Out All Night: Some of the sweetest suites in New Orleans
Hotel suites are definitely something of a luxury. However, I feel like in New Orleans, you can get a lot for your money, especially when compared to cities such as New York or Los Angeles. The summer in New Orleans is a slow season, and if you have flexibility and a keen eye, you can definitely score some bargains for a vacation in your own town. A suite really makes it feel like you’re escaping your regular life, and with many only a little more expensive than a regular room, they’re worth considering. Many come with free extras such as snacks and drinks, and lots of NOLA hotels run great offers during the slower summer months. Hotel room prices fluctuate so much that it’s hardly worth listing examples - what I WILL say is that during the summer, and at other times when there are no conventions or festivals happening, most of these suites (listed in no particular order) can be picked up for an absolute steal. Just be vigilant and book ahead! This is based on personal experiences and preferences - your mileage may differ, let me know about any we've missed or your favorite suites in town! [email protected]
Hotel suites are definitely something of a luxury. However, I feel like in New Orleans, you can get a lot for your money, especially when compared to cities such as New York or Los Angeles. The summer in New Orleans is a slow season, and if you have flexibility and a keen eye, you can definitely score some bargains for a vacation in your own town. A suite really makes it feel like you’re escaping your regular life, and with many only a little more expensive than a regular room, they’re worth considering. Many come with free extras such as snacks and drinks, and lots of NOLA hotels run great offers during the slower summer months. Hotel room prices fluctuate so much that it’s hardly worth listing examples - what I WILL say is that during the summer, and at other times when there are no conventions or festivals happening, most of these suites (listed in no particular order) can be picked up for an absolute steal. Just be vigilant and book ahead! This is based on personal experiences and preferences - your mileage may differ, let me know about any we've missed or your favorite suites in town! [email protected]
The Melpomene Suite @ The Pontchartrain Hotel
There are actually two versions of this suite at the wonderful Pontchartrain Hotel in the LGD. They’re both on point, reflecting the hotel’s luxe-retro aesthetics, but the 9th floor option has a particular treasure. As far as I know, this is the cheapest suite in New Orleans that comes with an in-room piano (another is the Frenchmen Street Suite at Le Pavillon and the Presidential Suite at The Windsor Court). And that’s not all. Hotel staff will tell you as you book in that you can tickle the ivories that were once played by a special guest; an up and coming musician by the name of…Stevie Wonder. Two bedrooms and a large living space feature nods to both classic European and colorful Caribbean styles, with tiki chic and floral patterns throughout. Frank Sinatra, Cole Porter and Rita Hayworth have all stayed here, and that throwback glamor has really been preserved.
There are actually two versions of this suite at the wonderful Pontchartrain Hotel in the LGD. They’re both on point, reflecting the hotel’s luxe-retro aesthetics, but the 9th floor option has a particular treasure. As far as I know, this is the cheapest suite in New Orleans that comes with an in-room piano (another is the Frenchmen Street Suite at Le Pavillon and the Presidential Suite at The Windsor Court). And that’s not all. Hotel staff will tell you as you book in that you can tickle the ivories that were once played by a special guest; an up and coming musician by the name of…Stevie Wonder. Two bedrooms and a large living space feature nods to both classic European and colorful Caribbean styles, with tiki chic and floral patterns throughout. Frank Sinatra, Cole Porter and Rita Hayworth have all stayed here, and that throwback glamor has really been preserved.
The Dauphine Suite @ Le Pavillon
Le Pavillon, along with the Monteleone and The Roosevelt, is one of the city’s oldest continuously-operated hotels, and although its lobby has been modernized, its rooms contain some rare treasures. Their 7th-floor Napoleon Suite, for example, boasts a marble bathtub that actually belonged to Napoleon Bonaparte. Personally, I’m a big fan of the Dauphine Suite, which has craftsman-style interiors, a library with one of those sliding ladders and a stylish fireplace, as well as two large bedrooms, each with en-suite bathrooms and showers.
Le Pavillon, along with the Monteleone and The Roosevelt, is one of the city’s oldest continuously-operated hotels, and although its lobby has been modernized, its rooms contain some rare treasures. Their 7th-floor Napoleon Suite, for example, boasts a marble bathtub that actually belonged to Napoleon Bonaparte. Personally, I’m a big fan of the Dauphine Suite, which has craftsman-style interiors, a library with one of those sliding ladders and a stylish fireplace, as well as two large bedrooms, each with en-suite bathrooms and showers.
