11 Best Cheap Hotels for Mardi Gras New Orleans

Mardi Gras is a bucket-list experience that draws millions to the streets of NOLA each year. However, this immense popularity often translates to sky-high hotel prices. From our past trips, we know that visiting during Mardi Gras can be costly. Luckily, it wasn’t impossible for us to find quality accommodation without breaking our wallets. Below are our favorite cheap hotels for Mardi Gras New Orleans. These hotels offer a chance to experience the magic without the expensive rates. Act fast, though, as these budget-friendly options are sure to book up quickly.

For other budget-friendly recommendations, here are the best motels in New Orleans!

Place D’Armes Hotel

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Housed in two beautifully restored redbrick buildings, Place D’Armes Hotel felt both historic and comfortable. The location was a major plus for us. We were just a short four-minute walk from the Dumaine Street streetcar, making it incredibly easy to explore the city. Being only a three-minute walk from Bourbon Street meant we were close to the action, too.

For our stay, we booked the Deluxe Queen Room. While our room didn’t have a window, it didn’t bother us too much as we spent most of our time out exploring. The suites, with their sitting areas, also are a great option for those wanting more space. And if you don’t mind spending more, you can get a room with a fireplace!

One of our favorite aspects of the hotel was the brick courtyard. Shaded by lush trees and tropical plants, it felt like a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. The fountains and comfortable seating areas provided a perfect spot to relax. We also enjoyed taking a dip in the outdoor pool and lounging on the terrace.

French Market Inn

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We recently had the pleasure of staying at the French Market Inn, and we have to say, it truly is a gem in the French Quarter. From the moment we stepped into the columned lobby, with its period paintings and chandeliers, we felt transported back in time. The hotel, built in the 1800s, exuded a shabby chic charm that we absolutely loved.

Finding a historic hotel in the French Quarter that doesn’t break the bank can be challenging, but we were thrilled to discover that booking one of the value rate rooms here offered one of the best deals in town. Our room was effortlessly charming. While some rooms boast balconies and chandeliers, ours had the classic exposed brick walls and beamed ceilings, which we found incredibly atmospheric.

We appreciated the hotel’s amenities as well. The paved courtyards offered lovely patio seating, perfect for enjoying a morning coffee or an evening drink. We also took advantage of the outdoor pool, which was a refreshing escape from the New Orleans heat. Meanwhile, the on-site coffee shop was convenient for grabbing a quick bite or a caffeine fix.

Hotel Villa Convento

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Our time at Hotel Villa Convento was nothing short of magical. We had an incredible experience without breaking the bank, which made it even better. What truly elevated our stay was the unique setting: a genuine Creole townhouse built in the 1830s. This wasn’t just a hotel; it was a living piece of New Orleans history, and we felt a tangible connection to the city’s rich past.

The location of the hotel couldn’t have been more ideal. We were just a short walk from a fantastic array of restaurants, offering everything from classic Creole cuisine to modern culinary delights. And, of course, the electric atmosphere of Bourbon Street was within easy reach, allowing us to dip into the vibrant nightlife whenever we pleased. Yet, despite being so close to the action, the hotel was nestled away on a quieter street, providing a welcome sanctuary of peace and tranquility.

Our Queen Room with a balcony was definitely worth the extra cost. The balcony, which overlooked charming Ursulines Street, offered stunning views. We loved watching the horse-drawn carriages and catching glimpses of ships on the river. It was the perfect place for us to enjoy breakfast with croissants and coffee or relax in the evening with some champagne.

Best Western Plus St. Christopher Hotel

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As one of the best cheap hotels for Mardi Gras New Orleans, the Best Western Plus St. Christopher Hotel exceeded our expectations in all possible ways. We really enjoyed the location, being so close to both the historic Warehouse District and the famous French Quarter. The Magazine Street location also made it easy for us to take the bus uptown, which was perfect for seeing the parades!

We also found the hotel’s amenities to be excellent. We especially liked the complimentary hot breakfast, which gave us a great start each day before we went out to explore New Orleans. The hotel also offers a business center for those who need to work and laundry facilities for guests staying longer.

We chose the Double Room with Two Double Beds and were very pleased with it. It provided everything we needed for a comfortable stay. Our favorite feature was definitely the spa bath! It was so relaxing after long days of sightseeing and added a touch of luxury to our trip.

