I am looking for hotel outside of the quarter, but not too far from it. Have stayed at Windsor Court, and it's nice, but maybe something not so expensive as I have to book two rooms for my family.

There are literally dozens of hotels (and some bed and breakfasts too) within walking distance of the Quarter but not inside the FQ boundaries. Any other ideas on what you're looking for? Big or small? Near-luxury or just a clean room?

Without knowing your likes/dislikes, I'd suggest the Hotel Monaco, the Omni Royal Crescent or maybe the International House.

This is not a hotel but a Bed & Breakfast located nine blocks away from the French Quarter, not far from the Art Museum: Ashtons B & B (www.ashtonsbb.com). It's an 1860s Greek Revival home that has been meticulously restored. The grandest rooms (all with private bathroom) are in the main house, and there are smaller rooms in the servant's wing in the rear. The innkeepers are natives of New Orleans and are very personable and knowledgeable. And they cook like angels! The best eggs benedict I ever had was in the inn's dining room. If you have any idea that you might want an alternative to a hotel, this is the place I would steer you towards with no hesitation. We had a wonderful time staying at Ashtons on our last NO trip.

You may want to check out Hampton Inn/Suites at the Convention Center (be sure to specify Convention Center because there are others that are close). Friends stayed there in April from San Diego and absolutely loved it. It is in a restored cotton warehouse. Staff was very friendly and helpful - price was great - they were automatically upgraded to a junior suite with kitchen/living area. Interior pool area was beautiful. Two blocks from Mulate's which was fun for an evening of cajun food/dancing and about 8 blocks to Canal Street. We had a car for them but I think there was shuttle service available to at least as far as Harrah's casino. Hope this helps.

We just stayed at the Maison St.Charles Quality Inn and Suites mid july and it was a great experience. Our price was $62 per night for a king room.. and they have great amenities. Plus you can ride the streetcar to the FQ , it stops right in front of the hotel. Good Luck

We have booked a room in December at the Royal St. Charles - one block out of the quarter on St. Charles Street. The street car is right out front and you just have to cross Canal to get into the Quarter. We got an amazing rate of $69 on turbotrip.com.

There were so many choices I decided to go with a 4 * from Hotwire.

I was glad I did! We got 2 rooms at the Sheraton, Canal St. @ $59. a night. Very pleased.

A few years back I stayed at the Doubletree on Canal Street. Nice hotel and good location.

http://www.doubletreeneworleans.com/