New Orleans, located in southeastern Louisiana, is renowned for its vibrant music scene, particularly jazz, and its rich cultural heritage influenced by French, Spanish, and Creole traditions. Famous for its lively festivals, including Mardi Gras, and its distinctive cuisine featuring dishes like gumbo and beignets, New Orleans also boasts historical neighborhoods like the French Quarter and significant landmarks such as Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in New Orleans:
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: The Roosevelt New Orleans - A Waldorf Astoria Hotel
- 🏨 4-Star: Omni Riverfront New Orleans
- 💸 Cheap: Chateau Hotel
- 🏢 Apartment: Jazzed On Jackson
- 🏩 For Couples: Hotel Peter and Paul
Guide to the Best Places to Stay in New Orleans:
- 🍷 For Nightlife: French Quarter
- 🎼 For Live Music: Marigny
- 🏰 For History Lovers: Garden District
- 🎨 For Art Enthusiasts: Warehouse District
- 👨🏻💼 For Business Travelers: Central Business District (CBD)
1. French Quarter: Great Neighborhood to Stay in New Orleans for Nightlife
🍹 Cocktail Culture: As the birthplace of the cocktail, New Orleans’ French Quarter boasts numerous historic bars and lounges. Sample a classic Sazerac at the Sazerac House, sip on a Hurricane at Pat O’Brien’s, or enjoy a Frozen Bourbon Milk Punch at Bourbon House while soaking in the neighborhood’s lively atmosphere.
🎺 Jazz Haven: Strolling down Bourbon Street, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of live music, with the sweet sounds of jazz spilling out from countless clubs and bars. The legendary Preservation Hall offers nightly traditional jazz performances, while venues like The Jazz Playhouse and Fritzel’s European Jazz Pub showcase a variety of musical styles.
🎭 Cultural Cornerstone: Nestled along the Mississippi River, the French Quarter is New Orleans’ oldest and most iconic neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife, rich history, and distinctive Creole architecture.
🏛️ Historic Heart: Wandering through the Quarter’s charming streets, you’ll discover architectural treasures like the St. Louis Cathedral, the Cabildo, and the Presbytère surrounding Jackson Square. Museums like The Historic New Orleans Collection and the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum offer fascinating insights into the city’s unique cultural heritage.
🍽️ Culinary Capital: When hunger strikes, the French Quarter’s renowned restaurants serve up delectable Creole and Cajun specialties. Indulge in classic dishes at century-old establishments like Broussard’s, Galatoire’s, and Arnaud’s, or savor world-famous beignets and café au lait at the iconic Cafe du Monde.
🛍️ Eclectic Shopping: Explore the vibrant French Market for local crafts, souvenirs, and fresh produce, or stroll down Royal Street to browse its array of antique shops, art galleries, and boutiques. For unique New Orleans-inspired gifts, check out stores like Fleurty Girl and Hové Parfumeur.
Recommended Hotels:
💎 Luxury Hotels:
- Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans – A luxurious riverfront hotel offering stunning Mississippi River views, innovative Louisiana cuisine, a resort-style pool, and a 34th-floor observation deck with panoramic city vistas.
- The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans – An elegant hotel set in a historic 1908 Beaux Arts building, featuring spacious suites, a grand spa, live jazz performances, and authentic New Orleans cuisine at its M bistro restaurant.
- The Royal Sonesta New Orleans – A sophisticated AAA Four-Diamond rated hotel located directly on Bourbon Street, boasting elegant rooms with wrought-iron balconies, multiple dining options including the acclaimed Restaurant R’evolution, and a lush courtyard with a pool.
🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:
- Best Western Plus French Quarter Courtyard Hotel – A centrally located hotel at 920 North Rampart Street offering spacious rooms, a courtyard with a pool, free Wi-Fi, and easy access to French Quarter attractions, with a required $60 refundable damage deposit upon check-in.
- Wyndham New Orleans French Quarter – A non-smoking hotel situated at the intersection of Royal and Canal Streets, featuring 374 rooms (some with Mississippi River views), the Quarter’s only indoor heated pool, and convenient access to streetcars and major attractions.
