Where To Stay in New Orleans [5 BEST Neighborhoods!]

Mischievous, vibrant mixed with a splendid history and a dash of crazy make New Orleans an exciting and highly desirable city!

Families might be deterred by New Orleans for its adult-orientated revelry.

But there are plenty of neighborhoods in town which whole-heartedly welcome families.  There are child-friendly activities and awesome family hotels. That’s why we’ve put together this insider guide for where to stay in New Orleans to help you decide the best area for you while visiting this remarkable city.

Written by our travel experts, we break down New Orleans by theme to help you plan the best possible vacation, whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, a loved one or with kids.

So, no matter what you’re looking to do in New Orleans, you’ll be able to find a hotel that’s right for you.

Let’s get to it. Here are our top picks for where to stay in New Orleans.

Quick Tips – Where to Stay in New Orleans

Where to Stay in New Orleans

Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in New Orleans.

Best Air BnB in New Orleans – The Natchez’s Air BnB

Often ranked as the best Air BnB in New Orleans, this property blends contemporary decor with irresistible historic charm. Here, you’ll be wowed by its remarkable architectural elements, such as a couple of private balconies and 100-year-old hardwood floors. 

Spacious and snug, up to four guests can also stay in this two-bathroom and two-bedroom New Orleans accommodation. 

Plus, this Air BnB has a 24-hour concierge service, hot tub and a pool.

 

Best Budget Hotel in New Orleans –  French Market Inn

This modern guest house features a range of facilities, including a modest swimming pool 24-hour reception, babysitting/child services and valet parking. Airport transfers, a laundry service, a wake-up service and a dry cleaning service are available on enquiry. Rooms are modern and equipped with all you need.

 

Best Mid-Range Hotel in New Orleans – Chateau Hotel

This cozy, boutique hotel offers 3-star accommodation. There is an outdoor swimming pool and jacuzzi as well as on-site bar/lounge. It is a five-minute walk from French Market and 25 minutes from the airport. Comfy rooms feature a coffee maker and a TV with cable channels.

 

Let’s make this simple. These are the best hotels in New Orleans!

Best Luxury Hotel in New Orleans – Bourbon Orleans Hotel

This modernly furnished hotel is perfectly located for exploring New Orleans. The 5-star hotel offers a fitness suite, room service, valet parking and an outdoor swimming pool with a sundeck. The front desk operates 24/7 and the friendly staff can recommend places to visit and provide tourist information.

 

New Orleans Neighborhood Guide

New Orleans is a Louisiana city on the Mississippi River, near the Gulf of Mexico. The city spans 13 districts which are subdivided into 72 distinctive neighborhoods.

Nicknamed the ‘Big Easy,’ the city is known for its vibrant live-music scene, and Cajun-Creole cuisine  reflecting its historic ties to French, African and American cultures. New Orleans is also known for its raucous costumed parades and street parties of Mardi Gras.

The city was affected badly by the 2005 Hurricane Katrina, but the town has bounced back with bells on!

The French Quarter is the historic centre of New Orleans and its famous, colourful buildings are abundant with tourist attractions. We recommend this neighborhood to first-time visitors in New Orleans.

Within this neighborhood, runs the positively Bacchanalian Bourbon Street. We consider this to be a district in its own right with its boisterous nightlife and never-ending supply liquor. Stay here if you’re looking to party!

The best budget accommodation can be scored in the Central Business District, which boasts a lively nightlife and you can take your pick from lots of restaurants.

The coolest neighbourhood Faubourg Marigny, where bohemian spirit meets hipster cool. Families will love the peace and safety of the affluent Lower Garden District.

Interested in New Orleans? Read up on the history of New Orleans!

New Orleans’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in:

Let’s take a closer look, in detail, at the best five neighborhoods in New Orleans.

Neighborhood #1 - French Quarter

(Where to stay in New Orleans the first time)

The French Quarter is the historic heart of New Orleans, famed for its streets of funky buildings and their cast-iron balconies. Its riverside setting along the Mississippi add to the picturesque magic.

