New Orleans might be famous for its masked Mardi Gras parades and bead-clad tourists, but there is so much more to the Big Easy than its Carnival-related festivities. From world-class restaurants to historic landmarks and a boozy nightlife scene, there is no shortage of things to do in New Orleans. 

There are plenty of reasons why most visitors beeline straight to the bustling French Quarter. The area is home to postcard-worthy 19^th-century French and Spanish buildings, the (in)famous Bourbon Street, and historic Jackson Square. The French Quarter also boasts some of the city’s best restaurants so it’s the perfect place to sample beignets, gumbo, muffulettas, and more! 

There’s no doubt that New Orleans is brimming with amazing hotels, historic cottages, and hip boutique hotels. So many, in fact, that you might have a hard time choosing the perfect one. So we’ve created a list of the 12 best hotels in New Orleans to help you plan your perfect getaway!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: 12 Cool Boutique Hotels in New Orleans, Louisiana

12 Best Boutique Hotels in New Orleans

1. The Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery 

Located just a few blocks from the French Quarter, The Old No. 77 is set in three 1854 warehouses. The entire space has been revamped into one of the most unique boutique hotels in New Orleans. If you’re traveling with your furry friends, they’ll be spoiled with treats made by local dog bakery Cafe du Bone and receive a referral for a psychic reading from a voodoo priest!

The rooms are all designed to pay homage to the buildings’ storied history. You’ll love the exposed brick walls, original hardwood floors, industrial-chic trimmings, and stylish mid-century modern furniture. The pillow menus and collection of inspirational books are nice added touches.

Before heading out for the day, grab a cup of freshly brewed coffee and a pastry at Tout La Coffee Bar. And while you may be surrounded by some of New Orleans’s best restaurants, you’ll definitely want to enjoy at least one meal at the hotel’s restaurant. Compére Lapin serves up Caribbean-inspired fare including spiced pig ears and curried goat. 

2. The Pontchartrain Hotel

The historic Pontchartrain Hotel is located on St. Charles Avenue in the Lower Garden District. Not only is it tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter, but it’s just steps away from a streetcar station so getting around the city is a cinch.

This architectural gem exudes 1940s charm and is thoughtfully outfitted with an eclectic collection of art, elegant chandeliers, and classic European furniture. Plus, with so many incredible amenities, you don’t even need to leave the hotel if you don’t want to! 

Pick up grab-and-go breakfast items at Silver Whistle Café, dine on Cajun-Creole fare at the eccentric Jack Rose restaurant, and listen to live music over after-dinner drinks at Bayou Bar.

But the real gem of The Pontchartrain Hotel is its rooftop deck. Head up to the eighth floor and you’ll find a sophisticated bar where you can sip champagne while taking in the 270-degree views of Downtown New Orleans and the Mississippi River.

The beautiful rooms are the perfect place to rest up after adventuring around New Orleans. You’ll love the European elegance, antique decorations, and velvet chaise lounges. The modern baths boast luxury La Labo toiletries and antique medicine cabinets – a stylish touch!

3. Henry Howard Hotel

If you’re looking for the perfect place for a romantic retreat, the Henry Howard Hotel is one of the best boutique hotels in New Orleans. Renowned architect Henry Howard built this beautiful Greek revival-style home in 1867. The entire townhome has now been thoughtfully renovated into an 18-room boutique hotel. 

Each of the rooms is unique and features the perfect blend of vintage and custom furniture, original architectural elements, and beautiful wood floors. The quirky musical instruments and portraits of the owner’s family hanging on the walls give the rooms even more character. You’ll love the extras including the minibar with local snacks, the bespoke bathrobes, and the Beekman 1802 toiletries.

While the hotel doesn’t have a restaurant, you can sip complimentary coffee and juice in the beautiful courtyard in the mornings. Plus, the ultra-friendly staff will give you all sorts of recommendations on how to find the best restaurants in the area. 

Located in the heart of the Garden District, you’re just a 10-minute walk from all of the bars, eateries, and boutiques on Magazine Street. The streetcar is just down the street and can transport you to the French Quarter if you feel like exploring the heart of beautiful NOLA. 

4. Hotel Peter and Paul

Tucked away in the Marigny neighborhood, just a short stroll away from the French Quarter, Hotel Peter and Paul is one of the coolest hotels in New Orleans. The beautifully designed hotel is housed in a historic Catholic Church, schoolhouse, rectory, and convent. It only recently opened its doors in 2018 after being meticulously renovated for four long years. 

Because the hotel was designed around these historic structures, the 71 rooms are all completely unique. Rooms are thoughtfully decorated with pieces made by regional artisans and antiques from around Europe and some of New Orleans’ best estates. If you want to splurge, The Rector’s Repose room boasts a stunning canopy bed, an in-room standalone limestone tub, and floor-to-ceiling windows.

The irresistibly stylish rectory is home to The Elysian Bar. They offer food and beverages from local favorite and award-winning Bacchanal. You can graze on shareable plates while sipping on fine wines and specialty cocktails. For dessert, head over to Sundae Best in the convent for a scoop of butterscotch pecan or mint chocolate chip!