- ONE11 Hotel – A boutique hotel offering a blend of history and modern luxury, with spacious rooms, unparalleled views of both the French Quarter and Mississippi River, and a prime location steps away from the Audubon Aquarium, Woldenberg Park, and Bourbon Street.
💸 Budget-Friendly Hotels:
- City House New Orleans Samesun – A top-rated hostel located just a block from Bourbon Street, offering air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, a shared kitchen, and nightly events, perfect for budget-conscious travelers seeking a social atmosphere in the heart of the French Quarter.
- Bon Maison Guest House – A charming guest house situated directly on Bourbon Street, featuring air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms, and some rooms with balconies or terraces, all within 656 feet of St. Louis Cathedral.
- Chateau Hotel – A fully renovated 18th-century mansion offering quiet, elegant rooms and suites, a tranquil courtyard with a pool, and a prime location in the French Quarter, providing guests with a blend of historic charm and modern amenities.
2. Marigny: Best Area to Stay in New Orleans for Live Music Lovers
🎵 Music Mecca: Nestled just east of the French Quarter, the Marigny is New Orleans’ vibrant musical heartbeat, known for its lively Frenchmen Street and eclectic mix of jazz clubs, bars, and restaurants.
🎺 Jazz Paradise: Strolling down Frenchmen Street, you’ll be immersed in a world of live music, with the sweet sounds of jazz, blues, and funk spilling out from renowned venues like The Spotted Cat Music Club, d.b.a., and Blue Nile. The street comes alive at night, offering an authentic New Orleans experience with street performers and impromptu brass band performances.
🏘️ Colorful Charm: Wandering through the neighborhood, you’ll discover a tapestry of colorful Creole cottages and shotgun houses, showcasing the area’s rich architectural heritage. The vibrant St. Claude Arts District and Crescent Park along the Mississippi River offer unique cultural experiences and scenic views of the city.
🍽️ Culinary Delights: When hunger strikes, the Marigny boasts an array of dining options to satisfy every palate. Indulge in farm-to-table cuisine at Paladar 511, enjoy creative cocktails at The Franklin, or savor a hearty brunch at Ruby Slipper. For a truly local experience, explore the St. Roch Market, offering a variety of food options in a historic setting.
🎭 Cultural Hotspot: Immerse yourself in the Marigny’s vibrant cultural scene by visiting its numerous art galleries, theaters, and music venues. Catch a burlesque show at Allways Lounge, experience innovative performances at the Music Box Village, or explore contemporary art at Studio BE. The neighborhood’s creative energy is palpable, making it a haven for artists, musicians, and culture enthusiasts alike.
Recommended Hotels:
💎 Luxury Hotels:
- Hotel Peter and Paul – A unique and luxurious hotel set in a beautifully restored 19th-century church complex, offering elegantly designed rooms across four historic buildings and immersing guests in the vibrant atmosphere of the Marigny district.
- Historic Inn in the Marigny – A charming bed and breakfast located just blocks from the French Quarter, providing a cozy and authentic New Orleans experience with easy access to the city’s main attractions.
- Auld Sweet Olive Bed and Breakfast – A hip and historic B&B nestled in the heart of Faubourg Marigny, offering a quintessential New Orleans stay with proximity to local cafes, shops, and jazz venues, all within walking distance of the French Quarter.
🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:
- Hampton Inn New Orleans French Quarter Market Area – A conveniently located hotel offering spacious rooms, free WiFi, complimentary hot breakfast, and a fitness center.
- The Burgundy Bed and Breakfast – A cozy LGBT-friendly B&B nestled in the heart of the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood, providing a charming stay just a short walk from the historic French Quarter.
- Serenity in the Marigny – A modern and high-end bed and breakfast that combines luxe hotel amenities with boutique charm, featuring a rooftop area, sauna, spa services, and easy access to local tours and transportation.
💸 Budget-Friendly Hotels:
- Madame Isabelle's House – A charming hostel offering free WiFi, a shared kitchen, daily activities, and a beautiful backyard with terrace, located just 900 meters from St. Louis Cathedral and highly rated for its welcoming atmosphere and helpful staff.