The neighborhood is rammed with interesting touristic attractions and is rich in New Orleans heritage. A first-time or even a returning visitor won’t run out of places to explore here!

The whole neighborhood is alight with Cajun-Creole restaurants. Quieter streets lead to cafes where you can whittle away a few hours. Bourbon Street springs to life at night with bars and clubs.

Top things to do in the French Quarter:

• Soak up the atmosphere over a coffee in historic Jackson Square
• Shop for souvenirs along the six blocks of the French Market
• Go on a ghost tour – New Orleans is the most haunted city in the United States after all!
• Visit the statues of Benito Juarez  and Joan of Arc, Maid of Orleans
• Tour Gallier House for a glimpse into the affluent family life of this 1857 residence
• Go people-watching in one of the cajun themed coffee shops
• Enjoy river views from Woldenberg Park
• Explore quirky museums including the Historic Voodoo Museum, Museum of Death, New Orleans Jazz Museum and Historic New Orleans Collection
• Go on a steamboat cruise along the Mississippi River
• Visit Lalaurie Mansion – a beautiful 1800’s house hiding a dark history
• See the oldest cathedral in the United States – St. Louis Cathedral
• Walk the 182m length of Pirates Alley where you’ll find boutiques, bookshops and cafes

Love to tan? Check out the 15 best beaches in New Orleans!

Where to Stay in French Quarter

Best Air BnB in French Quarter – Ben’s Air BnB

Housed in a historic building, this charming French Quarter Air BnB impresses its guests with its historic charm and style, thanks to its gorgeous exposed brick walls. What’s more, this apartment is spacious and sunny, making it a romantic retreat in the heart of the French Quarter. And, it has a couple of balconies with one overlooking the street. 

And, did I mention that it is literally steps away from Bourbon Street?

 

Best Budget Hotel in the French Quarter – Quarter House

This 3-star guesthouse has 126 well-appointed apartments that are accompanied by a range of essential amenities to ensure guests have a comfortable stay. Rooms ooze historical elegance. The property offers an on-site gym, communal swimming pool, laundry facilities and free Wi-Fi. There is a delightful terrace!

 

Editor’s Note: You might also like to look at our best hotel recommendations in Downtown New Orleans.

Best Mid-Range Hotel in French Quarter – Bienville House Hotel

This 4-star hotel comes with a gym and an outdoor saltwater swimming pool. Rooms are radiantly styled with comfortable, historic furnishings. All private bathrooms are fitted with a bathtub. The front desk operates 24/7 and guests can dine at the property’s restaurant. The rate includes a daily breakfast.

 

Louisiana has AMAZING coast! Check out the 15 best beaches in Louisiana

Best Luxury Hotel in French Quarter – The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans

No one does swanky like The Ritz-Carlton! The hotel has an incredible terrace with a bar for sweeping city views. Luxurious rooms are traditionally and beautifully styled. There is a heated indoor pool and a gym for guests to enjoy. The hotel provides a daily à la carte breakfast.

 

Don’t have time to see more of Louisiana? These convenient and cool day trips start and end in New Orleans!

Neighborhood #2 - Central Business District

(Where to stay in New Orleans on a budget)

The Central Business District (CBD) is located to the south of the French Quarter, and is another central neighborhood. It’s a mix of boutique hotels, top theaters, quirky bars and sleek restaurants. See, there’s much more than high-rises and business deals!

The CBD is the cheapest spot in town in terms of accommodation – prices really drop in this neighborhood but you get a lot for your money. The neighborhood has plenty of attractions and shopping to keep you entertained during the day.

