The Best Hotel Pools in New Orleans
Heat and humidity reign over the city of New Orleans most of the year, and the majority of NOLA hotels know well enough to entice visitors with an outdoor pool. Some hotel pools provide restful escapes after a day of sightseeing or a night on Bourbon Street, while others are a music-filled social scene unto themselves. Whether you fancy private cabanas, frozen rum concoctions, or charming stone courtyards, this list gives you the best of the best of New Orleans hotel pools.
Windsor Court Hotel
Why it made the list
There's a luxurious amount of space at this rooftop pool that feels quiet and serene. Get in a workout first at the state-of-the-art gym overlooking the swim area, or lounge in a comfy poolside chair while ordering snacks and drinks. The 65-ft long, saltwater pool is temperature controlled so that it is cool enough during summer months and heated in the winter.
Bourbon Orleans Hotel
Why it made the list
An enclosed center courtyard is flanked by palm trees, steps away from the lobby and for guests' use only. There's no bar here, and guests tend to keep poolside hanging quiet and contained (except during Mardi Gras, when all bets of civility are off). The tiled deck and large, saltwater pool provide respite from the hotel's more hectic surroundings and highlight the best of this historical property.
Audubon Cottages
Why it made the list
Privacy and elegance are big at the Audubon Cottages, and same goes for the pool. In an 18th-century stone courtyard, walled off from the public eye, guests are likely to have the saltwater pool (one of the oldest in the French Quarter) to themselves, or share with one of the Cottages' high-profile clients. In the adjacent pool house, the property’s small, accommodating staff are happy to fix you a drink.
Royal Sonesta New Orleans
Why it made the list
This pool is both oasis and party: In an inner courtyard of the hotel that keeps it private (and less noisy) from the street, it comes with a full poolside bar and plenty of swimming room for laps or cocktail-sipping. The sweeping, red brick pool deck is surrounded by trees and potted plants, and you'll forget you're steps from Bourbon Street for the afternoon.
Omni Royal Orleans Hotel
Why it made the list
Experience some serious French Riviera vibes at this sophisticated rooftop pool and snack bar. Step around the potted plants to gaze over the charming courtyard wall at sweeping views of the French Quarter and Mississippi River.
The Maison Dupuy
Why it made the list
In easily one of the most beautiful pool courtyards in the city, the Maison Dupuy saltwater pool is open late for swims, features free cabanas, and plenty of lounge room for relaxing. It's a perk that this gorgeous stone courtyard has plenty of room for hanging out, with lounge chairs, a fountain, and separate area full of bistro tables, yet still boasts a large pool that stays cool during the summer months.
The Roosevelt Hotel New Orleans
Why it made the list
Rent a private cabana, relax in the hot tub, or swim up to the bar for a cocktail at this rooftop pool. It doesn’t have the sweeping views of the city that some other rooftops have, but the large pool and lounge area are surrounded by a garden, with views of the gorgeous Moorish-style spires of the Immaculate Conception Church across the street.
The Drifter Hotel
Why it made the list
There’s rarely a dull moment at the Drifter Hotel pool, a popular swim spot for young locals. Nights (and all day on weekends) at the Drifter are curated events, with live music or DJ sets, pop-up shops, performances, and food trucks. Parties here attract an alternative, gay-friendly clientele and bathing suit tops are optional for women.
Ace Hotel New Orleans
Why it made the list
The layout of the rooftop, with various lounge areas, tables by the bar, and beach chairs surrounding the pool makes ACE’s Alto feel like a European beach club. It’s open until 9 p.m. and is popular as an all-day event for both locals and tourists. The drinks and snacks are delicious, music is good but not overbearing, and the people watching (and poolside fashion-coveting) is appealing.
Melrose Mansion
Why it made the list
This historic mansion and small inn hosts the largest pool in the city. Besides actually being able to swim laps, other perks are that the deep, partially-shaded pool stays cool throughout the summer time, and, because the Mansion's residence is small, you’re more likely to have it all to yourself.
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