Where to stay

Question

We are coming in Apr for a cruise and looking to stay around the Saenger Theater area. My sister has mobility issues so looking for something maybe a little smaller but nice.

Answer

New Orleans is a great city to explore, and staying near the Saenger Theater area is an excellent choice as it's centrally located with plenty of dining and entertainment options nearby. Since your sister has mobility issues, I understand you'd be looking for a more accessible hotel that’s also smaller and comfortable. Here are a few options that may be a good fit:

1. The Higgins Hotel New Orleans, Curio Collection by Hilton

This hotel is located near the Saenger Theater area and offers a modern, boutique-style experience. It’s a bit more compact, so it won’t be as overwhelming as larger hotels. The hotel is fully accessible, with ADA-compliant rooms, and it's located in a quieter part of the Arts District, making it a good option for a relaxed stay. The staff is known for being very accommodating, which could be helpful for your sister’s mobility needs. Plus, it’s just a short walk or drive to the theater.

2. Hotel Monteleone

Located about a 10-minute walk from the Saenger Theater, Hotel Monteleone is a historic, smaller hotel with great accessibility options. It’s one of the most iconic hotels in New Orleans, offering elegant accommodations and a more intimate atmosphere. The hotel is also ADA-friendly with accessible rooms and facilities, and the staff is used to hosting guests with special mobility needs. The location is fantastic for exploring the French Quarter and getting to your cruise terminal.

3. The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel

This hotel is another classic New Orleans option that’s a bit larger but still offers an accessible, comfortable stay. Located within walking distance to the Saenger Theater, it offers a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. The Roosevelt has ADA-compliant rooms, including accessible bathrooms, elevators, and ramps. It’s a luxurious option that may be just a bit larger than the others, but the experience is very comfortable, and the location is prime for both theater outings and access to the cruise terminal.

4. The Saint Hotel, Autograph Collection

Another boutique option is The Saint Hotel, which is a smaller, stylish hotel located about a 10-minute walk from the Saenger Theater. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a more relaxed, upscale experience without the crowds of larger hotels. It also offers ADA-compliant rooms with wheelchair access and is known for being a welcoming place for guests with mobility challenges.

5. Omni Royal Orleans

Located in the heart of the French Quarter and about a 15-minute walk from the Saenger Theater, Omni Royal Orleans is a well-regarded hotel that’s accessible and smaller compared to many others. It offers easy access to the main attractions of the French Quarter, and the hotel has ADA-compliant rooms and elevators for convenience. The staff is highly praised for being helpful and accommodating to guests with special needs.

Additional Tips for Accessibility:

Call ahead: Many hotels offer additional mobility features (like roll-in showers or shower chairs) if requested in advance, so be sure to ask about these during booking.
Accessible transportation: If you plan to use taxis or rideshares, you may want to confirm that the vehicles are wheelchair accessible. New Orleans also has accessible streetcar options, though some areas may be more challenging for wheelchairs due to uneven sidewalks.
Proximity to the cruise terminal: If your cruise departs from the Julia Street Terminal, you may want to choose a hotel with easy access to the port (a short drive or even a walk, depending on mobility needs). Most of the hotels listed above are within a 10-15 minute drive from the cruise terminal.

Overall, New Orleans is an accessible city with many options for those with mobility challenges. Staying near the Saenger Theater area will put you right in the heart of the action, with plenty of options for food, entertainment, and shopping. Have a great time in New Orleans, and enjoy your cruise!

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