Top things to do in the Central Business District:

• Get up close with creepy crawlies at the Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium
• See who’s in the limelight at the neighborhood’s theaters – check out the Orpheum, Civic and Saenger venues
• Don’t miss the Gothic landmark Church of St Patrick
• Use (with caution!) the money you saved on your hotel by spending a few hours at Harrah’s Casino New Orleans
• Enjoy tasty, filling southern and Cajun cuisine at Cellar Door
• Explore the marine life at the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas. There’s a 400,000-gallon tank with coral reefs and a walk-through tunnel
• Hang out in the sun with an ice cream or coffee at Lafayette Square
• Explore the regional collections at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art and the Contemporary Arts Center
• Go bar hopping along Tchoupitoulas Street and peace out over Californian-Mexican dishes at Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant
• Eat sustainable vegan and vegetarian fare at tropical restaurant Carmo – with inspiration from Latin America, West Africa and beyond!

Short on time? One of these tours in New Orleans is the best way to see the most!

Where to Stay in the Central Business District

Best Air BnB in the Central Business District – Michael’s Air BnB

You’ll absolutely love this Air BnB in the Central Business District. After all, this listing is just 5 minutes away from the Frenchmen Street, with plenty of upbeat live music along the way. 

Furthermore, you may prepare your meals in its kitchen with its stainless steel appliances and concrete-slab counter-tops before your dine alfresco on the property’s raised deck. 

The remodeled home also boasts decorative period examples and a contemporary wood-burning fireplace.

 

Best Budget Hotel in the Central Business District – Magnolia New Orleans

This charming hotel has a rooftop terrace and an outdoor pool. The property has both a restaurant and a bar where guests are able to unwind at the end of the day, and guests can also opt to order breakfast at the hotel. Rooms are comfortably designed and well-kept.

 

Good weather is important! So to help, we created this guide of the best times to visit New Orleans!

Best Mid-Range Hotel in the Central Business District – International House Hotel

This stylish, contemporary 4-star hotel is close to Place St. Charles. The hotel offers an on-site fitness centre, valet parking and an express check-in feature. Staff are available 24 hours a day and can book tours and tickets. Guests can also make use of free Wi-Fi.

 

Best Luxury Hotel in the Central Business District – Loews New Orleans Hotel

This luxury 5-star hotel comes with contemporary bedrooms, a spa and wellness centre, a sauna and an indoor pool. Hotel services include valet parking, an express check-in facility, babysitting services and a tour desk. The hotel can cater for families, and breakfast is provided at an additional cost.

 

Not sold on New Orleans? There are some incredible things to do in New Orleans that won’t believe!

Neighborhood #3 - Bourbon Street

(Best area to stay in New Orleans for nightlife)

Bourbon Street is one of the most famous nightlife streets in the world, and it’s found in the heart of New Orleans French Quarter. It’s famed for Mardi Gras, big brass bands and charismatic, colorful buildings.

It is legal to drink alcohol on the streets of New Orleans. Many of the ‘bars’ on Bourbon Street are in fact street vendors who sell liquor in plastic ‘go-cups’ so you can swig from your cup as you soak up the vibes. But make sure you do check out the awesome bars listed below!

Top things to do in Bourbon Street:

• Explore the Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture
• Spot all the statues of New Orleans jazz legends in the Musical Legends Park
• Party under neon lights, Mardi Gras beads with a hand grenade cocktail at Tropical Isle
• Drink potent cocktails that would make Bluebeard shiver his timbers at the Funky Pirate Blues Club
• Stretch your lungs by belting out classics at the World Famous Cats Meow karaoke bar
• Sip delicate, classic cocktails at one of the classier jazz joints along the strip – check out Maison Bourbon, Preservation Hall and Fritzel’s European Jazz Pub
• One tequila, two tequila, three tequila… unleash yourself at Rita’s Tequila House!
• Party at the 2-storey gay dance club, Oz
• Have a unique experience at Saints and Sinners – they do amazing tacos as well as cocktails
• Cool down with a frozen cocktail at SLUSH
• If you prefer beer to bourbon, check out Bourbon Street Beer House

Where to Stay in Bourbon Street

Best Air BnB in Bourbon Street – Historic Mansion Condo

There’s no Air BnB in NOLA quite like this historic mansion condo. From its candelabras to its sparkling chandeliers, this historic and elegant mansion promises to sweep you into bliss in many ways. 

Established in 1820, this luxury apartment is a wondrous blend of French opulence and rustic wooden beams and exposed bricks. 