Club Premium King Suite @ The Windsor Court Hotel
Being British, I’m immediately drawn to the regal classiness of The Windsor Court. It’s refined and sophisticated (too good for the likes of me, really), and although it’s historically been a little stuffy, their suites and lounges have recently been refurbished to bring them right into the 21st century. 800 square feet of sleek European elegance await, and most of them have a private balcony with incredible river views. A wet bar and an Italian marble bathroom keep the luxury levels high, and if you book a Club Floor version, you get access to probably the best Club Lounge in town, with free drinks and food all day and evening. Yes, they have a 2,800 square feet Presidential Suite with a baby grand piano, but for the likes of us, these Club Suites are amazing value, especially during slow seasons when the hotel regularly runs offers.
Being British, I’m immediately drawn to the regal classiness of The Windsor Court. It’s refined and sophisticated (too good for the likes of me, really), and although it’s historically been a little stuffy, their suites and lounges have recently been refurbished to bring them right into the 21st century. 800 square feet of sleek European elegance await, and most of them have a private balcony with incredible river views. A wet bar and an Italian marble bathroom keep the luxury levels high, and if you book a Club Floor version, you get access to probably the best Club Lounge in town, with free drinks and food all day and evening. Yes, they have a 2,800 square feet Presidential Suite with a baby grand piano, but for the likes of us, these Club Suites are amazing value, especially during slow seasons when the hotel regularly runs offers.
Cottage Two @ Audubon Cottages
Back in the 1960s, the Audubon Cottages were the place to stay for visiting Hollywood royalty. Tennessee Williams would stay here, as would Liz Taylor, drawn by the luxurious standards and discreet exclusivity. The cottages fell into disrepair somewhat but in the 2000s were renovated to their previous pomp, and are now among the best accommodations in the city. The courtyard boasts an impossibly adorable saltwater pool, the oldest in the French Quarter (and therefore probably the city) and it’s a haven of tranquility in the Quarter. Cottage Two is the pick of the bunch, with its period antique furnishings, two elegant King bedrooms, and best of all, a private courtyard with a fountain and wrought iron furniture (the other cottages share courtyards). Glamorous privacy in the middle of the city.
Back in the 1960s, the Audubon Cottages were the place to stay for visiting Hollywood royalty. Tennessee Williams would stay here, as would Liz Taylor, drawn by the luxurious standards and discreet exclusivity. The cottages fell into disrepair somewhat but in the 2000s were renovated to their previous pomp, and are now among the best accommodations in the city. The courtyard boasts an impossibly adorable saltwater pool, the oldest in the French Quarter (and therefore probably the city) and it’s a haven of tranquility in the Quarter. Cottage Two is the pick of the bunch, with its period antique furnishings, two elegant King bedrooms, and best of all, a private courtyard with a fountain and wrought iron furniture (the other cottages share courtyards). Glamorous privacy in the middle of the city.
River View Suite @ The Four Seasons
One of the newest hotels in town boasts some of the nicest suites. It's the Four Seasons, so think classic clean lines and contemporary elegance, and these rooms have a rustic edge with luxe panelling and some lovely embellishments such as shiplap walls in homage to Mississippi riverboats. The views across the river are outstanding, and the comfort levels are as high as anywhere in town. Sadly, the rotating nightclub atop the former World Trade Center is no longer functional (it's now the excellent Vue Orleans), but there's still plenty to explore at this property, including the lavish lobby bar with its showcase crystal chandelier.
One of the newest hotels in town boasts some of the nicest suites. It's the Four Seasons, so think classic clean lines and contemporary elegance, and these rooms have a rustic edge with luxe panelling and some lovely embellishments such as shiplap walls in homage to Mississippi riverboats. The views across the river are outstanding, and the comfort levels are as high as anywhere in town. Sadly, the rotating nightclub atop the former World Trade Center is no longer functional (it's now the excellent Vue Orleans), but there's still plenty to explore at this property, including the lavish lobby bar with its showcase crystal chandelier.
