s location on Canal Street means that many of New Orleans’ top attractions are within easy walking distance. In addition to the French Quarter and Bourbon Street, guests can visit the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, the historic St. Louis Cathedral, and the lively French Market.

2. The Pontchartrain Hotel

Located in the Garden District at 2031 St. Charles Avenue, The Pontchartrain Hotel is a historic property that blends old-world charm with modern luxury. This boutique hotel has been a favorite of celebrities and dignitaries since it opened in the 1920s. The hotel is conveniently located along the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line, providing easy access to the French Quarter and other parts of the city.

Facilities and Amenities

The Pontchartrain Hotel is home to the famous Caribbean Room, a restaurant that offers a contemporary twist on classic New Orleans cuisine. The Bayou Bar, located within the hotel, is a cozy spot for cocktails and live music, while Hot Tin, the rooftop bar, provides stunning views of the city skyline.

Rooms at The Pontchartrain are stylishly decorated with a mix of vintage and modern elements. Each room includes a flat-screen TV, high-quality linens, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The hotel also offers valet parking and concierge services.

Pricing and Booking

Rooms at The Pontchartrain Hotel are reasonably priced for the level of luxury offered, with rates starting around $200 per night. Bookings can be made directly through the hotel’s website, where you may find special offers or packages. It’s also available on popular booking platforms like Booking.com and Expedia.

Nearby Attractions

The Garden District is one of New Orleans’ most picturesque neighborhoods, known for its stunning antebellum mansions and lush gardens. Guests can easily explore Magazine Street, which is lined with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. The St. Charles Avenue streetcar offers a scenic ride to the French Quarter, making it easy to explore all that New Orleans has to offer.

3. The Ace Hotel New Orleans

The Ace Hotel New Orleans, located at 600 Carondelet Street, is a hip, modern hotel in the Warehouse District, a neighborhood known for its art galleries, museums, and trendy eateries. The hotel itself is a blend of contemporary design and vintage touches, making it a popular choice for younger travelers and creatives.

Facilities and Amenities

The Ace Hotel offers a variety of amenities designed to cater to a creative crowd. The rooftop pool and bar are popular hangouts, offering stunning views of the city. The hotel also features an in-house music venue, Three Keys, which hosts live performances regularly. Dining options include Josephine Estelle, an Italian osteria, and Seaworthy, a seafood bar.

Rooms at The Ace Hotel are stylishly minimalist, with custom furniture, local art, and vintage-inspired decor. Each room includes a flat-screen TV, record player, and a well-stocked minibar. The hotel also offers complimentary Wi-Fi and room service.

Pricing and Booking

Rooms at The Ace Hotel start at around $250 per night, with prices varying depending on the season and room type. You can book directly through the Ace Hotel’s website or through major booking platforms where you might find promotional rates.

Nearby Attractions

The Ace Hotel’s location in the Warehouse District means that guests are close to some of New Orleans’ top cultural attractions, including the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, the Contemporary Arts Center, and The National WWII Museum. The French Quarter is just a short walk or streetcar ride away, offering easy access to the city’s nightlife and historic sites.

4. Hotel Monteleone

Hotel Monteleone is a landmark in the heart of the French Quarter at 214 Royal Street. This historic hotel, established in 1886, is famous for its literary connections, having hosted numerous authors over the years, including Ernest Hemingway and Tennessee Williams. The hotel’s iconic Carousel Bar & Lounge is a must-visit, offering a unique experience as the bar slowly revolves.

Facilities and Amenities

Hotel Monteleone offers a range of luxurious amenities, including a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city, a full-service spa, and a well-equipped fitness center. The on-site Criollo Restaurant serves Creole cuisine with a modern twist, and the Carousel Bar is known for its signature cocktails and live music.

The rooms at Hotel Monteleone are elegantly appointed, with classic furnishings and modern amenities. Each room includes a flat-screen TV, plush bedding, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The hotel also offers room service and valet parking.

Pricing and Booking

Room rates at Hotel Monteleone typically start at around $300 per night, with suites and specialty rooms costing more. The hotel’s website often features special offers, including packages that include breakfast or discounts for extended stays. It’s also listed on major booking platforms.

Nearby Attractions

Hotel Monteleone’s prime location in the French Quarter means that guests are within walking distance of many of New Orleans’ top attractions. Royal Street, known for its antique shops and art galleries, is right outside the door, and Bourbon Street is just a block away. Jackson Square, the French Market, and the Mississippi Riverfront are also close by, making it easy to explore the city on foot.

5. The Eliza Jane

The Eliza Jane, part of the Unbound Collection by Hyatt, is located at 315 Magazine Street, in a series of historic buildings that once housed a printing company. This boutique hotel combines the charm of New Orleans’ past with modern luxury, offering a unique experience in the heart of the Central Business District, just a short walk from the French Quarter.

Facilities and Amenities

The Eliza Jane features a beautiful interior courtyard, a library-themed lounge, and a fitness center. The hotel’s restaurant, Couvant, serves French-inspired cuisine with a Southern twist, and the Press Room bar offers craft cocktails in a cozy, sophisticated setting.

Rooms at The Eliza Jane are designed with a mix of vintage and contemporary elements, featuring exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and custom furnishings. Each room includes a flat-screen TV, luxurious bedding, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The hotel also offers room service and valet parking.

Pricing and Booking

Rooms at The Eliza Jane start at around $220 per night, depending on the season and room type. Bookings can be made directly through the Hyatt website, where you might find special offers or packages that include breakfast or discounted rates for longer stays. The hotel is also available on major booking platforms.

Nearby Attractions

The Eliza Jane’s location in the Central Business District means that guests are close to many of New Orleans’ top attractions. The French Quarter is just a short walk away, and the nearby Canal Street offers easy access to the streetcar lines, making it convenient to explore other parts of the city. The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas and the Riverwalk Marketplace are also within walking distance.

New Orleans is a city that captures the imagination, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and unique charm. Whether you’re staying in the heart of the French Quarter, the serene Garden District, or the trendy Warehouse District, the city’s hotels offer something for everyone. My stay at The Roosevelt was unforgettable, and I’m confident that any of the hotels listed above would provide a similarly exceptional experience.