As a bonus, each guest will get complimentary snacks, coffee and even champagne.

 

Best Budget Hotel in Bourbon Street – Hotel St Marie

The hotel has 103 air-conditioned rooms equipped with all the necessities to ensure a comfortable stay, including hotel drink making facilities and free Wi-Fi. The property has a gym with an outdoor swimming pool. Staff are available 24 hours a day to assist with booking tours and tickets.

 

Best Mid-Range Hotel in Bourbon Street – Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter

At the heart of Bourbon Street, this unique hotel provides a restaurant, swimming pool, gym, valet parking and meeting rooms. There’s even a casino for those feeling flush! Rooms are immaculate and guests love the outdoor pool with its expansive sundeck. Daily breakfast can be added to the room rate.

 

Best Luxury Hotel in Bourbon Street – Hotel Le Marais New Orleans

This luxury hotel has delightful rooms which come with iPod docking stations, laptop safes and flat-screen TVs. Each room has heating, bottled water and a private bathroom. There is a gym and a saltwater swimming pool for guests to enjoy.  Guests can dine in-house or explore local eateries.

 

Neighborhood #4 - Faubourg Marigny

(Coolest place to stay in New Orleans)

Faubourg Marigny is a bohemian, spritely neighborhood popular with hipster residents and younger travelers.

The area is chic and cosmo, where culture takes prominence. Many flourishing young artists call Faubourg Marigny their home, and it’s great for browsing galleries or boutique shopping.

Most of the accommodation is comprised of guesthouses and bed and breakfasts, within the historic and characterful buildings. The area is close enough to dive into the French Quarter and Bourbon Street, then retreat for soothing mellow vibes by night.

Top things to do in Faubourg Marigny:

• Enjoy a night of jazz at The Maison or The Spotted Cat Music Club
• Feast on Creole and Cajun plates at the sunny, sidewalk diner Marigny Brasserie
• Kick back in hip coffee shop the Orange Couch, which has live jazz on some nights
• Visit the Voodoo Spiritual Temple, which offers West African spiritual and herbal healing treatments
• Take your pick from brunch, Cajun plates, coffees and cocktails at the hybrid Who Dat Coffee Cafe
• Relax on the historic urban lawn of Washington Square
• Eat hot dogs at Dat Dog and have desert at New Orleans Cake Café & Bakery
• Visit night market the Art Garage to purchase art, crafts and homemade jewellery from local artists and designers
• See local performance arts including music and dance shows at the Marigny Opera House
• Explore the shops and entertainment along Frenchmen Street
• See eclectic art at the Studio Be gallery
• Start your night at the Lost Love Lounge, which also dishes up top-notch Vietnamese fare!

Where to Stay in Faubourg Marigny

Best Air BnB in Faubourg Marigny – Wiley’s Air BnB 

Wiley’s river house evokes a rather cool vibe, with its boho aesthetic elements featuring lively foliage and antiques. 

Nestled in a historic district in the Big Easy, this Air BnB offers easy access to some of the top attractions in New Orleans. 

Moreover, it has an eclectic space and offers an array of handy amenities, including an outdoor pool and breakfast.

 

Best Budget Hotel in Faubourg Marigny – Lions Inn Bed & Breakfast

This cute 3-star guest house has its own outdoor pool. The 9 guest rooms are comfortable and decorated with unique character. Bathrooms are modern. Guests can curl up with a book in the inn’s library or make use of the free Wi-Fi. Breakfast is included in the rate.

 

Best Mid-Range Hotel in Faubourg Marigny – Melrose Mansion Suites

The Art Deco Melrose Mansion Suites has 14 rooms, all of which are equipped with a variety of facilities to ensure a comfortable stay. The hotel offers complimentary Wi-Fi, a fitness centre and an outdoor pool with a beautiful sundeck. Choose a bedroom or studio with a kitchen.