King Luxury Suite @ The Roosevelt
There are larger suites at this grand old hotel, and if a distant aunt unexpectedly remembers me in her will, I’ll definitely throw a party in their Presidential Suite, but for now, I think that this room is more my speed. The Roosevelt has been in operation since the late 19th century, and it has that classic elegance of an old-school hotel. We’ve all been into their lobby for their annual Christmas lights, and it’s one of those New Orleans properties that most local people have a connection to in some way. The decor is traditional, and even these entry-level suites have a spacious living and dining area and incredibly comfy king beds. The marble bathrooms are the icing on the cake. The best thing about staying at The Roosevelt, though, is the sense of history, and these suites evoke a timeless elegance.
There are larger suites at this grand old hotel, and if a distant aunt unexpectedly remembers me in her will, I’ll definitely throw a party in their Presidential Suite, but for now, I think that this room is more my speed. The Roosevelt has been in operation since the late 19th century, and it has that classic elegance of an old-school hotel. We’ve all been into their lobby for their annual Christmas lights, and it’s one of those New Orleans properties that most local people have a connection to in some way. The decor is traditional, and even these entry-level suites have a spacious living and dining area and incredibly comfy king beds. The marble bathrooms are the icing on the cake. The best thing about staying at The Roosevelt, though, is the sense of history, and these suites evoke a timeless elegance.
Grand Studio Suite @ Maison de la Luz
When Maison de la Luz opened in 2019, it redefined what luxury hotels were in New Orleans (you can read our full review here). A boutique property from The Ace brand, it’s a luxurious spot, designed as the sprawling townhouse of a curious global traveler, replete with artifacts and art from around the world. Their Grand Studio Suite is a corner room, and has 17-foot ceilings that really open up the space. Four huge windows let natural light flood in, and in common with all of the rooms, it has a decadent bathtub and separate walk-in shower. The interior flourishes are elegant and unusual, from the sculpted snakes that form the shower door handles to the zodiac-themed coffee tables. Many A-list musicians have stayed here when they’re in town for festivals or tours, and you might even see a movie star across the breakfast table.
When Maison de la Luz opened in 2019, it redefined what luxury hotels were in New Orleans (you can read our full review here). A boutique property from The Ace brand, it’s a luxurious spot, designed as the sprawling townhouse of a curious global traveler, replete with artifacts and art from around the world. Their Grand Studio Suite is a corner room, and has 17-foot ceilings that really open up the space. Four huge windows let natural light flood in, and in common with all of the rooms, it has a decadent bathtub and separate walk-in shower. The interior flourishes are elegant and unusual, from the sculpted snakes that form the shower door handles to the zodiac-themed coffee tables. Many A-list musicians have stayed here when they’re in town for festivals or tours, and you might even see a movie star across the breakfast table.
King Suite @ Pere Marquette Hotel
This unassuming CBD hotel often gets overlooked as it doesn’t have the profile of some of the neighborhood’s flashier spots. However, don’t sleep on sleeping here - the suites in my opinion offer some of the best value in town. A huge living space (the total area is 600 square feet) with sleek, contemporary furniture and a corner location so that you get amazing views over the city. I stayed here once for July 4th and it was the perfect observation point. The bathrooms are marble and there’s an oversized tub with jets, perfect for sipping a cocktail as you bathe. One of the best ‘baller on a budget’ options, in this reviewer’s humble opinion.
This unassuming CBD hotel often gets overlooked as it doesn’t have the profile of some of the neighborhood’s flashier spots. However, don’t sleep on sleeping here - the suites in my opinion offer some of the best value in town. A huge living space (the total area is 600 square feet) with sleek, contemporary furniture and a corner location so that you get amazing views over the city. I stayed here once for July 4th and it was the perfect observation point. The bathrooms are marble and there’s an oversized tub with jets, perfect for sipping a cocktail as you bathe. One of the best ‘baller on a budget’ options, in this reviewer’s humble opinion.
