11 Best Hotels for Mardi Gras with Balconies

Planning a trip to New Orleans? While the city boasts a wide array of fantastic accommodations, only a few experiences rival watching a parade from the private balcony of our hotel room, especially during the vibrant Mardi Gras season. This is why we’re here to show you the best hotels for Mardi Gras with balconies! This coveted vantage point offered us an unparalleled view of the festivities. While Mardi Gras is the peak season for balcony views, New Orleans hosts numerous parades throughout the year, making a balcony room a desirable choice no matter when you visit. Keep reading to discover your favorite!

By the way, have you read our guide for the top things to do for Mardi Gras? It’ll make your trip to the festival even more exciting!

Hotel Mazarin

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Our first recommendation is Hotel Mazarin. We were looking for something relatively affordable in the Bourbon Street area, and Hotel Mazarin fit the bill. One of the biggest draws for us was the promise of large rooms, and we weren’t disappointed. We booked the Deluxe King Room was spacious and comfortable.

While Hotel Mazarin isn’t directly on the main Mardi Gras parade route, its proximity to Bourbon Street meant we could still catch a good amount of the action. Additionally, we were only a few minutes walk away from the French Quarter Visitor Center.

The hotel also boasts a couple of interesting on-site bars. We enjoyed the atmosphere of the 21st Amendment at La Louisiane, the speakeasy-themed bar, which offered crafted cocktails and live music. It was a fun place to unwind after a day of exploring the city. We also checked out Patrick’s Bar Vin, the wine bar, which had an extensive wine list and offered light bites. It was a nice option for a more relaxed evening.

For other nearby accommodations, take a look at these best Mardi Gras hotels on Bourbon Street!

Hotel Indigo New Orleans French Quarter

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What was it like staying at Hotel Indigo New Orleans French Quarter? We had a blast! The first thing that caught our attention was the unique blend of European luxury and unmistakable New Orleans flair. The décor truly reflects a commitment to high-end interior construction, creating an atmosphere that felt both grand and inviting.

For our stay, we booked the Premium King Room, which was decorated with an artistic and chic touch. We especially appreciated the modern comforts provided, including a coffee machine for our morning caffeine fix, a TV for unwinding, and a convenient work desk. But the highlight for us was the beautiful balcony overlooking the New Orleans skyline.

Of course, we also took advantage of the hotel’s fitness center to keep up with our exercise routine. When we were looking for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink, Babin’s Bar and Bistro was a great option, offering a diverse menu of cocktails and excellent meals.

Royal Frenchmen Hotel and Bar

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If you’re looking for an authentic Big Easy experience in a more peaceful setting, we highly recommend the Royal Frenchmen Hotel and Bar. Located in the charming Marigny neighborhood, right across from Washington Square Park, it offered the perfect blend of vibrant local culture and tranquil relaxation. Bourbon Street is just a short walk away if you’re looking for that experience, and we also appreciate being so close to the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park.

Our King Room, though not the most expensive, was luxurious. It was clear that comfort was a key consideration in its design. The luxury bed linens and towels were to die for, and having Wi-Fi was essential for us. But the real highlight was our private balcony, which offered a lovely view. Some rooms overlook Frenchmen Street, offering a glimpse of the lively music scene, while ours faces Washington Square Park, providing a more serene outlook.

We also enjoyed the breakfast options available, both continental and buffet, which provided a great start to our days. Have we mentioned the courtyard? The stunning fountain and the impressive local art on display were enchanting. Between the beautiful courtyard, the comfortable and well-appointed rooms, and the lively on-site bar, our schedule was always pleasantly full.

Virgin Hotels New Orleans

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Best for Partying. If you’re in the city for a good time, the Virgin Hotels New Orleans is your best choice. We were particularly impressed with the hotel’s amenities. The swimming pool was absolutely stunning; we honestly could have spent the entire day lounging there. Beyond the pool, the fitness center was well-equipped, and we loved the nightclub, too. But the real highlight for us was the rooftop seating area. The views were simply breathtaking – a perfect spot to soak in the city.

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Our room was a surprise. The unique design and vibrant colors lifted our spirits. It was clear that attention to detail was a priority. We had a comfortable king bed, ample closet space, and a large TV. We were lucky enough to have a balcony with a view of the city, which was a real treat. It felt like they’d thought of everything.

Food-wise, we were equally pleased. Having an a la carte breakfast menu every morning was a definite plus. The quality and variety were excellent. The location was also ideal. We were close to so many attractions, including Bourbon Street, the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, and the Morial Convention Center. It made exploring the city incredibly convenient.

Soniat House

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Our stay at the Soniat House was utterly charming. As one of the top French Quarter Mardi Gras hotels, we were just steps away from a vibrant array of cafes, bars, and restaurants, and within easy reach of all the city’s must-sees. This proximity to the epicenter of Mardi Gras imbued our trip with an undeniable sense of excitement and local flavor.