 

Best Luxury Hotel in Faubourg Marigny – Frenchmen Orleans 519

Each spacious condo or apartment at Frenchmen Orleans 519 features a kitchenette and all the essentials for a comfortable stay. All come with a TV and DVD player for guests to enjoy some downtime. Wi-Fi is included. There is an outdoor swimming pool and jacuzzi for guests to unwind.

 

Neighborhood #5 - Lower Garden District

(Best neighborhood in New Orleans for families)

The Lower Garden District sits to the south of the CBD and French Quarter, along the banks of the Mississippi River. It is a fairly large neighborhood which is aesthetically pleasing to wander or cycle around.

Elegant, neoclassical residences and soaring oak trees line these streets. Taking a leisurely stroll to see the notable mansions will lead you to little urban parks where you can take a break.

The neighborhood is rich in cafes, restaurants and pubs – perfect for enjoying a long and satisfying meal in between browsing boutiques and exploring the attractions. This area is safe, peaceful and ideal for families.

Top things to do in the Lower Garden District:

• Explore the collection of Mardi Gras floats at the whopping 400,000sq. ft museum of Mardi Gras World
• Check out views of the Crescent City Connection over the Mississippi River from the Port of New Orleans
• Go coffee-shopping Mojo Coffee House, Hivolt and DeVille Coffee House & Crêperie to name a few
• Tickle your taste buds and whet your appetite at the Southern Food and Beverage Museum & Museum of the American Cocktail
• Chow down on Cajun-themed pub grub at Down the Hatch
• Drink fresh beer brewed at the Urban South Brewery or the Courtyard Brewery
• Go antiquing at Antiques on Jackson
• Take a picnic to the Coliseum Square Park or Annunciation Square
• Explore the historic, notable residences that cluster between the First and Third streets in the western end of the neighborhood
• Take a peaceful stroll in the Lafayette Cemetery

Where to Stay in Lower Garden District

Best Air BnB in Lower Garden District – Leigh’s Air BnB

Want to stay in a fancy Air BnB on your New Orleans vacation? Then, book a stay at this luxurious and deluxe boutique suite in the Lower Garden District! 

Praised for its Creole architecture, this Air BnB had been renovated perfectly into a light-filled and breezy abode with its original brick fireplaces and high ceilings. 

Set in a friendly and safe neighborhood, this stunning cottage is also steps away from the trendy and chic Magazine Street with its wide array of shops and restaurants as well as extraordinary homes.

 

Best Budget Hotel in Lower Garden District – Marriott ExecuStay The Saulet

All apartments at this property are comfortable and offer a kitchenette that is equipped with all you need to prepare nourishing meals for the family. All provide wireless internet access and a DVD player. Parking is available and pets are welcome here too. There is an outdoor pool for guests.

 

Best Mid-Range Hotel in Lower Garden District – Parisian Courtyard Inn

The inn has 10 well-appointed, traditionally furnished rooms that are accompanied by a variety of essential facilities to ensure guests have an enjoyable stay. Rooms come in different configurations to suit a traveling family. Guests can relax on the property’s garden terrace and make use of a BBQ area.

 

Best Luxury Hotel in Lower Garden District – Fleur De Lis Mansion

This gorgeous, peaceful guesthouse has 9 ornate rooms, all of which are equipped with a range of amenities to ensure an enjoyable stay – including a kitchenette. The hotel is pet-friendly and offers a complimentary continental breakfast and wine hour! There is a swimming pool, hot tub and beautiful gardens.

 

Final thoughts on New Orleans

New Orleans is a city of wit, wonder and wildness. Beneath these bonnie facades and iconic balconies, lies both a rich history and one of the most invigorating music scenes in the world.

The city has bounced back from the turmoil of Hurricane Katrina and offers a wholly unique spirit.

To recap our travel guide, Faubourg Marigny is our top choice for where to stay in New Orleans. This spritely neighborhood oozes excitement, dynamic culture and an awesome atmosphere.

Our top pick for best hotel in New Orleans is the Melrose Mansion Suites thanks to its great location in the coolest part of town and its stunning pool really supplements the vacation vibes. You won’t find a better place to stay in New Orleans!

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