11 Best Mardi Gras Hotels on Bourbon Street

Planning a Mardi Gras trip to New Orleans? Look no further! In this guide, we’ll help you find the best Mardi Gras hotels on Bourbon Street for an unforgettable experience. Why Bourbon Street, you ask? From our experience, it’s the heart of the Mardi Gras celebration. The street comes alive with festivities, especially at night. We were able to find lots of costumed people and enjoy the party atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to be at the center of all the action. That said, we’ve curated a list of 11 top-rated hotels, each offering unbeatable access to the parades, parties, and energy that make Mardi Gras so special. Check them out!

Speaking of which, make sure to also read these 11 top things to do for Mardi Gras!

AC Hotel by Marriott New Orleans French Quarter

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The AC Hotel by Marriott New Orleans French Quarter has so many selling points, and its location was a major draw for us. It’s situated in a traditional building literally steps from Bourbon Street, putting us right in the heart of the French Quarter action. We found it a great base for exploring, with places like Caesars Superdome and the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum just about a mile away – easily walkable or a short ride.

The hotel also has some nice common areas. We enjoyed the contemporary bar and the lounge area, which both provided a good spot to relax after a day of sightseeing. We did check out the fitness center, which was adequately equipped for a basic workout. Additionally, we also saw the vending machines stocked with snacks and drinks, which came in handy for late-night cravings.

Our King Room was definitely slick and modern, a nice contrast to the historic surroundings. The minibar with complimentary snacks was a welcome touch. We didn’t upgrade our room, but if you want, you can spend your nights in a room with city views. It might be worth considering for larger groups or those wanting a better view.

Hotel Monteleone

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If you want to stay somewhere luxurious, Hotel Monteleone is the place to be. Our suite was plush and lavish, exactly what we expected from a hotel of this caliber. It had all the essentials – a minifridge for our drinks, a flat-screen TV for unwinding, and of course, Wi-Fi to stay connected. We even had the extras like a whirlpool tub and a pull-out sofa!

Dining at the hotel was a highlight. The upscale restaurant served seasonal Louisiana cuisine, which was absolutely delicious. It was a real treat to experience the local flavors in such an elegant setting. But the real star of the show for us was the gilded bar. Not only did it offer fantastic street views, but there was live music, which created a wonderful atmosphere.

The amenities at the Monteleone were top-notch. We loved relaxing by the heated rooftop pool, surrounded by potted palm trees and enjoying the city views. It was a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle below. The 24/7 fitness center was great for keeping up with our workout routine, and while we didn’t personally use the full-service spa, it was definitely tempting.

Hotel Mazarin

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As a renovated historic building, Hotel Mazarin boasts some of the most traditional décor we’ve seen in any French Quarter hotel. The tiled floors, the beautiful inner courtyard, and the elegant chandeliers perfectly captured the atmosphere of Bourbon Street, creating a truly immersive experience. It felt like stepping back in time, but with all the modern conveniences we appreciate.

Our Deluxe King Room was posh, to say the least. The antique reproduction furniture and, yes, more chandeliers, added to the overall elegance. We were pleased to find modern amenities seamlessly integrated into the classic design. If you want an even more luxurious stay, you can book a room that comes with a balcony.

Despite the historic charm surrounding us, we certainly didn’t feel like we were roughing it. The hotel offers modern comforts such as a 24-hour fitness center, which we appreciated. We also enjoyed winding down at the hotel’s on-site 21st Amendment bar. It had an extensive selection of drinks, making it the perfect spot to relax and reflect on our day.

Andrew Jackson Hotel French Quarter

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Best for Backpackers. The Andrew Jackson Hotel French Quarter has countless ways to captivate its guests. Even the history alone is fascinating. We were staying on the very spot where Andrew Jackson was once indicted at the old US Federal Courthouse. How cool is that? From the moment we stepped inside, we felt transported back to the 18th century. Decked out with gorgeous chandeliers, gilded mirrors, and period furnishings, it’s unlike any other hotel we’ve stayed in.

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If you’re a backpacker looking for something a bit more upscale than a hostel, this place is perfect. Our room, though unfussy, had a definite old-world charm with its 18th-century style furniture. We appreciated the modern amenities too, like the cable TV and free Wi-Fi. There are suites, too, which come with separate living areas and some even have wrought-iron balconies overlooking Royal Street. One of our favorite things was the complimentary continental breakfast delivered to our room on a silver tray. It felt so luxurious!