Sir Richard’s Flat @ The Virgin Hotel
The Virgin Hotel arrived in NOLA’s CBD to much fanfare in 2021. It’s a youth-skewed brand that wears its identity on its sleeve, or at least, in the lobby and throughout the rooms. Eclectic local art, artisanal coffee stands, an already-popular rooftop pool and bar…Virgin are doing all the right things to attract a dynamic, socially active demographic. The regular rooms (we’ll be adding a full review very soon) are colorful and playful, but also incorporate intelligent features such as pocket doors within the room so that you can have room service delivered without stumbling around for a towel or gown. On the top floor, Sir Richard’s Flat (named for Virgin founder Sir Richard Branson) has all the bells and whistles for a memorable stay. Pastoral murals, popping colors, an incredible, wood-paneled bathroom with stand-alone tub and a huge living space looking out over the CBD skyline. The wet bar and plush dining room alone make it essential for entertaining friends.
The Virgin Hotel arrived in NOLA’s CBD to much fanfare in 2021. It’s a youth-skewed brand that wears its identity on its sleeve, or at least, in the lobby and throughout the rooms. Eclectic local art, artisanal coffee stands, an already-popular rooftop pool and bar…Virgin are doing all the right things to attract a dynamic, socially active demographic. The regular rooms (we’ll be adding a full review very soon) are colorful and playful, but also incorporate intelligent features such as pocket doors within the room so that you can have room service delivered without stumbling around for a towel or gown. On the top floor, Sir Richard’s Flat (named for Virgin founder Sir Richard Branson) has all the bells and whistles for a memorable stay. Pastoral murals, popping colors, an incredible, wood-paneled bathroom with stand-alone tub and a huge living space looking out over the CBD skyline. The wet bar and plush dining room alone make it essential for entertaining friends.
Tennessee Williams Suite @ The Hotel Monteleone
The Monteleone - still family owned after five generations - has a proud literary history. Faulkner drunk cocktails here, Capote claims variously to have been conceived AND born here (the truth of the former is lost in the mists of time, the latter is provably untrue, though his mother may have gone into labor here), and Tennessee Williams stayed here regularly. In fact, the hotel is mentioned in his play, The Rose Tattoo. Anyway, this suite is about as New Orleans as it gets, with a floral theme, a luxurious king bedroom and granite bath with Jacuzzi tub. The suite also has a sophisticated parlor, a dining table for six people, bar area, and a magnificent view of the French Quarter. The marble and granite bathrooms include a garden tub and separate glass shower, and you can really picture Tennessee sitting around with a brandy milk punch, knocking out a few scenes before dinner.
The Monteleone - still family owned after five generations - has a proud literary history. Faulkner drunk cocktails here, Capote claims variously to have been conceived AND born here (the truth of the former is lost in the mists of time, the latter is provably untrue, though his mother may have gone into labor here), and Tennessee Williams stayed here regularly. In fact, the hotel is mentioned in his play, The Rose Tattoo. Anyway, this suite is about as New Orleans as it gets, with a floral theme, a luxurious king bedroom and granite bath with Jacuzzi tub. The suite also has a sophisticated parlor, a dining table for six people, bar area, and a magnificent view of the French Quarter. The marble and granite bathrooms include a garden tub and separate glass shower, and you can really picture Tennessee sitting around with a brandy milk punch, knocking out a few scenes before dinner.
The Residence Suite @ The Ritz Carlton
As (I think?) the most expensive suite in New Orleans, the likes of you and I are unlikely to book in here unless we suddenly receive Drew Brees levels of income, but we can dream. This is more like an entire apartment on the 15th floor of the Ritz Carlton and the roof terrace ALONE comes in at 3,500 square feet (the suite is an impressive 3,200 square feet). The decor is classic and contemporary, with its own distinct art collection, a dining room for up to ten guests, and outstanding river and city views. It’s definitely the place to celebrate that lottery win, or a $100million multi-year contract with a nationally-recognized sports franchise.
As (I think?) the most expensive suite in New Orleans, the likes of you and I are unlikely to book in here unless we suddenly receive Drew Brees levels of income, but we can dream. This is more like an entire apartment on the 15th floor of the Ritz Carlton and the roof terrace ALONE comes in at 3,500 square feet (the suite is an impressive 3,200 square feet). The decor is classic and contemporary, with its own distinct art collection, a dining room for up to ten guests, and outstanding river and city views. It’s definitely the place to celebrate that lottery win, or a $100million multi-year contract with a nationally-recognized sports franchise.
