Fodor's Expert Review The Roosevelt Hotel New Orleans

A hotel of some form since 1893, this grand stone building just off of Canal Street has been attracting the famous and infamous with its luxury and entertainment (and one-time basement jazz club) for centuries since. The icon reopened after Hurricane Katrina, when the Waldorf Astoria took over and renovated the hotel to combine the old school grandeur of the storied property with the convenience of a modern and trusted hotel brand.

If you plan to stay downtown, don't rent a car. Traffic and parking can be bad, and New Orleans traffic laws downright confusing. The Canal St. streetcar stops on the corner of Roosevelt Place, dropping you off practically at the door of the hotel.

room

The rooms are classic but simple, and can appear somewhat basic in comparison to the old school drama of the lobby and other aspects of the property. Still, the comforts are that of any Waldorf Astoria hotel, like feather pillows and soft bedding, blackout curtains, and a 42-inch flat screened TV.

bathroom

Every room has a spacious, multi-nozzle shower, and most include a second flat screened TV in the bathroom. Enjoy a plush robe and bath slippers.

lobby

From the chandeliers to the intricately tiled floors to the gold-trimmed columns and ceiling, the hotel's entranceway and lobby are filled with nostalgia and romanticism. It’s easy to see why the lobby is a popular destination for New Orleans’ families during Christmastime, when it is flanked with ornate tree and light displays. Visitors can sit in one of the many parlor chairs and enjoy coffee and treats from Teddy’s Cafe, while reminiscing on a jazzier, gilded era.

pool

The spacious rooftop pool and hot tub, framed by a manicured garden and the iconic Jesuit church building across the street, is open year-round. The Rooftop Bar opens April to October. Talk to the front desk about renting private cabanas.

gym

A full spa offers several types of massage, facial, hair, and nail treatments and more using natural and organic products in a truly luxurious and relaxing setting. Likewise, the gym is full service, with its 10+ cardio machines, and other equipment, providing more than the basics you might expect from a hotel.

dining

Domenica is a favorite among New Orleanians for its pizza happy hour (half off pizzas from 2-5 p.m.). Delicious gourmet pizzas, antipasti and charcuterie, good wine, and the sexy, low-key atmosphere of a Roman vinoteca all make Domenica a great experience. Don't leave without trying the roasted cauliflower with whipped feta. Besides Domenica, The Fountain Lounge at the other end of the lobby serves cocktails and sophisticated small plates to share with friends while enjoying live music. Room service is available 24 hours.

drinking

Legend has it that famous 1930s Governor Huey P. Long constructed an entire stretch of highway between Baton Rouge and New Orleans just so he could reach the hotel faster and enjoy his favorite drink, The Ramos Gin Fizz. Fact or fiction, The Sazerac Bar maintains an old school lustre and talent for making classic concoctions. Step into the walnut-paneled rooms—lined with Paul Ninas murals and outfitted with just the right tinkle of soft jazz and low lighting—and you’ll be swept up in its legendary air, too.

The Sazerac can get crowded and noisy during weekend nights. If you're staying at The Roosevelt, take advantage of your proximity by visiting the bar on off hours, when you can enjoy the full experience of watching the bartender make your carefully crafted beverage while they entertain you with legends of the hotel's past.