The French Quarter, or Vieux Carré, is often called the Crown Jewel of New Orleans, and for good reason—it’s filled with history, culture, and an energy hard to find elsewhere. As the city’s oldest neighborhood, it’s been around since 1718–but it’s far from old-fashioned. While the architecture might be timeless, a handful of boutique hotels are up with the times. Here, guests can enjoy the best of both worlds: the history of the French Quarter and the comfort of a modern (and quite stylish) hotel. Ahead, discover the best boutique hotels in NOLA’s famed French Quarter.
ONE11 Hotel
Housed in a former sugar refinery and molasses warehouse from 1884, ONE11 Hotel has that perfect old-meets-new vibe. The design honors the building’s past with exposed brick, wood columns, metal pipes, and steel bracers, but don’t worry—it’s still chic. Think large windows, private terraces, and a pool area that’s perfect for lounging after a long day. With 83 rooms and suites, guests will get comfy king beds, fresh linens, and a spacious walk-in shower. Plus, the large windows and private terraces have great views.
Hungry? Check out Batture Bistro + Bar for a taste of New Orleans with a Creole twist. They use fresh, seasonal ingredients to make classic dishes with a fun spin. The vibe inside is chill but stylish, with 19th-century cypress beams adding character. Guests can also dine outside on the climate-controlled porch or hang by the firepit to enjoy some good food and drinks.
Key Points: • Website • Rating: 4 Stars • Rooms: 83 • Airport: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) • Starting rate: $277/night | Amenities: • Restaurant & Bar • Outdoor rooftop terrace • Outdoor pool • On-Site Sundry Market • Outdoor fire pit |
The Celestine
The Celestine is a quaint–yet very luxe–boutique hotel that feels like a sweet escape. With just 10 rooms, each one is special, featuring antique furniture and charming decor. The real treat? Every room has its own personalized in-room bar inspired by Antoine Amédée Peychaud, a Creole pharmacist who created Peychaud’s Bitters. Speaking of Peychaud, his legacy lives on at the hotel’s bar (aptly named Peychaud’s), where classic New Orleans cocktails are the star of the show. Here, guests can expect local favorites and original creations like the Sazerac, Vieux Carre, Ramos Gin Fizz, French 75, and Pimm’s Cup.
What’s more, LeBlanc + Smith, the hospitality portfolio behind The Celestine, is also the team from the award-winning Garden District hotel, The Chloe. That means guests get the best of both worlds, with access to The Chloe’s upscale amenities, including its fabulous pool. Consider it a two-for-one perk.
Key Points: • Website • Rating: 4 Stars • Rooms: 10 • Airport: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) • Starting rate: $250/night | Amenities: • Personalized in-room bar inspired by Antoine Amadee Peychaud • Balconies • Courtyard • Custom linens |
Audubon Cottages
Just a block from Bourbon Street, Audubon Cottages feels like a world apart—calm, intimate, and full of history. With just seven one- and two-bedroom suites, a leafy courtyard, and a saltwater pool (one of the oldest in the city), it’s more of a private retreat than a hotel. Plus, the location is unbeatable—Jackson Square is a short stroll away, and the Mississippi River is just five minutes down the street. When the Louisiana heat kicks in, the pool is the perfect place to cool off, ideally with a classic New Orleans cocktail in hand. (Thanks to the city’s love for to-go drinks, a frozen Irish coffee from Erin Rose or a Hurricane from Pat O’Brien’s is always within reach.)
The cottages have plenty of stories to tell, too. Elizabeth Taylor favored Cottage Three, while Cottage Four is rumored to have a ghostly resident—a musician in a military uniform. Whether it’s the location, charm, or history, Audubon Cottages is the kind of place that’s worth a visit.
Key Points: • Website • Rating: 4 Stars • Rooms: 7 one- and two-bedroom hotel suites • Airport: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) • Starting rate: $215/night | Amenities: • Courtyards • Saltwater pool • Butler service • John James Audubon’s artwork |
Hotel Mazarin
Hotel Mazarin is all about classic French Quarter charm with a laid-back, easygoing vibe. Named after Cardinal Jules Mazarin, a 17th-century French diplomat, this boutique spot is part of the J Collection—a group of independent New Orleans hotels, each with its own personality. Just a block from Bourbon Street, it’s close to the action but tucked away just the right amount. The courtyard is lovely, with twinkling lights and a bubbling fountain. The rooms are just as inviting, with comfy beds and elegant chandeliers. Some even have private balconies overlooking the Quarter—perfect for people-watching.
Not to mention, Hotel Mazarin has not one but two bars connected to the property. The 21st Amendment at La Louisiane brings a speakeasy vibe without the secrecy, serving up craft cocktails inspired by the Prohibition era. Patrick’s Bar Vin, on the other hand, is all about fine wine, plush leather seating, and a cozy courtyard where jazz music sets the mood. Need we say more?
Key Points: • Website • Rating: 3 Stars • Rooms: 102 • Airport: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) • Starting rate: $159/night | Amenities: • Bars • Gym • Some rooms have balconies • Courtyard |