Mardi Gras is upon us and hotels are already beginning to fill up. If you haven’t started planning your trip already, now is the time. With so many hotels throughout the city, it's hard to know which ones you can trust. We've made a list of a few properties we can personally recommend.
The Best Western Plus St. Christopher Hotel, on Magazine Street just steps away from the Warehouse District and the French Quarter, is ideal for those who want to spend a lot of time in the Vieux Carré, but would like to have an easy walk back to a slightly less-hectic area to get some rest. You can hop the Magazine Street bus uptown and grab your place on the parade route.
Hotel Provincial in the French Quarter is another popular favorite. It's a quick walk to Bourbon Street and Jackson Square and is on the parade route for several French Quarter marching group processions. People who stay here can't say enough nice things. The minute you leave, you'll start planning your visit back.
Just around the corner, you'll find the Hotel Villa Convento, owned by 7th generation New Orleanians. It, too, is close to everything and has an inimate, boutique feel. It's within walking distance of great restaurants and the revelry on Bourbon Street.
Also in the Quarter is the Best Western Plus Landmark French Quarter. The courtyard here is amazing. A great place to duck in for some rest and relaxation when the Carnival crowds overwhelm you.
Not far from Canal Street and the French Quarter is The Holiday Inn Downtown Superdome. It has a big mural of a clarinet on the outside and is full of festive New Orleans artwork. It's on the streetcar line, for your convenience, and is home to a great restaurant – The Clarinet Bistreax. It also houses a fabulous bar and one of our favorite coffee shops (just what you'll need after a late night out in the Quarter.)
Traveling with a large group? We recommend French Quarter Townhouses with 3 to 10 bedrooms on the edge of the Vieux Carré. These Victorian and French cottage style homes feature balcony views, full kitchens (don't forget to pick up a king cake), and separate living areas. Make one your home in New Orleans.
Or you can always stay at New Orleans RV Resort & Marina. Limited sites are still available during Mardi Gras season. Plus, the BC Boys Band will take to the stage at The Lighthouse Bar & Grill on February 13th, between 6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Come join in the fun and try their Mardi Gras Specials, including the King Cake Daiquiri, the Mardi Gras Mix-up and King Cake.
For more hotel information, visit our sister website BestNewOrleansHotels.com.