Best Hotels in New Orleans with a Unique Atmosphere

Choosing the Right Neighborhood to Stay In

With so many historic, high-end, and unique hotels to choose from, narrowing down the best hotels in New Orleans is no easy task. These establishments blend Southern hospitality, European charm, and Caribbean flair. Beyond the amenities, the city is celebrated for its rich culture.

When selecting a hotel in New Orleans, location is key. If you plan to visit the French Quarter or attend a sports event at the Superdome, staying in the downtown area is essential. The French Quarter and Central Business District are ideal if you want to be within walking distance of most attractions.

Almost every neighborhood in New Orleans is a 10-15 minute drive away, and the city offers numerous bike lanes, making it an excellent way to leave the typical tourist route behind and delve deeper into the city's charm. Proximity to bus stops is another way to explore parts of the city that aren't easily walkable. Renting bikes is also a great option if you want to venture out and explore the surroundings.

Unique Hotels in New Orleans

Once you've settled on a location, it's time to determine the level of luxury, design, amenities, and cost you're looking for in your stay. Below, we've highlighted seven of the city's best hotels. With these options, guests won't have to venture far to enjoy delicious cuisine, world-class cocktails, local jazz and blues, and everything else that New Orleans has to offer.

The Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery

Located on Tchoupitoulas Street in the Warehouse District, the Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery embraces its industrial heritage with pride. Home to beloved chef Nina Compton and her restaurant Compere Lapin, this 167-room hotel is housed in three restored 19th-century warehouses that once stored coffee, among other things. This industrial chic adds delightful design details to all public areas and guest rooms.

The hotel is located at the intersection of Tchoupitoulas and Lafayette Streets, just a short walk from Harrah’s Casino and the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

The Eliza Jane

Did you know that New Orleans was home to the first female publisher of a major metropolitan newspaper in the United States? Eliza Jane Nicholson published The New Orleans Daily Picayune in the late 1800s, and this hotel is named in her honor.

The hotel features 196 rooms, built within nine historic warehouses that were originally occupied by The Daily Picayune and Peychaud Bitters factories. Located just two blocks from the French Quarter and within walking distance of the convention center, the hotel boasts elegant design and amenities.

Don’t miss Couvant, a French brasserie led by Chef Brad McDonald, who has worked at renowned spots like Per Se and began his career in Oxford. Order the steak frites, fried chicken, steak tartare, or try the veal chop for two.

Luxury and Prestigious Hotels

Loews New Orleans Hotel

This former office building in the heart of the city has been transformed into one of the finest places to stay. From the Indian-style lobby to the spacious, well-appointed guest rooms adorned with art pieces, Loews creates a homey comfort.

Poydras & Peters is the hotel’s new debut concept, offering a restaurant and brewery with a diverse menu featuring Italian and Vietnamese influences. New Orleans native Thomas Hines is the new executive chef.

Hotel amenities include a spa, conference rooms, and a full-service round pool.

Hotel Monteleone

Hotel Monteleone on Royal Street offers European luxury with 600 spacious rooms. It exudes a retro atmosphere, from rich fabrics and marble bathrooms to the baroque facade of the 16-story building.

Located in the heart of the French Quarter, just blocks from Canal Street, Jackson Square, and the riverfront, Hotel Monteleone is the perfect starting point for exploring the city.

Guests can enjoy a heated rooftop pool, a 24-hour fitness center, and in-room dining. Ernest Hemingway once frequented the 25-seat Carousel Bar, offering live music and exceptional cocktails.

Windsor Court Hotel

This 23-story luxury hotel in the Central Business District has long been a popular meeting spot for celebrities, athletes, and corporate leaders. The rooms are equipped with Frette linens, Molton Brown toiletries, personalized service, terry bathrobes, iHome docking stations, and flat-screen TVs.

The highly-rated Grill Room offers elegant modern cuisine by Chef Gabriel Charpentier and desserts crafted by pastry chef Shun Li. The hotel’s lounge is a sophisticated venue for live music that is sure to impress.

Consistently High-Quality Hotels

The Troubadour Hotel

Cocktails and dinner at Monkey Board Bar on the 17th floor are just one reason to check into this new hotel in the Hilton collection. Another reason is the bold contemporary design, with original artwork scattered throughout all public spaces.

Comfortable rooms, a 24-hour fitness center, and free Wi-Fi enhance your stay. The hotel is pet-friendly and happy to accommodate your needs.

The Royal Sonesta, New Orleans

The Royal Sonesta is the place to go when you want to experience New Orleans in all its glory. This seven-story, 500-room hotel overlooks Bourbon Street in the heart of the French Quarter. Its architecture blends European flair with Southern charm and endless amenities.

After a long day of sightseeing, take a dip in the secluded pool, nestled in a walled, picturesque garden. Poolside massages, proximity to the city’s hot spots, a jazz club, and the chic R’evolution restaurant make the Royal Sonesta one of the best places to stay in New Orleans.