The location was also ideal for exploring. After a night checking out the music scene on Frenchmen Street, or after a haunting tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, the hotel’s private inner courtyard was a welcome oasis. It was the perfect spot to unwind and recharge.

Also, did you know that this hotel is rumored to be haunted? For the full story, check out our post: Andrew Jackson Hotel New Orleans Louisiana: Royal Street’s Haunted Hotel.

Hotel St. Marie

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Best for Families. Hotel St. Marie is one of the best Bourbon Street Mardi Gras hotels for families. Just a half block from the famous Bourbon Street, this charming French Quarter gem is a great place for families wanting to enjoy Mardi Gras. When we were there, we loved how we were close enough to the action but also far enough for peaceful nights.

Traveling with kids always has its quirks and challenges, so it’s a relief when you can find a great hotel on Bourbon Street like this one. With family rooms and room service available, you’ll have one less thing to worry about. Our suite, though, was fantastic. The European-style decor and elegant chandeliers made it feel even more luxurious.

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One of our favorite aspects of the hotel was the courtyard area with its refreshing pool. After busy mornings exploring the nearby St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square (both just a five-minute walk away), we developed a lovely afternoon routine. There were many kids splashing in the pool while the parents were relaxing on the outdoor furniture.

Lafitte Hotel & Bar

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Our stay at Lafitte Hotel & Bar was a memorable one. Located right on Bourbon and St. Phillip, it’s perfectly situated for exploring the French Quarter and only steps away from all the Mardi Gras action. This boutique hotel is housed in a beautifully restored 1849 home, giving it a truly intimate feel. With only 14 rooms, we felt like we were staying with friends.

Our room, the King Room, was even bigger than we imagined. We were pampered with a well-equipped bathroom, mini-fridge, flat-screen TV, and all the other essentials. But what we liked the most was the private balcony overlooking the neighborhood. It was our go-to spot for our morning ritual.

Lafitte’s is also a fantastic choice if you’re planning a special event like a wedding or reunion. It can accommodate groups of 10-100 guests by utilizing its sister property, the Royal Frenchmen Hotel. Also, if you can’t sleep, the oldest bar in New Orleans, is right next door. Enjoying a drink in this historic bar while listening to live piano was a highlight of our trip.

For more similar hotels, take a look at these French Quarter boutique hotels!

Astor Crowne Plaza

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The Astor Crowne Plaza is simply impressive. The fact that the building dates back to the 1850s is incredible, giving it a real sense of history. However, the recent renovations made everything feel fresh and modern. For a 4-star hotel in the heart of the city, especially being so close to the action in the French Quarter, we found the price surprisingly reasonable.

One of our priorities was having a space where we could balance sightseeing and a bit of work, and the hotel delivered perfectly. The complimentary Wi-Fi in our room was reliable, and the executive work desk was a definite plus. We also appreciated the genuine Southern hospitality. The staff, from the concierge to everyone else we encountered, were incredibly attentive and helpful.

We also noticed the hotel’s capacity for large events. With nearly 700 rooms and a whopping 32,000 sq ft of event space, it’s clearly well-equipped for weddings, conventions, and other large gatherings. While we weren’t there for an event, we did take advantage of the nice outdoor pool and the well-equipped fitness center.

The Royal Sonesta New Orleans

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Best Value for Money. The Royal Sonesta New Orleans is perfectly situated on Bourbon Street, placing you right in the middle of the vibrant city life. You’ll be close to Mardi Gras parades, street entertainers, and the city’s renowned nightlife.

Though far from fancy, our Standard Room was comfortable and tastefully decorated. The pillow-top mattress ensured a restful sleep after a night of exploring. For an unforgettable experience, request a room with a balcony overlooking Bourbon Street. The constant stream of activity is so captivating!

Furthermore, the hotel offers a variety of amenities. Relax at the Oasis Pool Bar, enjoy the extensive whiskey selection and sports viewing at Le Booze, and savor delicious oysters at Desire Oyster Bar. During our stay, we loved to grab a quick coffee at PJ’s Coffee Café and experience live jazz music at The Jazz Playhouse.

For our full review, read: The Royal Sonesta Hotel in New Orleans: Bourbon Street Splendor.

