DH and I are planning trip to New Orleans, December 27-29. We will be driving from northwest Florida, so we will have a car.
I have read many of the older posts but would like some updated info and advice. Our priorities are to be located in the French Quarter, clean, comfortable, not dark or noisy, with on-site self parking. Chain motels are fine with us, and we are not set on a charming, historic place with tiny room. For some reasons he will NOT stay at a B&B. Not interested in room service or on- site dining. We don't like valet parking, but that is not a deal breaker. Our budget is $175.00 per night, including parking. This is the first trip to NOLA for DH. I've been 5 or 6 times, but not since 2000. Appreciate all advice.

Check www.tripadvisor.com and go with one with good reviews.

We like the Dauphine . . one block off Bourbon so it's close to most everything. Fits you other criteria as well.

http://www.dauphineorleans.com/

I think Le Richelieu has self-parking. That is going to be hard to come by in the FQ. Also, you are talking about New Year's eve weekend and many hotels are probably going to have a minimum stay at that time.

Thank you smartcookie, rich and cheryllj. I had already gone to tripadvisor before I posted, but just wanted some more feedback. We plan to come home before the craziness of New Year's Eve sets in. In fact, we may even leave as early as the 26th and return the 28th, thus avoiding the weekend altogether.

Check out Christmas New Orleans Style - type it in your address line and then look at the Papa Noel hotel specials. Hotel Monteleone on Royal Street in the FQ has $99 weekdays and $109 night on weekends. There are other FQ options too, just ask for their Papa Noel rates.

Thanks nolaluver, that was a great idea. I found a website with papa noel rates. Am considering the Holiday Inn on Rue Dauphine -- it is about $70.00 per night, parking included. Am overwhelmed at all the choices. May go with something other than Holiday Inn.