Since opening in 1893, this grande dame of New Orleans hotels has hosted everybody from politicians, royalty and movie stars and musicians. Now a Waldorf Astoria Hotel, the property balances historic grandeur with modern comfort, offering guests a blend of opulence and ease that feels distinctly New Orleans.
The soaring lobby wows with gilded columns, glittering chandeliers and a sense of occasion, and locals regularly pass through the lobby when attending events at the nearby Saenger or Orpheum Theaters, stopping to have a drink at the famed Sazerac Bar or to reminisce about times spent in the hotel’s ballrooms and restaurants. The Roosevelt has also been a top holiday destination for generations, as the lobby is decked out each year in extravagant decorations to celebrate the season.
It offers an indulgent stay in close proximity to the French Quarter, but even more than that it provides a chance to experience New Orleans through one of its most storied institutions.
Why stay at The Roosevelt Hotel?
The Roosevelt is a standout among typical chain hotels. It’s unique and historic, and the vibe is equal parts timeless glamour and laid-back Southern charm. The grand chandeliers, marbled floors and polished brass mingle with the hum of guests and curious visitors. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable—you’re a short walk from the French Quarter, yet far enough away to retreat from the hubbub. With its lengthy history and luxurious trappings, The Roosevelt is where tradition meets indulgence, making it a go-to for travelers who want an elevated and quintessential New Orleans experience.
What are the rooms like?
Rooms at The Roosevelt are designed with a nod to its heritage but refreshed for modern tastes. There’s plush bedding, neutral tones with golden accents and plenty of art deco touches. Spacious bathrooms are stocked with luxury amenities and smooth marble finishes. Upgrade to a suite to enjoy separate sitting areas, generous square footage and views that stretch out over downtown.
Despite the grandeur of the public spaces, the rooms are surprisingly calming, so you can properly relax after a day of exploring. Oh, and the hotel’s soundproofing is excellent, so you’ll sleep soundly despite the buzz below—it’s elegant and practical.
What is the food and drink like?
The crown jewel of The Roosevelt’s food and beverage experience is the Sazerac Bar. Named after the official cocktail of New Orleans, this art deco gem features polished wood, stunning Paul Ninas murals and leather banquettes that make hearty nods to a bygone era.
The namesake Sazerac—rye whiskey, absinthe and bitters mixed with reverence by white coat-clad bartenders—is a must, but the drink most entwined with The Roosevelt’s history is the Ramos Gin Fizz, a frothy, citrusy concoction that requires a special shaking technique to achieve its meringue-like texture. In the 1930s, Louisiana Governor Huey Long (who kept a room and a safe packed with campaign contributions here at the hotel) was so devoted to the cocktail that he brought Roosevelt bartenders with him on political trips, ensuring he’d never go without. Be sure to try both cocktails for the full Roosevelt experience.
Note that if you’re visiting in September, you can get a ticket to Stormin’ the Sazerac. The hotel hosts this bawdy event in their ballroom, called The Blue Room, to pay tribute to the group of women who stormed the Sazerac Bar in 1949 demanding the opportunity to enjoy a drink alongside the men (until then, women were only allowed in on Mardi Gras). It’s yet another way that the hotel celebrates its legacy.
Beyond the bar, Domenica serves wood-fired Italian fare in a setup that’s both elegant and relaxed. It’s been a popular spot for locals as well as hotel guests. For a quick bite, Teddy’s Café keeps things casual with coffee and pastries.
What’s the service like?
Service at The Roosevelt is both polished and approachable—staff members know the property inside and out and treat guests with genuine Southern hospitality, which adds to the authenticity of staying here. They’re friendly and quick with personalized recommendations, and the concierge can help with anything from last-minute reservations to navigating the many options for seeing live music. No matter the time of day or size of your request, the staff makes you feel important.
At peak times—say, during Mardi Gras or Christmas—you’ll notice the lobby buzzing with guests, yet the team somehow manages to keep the service sharp. It’s a reminder that while The Roosevelt thrives on its illustrious history, it’s the people who keep the hotel’s reputation alive.
What’s the property like?
Just outside the hotel, your Crescent City playground awaits. There’s easy access to the French Quarter, but also to restaurants and galleries throughout the CBD and Warehouse District. Want to know more about that Sazerac cocktail? Walk down the street to the Sazerac House, where you can learn all about it and the Sazerac brand through interactive exhibits and tastings. Drinking, dining, history and live music are all within reach, meaning you can enjoy the best of the city then retreat to a luxurious, resort-like experience.
The on-site amenities are just what you need to balance out your adventures. The rooftop pool is spacious and stylish, a quiet escape in the middle of downtown, and in warmer months it’s a little lively, but not rowdy, so you can enjoy a cocktail while soaking up the sun. Fitness buffs will appreciate the modern gym, which is well-equipped and open 24/7.
If you need more than just a comfy bed to rest after a day out, the Waldorf Astoria Spa offers a full slate of options for recovery and rejuvenation, including the brand new Recovery and Contrast Therapy Lounges. Re-set your system with a circuit of infrared sauna, cold plunge and rest. Just one night out on the town in New Orleans can take a toll (in a good way, obviously), but the spa will have you ready to roll again in no time.
Why you should book a stay at The Roosevelt Hotel
In a city overflowing with boutique hotels and charming guesthouses, The Roosevelt still holds its ground as a must-stay property. Its combination of history, luxury and atmosphere is tough to beat, and it’s undoubtedly an outstanding place to base yourself for a New Orleans experience that goes back generations alongside luxurious comfort.
The lobby alone, with its timeless elegance, is worth a visit; the rooms offer calm and refinement, the Sazerac Bar delivers a world-class drinking experience and the service ensures every detail of your stay is seamless. The unbeatable location and the chance to stay in a landmark makes The Roosevelt an easy choice.
DETAILS
Address: 130 Roosevelt Way, New Orleans, LA 70112
Price per night: starting at $300
Closest transport: One block to the streetcar
Book now: via Booking.com
Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do help us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.