I need a place to stay with a friend in the French Quarter that is inexpensive for Sept 16, no frills, just clean, standard (not gross)room...walking distance and Cheap. Should I wait til the last minute for a good deal?

I think it starts getting busy in September, so start checking out places now. What kind of price range are you talking? Does it have to be in the Quarter - or will close work?

For starters, try Quarter Esplanade, New Orleans Guest House (close, not in the Quarter), Villa Convento, Le Richelieu, Provincial, Hotel St. Pierre (usually doesn't get good reviews on this board, but I think it's cheap).

JOHN - do you have any picks for that time of year - or reasonable suggestions in the Marigny?

You might also want to check out the Kats and Rats (or Rats and Kats) website. They have a good list of hotels and B&B's in the city.

Many B&Bs won't take one night stays, particularly on a weekend. I think I'd either (a) use Priceline or (b) stay in the Central Business District where prices are lower. Most of the "inexpensive" FQ places simply aren't very nice.

Check out the Monteleone is has a great location and is a very basic family run hotel.