5. The Troubadour Hotel 

From the outside, you’d never know that this 1960s office building is home to one of the best boutique hotels in New Orleans. But step inside and you’ll be stunned by the retro decor, funky guitar sculptures, and colorful art in The Troubadour Hotel!

The rooms are equally as stylish and boast super comfy beds, spacious workstations, quirky artwork, and ’70s-style decor. You’ll love mixing your own in-room drinks with the self-service cocktail kit and fully-stocked minibar. With their retro trimmings, luxury showers, and Jonathan Alder products, even the bathrooms are something special!

One of the coolest things about The Troubadour is the hip, boho-chic rooftop bar and lounge, where you can sip creative cocktails and take in the sweeping city views. If you want to stay for dinner, the menu boasts delicious dishes like buttermilk chicken sandwiches, crispy crab cakes, and carne asada tacos. The hotel restaurant, Jayne, serves up an excellent buffet breakfast and delicious Cajun-Creole dishes for dinner. 

This hotel is located on the edge of the CBD and just two blocks away from all of the bars, restaurants, and live music venues of the French Quarter.

6. ONE11 Hotel

The incredible ONE11 Hotel is located on the Mississippi River right next to the Audubon Aquarium. This brand new boutique hotel opened in 2020 and is actually the first new hotel in the French Quarter in 50 years! Another unique feature of ONE11 is that it’s housed in an old sugar factory so expect all sorts of historic homages and original architectural details throughout. 

The hotel boasts 83 stylish rooms with pillowtop platform beds, luxury Matouk linens, contemporary chaise lounges, and 55-inch smart TVs. You’ll love the exposed brick walls, exposed wood beams, and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. If you want to go big during your trip, the French Quarter “Sweet” features a lovely living area, a furnished outdoor terrace, and stunning views of the river and the French Quarter. 

If that’s not enough, ONE11 also has a lap pool, an outdoor fire pit surrounded by plush patio furniture, and a fully outfitted fitness center. The hotel restaurant, Batture Bistro + Bar, cooks up hearty breakfasts and brunches – you can’t go wrong with the Creole eggs Benedict and bottomless mimosas!  

7. The Eliza Jane

Located in the CBD – just two blocks away from the French Quarter – The Eliza Jane is arguably one of the best boutique hotels in New Orleans. You’ll find all sorts of references to the building’s previous residents throughout the hotel including The Daily Picayune newspaper, the Gulf Baking Soda company, Peters Cartridge shop, and Peychaud Bitters factory. 

From the beautifully tiled lobby floor to the Insta-worthy courtyard and the book and art-filled lounge, this impeccably designed hotel is picture-perfect.

No two rooms are alike but they all feature comfy beds with tufted leather headboards, exposed brick walls, and an eccentric mix of mid-century furniture and floral decor. The marble ensuites are outfitted with walk-in showers with subway tiles and complimentary C.O. Bigelow bath products. 

The onsite French brasserie Couvant is located in the former bitters factory and dishes out egg and avocado tartines for breakfast and magret de canard duck breast with braised lentils for dinner. Before hitting the town for the night, you can sip cocktails and snack on elevated bar fare at The Press Room.  

8. Windsor Court Hotel 

With its refined rooms and luxurious amenities, Windsor Court Hotel is the epitome of elegance. Not only is this boutique hotel picture-perfect, but it’s located just off of Canal Street and two blocks from the French Quarter. The entire hotel recently received a $22 million renovation so expect nothing but the best!

Step inside and you’ll immediately be impressed by the $10 million classic art collection. You’ll feel like you’re staying in an art gallery! Plus, you’ll love the heated saltwater rooftop pool and the state-of-the-art gym.

The 400-square-foot rooms are adorned in English-style decor, comfy sitting areas, and Italian marble ensuites with Diptyque products. If you book one of the Club level rooms, you’ll enjoy stunning city views and have access to the exclusive club. You will have a dedicated concierge and can enjoy complimentary daily breakfasts, afternoon teas, and evening cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the lounge. 

The elegant hotel restaurant, Grill Room, serves up contemporary American cuisine with a New Orleans twist. If you’re in the mood for a more casual meal, the Polo Club Lounge offers refined pub fare and the Waterman Poolside Bar has a selection of salads, sandwiches, and pizzas.

9. Audubon Cottages

If you’re looking to do New Orleans like a Hollywood celebrity, the Audubon Cottages are the perfect pick. Located in the heart of the French Quarter, this boutique hotel is made up of seven 18th-century Creole cottages. Elizabeth Taylor stayed in Cottage Three 27 times back in the day so you know this place is something special!

Step inside this lush oasis and you’ll completely forget that Bourbon Street is just a block away. You’ll also be greeted by your own private butler, who will assist you with anything and everything you need during your stay. Prepare to be treated like a real celebrity!

