Fodor's Expert Review Hotel Maison de Ville

Step off of a busy French Quarter street and into a quiet corner rich in history at this renovated series of townhouses. The cobblestone courtyard shares a wall with Court of Two Sisters, and on Sunday mornings guests wake up to pleasant wafts of jazz music and brunch scents. The back suite once frequently hosted Tennessee Williams, and the main townhouse dates back to the 1780s. Throughout, this small hotel exudes charm and a quirky New Orleans romanticism.

Photo: Hotel Maison de Ville

room

A sometimes odd mix of antiques, oil paintings, and modern amenities, the rooms are quirky but charming. Most face into the courtyard and get plenty of sunlight. Voodoo dolls, created specially for the hotel by a local artist, are found on every bed (and available for purchase).

YOU SHOULD KNOW Some of the quaint original rooms struggle to fit the modern-sized beds we’re used to, and quarters can feel tight. But the charm is still there, there are large windows in each room, and plenty of balconies and outdoor space.

Photo: Hotel Maison de Ville

bathroom

L’Occitane bath products. Most rooms have showers, while a few have short tubs.

Photo: Hotel Maison de Ville

lobby

There is a pleasant parlor overlooking the courtyard, with a small snack bar.

The hotel has a "bed and breakfast" feel to it: don't be afraid to ask the friendly staff about the hotel's history, make requests, or look for local suggestions.

Photo: Hotel Maison de Ville

gym

The hotel provides complimentary passes to Downtown Fitness Center (333 Canal Street).

dining

Coffee and pastries are served in the hotel parlor each morning. There are small snacks, like chips and cookies, available from the snack bar.

drinking

The hotel serves champagne upon arrival and often hosts cocktail hours for groups or events. The snack bar provides nonalcoholic refreshments and soft drinks 24 hours.