Where to Stay in New Orleans. Hotels, Neighborhoods, Accommodation

Accommodation Types

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

Hostels:
Budget-friendly dorms and private rooms. Communal areas are common. Good for meeting travelers.
Boutique Hotels:
Smaller, independently owned hotels with unique design and individual service. Distinct character.
Historic Hotels:
Properties with architectural or cultural heritage. Found in the French Quarter or CBD. Immersive past.
Luxury Hotels:
High-end service, amenities, and often iconic properties. Comfort and indulgence.

Additional Lodging Types

Chain Hotels:
Major brands like Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt. Consistent standards, mainly in the CBD. Reliable service.
Guesthouses (B&Bs):
Quaint, intimate settings in historic homes. Breakfast and local charm. Personalized experience.
Shotgun Houses:
Narrow, rectangular homes, characteristic Nola architecture. Many are vacation rentals.
Creole Cottages:
Historic, often brightly painted cottages. Many converted into B&Bs or short-term rentals. Glimpse into the past.

Neighborhood Guide

New Orleans' neighborhoods each have a distinct character.

French Quarter

Pros:

Oldest, most famous district
Historical buildings, live music
Restaurants, art galleries
Lively, heart of visitor activity

Cons:

Very lively, especially at night
Can be very crowded
Higher prices
Party atmosphere may not suit all

Central Business District CBD

Pros:

Modern amenities
Good transport access
Proximity to museums
Access to main hotels

Cons:

Less historic feel
Quieter at night in some parts
More business-oriented
Might feel less intimate

Garden District

Pros:

Beautiful, quiet, charming
Residential feel
Access to parks
Architectural tours

Cons:

Further from French Quarter
Streetcar/taxi needed for access
Fewer nightlife options
More relaxed atmosphere

Considerations

Safety:

Tourist areas are well-policed. Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone in deserted areas late at night. Secure valuables.

Proximity & Transport:

French Quarter and CBD areas are walkable. Garden District entry via St. Charles Streetcar. Marigny/Bywater for Frenchmen Street.

Booking Strategies

Booking accommodations early is advisable, especially during peak seasons.

Advance Booking Recommendations

Peak Season (Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest): Book 6-12 months ahead. Prices surge, availability limited.
Shoulder Season (Sept-Oct, Dec-Jan): Book 3-6 months ahead. More choices, better rates.
Low Season (Summer): Book 1-3 months ahead. Last-minute deals found.
Flexibility with dates helps find better deals.

Trusted Booking Platforms

Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) like Booking.com, Expedia, Agoda.
Direct booking with hotel online platforms like IHG Hotels for possible perks.
Vacation Rentals via Airbnb and Vrbo.
Budget options on Hostelworld.

Important Considerations

Negotiation Customs:

Negotiation is rare at established hotels.
Achievable at very small motels during low season.
Generally, the posted rate applies.

Deposit and Cancellation:

Policies vary by property.
Review specific terms before booking.
Deposits and strict cancellation windows are common for peak events.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

Demand is highest:

During major festivals and pleasant weather seasons.

Demand is minimalest:

During the hot summer months (June-August).

Tip:

Flexibility with travel dates can find better rates.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some specific recommendations for different the needs of travelers.

Types of Stays

Budget Options

Highly affordable places to stay.

Pros: Very affordable, social atmosphere (hostels).
Cons: Limited amenities, shared rooms (hostels).
Best For: Solo travelers, backpackers, groups on a budget.

Mid-Range Options

Good value with unique character and comfort.

Pros: Good value, unique character, comfortable.
Cons: Lacking extensive amenities of luxury hotels.
Best For: Couples, families, travelers seeking charm.

Luxury Options

Premium service with extensive amenities.

Pros: Premium service, extensive amenities, top spots.
Cons: Higher cost, can feel less intimate.
Best For: Travelers in search of comfort, indulgence, special occasions.

Vacation Rentals

Apartments or whole houses for short-extended visits.

Pros: More space, kitchen, local living, privacy.
Cons: Cleaning fees, less service than hotels.
Best For: Families, groups, longer stays, authentic experience.

Featured Properties

Top Picks Budget

HI New Orleans Hostel (CBD): Modern, clean, central.
The Quisby (Garden District): Boutique hostel with a lively bar.

Top Picks Mid-Range

The Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery (Warehouse District): Trendy, art-focused.
Hotel Monteleone (French Quarter): Historic, Carousel Bar.

Top Picks Luxury

The Roosevelt New Orleans (CBD): Historic grandeur, Sazerac Bar.
Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans (Riverfront): Modern luxury, rooftop pool.

Traveler Specifics

Family-Friendly Options:
Large branded hotels in CBD (pools, amenities). Vacation rentals (space, kitchens). Embassy Suites (all-suite, complimentary breakfast).
Solo Traveler:
Hostels (social events). Small Marigny/Bywater (local feel). Hotels in CBD (public transport, security).
Long-Stay Accommodations:
Extended stay hotels (kitchens). Vacation rentals (weekly/monthly rates possible).

Culturally Significant Properties

Hotel Monteleone:
Literary landmark, known for the Carousel Bar. Hosted many famous writers.
The Roosevelt New Orleans:
Grand dame hotel possessing a wealthy history and famous bars. Classic elegance.
Soniat House:
Elegant, historic Creole townhouses changed into a luxury hotel. Tranquil escape.
Hotel Peter & Paul:
Meticulously restored former church complex. Unique design and compelling story.