The Complete Guide to Historic Hotels in New Orleans' French Quarter - 7 Hidden Gems from $150
The Complete Guide to Historic Hotels in New Orleans' French Quarter - 7 Hidden Gems from $150 - The Marie Laveau House on Bourbon Street Starting at $155 With Original Voodoo Artifacts
Located right on Bourbon Street, the Marie Laveau House offers a stay with a distinct New Orleans flavor, priced from $155. This spot taps directly into the city’s famed voodoo history, claiming connections to the legendary Marie Laveau, known as the Voodoo Queen. While not her original residence – that was once on St Ann Street – the hotel showcases voodoo artifacts and aims to provide a spiritual atmosphere, with services like tarot readings available. It's part accommodation, part museum, and undeniably caters to the tourist interest in the mystical side of the French Quarter. Be aware that the line between genuine historical pieces and typical souvenir shop offerings can be blurry in establishments of this kind, but for those intrigued by voodoo and seeking a themed stay, it's positioned right in the heart of the action.
Right on Bourbon Street, you'll find the Marie Laveau House, advertising rooms from $155 and touting ‘original voodoo artifacts.’ It's positioned as a unique lodging option, playing heavily on the city’s voodoo heritage. Marie Laveau herself was a 19th-century figure, more than just a priestess, but an entrepreneur who cleverly used her persona. The building, dating back to the early 19th century, reflects the French Quarter's typical architecture – a blend of Spanish and French colonial styles. Voodoo, often simplified to dolls and superstitions, is presented here as a genuine cultural system, a mix of African, European, and Native American traditions. Its location is convenient, near places like St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, where Laveau is reportedly buried. The artifacts displayed within are said to be authentic items used in rituals, not just for show, which could offer a less superficial glimpse into these practices. Of course, this is all within the heavily touristed French Quarter, now a UNESCO site drawing huge crowds annually. While some might dismiss voodoo outright, sociological perspectives suggest belief systems like these can provide real psychological and community support for adherents. And if you're staying here, you're also in the middle of New Orleans’ renowned culinary scene – easily accessible to explore the city’s distinctive food offerings.
The Complete Guide to Historic Hotels in New Orleans' French Quarter - 7 Hidden Gems from $150 - Place d'Armes Hotel With 1830s Courtyard and $150 Spring Rates
Tucked away in the French Quarter, the Place d'Armes Hotel provides a sense of calm with its courtyard dating back to the 1830s. Despite being close to the lively Bourbon Street, it offers a quieter setting. This hotel occupies a couple of older townhouses, restored to showcase some historical features like exposed brick in many of its 84 rooms. For those watching expenses, rates advertised around $150 in the spring suggest it could be a reasonable choice, offering standard conveniences like WiFi. Its location makes it easy to reach places like Jackson Square and Café du Monde, useful for visitors interested in seeing some of the Quarter's main draws without needing transport.
Tucked away in the French Quarter, the Place d'Armes Hotel presents itself as another intriguing option for experiencing historic New Orleans, with advertised spring rates around $150. Its central feature appears to be a courtyard designed in the style popular in the 1830s, suggesting a glimpse into the city's architectural past. These courtyards, common in older New Orleans structures, were designed to offer respite from the often humid climate. The hotel itself occupies what seem to be restored townhouses from the 18th and 19th centuries, indicating a layered history within its walls. With a reported Tripadvisor rating of 4 out of 5 from a substantial number of reviews, it's clearly on the radar for many travelers. Proximity to well-known sites like Jackson Square and Bourbon Street, along with mentions of beignets from Café du Monde, positions it conveniently for typical tourist itineraries. The claim of ‘historic charm’ is frequent in this area, so a closer look at the specifics of Place d'Armes' preservation and how it balances this with modern expectations might be worthwhile for those seeking more than just a themed experience. The idea of a family-run establishment, as suggested by the Valentino ownership, can sometimes imply a more personal touch compared to larger chains, though consistency in experience could vary.
