What area of french quarter please?

Question

Hi, looking at coming to new orleans in sept 26, i know its a long way off but like to get things sorted. Do you think 3/4 days is enough? We are very casual, love live music, mooching around during the day, stopping here and there for a drink, casual food. Would love to stay in a place with the balcony’s like you see in the pictures but dont know if they would be very noisy or if we can afford it. Budget would be up to $200 max a night. Thanks.

Answer

It sounds like you're in for a great trip to New Orleans! Three or four days is definitely enough time to explore the French Quarter at a leisurely pace, especially if you enjoy soaking in the atmosphere, live music, and casual meals. Here's a breakdown of your questions and some suggestions for your stay:

1. How much time do you need?

Three or four days should give you a great mix of relaxation and sightseeing. You’ll have time to stroll through the French Quarter, check out the Garden District, enjoy live music, and sample some delicious local food. Since you prefer a more casual pace, this timeframe works perfectly for leisurely exploration.

2. Finding a hotel with a balcony:

Balconies with the iconic French Quarter views are a great way to experience the charm of New Orleans, but they can sometimes come with noise, especially if you're staying on Bourbon Street or other busy areas. However, there are some quieter streets where you can find more peaceful balconies but still be in close proximity to the action. The sound of music and people can vary, but many visitors love being close to the excitement, while others prefer a more tranquil setting. Based on your budget of $200 per night, you might need to look around to find the right balance between location, comfort, and cost.

French Quarter Hotels with Balconies (under $200):
- The Royal Sonesta Hotel – Located on Bourbon Street, but with some rooms offering quieter views. It has a lovely balcony setting and is well within the $200 range if you book early.
- Hotel Provincial – A charming, quieter hotel with balconies, located just off the main action of Bourbon Street. Offers good rates for its location.
- The Inn on St. Ann – A more affordable option in the French Quarter that has balconies in some rooms. It's a cozy spot, just off the more popular Bourbon Street.
For a quieter stay with a balcony: Consider looking at hotels or guesthouses near Jackson Square or Royal Street. These areas are still very much part of the French Quarter but tend to be a bit more peaceful than Bourbon Street itself.

3. Noise concerns: If you're staying on a street with a lot of bars and clubs, like Bourbon Street, there may be some noise from live music and revelers, especially in the evenings. If you're sensitive to noise but want a balcony view, try looking for a room on a higher floor, as this can help reduce street-level noise.

4. Budget considerations: New Orleans can be a bit pricier for hotel rooms, especially in the French Quarter, but booking in advance can help you snag a room within your budget. Many hotels offer special deals and discounts during certain times of the year, so it's worth keeping an eye out for those.

In short, for a casual trip with plenty of time to enjoy the French Quarter, a stay of 3–4 days is perfect. For a hotel, I'd recommend looking at options in quieter corners of the Quarter to get a peaceful retreat with easy access to live music and food spots. Enjoy your trip to New Orleans!