New Orleans literally lives the phrase, ‘eat, drink, and be merry.’ There’s always some kind of parade or festival happening in the city, a constant excuse to dish out some of the best food combined with some great spirits! Mardi Gras is when the crowds descend on the city and finding a good place to stay might be a tad difficult at this time. However, there are more than enough good hotels to go around, especially hotels in New Orleans with a pool.
While Mardi Gras is what comes to mind with New Orleans, there’s much more to the city than fancy costumes and outlandish floats. This over 300-year-old city has its fair share of history which it wears unashamedly on its sleeve. Combine this with an album full of various genres of music, and you’ve got yourself a veritable treat. The city is after all the hometown of jazz.
There are plenty of interesting things to do in New Orleans so where you stay will depend on what you’re looking for. Also, the kind of hotel you choose will undoubtedly depend on your budget and needs. So, whether you’re looking for hotels in New Orleans with a rooftop pool or gay friendly hotels in New Orleans, there is a wide selection to choose from.
If you’re just looking for a hotel with a pool, we’ve picked what we think are some of the best hotels in New Orleans with a pool. In case you’re stopping by to check out Baton Rouge, take a look at our 11 Best Hotels in Baton Rouge next!
Where to Stay in New Orleans
The city’s most famous neighborhood is the French Quarter with its slew of Cajun eateries, street performers, and historic architecture. Bourbon Street is where all the action is with parties galore. However, this area is not just about the vibrant nightlife but has plenty of other interesting spaces to explore. While most of the best hotels in New Orleans with a pool lie in this area or its border, there are more than enough places to stay for all kinds of travelers.
If you’re in town with family for Mardi Gras, you may want to consider the Uptown/Garden District area. The St. Charles area has a great family-friendly environment when the parades are in town. Architecture buffs will love this area with its grand historic mansions. The gorgeous Audubon Park and Zoo are also in the area.
Just across Canal Street from the French Quarter, you’ll find the Central Business District. There are plenty of trendy hotels with rooftop bars and affordable eateries here. While the area is great for business travelers, the Marigny and Bywater areas are also great. These trendy neighborhoods are a little removed from the bustling French Quarter but not too far from the attractions. However, if you want to stay at a considerable distance from the French Quarter, Mid-City is the best option. The annual Jazz and Heritage Festival takes place in this area.
No matter where you decide to stay in this vibrant city, you’ll never be too far away from history or a vibrant social scene. Depending on your preferences, you can choose the best hotel in New Orleans with a pool or a rooftop bar.
Windsor Court Hotel
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Offering the quintessential four-star New Orleans experience in the heart of downtown, you’ll find the elegant Windsor Court Hotel. With an air of English refinement and a sense of grandeur, this is definitely one of the best hotels in New Orleans with a pool. This pet-friendly property is also one of the best pet-friendly hotels in New Orleans. While the location puts you in proximity to the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter it sits in a relatively quiet spot.
The hotel underwent a $15 million renovation in 2018 which only enhanced its charm. You’ll find a fantastic collection of original 17th-to-19th century paintings in the lobby and the hallways. Spacious guestrooms and suites also received a facelift in 2018, with new color schemes, in-room accessories, and re-upholstered headboards. New furniture and built-in reading lights were also added. The suites have private balconies and offer unencumbered views of the Mississippi River.
One of New Orleans’ most celebrated restaurants, The Grill Room, brings in many dedicated patrons. The restaurant with its 17ft murals, leather-backed chairs, grand piano, and white-gloved waiters reeks of class. However, if you prefer something a little less formal then the Polo Club Lounge with its menu of elevated pub fare is a good option. During the 2018 renovation, the Waterman Poolside Bar was also added to the hotel’s repertoire. This dining venue, however, is exclusively for hotel and spa guests. Expect to be wowed by the stunning skyline views from this space.
Also, at the lobby level, you’ll find Cafe Anglais which serves a variety of house-made delights with coffee, espresso, and cappuccino. Another of the hotel’s interesting quirks is the afternoon tea served at Le Salon from Friday thru Sunday. The afternoon tea is an experience in itself, with its nod to a popular British tradition. Other amenities that you can look forward to at Windsor Court are an expansive spa, a well-equipped fitness center, and a pampered pet program for your furry friend.
Maison Dupuy Hotel
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You would hardly think that the Maison Dupuy was built in 1974 as the architecture and design make it seem much older. Surrounded by the classic architecture of the French Quarter, the hotel was designed ‘to fit in.’ The designers were quite spot-on as you feel like you’ve stepped back in time the moment you enter the property.
