You may know New Orleans for its captivating jazz or bigger-than-life celebrations. But one of the things that intrigue us the most about the Big Easy is the fact that it’s considered one of the country’s most haunted cities. If you’re looking for a place to stay that transports you back in time and offers a chance to spot a few resident spirits, Andrew Jackson Hotel New Orleans Louisiana is the place. This boutique hotel, drenched in 18th-century architecture and local fore, offered us a unique blend of historic elegance and the thrill (also the chills) of a reputedly haunted location. Below, we’ll delve into the hotel’s fascinating past, explore its amenities, and uncover the ghostly stories that have made it a hotspot for curious travelers.
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Steeped in history and heartbreak
The Andrew Jackson Hotel French Quarter is one of the most historic hotels in NOLA. When we first arrived at the hotel, we didn’t know its past, but we could tell it had a lot of tales. The land where the hotel now stands is steeped in both history and heartbreak. In 1792, the Spanish Colonial Government opened an orphanage and boarding school for boys who had been orphaned by the devastating Yellow Fever outbreaks plaguing the city. Sadly, tragedy struck again just two years later when a massive fire swept through New Orleans, claiming the lives of five young residents of the school.
The ashes of the boarding school soon gave way to a new structure – a US Federal Courthouse. This very courthouse would play a role in the life of Andrew Jackson, a future president. In 1815, while still a General, Jackson faced charges of contempt of court and obstruction of justice for defying a judge’s orders. The courthouse remained on the site for nearly a century before being demolished in the late 19th century. The current hotel building rose in its place in 1890.
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In the middle of everything
While the Andrew Jackson Hotel French Quarter may have undergone many changes, one thing remains the same – its fantastic location. Right on Royal Street in the French Quarter, we were surrounded by charming shops, restaurants, and bars. Based on our experience, the vibe on Royal Street felt a bit more relaxed than the extremely lively Bourbon Street. But guess what? Bourbon Street is just only a block away from the hotel! Plus, the iconic St. Louis Cathedral is practically around the corner, only a short stroll away. Seriously, we couldn’t ask for a more central and convenient spot to explore the French Quarter!
“We loved staying on Royal Street. As one of the city’s original streets, every corner was enchanting and we could easily find quirky shops and galleries.”
WOW Travel
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Past meets present
As a charming boutique hotel, the Andrew Jackson Hotel French Quarter only has 21 guestrooms and suites, but each is brimming with history. We opted for the Historic King with Balcony, and it truly lived up to its name and our expectations. Stepping into the room was like stepping back in time, but with all the modern comforts we craved for. The 18th-century style furniture was elegant, and the warm color palette throughout the room created a warm and cozy atmosphere. The hardwood floors made the whole space feel more classic, and the spaciousness was a welcome surprise, especially considering the hotel’s historic setting.
Of course, the star of the show was the balcony. We spent evenings relaxing on the wrought-iron balcony, people-watching, and soaking up the sights and sounds of Royal Street below. Having a table and chairs made it the perfect spot for enjoying a morning coffee while taking in the vibrant atmosphere of the French Quarter.
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Unlimited dining options
The Andrew Jackson Hotel French Quarter is a small boutique hotel, and it does lack on-site dining options. However, it has never been a problem for the hotel. How come? Well, that’s because the French Quarter’s culinary scene is literally on the doorstep!
For a taste of New Orleans history alongside the meal, Muriel’s Jackson Square is a must-try. Housed in a former residence, the restaurant supposedly even has resident ghosts! We loved touring the historic building while we devoured classic New Orleans cuisine. Some of our recommendations are the Roasted Half Chicken, Wood Grilled Pork Chop, and Wild Mushroom Gnocchi.
If you’re looking for something elegant and steeped in tradition, then Arnaud’s Restaurant is a fantastic option. Just off Bourbon Street, this classic Creole restaurant boasts impeccable service and beautifully restored turn-of-the-century dining rooms. With a history dating back to 1918, you can be sure they’ve perfected the art of Creole dining. We particularly loved its Praline Bar and Arnaud’s Salad. They were fantastic!
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The Ghosts of the French Quarter
We were drawn to the Andrew Jackson Hotel French Quarter because of its unbeatable location and rich history. However, we were also curious as it’s named one of the most haunted hotels in New Orleans. We weren’t sure what to expect in terms of paranormal activity, but we weren’t disappointed. We heard stories from the staff about a ghost named Armand who likes to wake people up with laughter or even shove them out of bed in Room 208. Some guests claim to have seen the ghostly caretaker of the orphans, her presence lingering as she tidies rooms and fluffs pillows. Even the spirit of President Andrew Jackson himself is rumored to wander the halls, a reminder of the building’s long and storied past.
While none of us experienced any physical contact, the overall atmosphere was undeniable. If you’re looking for a luxurious stay with all the modern amenities, this probably isn’t your place. But if you’re up for a spooky adventure rich in history, this hotel is worth a night (or two, if you’re brave enough). You can read other Andrew Jackson Hotel New Orleans reviews to learn more about other unique and spooky experiences!
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Pros
- Right at the heart of the French Quarter, the Andrew Jackson Hotel New Orleans Louisiana puts you steps away from Bourbon Street, Jackson Square, and all the history and excitement the area offers.
- This boutique hotel has a nostalgic feel, adding to the overall already great experience of staying in such a historic district.
- Many rooms on the property have balconies that overlook the lively streets.
Cons
- The hotel may not have all the modern amenities you might find at a bigger hotel.
Conclusion
The Andrew Jackson Hotel is oozing with history and it has an unbeatable location. Being in the center of the French Quarter, you’ll be steps away from Bourbon Street’s action, world-class restaurants, and lively jazz clubs. Not to mention, the hotel also has a unique character, with add intrigue of being haunted. If you want a memorable stay and want to test your adrenaline, a stay at the Andrew Jackson Hotel in New Orleans is a must.
Read Also
- 11 Historic Hotels in New Orleans
- 11 Most Haunted Hotels in the World
- 11 Best French Quarter Boutique Hotels (New Orleans)
- Four Seasons in New Orleans: Modern Riverfront Luxury
- The Royal Sonesta Hotel in New Orleans: Bourbon Street Splendor
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the Andrew Jackson New Orleans Hotel have breakfast?
A: Unfortunately, no. But you can still find plenty of options nearby.
Q: Does the hotel have connecting rooms?
A: Since the hotel is a historic building, it doesn’t have connecting rooms.
Q: Can I bring my pet?
A: Yes, you can. The hotel is pet-friendly and there’s an extra fee of 45 USD per stay.
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