The Complete Guide to Historic Hotels in New Orleans' French Quarter - 7 Hidden Gems from $150 - The Andrew Jackson Hotel From $165 With Surviving Civil War Era Architecture
Continuing our exploration of historic stays in New Orleans' French Quarter, the Andrew Jackson Hotel presents itself as another option with a tangible link to the past, with rates beginning around $165. Located on Royal Street, this establishment occupies the site of a former courthouse, famously the location where Andrew Jackson faced charges, adding a layer of political history to its walls. Reconstructed in 1888, the existing building is advertised as retaining architectural elements from the Civil War period, suggesting an authentic experience for those interested in the city's older fabric. Beyond the historical connections, the hotel emphasizes its European-style design, hinting at an aesthetic that aligns with the French Quarter's overall atmosphere. Amenities mentioned include complimentary breakfast delivered to the room, a detail that might appeal to those seeking convenience and a touch of old-world service. Furthermore, the hotel is reputed to be among the city’s more haunted locations, potentially drawing visitors keen on ghost stories and the paranormal. Its situation near Bourbon Street places it within easy reach of the area's well-known entertainment and dining options. For travelers aiming to stay in a hotel with a defined historical identity and prepared to potentially encounter more than just other guests, the Andrew Jackson Hotel presents a notable option within the French Quarter.
Moving further into the French Quarter, the Andrew Jackson Hotel, advertising rates starting around $165, is another establishment highlighting its historical fabric, specifically mentioning architecture that predates or survived the Civil War. This particular building apparently has roots tracing back to the 1840s, putting its construction in the pre-bellum period. It seems to have served as a Confederate hospital during the Civil War itself, an interesting pivot in its operational history. The architecture is described as Creole, which typically includes elements like wrought iron and a certain brickwork style common in the older parts of the city – worth noting for those with an eye for period construction. Word is that some guests report unusual occurrences within its walls, a predictable element for buildings of this age in New Orleans, appealing to some travelers while perhaps a concern for others. Its location offers proximity to key landmarks like Jackson Square and the Cathedral, useful for efficient sightseeing. Each room apparently has its own distinct layout, suggesting a less standardized experience than typical chains, which may be seen as either a plus or minus depending on preference. The thick brick walls, a feature of 19th-century building practices, likely contribute to sound insulation, potentially offering a quieter environment despite the French Quarter's external energy. Dining options are plentiful nearby, offering a range of Creole and Cajun flavors within walking distance. At the advertised price, it positions itself as a potentially affordable way to experience a tangible piece of New Orleans’ history.
The Complete Guide to Historic Hotels in New Orleans' French Quarter - 7 Hidden Gems from $150 - Lafitte Guest House Built 1849 Now a Boutique Hotel From $159
Deeper within the French Quarter, you might encounter the Lafitte Guest House, established in 1849 and advertising rates from $159. Originally a
The Complete Guide to Historic Hotels in New Orleans' French Quarter - 7 Hidden Gems from $150 - The Old No 77 Hotel Former 1854 Warehouse Starting at $152
Nestled in the Warehouse Arts District, just a short walk from the French Quarter’s bustle, The Old No 77 Hotel occupies a building that began its life in 1854 as a coffee warehouse. For those looking beyond the usual hotel experience, rooms here start around $152. The interior retains features from its past, like original wood floors and exposed brick, alongside design touches meant to evoke New Orleans' artistic side. It’s positioned conveniently for exploring the city, being close to attractions and just a few blocks removed from the French Quarter’s late-night energy, potentially offering a bit more tranquility. The hotel houses a couple of dining spots, including Compère Lapin, noted for its blend of culinary influences. For travelers interested in hotels that carry a sense of place and history, the Old No 77 offers a stay with a distinctive backstory.
Moving away from the bustle right in the heart of the French Quarter, the Old No 77 Hotel presents another historical accommodation, advertised from around $152 per night. This one’s conversion is from a former warehouse, dating all the way back to 1854 when it served the busy Port of New Orleans. The building’s past as a commercial storage space is quite evident in its design, they say, featuring original hardwood floors and exposed brickwork, which can give a sense of the city’s industrial-era beginnings. It’s positioned just a few blocks from the French Quarter itself, which could be a strategic advantage for those wanting access to the nightlife but not necessarily wanting to be completely immersed in its constant activity. Dining within the hotel includes options like Tout La for coffee and a more noteworthy restaurant, Compère Lapin, which is apparently award-winning and features a menu drawing from various culinary influences. Online reviews place it around a 4-out-of-5 rating, ranking in the middle range of New Orleans hotels - worth considering but maybe not at the very top of the list based on aggregate traveler feedback. It seems they’ve incorporated elements to reflect local art and culture into the décor, which might be more substantial than just generic hotel art. They are emphasizing a blend of historical character and modern amenities, a fairly common claim for these types of properties, so it's a matter of seeing how well they've managed to balance the two in practice. The name itself, ‘Old No 77,’ is derived from its warehouse designation, a detail highlighting its functional history.