This is one of the most inviting hotels in New Orleans with a pool. From the homey, living-room-style lobby to the internal courtyard, you’ll feel like you’ve come home! It’s the perfect place to base yourself if you want to be close to the action of the French Quarter. Bourbon Street is less than a minute from here while the famous St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is a five-minute walk from here. You’re within walking distance from many of the other top attractions of New Orleans.
Although the hotel is just two blocks from Bourbon Street, it’s a location in a quiet residential section means that you’ll have an undisturbed sleep. The rooms here are bright and comfortable with several standard amenities. You won’t find mini-fridges or minibars in the entry-level rooms though. Higher-level rooms also come with balconies that provide good views of the French Quarter or the beautiful courtyard. Suites feature huge bathrooms with deep soaking tubs. Families and large groups might prefer to stay at the Carriage House, a detached two-story, two-bedroom cottage.
The centerpiece of the hotel is undoubtedly the large interior courtyard with its picturesque fountain and an outdoor pool. The hotel’s onsite restaurant, Bistreaux is another popular spot at the hotel. You can enjoy a Sunday jazz brunch and live music while you dine on locally sourced New Orleans fare.
Bourbon Orleans Hotel
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The Bourbon Orleans Hotel donned some interesting hats before its transformation into a hotel. From being a high-society ballroom in 1819 to a convent in 1881, many interesting tales lie beyond its historic walls. In fact, some of the past residents have chosen to remain within the walls of the hotel, occasionally showing up to spook a guest! While the hotel is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in New Orleans with a pool, it also has the distinction of being one of the spookiest. You can join the hotel’s free haunted tour every Thursday.
As suggestive of its name, the Bourbon Orleans sits just behind the St. Louis Cathedral between Bourbon and Royal Streets. Bourbon Street is where you’ll find the hip and happening night-life while Royal Street is where chic boutiques and art galleries vie for space. From this prime location in the heart of the French Quarter, you can be sure that you’ll never run out of things to do.
The hotel’s traditionally Southern lobby boasts a dramatic double staircase and chandelier. It feels like a step back in time with the soft tinkle of a piano in the background. Guests can choose from a wide range of room types depending on their budget. Two-level loft suites feature large balconies that offer great views of the French Quarter. Smaller units have no view as such, but the comfortable rooms with their amenities make up for the lack of a good view.
The saltwater pool on the ground level is one of the prettiest in the city. Loungers and umbrellas add to the comfort of relaxing by the pool. You can enjoy poolside cocktails and snacks from the Pelican Pool & Lobby Bar. The hotel’s main restaurant, Roux On Orleans serves up locally sourced Creole cuisine while its Bourbon “O” Jazz Bar is renowned for its cocktails. There’s also a well-equipped 24-hour fitness center.
Hotel Provincial
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There are many historic hotels with a pool in New Orleans and the Hotel Provincial is one of them. This family-owned property since 1961, has an unbeatable old-world charm with period architecture accents, antique furniture, and brick courtyards. It’s no surprise this meticulously restored structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places! The hotel has a convenient location in a residential section of the French Quarter, offering guests an intimate, surreal experience. It’s a good place to base yourself while you explore the area’s attractions.
A stunning array of tropical plants and manicured fig ivy espaliers on exposed brick walls welcome you to the hotel. You can look forward to some tasteful accommodation here with spacious rooms and suites featuring Southern antiques and period reproduction furniture. Some rooms feature balconies while others provide great views of the mighty Mississippi River. Although the decor is a step back in time, you’ll find plenty of modern in-room conveniences to add to the comfort of your stay.
There are two pools, the main pool that is large enough for laps and a smaller pool surrounded by greenery. On-site dining options include French Toast which is open for breakfast and lunch and the Ice House Bar, open from 3 pm onwards.
Hotel Monteleone
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Most of the best hotels with a pool in New Orleans lie in the popular French Quarter area. Many of these hotels have rich histories behind them, like Hotel Monteleone, that has been with the same family since its existence in1886. Sitting majestically at the foot of Royal Street, the gorgeous hotel puts you in proximity to some of the best boutique shops and art galleries in the city. It’s just a block away from Bourbon Street but the glaring difference between the two streets is quite a revelation!
The massive hotel occupies half a city block and boasts of 570 guest rooms, 55 luxury suites, and Literary Author Suites. Hotel Monteleone has the distinction of being only one of three hotels in the U.S. to receive the prestigious Literary Landmark designation. It also holds the ‘spooky’ honor of being amongst the premier haunted hotels in New Orleans. No surprises, given its lengthy history!
Whilst the guest rooms are embellished with period antiques and old-fashioned decor, they may not be to everyone’s taste. The suites, however, are larger and offer panoramic views of the city. There are no balconies though but you’ll find plenty of modern conveniences. Suites have overstuffed beds, garden tubs, and upscale amenities.