The cottages are situated around a beautiful courtyard with a lovely saltwater pool. The lavish complimentary breakfast will be cooked up by your butler and served in the pool house every morning. If you want a more private dining experience, you can opt to have it served in your room or in the shaded courtyard. 

Each cottage was designed to offer guests the feeling of a charming and historic French Quarter home. The one and two-bedroom cottages are adorned in beautiful yet homey décor and boast luxurious amenities and rustic accents. 

10. International House

International House Hotel opened its doors as New Orleans’ first boutique hotel in 1998. Set in a 1906 French-style building, the hotel strives to offer the perfect blend of history, modernity, and local traditions. From handcrafted chandeliers and to an authentic Banksy mural, this hotel has surprises around every corner!

If you’re staying at the International House, a visit to its candlelit Lao Bar is a must. Famed mixologist Alan Walter takes pride in serving his signature drinks with unique spirits, homemade bitters and syrups, and fresh seasonal juices. 

The beds are outfitted with ultra-comfy Simmons Beauty Rest Plush mattresses, designer linens, and elegant pearl headboards. You can listen to your tunes with the iHome stereo dock or keep up with your favorite shows with the Apple TV connector. 

If you’re in town for a special celebration, the penthouses are well worth the splurge. You’ll love the luxurious extras including soaking tubs, lavish living rooms with baby grand pianos, and furnished terraces overlooking the Mississippi River and the French Quarter.

11. Q&C Hotel

Housed in two historic buildings in the Warehouse district, the Q&C was given a hip makeover in 2014 and is now touted as one of the best boutique hotels in New Orleans. The staff are some of the friendliest in town, so expect excellent customer service during your stay. 

You’ll find tons of historic architectural features in both buildings. The modern rooms boast exposed brick walls, hardwood floors, and portraits of local icons. You’ll love the thoughtful touches like mini-fridges, Keurig coffeemakers, and Molton Brown toiletries.

Before heading down to the French Quarter for the night, enjoy a craft cocktail or craft beer at the hotel bar. There’s a good reason this place was listed as one of the “10 Best New Orleans Bars For Happy Hour.” If you arrive on a Tuesday through Thursday, you’ll even get a free wine tasting!

If you want to have a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, Q&C Bar serves fun items including beignets, chicken and waffles, and omelets with Nueske’s bacon and andouille sausage. The dinner menu features American standards like Wagyu burgers and truffle fries and some seriously tasty pizzas. And if you want to dine out, the French Quarter is just a few blocks away.

12. The Higgins Hotel

One of the many unique things about The Higgins Hotel is that it is partnered with the adjacent World War II Museum. Not only will you have easy access to the museum (as well as added perks!), but you’ll find all sorts of wartime references throughout the hotel. Plus, The Higgins Hotel opened in 2020 so everything is brand new and top-of-the-line.

Another cool thing about this boutique hotel is its industrial-chic rooftop bar, Rosie’s On The Roof. This Rosie the Riveter-themed bar is the perfect place to mingle over drinks and take in the sweeping views of the city. Rosie’s also serves fun light bites including crab beignets, chicken gumbo, and bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts.

In the lobby, you’ll find the very popular French restaurant, Café Normandie. If you want to grab some coffee, pastries, or snacks, Provisions general store is open 24/7. And the lobby’s sleek bar is perfect for a nightcap.    

The comfy pillowtop beds will be much appreciated after a long day exploring New Orleans. You can have a relaxing movie night with the 55-inch smart TV, sneak a midnight snack from the honor bar, or curl up with a good book in the oversized armchairs. 

The Higgins Hotel is yet another gem in the Arts & Warehouse District, which means you’re surrounded by some of the city’s best restaurants, bars, and live music venues. So the location can’t be beat!

That’s it -12 of the best New Orleans hotels! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in New Orleans? Comment below so we can add them to the list!

Where to Stay in New Orleans

Most of the best hotels in New Orleans are located in the historic French Quarter. If you’re planning to party hard at Mardi Gras, go bar hopping along Bourbon Street, or simply marvel at the city’s storied history, the French Quarter is an ultra-convenient place to base yourself.  If this is your first time in the Big Easy, you’ll be within walking distance of iconic attractions including Jackson Square, the French Market, and Preservation Hall.

For those wanting to be close to the French Quarter but removed from the late-night debauchery of Bourbon Street, the Central Business District (CBD) is a popular option. The CBD not only boasts some of the best boutique hotels in New Orleans, but it’s within walking distance to some of the French Quarter’s most popular restaurants, bars, and shops. 

And the adjacent Arts and Warehouse District is becoming increasingly popular among the younger crowd for its industrial-chic hotels and funky art galleries. 

With its tree-lined streets, opulent mansions, and beautiful hotels, the Garden District is another great option. Plus, the streetcar can whisk you to the French Quarter in just a few minutes. The Marigny neighborhood also borders the French Quarter and is a popular pick for its hip jazz bars and excellent Asian-Creole fusion eateries. 

No matter where you stay in New Orleans, you’ll find plenty of great hotels to choose from!

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