The Complete Guide to Historic Hotels in New Orleans' French Quarter - 7 Hidden Gems from $150 - Hotel St Pierre With Creole Cottages From 1781 at $160
Hotel St. Pierre, found at 911 Burgundy Street within New Orleans' French Quarter, presents itself as another option for historic lodging, with advertised rates starting around $160. This hotel's claim to fame is its collection of Creole cottages, some of which reportedly date back to 1781. This longevity positions it as potentially offering a deeper immersion into the city's architectural past compared to some other renovated buildings. The concept of individual cottages, even within a hotel setting, might appeal to those seeking a less conventional, more intimate lodging experience. They promote the availability of modern amenities like WiFi and climate control, which are now standard expectations, even in places emphasizing historical charm. The presence of two pools on the property is mentioned, a feature not always common in smaller French Quarter hotels, which could be seen as a practical advantage during warmer months. Its location, while still in the French Quarter, is noted as being on Burgundy Street, suggesting it's in a somewhat quieter, more residential section, potentially offering a respite from the more intense parts of the Quarter like Bourbon Street. Being within walking distance of attractions such as Bourbon Street and Louis Armstrong Park is a standard benefit for French Quarter locations, useful for tourists. The hotel is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a formal designation of its historical importance, although what tangible difference this makes to a guest experience is debatable. For someone seeking a taste of old New Orleans architecture at a moderate price, the Hotel St. Pierre appears as a viable option.
Continuing our investigation into historically significant lodgings in New Orleans’ French Quarter, the Hotel St Pierre, with rates starting around $160, presents itself as a collection of Creole cottages dating back to 1781. This is significantly earlier construction than some of the other options we’ve looked at, hinting at a deeper connection to the city’s formative years, prior to the Louisiana Purchase. The very nature of Creole cottage architecture – small, intimate, often with shared courtyards – suggests a different kind of urban living compared to later grander structures. Constructed in the briquette-entre-poteaux style, as exemplified by the Gabriel Peyroux House within the property, this building technique itself is an interesting artifact of colonial construction, using brickwork and timber framing – a pragmatic approach to the regional climate and available materials. The fact it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places likely means a degree of architectural integrity has been maintained. With 79 rooms spread across these cottages, it’s not an insignificant property, yet the dispersed layout might still offer a sense of individual privacy often lost in larger hotels. Two pools on site sound like a practical modern addition, given New Orleans’ climate, providing a functional amenity without necessarily detracting from the historic fabric. Being within walking distance of Bourbon Street and Louis Armstrong Park positions it accessibly to both the lively tourist areas and more cultural green spaces. For those interested in the evolution of New Orleans’ urban form, staying in a cluster of these early Creole cottages could offer a tangible experience of the city’s architectural origins, beyond the more frequently highlighted later 19th-century developments. It’s presented as a relaxed atmosphere in a residential part of the French Quarter, suggesting a potentially less intensely tourist-focused experience compared to hotels directly on Bourbon Street.
The Complete Guide to Historic Hotels in New Orleans' French Quarter - 7 Hidden Gems from $150 - Cornstalk Hotel Victorian Mansion From 1816 Starting at $155
The Cornstalk Hotel, a Victorian mansion dating to 1816, is another historic option in New Orleans’ French Quarter, advertising rates from $155. It stands out for its architecture, notably the elaborate cast-iron fence that gives it its name, said to be a unique feature installed to remind the owner's wife of her Iowa home. Inside, expect to find period furnishings and crystal chandeliers, aiming for a consistent Victorian ambiance which has been maintained through refurbishments. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it’s recognized for its historical value, appealing to travelers interested in more than just a standard hotel stay. Its location on Royal Street places it conveniently within walking distance of attractions like Cafe du Monde and other French Quarter landmarks. Marketed as romantic and boutique, it seems to be a popular choice for couples celebrating anniversaries or seeking a historically themed stay. Interestingly, it’s noted that Harriet Beecher Stowe, while staying here, was inspired by the nearby slave markets, which gives a starkly contrasting layer to its genteel image. The Victorian facade itself was a later addition, adding to its architectural character. For those looking to immerse themselves in the French Quarter’s historical atmosphere, the Cornstalk Hotel presents a visually distinctive option at a mid-range price point.