I’ve been planning my trip to NOLA for the past few weeks, and have been torn on what hotel to stay at for my weeklong visit. At first I booked a stay at the W French Quarter, but as I did more and more research, I came across many new boutique hotels. All of which I want to stay at. Instead of storing this all in my mind, I figured I share countless hours of research with my readers. Enjoy.

The Catahoula Hotel
Central Business District

 Premier Room at Catahoula
Premier Room at Catahoula

The Catahoula Hotel is a 35-room boutique hotel in downtown New Orleans, located near the French Quarter and the Superdome. Originally built in 1845, the hotel resides in a restored creole townhouse nestled on a quiet side street in the Central Business District. Their Staterooms feature a king or queen size bed with a Casper mattress, walk-in shower with a rainfall shower head, vanity, luggage stand, and desk, all set in the historical corridors of our 19th century townhouse.  Their restaurant features Peruvian inspired dishes and an exciting menu of Pisco cocktails. They also have a boutique coffee program by Bean Tech Eric Goldberg, who has selected PT’s Coffee from Kansas City as the hotel’s featured espresso. 

Ace Hotel
Warehouse District

 Corner Room at the Ace Hotel
Corner Room at the Ace Hotel

The Portland-based brand, the Ace Hotel, opened its newest location mid-March 2016 in an art deco building in the Warehouse District. Space looks cool, though the many online reviews I’ve read have guests complaining about noise, and thin walls. 

Henry Howard Hotel
Garden District

Constructed in 1867, the former B&B double gallery townhouse designed by architect Henry Howard opened its doors in its second life to guests in February 2016. The hotel, shown top, is a mix of modern and traditional elements. All rooms have a curated mix of vintage and custom furniture, local original artwork, complimentary WiFi, and more.

Curbed NOLA has published a nifty list of other new openings for the city, so be sure to check that out. Four Seasons is opening in 2018. Looking forward to that.

Q&C Hotel/Bar
Central Business District

 Superior King Room at Q&C Hotel/Bar
Superior King Room at Q&C Hotel/Bar

There have also been many newly renovated hotels. One that has caught my eye is the Q&C Hotel/Bar, formerly called Queen & Crescent located about two blocks from the French Quarter. Q&C was completely renovated in 2014. They are now part of the Autograph Collection by Marriott. You can’t book a room through Marriott yet, but that’ll change in the coming weeks. For now, you can book directly on their website or through their reservations team.

As for reviews, generally guests have very positive reviews. Minimal complaints about noise, but some have noted the small room sizes. The hotel is pet-friendly, which can be a pro or con.

Old No. 77 Hotel and Chandlery

 Premier King Room at Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery
Premier King Room at Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery

The Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery, rebranded from the old Ambassador Hotel, opened in Spring 2015 after a $14M renovation. Old No. 77 has an urban, industrial aesthetic, and has partnered with Where Y’Art gallery on Royal Street to feature works of art in an annex gallery. Rooms start at $127 per night – not a bad deal. The hotel also houses Compère Lapin, the restaurant that Top Chef New Orleans finalist Nina Compton opened last year. 

Countdown to NOLA. I’m looking forward to my visit, and will be sharing my experience with you soon.

Photo Credits: Catahoula Hotel, Ace Hotel, Henry Howard Hotel, Q&C Hotel/Bar, and Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery.