Choice Between 5 Hotels

Question

I have been to New Orleans two times and both times I stayed at the Dauphine Orleans. I loved both of my stays there, but this time I’m looking for something more inside the FQ. I have looked at various hotels and have found several that I really like. I am finding it hard to narrow down because each one sounds nice (even though each one does have their own quirks, as with all places I suppose). I am looking for hotels with balconies overlooking the FQ. I'll be going in the month of April in the coming years.

My choices are - Place d'Armes, Bourbon Orleans, Omni Royal Orleans, Hotel Royal, or the Le Richelieu.

The first two are my top choices, followed by the others. Any opinions?

Thank you!

Answer

Choosing the right hotel in the French Quarter for your stay can be tough, especially with so many charming options. All of the places you've mentioned are well-regarded and have their own unique qualities. Here's a rundown of each one to help you make an informed decision:

Place d'Armes – This is a fantastic choice for those who want to experience the heart of the French Quarter. It has a beautiful courtyard and many rooms with balconies overlooking the FQ. It's a bit more affordable than some of the other options and offers a great balance of location and comfort. It’s a lively spot but not as noisy as some of the other hotels closer to Bourbon Street. If you love the charm of the Quarter and want something historic with modern amenities, this could be the one.
Bourbon Orleans – Another excellent option, especially if you want to be close to Bourbon Street but in a more refined, quieter setting. The hotel is a former convent, so it has a lot of character. Many rooms come with balconies that overlook the French Quarter, and it's just steps from the nightlife, yet still feels peaceful. The hotel’s pool is also a nice touch, especially in warmer months. Some rooms can be on the smaller side, so be sure to check the room size when booking.
Omni Royal Orleans – This one is a luxury option with more upscale amenities. It’s a little more formal and offers more spacious rooms than some of the other choices. The hotel has a rooftop pool with beautiful views of the city, and several rooms feature French Quarter views with balconies. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a mix of comfort and elegance, but it can be a bit pricier than the others.
Hotel Royal – A smaller boutique hotel located right in the heart of the French Quarter. It's a charming, historic building with some rooms offering balconies that look out over the Quarter. The atmosphere is more intimate and quieter compared to the larger hotels, which some people love. However, the amenities are more basic, and it doesn't have quite the same level of luxury as some of the other hotels on your list.
Le Richelieu – Located a bit on the edge of the French Quarter, it offers a peaceful, less crowded setting while still being close enough to walk to the main attractions. This hotel has a charming, historic feel, and some rooms offer French Quarter views. The pool and outdoor spaces make it a great place to relax after exploring the Quarter. It's more affordable compared to some of the higher-end options but still delivers a solid New Orleans experience. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a quieter, more laid-back stay.

Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your priorities. If you're looking for a central location with a lively atmosphere, Place d'Armes and Bourbon Orleans are great picks. If you want more luxury and larger rooms, Omni Royal Orleans stands out. For a quieter, more intimate experience, Hotel Royal or Le Richelieu might be better options.

In April, the weather should be great, and all of these options are close enough to walk to most of the French Quarter attractions, so you’ll be able to enjoy the sights and sounds of New Orleans easily from any of these hotels.