The hotel itself comprises a collection of elegant, historic townhouses, nestled across the street from one another in a picturesque corner of the Quarter. Our suite was a haven of tranquility, featuring a plush bed adorned with the finest Egyptian linens. The Spanish-inspired layout was particularly enchanting, with rooms arranged around serene green courtyards, where the gentle murmur of fountains created a soothing ambiance.

While the facilities are rather intimate – a cozy sitting room with a bar, and a small reception area – they perfectly complemented the hotel’s intimate atmosphere. Breakfast, served either in the peaceful courtyard or delivered directly to our room, was a delightful start to each day. The overall ambiance was one of peaceful seclusion, with minimal shared spaces, which suited us perfectly.

Bourbon Orleans Hotel

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The Bourbon Orleans Hotel is often seen as one of the fanciest hotels in NOLA, and it’s not just because of its chandelier-lit lobby. This hotel boasts a contemporary Creole restaurant on-site along with a bar with live entertainment. The heated outdoor saltwater pool in the intimate courtyard was very inviting, and we couldn’t help but take a dip every time we had the chance. The gym was also well-equipped, and the presence of a doorman added to the overall feeling of luxury and security.

The location was absolutely perfect for us. Being just a two-minute walk from St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square Park allowed us to be right in the heart of everything. We found it even better than being directly on Bourbon Street. It was incredibly convenient for exploring; the meeting points for both the free French Quarter tour and the New Orleans Ghost tour were within a five-minute walk, which made sightseeing a breeze.

While the hotel isn’t directly on Bourbon Street, it does offer balconies overlooking it, which is a nice touch, especially if you’re planning to enjoy the parades from your room. We booked the King Suite, and it was fantastic – huge, clean, and modern, with its own balcony. For those who might be sensitive to noise, it’s worth noting that rooms on the opposite side of the hotel would likely be quieter. For us, being close to the action was part of the experience.

Omni Royal Orleans Hotel

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When it comes to the best Mardi Gras hotels with balconies, the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel should rank high on the list. Knowing that the hotel has consistently received the Four Diamond Luxury Award for the past 31 years definitely set our expectations high, and it didn’t disappoint. Its location, right at the fashionable corner of St. Louis and Royal Streets, put us in the very heart of the French Quarter – an absolute prime spot. We felt immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of New Orleans.

Our room was beautifully decorated in a luxurious yet contemporary style. One of our favorite features was the wrought-iron balcony, which offered a fantastic view overlooking the city. It was the perfect spot to soak in the sights and sounds of the French Quarter. Psst! Some rooms here even have a private jacuzzi. No wonder it’s listed as one of the most romantic hotels in New Orleans with a jacuzzi in room.

We also enjoyed the dining options the hotel offered. We had a delicious meal at the Rib Room, and we spent some relaxing time by the pool at the La Riviera Poolside Bar, enjoying refreshing drinks. Overall, we can’t recommend this hotel enough.

Terrell House Bed and Breakfast

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Best Luxury. We were glad we decided to spend a few nights at the Terrell House Bed and Breakfast. The location in the Lower Garden District was perfect for us – a beautiful, quieter area, but still conveniently located. We found it easy to get around, with the French Quarter about two miles away and the Audubon Zoo a short four-mile trip.

This is a stunning Italianate stucco mansion, a converted home dating back to 1857, complete with a carriage house. Stepping inside felt like stepping back in time. The entire place is packed with antiques and interesting objects d’art, creating a truly unique and elegant atmosphere. We particularly enjoyed spending time in the communal areas: the parlor, den, covered porch, and the courtyard with its lovely fountains. These spaces were beautifully decorated and provided a relaxing escape.

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Our Junior Suite was located in the main house, which was a real plus. We had a lovely balcony, which offered a nice spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings. It’s worth noting that not all of the 14 rooms and suites are situated within the main house, so if that’s important to you, it’s worth checking when booking. The included full breakfast was a real treat, setting us up perfectly for our days exploring the city.

Holiday Inn New Orleans – Downtown Superdome

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Best Rooftop Pool. The Holiday Inn New Orleans – Downtown Superdome offers such great value for money. We loved being so close to places like the National World War II Museum, which was incredibly moving, and Harrah’s Casino, where we tried our luck for a bit. The proximity to the Zoo and the Audubon Aquarium was also a big plus, though we didn’t get to visit those on this particular trip. And being just outside the French Quarter, you won’t be far away from all the Mardi Gras festivities.

Our favorite of the hotel was the rooftop pool. It was the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun. The sun loungers were comfortable, and the view from up there was fantastic. Bring your phone or camera! We also appreciated having access to a 24-hour gym, although we didn’t use it as much as we probably should have. We also enjoyed a delicious meal at the Streetcar Restaurant, and the Clarinet Lounge was a great place to unwind with a drink in the evening.