The historic Carousel Bar dates back to 1949. The circus-themed bar was the first revolving bar in New Orleans. It’s a popular nightspot that is always packed until it closes. The bar is also open in the afternoons for food. Criollo, the hotel’s main restaurant serves creative, seasonal dishes. Guests can also look forward to a state of the art rooftop fitness center and heated rooftop pool. There’s also a full-service day spa, Spa Aria.
Omni Royal Orleans Hotel
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The Omni Royal Orleans Hotel is located in the heart of the French Quarter at the fashionable intersection of St. Louis and Royal Streets. This is one of the more refined areas of the French Quarter that is surrounded by local institutions. All the key downtown attractions are an easy walk from here.
This historic block on which the hotel stands has seen a succession of hotels since the mid 19th century. Although the hotel underwent a massive renovation in 2013, there are significant nods to its glorious past. Crystal chandeliers, ceiling moldings, arched windows, and gas lamps outside the front doors pay homage to the hotel’s legacy. Guests can choose from four types of elegant rooms and suites. The classy rooms feature modern amenities and some even have wrought-iron balconies overlooking the street.
The heated, saltwater rooftop pool is a clear standout with great city views and a cool vibe. Open the year-round, it’s a great place to unwind with a bar and observation deck. The recently renovated Royal Garden Terrace Courtyard is another standout. Other highlights that you can look forward to at the Omni Royal are a fully-equipped fitness center and multiple dining areas. The Rib Room, a renowned rotisserie is open for all meals while the Touche Bar, adjacent to the hotel is a great place for comfort food. Poolside, you’ll find La Riviera where you can enjoy a continental breakfast, light fare, and drinks. The Rib Room Bar is also another popular hangout for locals and celebrities.
Audubon Cottages
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Another serene, historic space in the French Quarter that dates back to the late 18th century is the Audubon Cottages. Although you’re just steps away from Bourbon Street, this space feels like a secluded hideaway. This historic collection of seven one and two bedrooms suites offers you luxury and warmth. It’s a little difficult to locate the hotel’s entrance but once you do, you’ll be transported to another world.
Though the hotel has seen several renovations through the years, it has managed to hold onto the old-world charm. The well-appointed cottages have a host of modern amenities combined with excellent service. Each cottage also has its own unique story, including paranormal sightings. There’s a turndown service each evening plus a complimentary, hot continental breakfast every morning.
The crowning glory of the cottages is undoubtedly the heated saltwater pool in the center. This pool, set in original brick, is said to be the oldest pool in New Orleans. The pool area is surrounded by lush foliage and wrought iron chaise lounges. Apart from breakfast, there are no other dining options at the hotel. However, this isn’t a big deal since you’re close to plenty of dining and drinking venues.
Lamothe House Hotel
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Nestled among the leafy oaks of Esplanade Avenue on the fringe of the French Quarter and Marigny neighborhood, the Lamothe House Hotel occupies a peaceful spot in town. It’s a great location for those who want to put some distance between themselves and the French Quarter. Further away, but close enough to enjoy the touristic hotspots. Frenchman Street, the venue of some renowned jazz clubs is a stone’s throw from here.
Many of New Orleans’ historic hotels were once the homes of wealthy merchants and this one is no different. The original townhouses were built in 1839 and the Corinthian columns were added two decades later. What makes this one of the best hotels in New Orleans with a pool is that much of the original features are still intact. Expect grand hallways, chandeliers, and oil paintings here. Former carriage houses at the back of the property have been converted into rooms and suite outfitted with a host of amenities.
The pool is the standout here, hidden among banana plants and palm fronds in a gorgeous courtyard. You won’t find an onsite restaurant here but you can enjoy basic snacks and coffee. However, the hotel’s location puts you in proximity to several eating places. If you’re looking for a tranquil place close to the main attractions, it couldn’t get better than Lamothe House Hotel.
The Ritz-Carlton
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The grand dame of Canal Street, the sprawling Ritz-Carlton occupies an entire city block. It has an ideal location on the fringes of the historic French Quarter, close to the Central Business District, making it a convenient base for business travelers and tourists. The convention center is a 10-minute drive from here while Bourbon Street is a block away. You’ll find plenty of restaurants and shops in the vicinity as well as a number of tram lines.
The impressive 1908 Beaux-Arts building was once a prestigious department store. You’ll find plenty of decorative elements in the elegant white brickwork on the exterior of the hotel, which has its lobby on the third floor. You can expect luxurious guest rooms that conform to the Ritz-Carlton standards. Commissioned artwork and a balcony overlooking the city are some of the characteristic features of the rooms.
