Thoughts on Borboun Orleans Hotel?
We are researching hotels for an upcoming stay with 2 adults and 2 older teens. Our first time in NO. We're looking for something centrally located, somewhat upscale, and with a NO feel/ambiance to it. I have looked through a lot of posts with French Quarter recommendations and have noticed that the Bourbon Orleans is not very often on the list of suggestions. I see many of the others recommended over and over from full service to budget. Is there any specific reason for this? Is it generally considered a good option? It looks like a great option to me, but since I'm new to researching NO I might be overlooking something. Thanks!
The Bourbon Orleans Hotel is a solid choice for a stay in the French Quarter, and it is often considered a good option for those looking for a blend of upscale accommodations and local charm. While it may not be as frequently recommended as some of the more famous hotels like the Royal Sonesta or Hotel Monteleone, it still offers a great experience for visitors. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of the Bourbon Orleans, as well as why it might not come up as often in some recommendations:
Pros of the Bourbon Orleans Hotel:
- Centrally Located: The Bourbon Orleans is located just a block from the famous Bourbon Street, making it extremely convenient for accessing many of the main attractions in the French Quarter, like Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and Café du Monde. It offers easy walking distance to much of the action in the heart of the Quarter, without being directly on Bourbon Street, which can be noisy at times.
- Historical Charm: The hotel has a great historic feel, which is an essential element of New Orleans ambiance. It was once a convent and later a ballet school, so the building itself is full of character. Many guests appreciate the mix of traditional New Orleans architecture and modern amenities.
- Pool and Courtyard: The hotel offers a nice pool area, which is a great amenity for relaxing after a day of exploring the city. The outdoor courtyard is also a pleasant space to unwind.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a great option for families, especially those with teens, as it offers more spacious rooms than many of the boutique hotels in the area. The location is also excellent for easily exploring the French Quarter with older teens in tow.
Cons of the Bourbon Orleans Hotel:
- Less Famous: The Bourbon Orleans may not come up as often in recommendations because it's not as iconic or luxurious as some other French Quarter hotels, such as Hotel Monteleone or the Royal Sonesta. These tend to get more attention because of their long-standing reputations and unique features, such as Hotel Monteleone's Carousel Bar.
- Not on Bourbon Street: While being a block away from Bourbon Street is a benefit in terms of reducing noise, it’s worth noting that some people specifically want to stay directly on Bourbon Street to be right in the middle of all the action. If you’re looking for a hotel on Bourbon Street itself, you might want to look elsewhere.
- Smaller Rooms: Some guests have noted that the rooms are a little smaller compared to other upscale hotels in the area. If you’re looking for a larger space to spread out, you might want to check out larger properties.
Overall Impression:
The Bourbon Orleans Hotel is a wonderful choice for those who appreciate a mix of history, local flavor, and comfort without the high price tag of the more luxurious French Quarter hotels. While it may not be as frequently recommended as some other hotels in the area, it still offers great value for its location and the quality of its amenities. If you’re looking for a place with character, a convenient location, and a relaxing atmosphere, the Bourbon Orleans is a great option.
If you're open to other suggestions, here are a few other boutique-style hotels that may also meet your needs:
- Hotel Monteleone: Famous for its Carousel Bar, this hotel is a New Orleans landmark and offers a more classic luxury experience.
- Royal Sonesta: Located right on Bourbon Street, this hotel is known for its beautiful courtyard and lively atmosphere. It’s more luxurious but can be a bit more expensive.
- The Henry Howard Hotel: A smaller boutique hotel located in the Garden District, which offers a quieter and more refined experience while still being close to the action of the French Quarter.
In summary, the Bourbon Orleans Hotel is generally considered a great option for a stay in the French Quarter, offering both comfort and historical ambiance. It may not always be as frequently recommended as some other hotels, but it’s certainly worth considering based on your preferences for location, comfort, and style.
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