- Historic Mardi Gras Inn – A uniquely renovated inn situated across the street from the French Quarter, featuring individually appointed rooms with cable TV, free WiFi, and a beautiful courtyard, all just three blocks from Bourbon Street.
- Roami at The Mandeville – A modern accommodation option in the Faubourg Marigny district, located 4.1 km from Union Station and 4.4 km from Caesars Superdome, offering a convenient base for exploring New Orleans.
3. Garden District: Explore The Holiday Mardi Gras in New Orleans
🏛️ Southern Charm Capital: Nestled in Uptown New Orleans, the Garden District is a New Orleans’ historic neighborhood known for its stunning antebellum mansions, lush gardens, and quintessential Southern charm.
🏠 Historic Treasures: Wandering through the neighborhood, you’ll discover iconic mansions like the Buckner Mansion (featured in American Horror Story), the Gothic Revival-style Briggs-Staub House, and the opulent Robinson House. Don’t miss the chance to peek at the former residences of celebrities and authors who have called the Garden District home.
🌳 Architectural Paradise: Strolling along the oak-lined streets, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a breathtaking array of Greek Revival, Italianate, and Victorian-style homes. The district’s wide avenues and sprawling gardens create a serene atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely walk or a guided tour to admire the intricate architectural details and learn about the area’s rich history.
🚋 Scenic Streetcar Ride: Hop on the historic St. Charles Streetcar for a charming ride through the district. This iconic mode of transportation offers a unique way to experience the neighborhood’s beauty while connecting you to other parts of the city.
🛍️ Magazine Street Magic: Explore the eclectic mix of boutique shops, art galleries, and antique stores that line Magazine Street, the district’s southern border. From high-end fashion to quirky local crafts, there’s no shortage of unique treasures waiting to be discovered. Don’t forget to stop by The Rink, a converted skating rink now housing charming shops and the beloved Garden District Book Shop.
🍽️ Culinary Delights: Immerse yourself in the Garden District’s culinary scene by visiting its array of restaurants and cafes. Indulge in classic New Orleans cuisine at Commander’s Palace, a landmark fine-dining establishment, or enjoy a casual meal at one of the many charming eateries along Magazine Street. For a quick pick-me-up, grab a coffee at Still Perkin’ in The Rink and soak in the neighborhood’s relaxed atmosphere.
Recommended Hotels:
💎 Luxury Hotels:
- Jazzed On Jackson – A charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in the Irish Channel area of the Garden District, offering elegant living spaces, a full kitchen, and authentic New Orleans comfort within walking distance of popular attractions.
- Tropical OASIS Getaway with a Private Pool & Spa – A spacious 3-bedroom vacation rental featuring a private pool and spa, located in a safe and popular area of New Orleans, perfect for those seeking a luxurious and relaxing stay.
- Luxury Historic Shotgun Home in Lower Garden District – A beautifully renovated 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom shotgun home on Josephine Street, offering 1050 sq ft of living space, high-quality amenities, and a convenient location just 2.1 miles from Union Station and the French Quarter.
🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:
- NOLA House in Irish Channel - Walk to Magazine St! – Walk to Magazine St! – A charming vacation rental in the Irish Channel area of the Garden District, offering easy access to Magazine Street’s shops and restaurants, and a comfortable base for exploring New Orleans.
- Garden District Bed and Breakfast – A historic late 1860s home turned comfortable four-suite bed and breakfast, rumored to have been a 1920s brothel, now offering a unique and intimate lodging experience in the heart of the Garden District.
- Hotel Henrietta – A singular and charming new addition to New Orleans’ hospitality scene, set along gracious St. Charles Avenue in the Garden District, offering stylish accommodations, a coffee shop/bar, and private event spaces in a prime location.
💸 Budget-Friendly Hotels:
- Jazzy Studio in a GREAT Location – A cozy studio apartment offering a comfortable stay in a prime location, perfect for exploring city’s vibrant culture and attractions.
- St Charles Inn, Superior Hotel – A charming pet-friendly hotel located on historic St. Charles Avenue, offering free parking, in-room amenities like microwaves and refrigerators, and easy access to the French Quarter via the streetcar line just outside.