Hotel Provincial

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We had a wonderful time at the Hotel Provincial, which was a fantastic choice for experiencing Mardi Gras. Its location couldn’t have been better. Getting around was a breeze thanks to the Ursulines Station streetcar stop, just a three-minute walk away. We also loved being so close to Jackson Square Park, only about a six-minute walk. Plus, being right on the Mardi Gras parade route for some of the marching groups was a huge bonus!

The hotel building is beautifully restored, giving it a charming, historic feel. Our room, while not enormous, was stylish. We liked the Southern antiques and reproduction furniture. While our room didn’t have a balcony or private courtyard, we saw some that did, and they looked very appealing.

We also enjoyed the hotel’s relaxed bar and daily happy hour, which we took advantage of several times. The outdoor areas were a real highlight for us. With two outdoor pools, it was easy to escape the Louisiana heat. We especially loved the tropical courtyard, complete with a fountain and comfortable seating.

MOXY New Orleans Downtown/French Quarter Area

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The MOXY New Orleans Downtown/French Quarter Area has so many plus points, and one of them is its location. It was super convenient being just a two-minute walk from the streetcar, making it easy for us to get around. And for those looking to experience the nightlife, Bourbon Street’s lively bars and clubs are only a six-minute walk away.

Our room, the Standard King Room, was definitely interesting. The decor was very much focused on being trendy and Instagrammable. Instead of traditional wardrobes, there were pegs on the bare walls for hanging clothes, and we even had a collapsible stool hanging on one of them. The overall vibe was very conversational; with phrases like “Instagram this!” painted on the walls and “I woke up like this” on the pillows.

The hotel itself had some great amenities. There was a bar and a coffee shop on-site, which was handy. We also appreciated the 24-hour grab-and-go store. It was stocked with snacks and toiletries, which was great for late-night cravings or forgotten essentials. There was also a fitness center, although we didn’t use it during our stay.

Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter

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Best Location. We stayed at the Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter, and it was an amazing experience. As one of the best Mardi Gras hotels on Bourbon Street, we were steps away from all the action. We could easily walk to iconic landmarks like Jackson Square and Preservation Hall, and we never had to venture far to have fun.

For our stay, we booked the Deluxe Guest Room, which had a comfy king-sized bed, a private balcony, and other standard amenities. But what we appreciated the most were the provided earplugs, which were a lifesaver for a good night’s sleep despite the lively street below.

We also enjoyed dining at both Cafe Opera and the Puccini Bar. Though there are many eateries outside, the two on-site dining options are equally good. And when we had the time, we would always make a splash in the outdoor pool. The fitness center is also a welcome addition for those looking to stay active while on vacation.

The Lookout Inn

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Most Quirky. We love The Lookout Inn! The location in Bywater District was great for us. The location in the Bywater was perfect for us; it’s a hip, historic district with a cool, local vibe. We appreciated being a bit removed from the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter, yet still within easy reach of everything. Don’t worry, as many smaller, more intimate Mardi Gras parades are usually hosted in Bywater.

The inn itself is a beautiful white-columned building, and the fact that it’s an all-suite guesthouse made our stay even more comfortable. Our suite was quirky and came with everything we needed. We also loved how there was a prominent exposed brick wall in the middle of the suite, which gave it a slightly bohemian style.

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The highlight for us, though, was the back garden. The saltwater pool and hot tub were so refreshing, especially after walking around in the New Orleans heat. The cabana was a fantastic bonus – it had its own kitchenette, bathroom, and shower, making it feel like a private oasis. We spent a lot of time lounging by the pool and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

“The Lookout Inn sure isn’t lacking in character, and its affordable rates make it even better.”

WOW Travel

Omni Riverfront New Orleans

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Best for Partygoers. It’s great if you’re in NOLA to let loose and experience the city’s vibrant energy. However, even the most dedicated party-goer needs a good night’s sleep eventually. That’s why we recommend the Omni Riverfront New Orleans is the place to be. Located in the Arts District, we were just a short walk from the Julia Station streetcar stop (0.3 miles, to be exact), making it super easy to get around. We were also only two miles away from the bulk of the Mardi Gras celebrations.

