While the Super Bowl and Mardi Gras bring a wave of excitement to New Orleans, the city’s allure extends far beyond these two big events. From its historic landmarks and vibrant nightlife to its world-renowned cuisine and warm hospitality, New Orleans offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re seeking a luxurious retreat with a rooftop pool and spa, a centrally located base for exploring the French Quarter or a cozy hideaway with a local feel, you’ll find it here. Forbes Travel Guide rounded up the city’s best hotels to ensure your stay is as memorable as the city itself.
You can trust FTG’s exclusive list — we have been rating hotels since 1958 using an objective and independent process. To find the best hotels in New Orleans, our incognito inspectors posed as ordinary guests and stayed multiple nights at each property. The inspectors tested hundreds of exacting standards, with an emphasis on exceptional service, which accounts for 70% of a property’s rating. The remaining 30% comes from the quality and condition of the facilities. FTG does not require a business relationship from the properties it rates, and it does not earn a commission if you book one of the following hotels.
Four-Star Hotels
Step into the grand lobby of The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans, and you’ll be greeted by the intoxicating aroma of Southern magnolia, the hotel’s signature scent. Housed in the former Maison Blanche department store, this Beaux Arts building exudes antebellum charm. A lush courtyard provides a quintessential New Orleans setting for enjoying a classic cocktail, while guest rooms and suites evoke the elegance of a fine mansion.
The hotel also boasts a vibrant jazz lounge, where you can soak in the sounds of legendary singer/trumpeter Jeremy Davenport, and a Four-Star spa that’s the largest in the city. With its impeccable service and refined ambiance, The Ritz-Carlton embodies the best of the Crescent City. Read more.
Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans
This dazzling hotel sets the stage for luxury from the moment you arrive. A shimmering installation of 15,000 hand-strung crystals illuminates the circular Chandelier Bar, where you can savor expertly crafted cocktails in a glamorous setting.
Occupying the former World Trade Center, a landmark building on the National Register of Historic Places, the Four Seasons seamlessly blends modern aesthetics with historical touches. Guest rooms feature crisp white shiplap walls, while hallways showcase shadow boxes filled with salvaged building materials, a nod to the property’s past.
With acclaimed chefs Alon Shaya and Donald Link at the helm of its restaurants, the Four Seasons is a culinary destination in its own right. And for ultimate relaxation, the spa offers a tranquil oasis amid the city’s vibrant energy. Read more.
A tucked-away oasis in the city’s business district, The Windsor Court brings a bit of the English countryside to New Orleans. The Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star hotel’s rooms feature traditional English furnishings and artwork, while bay windows provide views of the city or the Mississippi River.
The hotel has recently undergone a refresh, adding modern touches without sacrificing its Old World charm. The new Pool Bar offers a chic space to unwind and cool off during humid days, The Polo Club provides a handsome spot for cocktails and the lobby hosts one of the city’s best afternoon teas. The Grill Room remains a culinary hot spot. With a full-service Four-Star spa, fitness center and impeccable service, The Windsor Court provides a sophisticated haven. Read more.
Forbes Travel Guide Recommended Hotels
A true New Orleans icon, Hotel Monteleone has been welcoming guests since 1886. This family-run gem, now in its fifth generation of ownership, exudes Old World grandeur from the moment you step into its bustling lobby. With its pristine marble floors, ornate chandeliers and intricate brass accents, the lobby captures the essence of the French Quarter.
Steps away from the area’s best shopping, dining and nightlife, Hotel Monteleone puts you in the heart of the action. But with amenities like a rooftop pool, Spa Aria, Criollo Restaurant and the one-of-a-kind rotating Carousel Bar (which recently celebrated its 75th anniversary), you may find it hard to leave this historic haven. Read more.
The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel
Steeped in history and glamour, The Roosevelt New Orleans has been a landmark since 1893. This grand hotel has hosted countless celebrities, athletes, presidents and royalty, all drawn to its legendary luxury. The ornate marble lobby, with its rows of crystal chandeliers and the captivating Mystery Lady Timepiece, sets the stage for an unforgettable stay.
With 504 plush guest rooms, exceptional dining options and a historic lounge — the Sazerac Bar is a must-visit for the New Orleans-born cocktail — The Roosevelt remains a local institution, offering a timeless experience in the heart of the city. Read more.