- Skip to Saint Charles Local Art-Filled Hideaway – A newly remodeled ground-level apartment featuring local art, a full bathroom, and located 1.3 miles from the Uptown New Orleans Historic District, providing a unique and comfortable base for extended stays.
4. Warehouse District: Best Neighborhood to Stay in New Orleans for Art Enthusiasts
🖼️ Cultural Playground: Strolling through the district, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a wealth of museums and art galleries. From contemporary art at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art to thought-provoking exhibits at the National WWII Museum, there’s no shortage of cultural experiences to immerse yourself in.
🎨 Artistic Haven: Nestled between the French Quarter and the Garden District, the Warehouse/Arts District of New Orleans is a vibrant neighborhood known for its thriving art scene, world-class museums, and culinary delights.
🍷 Gourmet Experiences: When hunger strikes, the Warehouse District offers everything from fine dining to casual bites. Enjoy a cheese board at St. James Cheese Company, savor vegan fare with tropical influences at Carmo, or indulge in tapas at plates restaurant & bar. For a truly iconic experience, don’t miss Chef Emeril Lagasse’s flagship restaurant, Emeril’s, or its more casual sister, Meril.
🍽️ Culinary Paradise: Wandering through the streets, you’ll discover an impressive array of dining options from celebrity chefs and local favorites alike. Indulge in Creole-Caribbean cuisine at Chef Nina Compton’s Compère Lapin, savor Italian dishes at Sofia or Tommy’s Cuisine, or explore the Link Restaurant Group’s offerings like Gianna, Herbsaint, Pêche, and Cochon.
🎭 Entertainment Hub: Immerse yourself in the Warehouse District’s vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. From live music venues to trendy bars, there’s always something happening after dark. Catch a show at one of the local theaters or enjoy a cocktail at a rooftop bar while taking in views of the New Orleans skyline.
Recommended Hotels:
💎 Luxury Hotels:
- New Orleans Marriott Warehouse Arts District – A modern hotel housed in a 19th-century warehouse, offering 24,751 square feet of event space, redesigned rooms with city or river views, an M Club lounge, and a prime location across from the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.
- The Armstrong – A high-end, custom-designed luxury rental property offering unique accommodations and amenities for a sophisticated stay in the heart of New Orleans’ vibrant Warehouse District.
- Higgins Hotel, Official Hotel of The National WWII Museum, Curio Collection by Hilton – An era-inspired hotel featuring cutting-edge amenities, exceptional dining options including a rooftop bar, and seamless access to The National WWII Museum, making it ideal for history enthusiasts and luxury seekers alike.
🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:
- The Barnett – A stylish hotel located in the Arts-Warehouse District, offering a seasonal outdoor pool, live music events.
- Cambria Hotel New Orleans Downtown Warehouse District – A modern hotel situated at 632 Tchoupitoulas Street, featuring a restaurant, fitness center, meeting spaces, and pet-friendly accommodations with mobile check-in options.
- Omni Riverfront New Orleans – A charming hotel in the Warehouse Arts District with exposed brick and arched windows, offering a local favorite cocktail bar, easy access to the Mississippi River.
💸 Budget-Friendly Hotels:
- Hilton Garden Inn New Orleans Convention Center – A modern hotel located just one block from the Morial Convention Center, offering a rooftop pool with city views, on-site restaurant, free Wi-Fi.
- Roami at The Lola – A stylish apartment-style accommodation featuring a rooftop pool, fitness center, self-service bar, and fully-equipped units ranging from studios to large suites, situated across from the convention center.
- The Lafayette by LuxUrban – A charming historic boutique hotel overlooking Lafayette Square, offering rooms with modern amenities, complimentary WiFi, and a prime location on the St. Charles Streetcar line.
5. Central Business District (CBD): The Top Location to Open for Yourself Louisiana Creole
🏙️ Urban Oasis: Nestled between the French Quarter and the Garden District, New Orleans’ Central Business District (CBD) is a vibrant neighborhood known for its blend of historic charm and modern amenities, offering world-class attractions and culinary delights.
🏛️ Cultural Treasures: Strolling through the district, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a wealth of museums and attractions. From the immersive exhibits at The National WWII Museum to the fascinating Audubon Insectarium, there’s no shortage of enriching experiences. Don’t miss The Sazerac House, where you can explore the history of New Orleans’ iconic cocktail.