Hyatt Centric French Quarter

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The Hyatt Centric French Quarter is a great hotel for experiencing NOLA. While not directly on Bourbon Street, it sits just around the corner, making it easy to join the festivities but still get a peaceful night’s sleep. Some rooms even offer balconies overlooking the famous street, giving us a front-row seat to the vibrant French Quarter atmosphere.

That said, the room selection impressed us, ranging from standard accommodations to luxurious suites. Of course, we had to choose the King Roon that came with a balcony. We were able to take in the city views whenever we wanted to. Plus, we really loved the modern decor.

Our favorite amenity, though, was the outdoor pool area, complete with a seasonal poolside bar (open April through September). It’s perfect for those hot New Orleans afternoons. The on-site fitness center also helped us stay active during our stay. Although the French Quarter’s best restaurants are outside, the hotel still makes sure it gives its best by providing multiple dining options on-site.

French Quarter Mansion

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Best Boutique. The French Quarter Mansion is another great addition to the list of the top New Orleans Mardi Gras hotels Bourbon Street has to offer. Stepping outside, we found ourselves surrounded by top-notch restaurants and fascinating historical landmarks. Some lucky guests (ourselves included) could enjoy private balconies overlooking the bustling intersection of Bourbon and Dumaine Streets, offering a perfect perch for people-watching and soaking in the vibrant Quarter atmosphere.

There are nine rooms on the property, each telling its own story through distinctive elements like elegant chandeliers, exposed brick walls, and rustic wooden beams. Our studio, though not the biggest, was super cozy and came with everything we needed. There’s also a Family Suite and Penthouse Apartment for larger groups.

This isn’t the fanciest hotel in the area, but it sure knows how to keep guests relaxed. The peaceful courtyard became our favorite spot for morning coffee, where the gentle sounds of the fountain and fishpond provided a serene contrast to the lively French Quarter streets.

Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter

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Best Overall. Let’s start by saying that the location of Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter is unbeatable. Right in the heart of Bourbon Street, we were just steps away from all the action. Iconic landmarks like Jackson Square and Preservation Hall were within easy walking distance, and we never had to venture far to have fun.

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

In addition to that, 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.

“It was pleasant for us to spend our nights here. The room was clean, the staff was friendly, and the amenities were complete.”

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Our Verdict!

Since all the hotels are located in the same area, choosing the right one for your needs can be a challenge. To make it easier, we’ve categorized them based on the following:

• Best Overall: Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter
• Best Boutique: French Quarter Mansion
• Best Value for Money: The Royal Sonesta New Orleans
• Best for Families: Hotel St. Marie
• Best for Backpackers: Andrew Jackson Hotel French Quarter

Where to Stay in New Orleans

So, which part of New Orleans should you consider for your Mardi Gras vacation? Of course, the first area is Bourbon Street. As we said earlier, it’s the central hub of activity during the celebration. After all, Bourbon Street is famous for its lively atmosphere, bars, and balconies. However, you should note that it isn’t where the major parades roll.

We highly recommend staying in the historic Lower Garden District. This area is a sweet spot, offering proximity to the parades on St. Charles Avenue and easy access to the French Quarter via the streetcar. You get a taste of historic charm and a slightly more laid-back atmosphere than the bustling French Quarter.

If you want a more local experience and a family-friendly vibe, Uptown is a great choice. You’ll be among the grand oak trees and mansions lining St. Charles Avenue, where you can set up for prime parade viewing.

In addition to that, you can also consider the Warehouse District. This area offers a blend of convenience and excitement. You’ll be within walking distance of the French Quarter and have easy access to parade routes on St. Charles Avenue and Canal Street. Plus, you’ll find a variety of hotels, from stylish boutiques to upscale chains.

To prepare for your trip, make sure to read this travel guide: best time to visit New Orleans.

Where do people stay during Mardi Gras?

People attending Mardi Gras primarily stay in the city’s central areas, such as the French Quarter, the Central Business District, and the Garden District. These areas offer convenient access to the parade routes and other festivities.

Is Mardi Gras on Bourbon Street?

The major parades don’t actually roll down Bourbon Street. However, the street is still packed with people celebrating, especially on the days leading up to Fat Tuesday.

Is Bourbon Street fun during the day?

Bourbon Street is more subdued during the day, offering a chance to explore its unique architecture and shops at a more relaxed pace. However, it’s primarily known for its lively nightlife, so the daytime atmosphere might not be as exciting for those seeking the full Bourbon Street experience.