We booked a Deluxe King Room, and it didn’t disappoint. The room was spacious and comfortable, exactly what we needed after long days exploring the city. The bathroom was well-equipped with both a bath and a shower, which was great. We also appreciated the little extras like the wardrobe, safe deposit box, and of course, the flat-screen TV with cable channels for when we just needed to unwind.

We also noticed some great perks for families. Those traveling with kids will get free backpacks filled with goodies, and even milk and cookies on the first night! The hotel itself has a relaxed bistro and a bar, which we made use of, as well as a fitness center for those who are more dedicated than us. There’s also a courtyard with a fountain, which was one of our favorite spots to relax.

Pelham Hotel

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The Pelham Hotel managed to charm us with its convenient location. It’s nestled just a short walk from the heart of the action. It’s only 0.8 miles from the vibrant Bourbon Street and a quick six-minute stroll to the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas. This proximity was perfect for us; we were close enough to easily join the Mardi Gras festivities, yet far enough away to enjoy a peaceful retreat when needed. In fact, we felt like we were just around the corner from all the Mardi Gras action.

Our room, the Interior King Room, was a delightful blend of historic charm and modern comfort. The 18 ft ceilings and original brick walls gave it a unique, European feel. We particularly appreciated the high ceilings and elegant crown molding. The room was also equipped with all the essentials we needed: comfortable imported linens, designer toiletries, a mini-refrigerator, a safety deposit box, and ironing facilities.

We also enjoyed the convenience of having the on-site restaurant, Ruby Slipper. It allowed us to kick off each day with a delicious breakfast. And the staff? They always went above and beyond to make sure all of our needs were met.

The Quisby

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Best Value for Money. We had the pleasure of staying at The Quisby, and we were quite charmed by our experience. The hotel is housed in an elegant building nestled in the eclectic Lower Garden District, which we found to be a great location. It’s incredibly convenient, with a streetcar stop just steps away – literally less than a minute’s walk. This made getting around the city a breeze. We were also happy to learn it was only about two miles from Jackson Square in the French Quarter, a manageable distance for exploring. What’s more, during Mardi Gras, the parades pass right by the hotel’s front door!

We stayed in the Standard King Room, and while it was simple, it was still beautifully furnished. The pastel-colored walls created a calming atmosphere, and we also loved the wood accent decorations. It had everything we needed, including Wi-Fi and a smart TV. Some of the rooms even have bunk beds, which can be a fun option for families or groups.

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During our stay, breakfast was served in the lobby’s dining area which also featured a wood-paneled bar. It was a relaxed and comfortable space to start our day. The hotel also offers some practical amenities, like guest laundry facilities and bike storage.

For other similar accommodations, check out these best hotels in New Orleans Garden District!

Our Verdict!

So, which of the cheap hotels for Mardi Gras New Orleans above should you pick? We’ve categorized some of them based on the following, so take a look!

• Best Value for Money: The Quisby
• Best for Partygoers: Omni Riverfront New Orleans
• Most Quirky: The Lookout Inn
• Best Location: Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter

Where to Stay in New Orleans

If you’re in NOLA for Mardi Gras, there are some areas in the city that you should keep an eye on. The first one is, of course, French Quarter. It’s the heart of New Orleans and where most of the Mardi Gras festivities take place. This place is home to many of the best hotels, restaurants, and bars. French Quarter is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with music and dancing all night long. Many of the city’s most famous landmarks are located here, such as Jackson Square and Bourbon Street.

Then, there’s the Garden District. It’s a historic neighborhood known for its beautiful architecture and gardens. It has a more peaceful and residential area than the French Quarter, but still within walking distance of the action.

You should also consider the Warehouse District, which is a trendy area with a lot of energy. Here, you’ll find many art galleries, bars, and restaurants. It’s also a more affordable option than the French Quarter or Garden District.

While we’re at it, make sure to also take a look at these top things to do for Mardi Gras and our travel guide: best time to visit New Orleans.

Does Mardi Gras cost money?

No, attending Mardi Gras is completely free.

Is New Orleans expensive for tourists?

New Orleans can be moderately expensive for tourists, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. The cost depends on your itinerary and hotel choice.

What is the cheapest way to get around New Orleans?

Public transportation, specifically the streetcar and bus system, is the most economical way to navigate New Orleans. Purchasing a Jazzy Pass offers unlimited rides on these services for a set period, making it a budget-friendly option.