🎭 Entertainment Hub: Wandering through the streets, you’ll discover an impressive array of entertainment options. Catch a Broadway show at the beautifully restored Saenger Theatre, cheer on the Saints at the Caesars Superdome, or enjoy live music at one of the many venues dotting the neighborhood.
🍽️ Culinary Paradise: When hunger strikes, the CBD offers everything from fine dining to casual bites. Explore the South Market District, a micro-neighborhood filled with trendy restaurants where award-winning chefs serve up innovative cuisine. From upscale cocktail lounges to local dives, you’ll find your new favorite spot to enjoy New Orleans’ vibrant food and drink scene.
🚊 Well-Connected: Getting around the CBD and to other parts of New Orleans is a breeze. Hop on the historic Canal or St. Charles Streetcar lines for a scenic ride, or take advantage of the convenient bus routes. The district’s central location makes it easy to explore other iconic New Orleans neighborhoods like the French Quarter and Garden District.
Recommended Hotels:
💎 Luxury Hotels:
- Maison Metier – A luxurious boutique hotel offering exquisite rooms, a private guest-only bar, and personalized service in a prime location just steps away from the French Quarter.
- The Windsor Court – An elegant 5-star hotel featuring a rooftop pool, museum-quality art collection valued at over $10 million, and a range of amenities including a fitness center with Peloton bikes and complimentary house car service within a 3-mile radius.
- The Roosevelt Hotel New Orleans - Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts – Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts – A historic luxury hotel boasting 504 rooms and suites, a rooftop pool with city views, multiple dining options including the famous Sazerac Bar.
🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:
- NOPSI Hotel New Orleans – A historic luxury hotel featuring 216 rooms including 76 suites, 14,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, a rooftop bar and pool, atmospheric dining, and a prime downtown location perfect for both leisure and business travelers.
- Hyatt Regency New Orleans – An AAA Four Diamond hotel boasting 1,193 contemporary guestrooms, 200,000 square feet of meeting space, a heated outdoor salt-water pool, and a central downtown location with easy access to major attractions.
- DoubleTree by Hilton New Orleans – A full-service hotel overlooking the Mississippi River, offering 367 rooms including 17 suites, 16,488 sq. ft. of meeting space, and a prime location directly across from Harrah’s Casino.
💸 Budget-Friendly Hotels:
- Wyndham Garden Baronne Plaza – A beautifully restored Art Deco hotel in the heart of downtown, offering relaxing guest rooms, free WiFi, and a prime location near the French Quarter, Canal Street, and Mercedes-Benz Superdome.
- Roami at Hibernia Tower – A modern apartment-style accommodation in the historic Hibernia Tower, featuring amenities like a fitness center.
- Hyatt House New Orleans Downtown – An extended-stay hotel located 1,312 feet from the Superdome, featuring a year-round outdoor pool, fitness center, free WiFi, complimentary daily breakfast buffet, and spacious rooms with kitchenettes.
FAQs About Trip To New Orleans
What area of New Orleans is best to stay in?
The French Quarter is the best area to stay in New Orleans, offering a central location, vibrant nightlife, historic architecture, and proximity to major attractions like Bourbon Street and Jackson Square.
Where to stay in New Orleans for the first time?
For first-time visitors, the French Quarter is an ideal place to stay in New Orleans, providing easy access to iconic attractions, lively entertainment, and a variety of dining options.
Is it better to stay in the French Quarter or downtown New Orleans?
Staying in the French Quarter offers a more immersive experience with its historic charm and vibrant nightlife, while downtown New Orleans provides a more modern atmosphere and convenient access to business districts and additional attractions.
How many days in New Orleans is enough?
Three to four days in New Orleans is typically enough to explore its key attractions, enjoy its cuisine, and experience its vibrant music and cultural scene.
Do I need a car in New Orleans?
You don’t need a car in New Orleans as the city’s main attractions are within walking distance or accessible by public transportation and rideshare services.
What is the safest district in New Orleans?
The Garden District is considered one of the safest districts in New Orleans, known for its well-preserved historic homes, upscale ambiance, and lower crime rates.
