Planning a trip to New Orleans and want to be close to the action? You’ll likely be searching for the best hotels on Bourbon Street. Known for its vibrant festivals, live music, delicious food, and lively nightlife, New Orleans is often considered one of the most fun cities in the U.S.
Even if you haven’t visited New Orleans, you’ve probably heard of Bourbon Street and its reputation for being one of the liveliest streets in the world. While there’s always a party happening, there are plenty of hotels on Bourbon Street where you can retreat for some quiet. If you want to be close to the action but not right in the middle, there are also numerous excellent hotels in the nearby French Quarter.
I’ve visited Bourbon Street four times and with each trip, I discover more to love about this incredible destination. This guide reviews 10 of the best hotels on or near Bourbon Street to help you plan your dream vacation to New Orleans. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore the area and see where you can stay to make the most out of your trip.
Bourbon Street is undeniably New Orleans’ most famous street, located in the historic French Quarter. Stretching for 13 blocks from Canal Street to Esplanade Avenue, it is the core of the city’s bustling nightlife, especially during Mardi Gras. On any given night, you’ll find crowds of tourists with drinks in hand, enjoying the freedom to drink alcohol in public—one of the unique perks of New Orleans.
While Bourbon Street is renowned for its bars and clubs, its name actually has historical significance. It was named Rue Bourbon by French engineer Adrien de Pauger to honor the French royal family ruling at the time, not because of the liquor.
Bourbon Street has two distinct parts: Upper Bourbon Street, which caters mostly to tourists with its plethora of bars, souvenir shops, and restaurants, and Lower Bourbon Street, which is known for its LGBTQ-friendly establishments and hosts the annual Southern Decadence festival, often referred to as New Orleans’ “gay Mardi Gras.”
Despite its reputation for wild parties, Bourbon Street also offers cultural experiences. Musical Legends Park features statues of famous jazz musicians and free outdoor concerts, making it a great spot to soak in the local culture. Given New Orleans’ reputation as the birthplace of jazz, you’ll find several venues on Bourbon Street offering live music.
When choosing whether to stay on Bourbon Street or nearby, consider your tolerance for noise. Hotels on Bourbon Street are right in the midst of the action, so if you’re a light sleeper, you might prefer staying a few blocks away. Many hotels on Bourbon Street have rooms facing quieter courtyards and provide earplugs for guests.
During Mardi Gras, rooms with balconies overlooking Bourbon Street are highly sought after and need to be booked months in advance, often at a premium. Even on regular weekends, these rooms can be pricey and hard to secure. Fortunately, there are several affordable options near Bourbon Street as well.
With this background in mind, let’s look at some top hotel choices on or near Bourbon Street. I’ve checked prices for a 3-night stay over a typical weekend, noting that prices are generally lower during weekdays and higher during holidays or major events like Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest.
1. Royal Sonesta: Located centrally on Bourbon Street, this historic hotel boasts almost 500 well-appointed rooms, many with balconies. It features several bars and restaurants, a jazz bar with nightly live music, a pool, and a 24/7 fitness center.
2. Four Points by Sheraton: Another centrally located option on Bourbon Street, this hotel offers rooms with courtyard or French Quarter views, some with balconies. It has two restaurants, an outdoor pool, and provides earplugs for noise-sensitive guests.
3. Lafitte’s Guest House: This boutique hotel on Bourbon and St. Philip Street feels like a home with only 14 rooms. It’s great for events and is located next to the historic Lafitte’s Blacksmith Bar & Shop.
4. Hyatt Centric: Just around the corner from Bourbon Street, this hotel offers various rooms, some with balconies. It features a pool, fitness center, business center, and multiple dining options.
5. Astor Crowne Plaza: Situated on Canal Street but also on Bourbon Street, this recently renovated 4-star hotel has nearly 700 rooms and extensive event space. It offers numerous amenities, including a business center and 24/7 room service.
6. Bourbon Orleans Hotel: Located slightly away from Bourbon Street action, this hotel has a rich history and is known for its ghost stories. It offers a signature Creole restaurant, a great bar, and live jazz.
7. Hotel Le Marais: Positioned on Conti Street near Bourbon Street, this hotel combines luxury with intimacy. It offers a range of rooms, complimentary breakfast, a gym, a pool, and an on-site bar.
8. Omni Royal: This historic hotel dates back to 1838 and is close to Bourbon Street. It features a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and the award-winning Rib Room restaurant.
9. Hotel Mazarin: Located near Bourbon Street, it’s a classy choice with rooms featuring luxurious details. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast, a lovely courtyard, and the 21st Amendment bar.
10. Best Western Plus French Quarter Courtyard Hotel: Located just two blocks from Bourbon Street, this non-smoking hotel has a charming courtyard, fitness center, and pool. Breakfast is included, and rooms are well-equipped.
Hopefully, this guide helps you find the perfect place to stay in New Orleans. Whether you choose a hotel on Bourbon Street or nearby, you’re sure to enjoy your time in this lively city. New Orleans is famed for its food, fun bars, numerous festivals, and great day trips like swamp tours. Enjoy your stay, and let me know if you have any hotel recommendations!