Carousel bar

Question

is it possible to reserve seats at the carousel bar or is it a case of rocking up and hoping for a seat?

Answer

The Carousel Bar in New Orleans is one of the city's most iconic and popular spots, so securing a seat can sometimes be a bit tricky, especially during peak hours. Here's what you need to know about seating and reservations:

Can You Reserve Seats?

No traditional reservations: Unfortunately, the Carousel Bar does not offer traditional seat reservations. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis, which means you’ll need to show up and hope for a spot if you're hoping to sit at the bar or at the rotating carousel seating.
Wait times: If you're visiting during peak times (like weekends or during major events), there may be a wait, and finding an open seat can be difficult. The bar is often busy, especially in the evenings or during special events like Mardi Gras or jazz festivals.

Alternatives for Seating:

Arrive early: If you want to ensure a seat, it's a good idea to arrive early, especially on weekdays or during slower hours in the afternoon when there is less of a crowd. You'll have a better chance of snagging a spot on the rotating carousel seating or at the bar.
Wait for a spot: If you don’t mind waiting, sometimes you can get lucky with an open seat at the bar or carousel. The bar has limited seating, but people tend to come and go, so there may be opportunities to grab a spot if you’re flexible.
Check out the lobby or outdoor seating: While you may not get the full carousel experience, the Carousel Bar is located inside the Hotel Monteleone, which has a beautiful lobby area and some outdoor seating around the hotel, especially in nice weather. If you don't mind being slightly removed from the rotating bar, this could be a good option.

Tips for Visiting:

Be prepared for a wait: If you're visiting during busy times, it’s wise to have a backup plan in mind in case you can’t secure a seat right away. There are plenty of nearby bars and attractions in the French Quarter that you can enjoy while waiting for a spot to open up.
Consider off-peak times: To avoid the crowds, consider visiting the Carousel Bar in the late afternoon or early evening before the dinner rush, as this tends to be less busy compared to nighttime hours.

While the Carousel Bar is certainly a fun and popular spot, the best strategy is to arrive early, be patient, and enjoy the experience if you manage to get a seat. If not, there are always other bars and attractions nearby that you can explore while you wait!