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Where to stay in New Orleans

Picking the right neighborhood in New Orleans matters more than picking the right hotel — here's how to choose.

New Orleans, LA, USA· Airport: MSY
New Orleans — Where to stay | CheapoTrav travel guide

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Key facts

  • The French Quarter and Central Business District (CBD) are most central, but also typically the most expensive lodging options.
  • The Garden District offers a quieter, residential experience with historic architecture, connected by the St. Charles Avenue streetcar.
  • Look into the Arts/Warehouse District for contemporary galleries, museums, and a more modern dining scene, close to the Convention Center.
  • Tremé and Faubourg Marigny provide an authentic, local feel with live music venues; some areas can be quite lively into the late hours.
  • Hotels near the Mississippi River in the CBD or Warehouse District offer easy access to riverboat tours and the Aquarium.
  • Public transit, especially the streetcar system, allows for staying further out in neighborhoods like Uptown while still accessing main attractions.

Choosing where to stay in New Orleans depends heavily on what you're looking to experience. The city's distinct neighborhoods each offer a different pace and character, from the historic charm of the French Quarter to the more residential, tree-lined streets of the Garden District. Consider your priorities: do you want to be within walking distance of music clubs and vibrant nightlife, or prefer a quieter retreat with easy access to streetcar lines?

Understanding the layout is key. The French Quarter is centrally located and iconic, but its energy can be constant. Areas like the Arts/Warehouse District provide a different feel, with galleries, museums, and modern dining, while still being walkable to many attractions. The Garden District offers architectural beauty and a calmer atmosphere, often requiring a streetcar or ride-share for evening activities in the French Quarter or Marigny.

New Orleans also has a unique approach to hospitality, with many boutique hotels in historic buildings alongside larger, more traditional establishments. Before booking, check the specific location relative to major thoroughfares or known nightlife spots if noise is a concern. Even a block or two can make a significant difference in your nightly experience.

Proximity to public transport, particularly the streetcar lines, can open up more lodging options beyond the most central and often pricier areas. The St. Charles Avenue line, for instance, connects the Garden District, Central Business District, and parts of Uptown. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the choices, don't hesitate to consult with a travel agent; they can often provide insights tailored to your specific trip.

In this guide

  • Best for first-timers
  • Best for nightlife
  • Best for families
  • Best on a budget
  • Areas to skip

Frequently asked questions

What's the best neighborhood for first-time visitors to New Orleans?
For first-time visitors, the French Quarter or the Central Business District (CBD) are generally recommended. The French Quarter puts you directly in the heart of the city's iconic architecture, live music, and dining, making it highly walkable to major attractions like Jackson Square and Bourbon Street. The CBD, adjacent to the French Quarter, offers a mix of modern hotels and historic buildings, often at a slightly lower price point, with good access to both the French Quarter and the Arts/Warehouse District. Both areas provide a solid introduction to New Orleans' distinct charm and offer numerous lodging choices.
Where should families with children stay in New Orleans?
Families traveling with children often find the Central Business District (CBD) or the Arts/Warehouse District to be suitable. These areas tend to be less boisterous than parts of the French Quarter, particularly at night. You'll find a good selection of hotels with amenities often preferred by families, and easy access to attractions like the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, the Louisiana Children's Museum, and streetcar lines for exploring further afield. The Garden District can also be a good option for families seeking a quieter, more residential feel, though it requires streetcar or ride-share for reaching the main tourist areas.
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Which areas offer the best nightlife and live music?
For nightlife and live music, the French Quarter, particularly around Bourbon Street and Frenchmen Street in Faubourg Marigny, are the primary hubs. Bourbon Street is known for its energetic, celebratory atmosphere, while Frenchmen Street is celebrated for its concentration of live music venues featuring jazz, blues, and other local genres. If staying directly on these strips, expect noise. Many visitors choose accommodations a few blocks removed from the most intense areas for a quieter night's sleep while still being within easy walking distance of the entertainment.
Is it better to stay in the French Quarter or the Garden District?
The choice between the French Quarter and the Garden District depends on your travel style. The French Quarter is the vibrant, historic core, ideal for those who want to be in the midst of the action, close to nightlife, historic sites, and a dense concentration of restaurants. It's largely walkable. The Garden District, by contrast, offers a more serene, picturesque experience with stunning antebellum mansions and lush gardens. It's quieter and less tourist-dense, providing a glimpse into a different side of New Orleans. You'll rely on the St. Charles Avenue streetcar or ride-shares to connect to the French Quarter and other areas.
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What neighborhoods are good for art and cultural attractions?
For art and cultural attractions, the Arts/Warehouse District is a prime choice. This area is home to numerous art galleries, the Contemporary Arts Center, and The National WWII Museum. It's also close to the Ogden Museum of Southern Art and within easy reach of the historic parts of the Central Business District. Another excellent area is Tremé, one of the oldest African-American neighborhoods, offering deep cultural roots, historic churches, and connections to jazz history, including the Louis Armstrong Park.
How important is public transportation when choosing a hotel in New Orleans?
Public transportation is quite important when considering hotels outside the most central areas of New Orleans. The streetcar system, especially the St. Charles Avenue and Canal Street lines, provides convenient and scenic access between popular neighborhoods like the Garden District, Central Business District, and the French Quarter. Staying near a streetcar stop can offer more affordable or unique lodging options without sacrificing accessibility to major attractions. If your hotel is further out, checking its proximity to a streetcar line or bus route can significantly impact your daily travel time and convenience around the city.
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