Moreover, our room was modern and well-equipped. We were happy to find it had a microwave and refrigerator, which came in handy for storing snacks and drinks. But the best part about our room? The private balcony! The city views from there were absolutely stunning, especially at night.

“Reasonable rates, awesome amenities, lively rooftop pool – everything about this hotel is perfect.”

WOW Travel

Embassy Suites by Hilton New Orleans Convention Center

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Another great choice that you should consider is the Embassy Suites by Hilton New Orleans Convention Center. It’s just a short walk from the Riverwalk Marketplace shopping center, the infamous Bourbon Street, and the historic French Quarter. Everything we wanted to see was within easy reach.

The hotel has so much to offer than just a great location. Our King Suite was one of the highlights of our stay. We were blown away by the cleanliness and comfort. The suite was incredibly spacious, with a separate sitting area, a huge, comfortable bed, a TV, and even a balcony with stunning city views. It really felt luxurious.

One of the perks we especially enjoyed was the free cooked-to-order breakfast every morning. We also had a couple of meals at the Julia Street Bar & Grill, which is conveniently located in the hotel. It’s a full-time bar as well, so it’s a great spot for a drink in the evening. Of course, we also made sure to take a dip in the spacious pool and work up a sweat in the fitness center, too.

Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter

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Best Location. Right on Bourbon Street? Yep, that’s exactly where the Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter is at. You can’t get much closer to the action. Even though our trip wasn’t during Mardi Gras, there was definitely a party atmosphere happening every night. If you’re looking for a hotel with a balcony overlooking all the Bourbon Street excitement, this is a prime contender.

Apparently, this is one of the few hotels with balconies directly on the parade route, making it an absolute dream for Mardi Gras. Many consider it the best spot for views of the street and everything going on down below. We can see why! The vantage point is incredible. However, given the location, we were initially worried about the noise. Thankfully, it wasn’t as bad as we anticipated! This is one of the best Mardi Gras hotels with balconies if you want to be in the center of it all.

Beyond the location, we also enjoyed the hotel’s amenities. There’s a really nice, airy restaurant and bar with a grand piano that gives it a cool, old-world feel. We also took a dip in the lovely outdoor pool in the courtyard, which was a relaxing escape from the Bourbon Street buzz. You can also find a fitness center, meeting rooms, and a business center.

Also, did you know this hotel is named one of the best cheap hotels for Mardi Gras New Orleans?

Our Verdict!

All of the best hotels for Mardi Gras with balconies listed above are nothing short of amazing. However, which one should you pick? To help you narrow down your options even more, take a look at the hotels below.

• Best Location: Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter
• Best Rooftop Pool: Holiday Inn New Orleans – Downtown Superdome
• Best Luxury: Terrell House Bed and Breakfast
• Best for Party: Virgin Hotels New Orleans

Where to Stay in New Orleans

If you’re looking for Mardi Gras hotels with balconies, most of them can be found in the French Quarter. These hotels offer great views of the parades from their balconies, particularly along Bourbon Street. You can also explore some of the French Quarter’s best bars and restaurants. Since it’s the most popular area, expect large crowds, especially during Mardi Gras.

Aside from the French Quarter, you can also consider Marigny. Marigny is known for its artistic, bohemian atmosphere and strong local culture. During Mardi Gras, this translates to a more authentic and less commercialized celebration compared to the French Quarter. You’ll find smaller, more intimate parades, elaborate costumes, and a strong sense of community.

There’s also Bywater, a lively neighborhood with many bars, restaurants, and music venues. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to celebrate and enjoy the festive spirit. While not all major parades go through Bywater, some do, and you’ll also be close to the action in the nearby Marigny and French Quarter.

Of course, you should also consider the Garden District. Many major Mardi Gras parades roll right down St. Charles Avenue, which borders the Garden District. This means you’ll have easy access to the festivities. Compared to the French Quarter, the Garden District offers a more laid-back and residential vibe. It offers a picturesque backdrop to the Mardi Gras celebrations.

Where is the best place to go for Mardi Gras in New Orleans?

For the most iconic and lively experience, head to the French Quarter, particularly Bourbon Street, where you’ll find vibrant crowds, costumes, and balcony parties. However, for a more family-friendly atmosphere with major parade routes, St. Charles Avenue is the place to be.

How far in advance should I book a hotel for Mardi Gras?

You should book your hotel as early as possible, ideally several months in advance, as rooms fill up quickly. Booking six months to a year ahead is recommended to secure the best rates and availability.

Is Mardi Gras, New Orleans worth it?

Mardi Gras in New Orleans is definitely worth experiencing at least once in your life. The vibrant atmosphere, unique traditions, and non-stop celebrations create an unforgettable experience.