For dining, head to M Bistro to enjoy the farm-to-table fare. The menu is both local and international, catering to a wide range of tastes. The Davenport Lounge is a good spot to enjoy a light bite or libation. The hotel’s spa is a destination in itself spread across 25,000 square feet. With over 22 treatment rooms, a cafe, and a boutique, you can spend an entire day at New Orleans’ largest spa. You’ll also find a fully-equipped fitness center and a small resistance pool.
Royal Sonesta
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Combining timeless elegance and southern refinement, the four-pearl Royal Sonesta hotel is definitely a cut above the rest of the hotels on Bourbon Street. Occupying a whole block on the street, the hotel is your escape from the craziness of the outside. The best of the area’s attractions is a hop away from here so it’s a good place to base yourself if you want the best of both worlds.
In 2016, the hotel which opened in 1969 received a major facelift to transform the 483 rooms into some of the best in the city. Guest rooms range from standard rooms to the expansive Interior Pool Suite and the Club Level rooms. There is a wide range of room categories to choose from but the Bourbon Balcony Hospitality Suite is quite popular with groups.
Although there is no spa on the property, you can look forward to a gamut of other amenities starting with the fitness center and heated outdoor pool. The pool is one of the largest in the area set amidst a tranquil space with a seasonal bar. You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to dining here with some of the best restaurants on this side of town. Restaurant R’evolution is the main restaurant where you can enjoy the chef’s imaginative spin on classic Creole and Cajun cuisine. While this restaurant offers a fine dining experience, Desire Oyster Bar is more casual. Other dining and drinking venues include The Jazz Playhouse, Bar R’evolution, PJ’s Coffee Cafe, and Le Booze, the Whiskey Destination.
The Roosevelt
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One of the best hotels with a pool in New Orleans is without a doubt the iconic Roosevelt Hotel. This Waldorf Astoria Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in the city, standing tall since 1893. Initially named The Grunewald Hotel, it rechristened as The Roosevelt in 1923 but changed its name again to The Fairmont in 1965. In 2005, the hotel reclaimed The Roosevelt name. Occupying an entire city block, the hotel sits on Canal Street, on the Central Business District side. The French Quarter is just across the street from the hotel while the St Charles streetcar is only a few blocks away.
You’ll catch your breath when you step into the gorgeous lobby of this hotel. Soaring columns, glittering chandeliers, period fixtures, and elegant tiles, transport you back in time. It’s definitely a space that captures the imagination! In comparison to the elaborate lobby, the rooms here are more classy than showy. Quite naturally, you’ll find plenty of high-end amenities to enliven your experience. If you’re in a mood to splurge then the Waldorf Suites and Astoria Suites are the ultimate in luxury. There’s also the Presidential Suite if you really want to go over the top!
You can look forward to some top-notch amenities here beginning with multiple dining options. The Sazerac restaurant, named after the world’s first mixed drink is a landmark destination that sees plenty of well-heeled clientele stop by for signature cocktails and great food. The coffee lounge, Teddy’s Cafe is another popular meeting place. To satiate your cravings for Italian cuisine head to Domenica, a rustic Italian eatery with a modern twist.
The Rooftop Bar is another place to indulge in some hand-crafted libations while you relax poolside. Treat yourself to some great views of the surroundings while you lay back on one of the loungers. However, if you really want to indulge in some pampering head to the Waldorf Astoria Spa. Other amenities that you can look forward to at the hotel are a 24-hour fitness center, a shoeshine station, concierge desk, and high-end gift shop.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars in New Orleans:
- Combo Cocktail and Food History Tour – This walking tour takes you to multiple award-winning restaurants and bars to get an insight into the diversity of New Orleans’ cuisine.
- Olde NOLA Cookery – Get a taste of the local cuisine at this popular restaurant on Bourbon Street in the heart of the French Quarter. Renowned for its Cajun and Creole fare, the restaurant pulls in quite a crowd.
- BB King’s Blues Club New Orleans – If you’re looking for an interesting way to party head to this iconic restaurant in the French Quarter. It’s a great restaurant and bar that dishes up some of the best live music. It’s not just about the Blues here but rock and roll and classic soul.
Recommended Activities In New Orleans:
- French Quarter, Cemetery and Voodoo Tour – Experience New Orleans from another angle as you traipse through the historic French Quarter and visit St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. Unravel the voodoo mysteries of the Queen of Voodoo, Marie Laveau on this tour.
- Mardi Gras – If you’re in New Orleans on Fat Tuesday, you won’t want to miss one of the best carnivals in the world. It’s a feast for the senses with music, parade floats, and unlimited food and drink.
- Magazine Street – Shopaholics will be in their element along this historic street that stretches for six miles. The three-mile stretch of Magazine Street towards the end of Uptown is especially appealing for shopping. You won’t find many big brands here but you will find a gamut of indie boutiques and lots of vintage and antiques
