The Bourbon Orleans Hotel sits at the corner of Bourbon Street and Orleans Street in the heart of the French Quarter, placing guests within steps of some of New Orleans' most celebrated restaurants, music venues, and historic sites. The building's origins trace to 1817, when it was constructed as the Orleans Ballroom and Theatre, a venue that played a significant role in the city's antebellum social life before later serving as a convent for the Sisters of the Holy Family. The property became a hotel in the 20th century and has since been developed into a 220-room boutique hotel that balances historic character with contemporary amenities. Room categories include Standard King, Deluxe Double, Junior Suites, and Balcony Suites, the latter offering direct views over the Bourbon Street corridor below. A rooftop pool provides a quieter retreat above the French Quarter activity, with views across the neighborhood's historic roofline. An on-site bar serves cocktails and light fare, drawing both hotel guests and visitors exploring the area. A fitness center and concierge round out the core amenities. The hotel's Bourbon and Orleans Street address offers immediate access to the French Quarter's walkable grid: Jackson Square and the St. Louis Cathedral are three blocks south, the Mississippi riverfront is four blocks away, and the French Market is a short stroll east. The streetcar lines on Canal Street and St. Charles Avenue are easily reached on foot, providing convenient access to the Garden District, Uptown, and the Central Business District.
Room types
- Standard King
- Deluxe Double
- Junior Suite
- Balcony Suite
Amenities
- Rooftop pool
- On-site bar
- Fitness center
- Concierge
Location
717 Orleans St, New Orleans, LA 70116
29.9586, -90.0659 View on map
Highlights
- Historic 1817 building — former Orleans Ballroom with significant antebellum social history
- Rooftop pool with views over the French Quarter roofline
- Prime corner location at Bourbon and Orleans streets in the French Quarter
- Balcony Suite rooms with direct views over Bourbon Street
- Walking distance to Jackson Square, the riverfront, and the French Market
Tips for visiting
- Request a Balcony Suite if viewing the Bourbon Street atmosphere is a priority; request interior or courtyard-facing rooms for quieter nights
- The rooftop pool is less crowded on weekday mornings — weekends attract both guests and event groups
- Street noise on Bourbon Street peaks late at night; pack earplugs if a light sleeper
- Validated parking is not available at the hotel; the closest paid garages are on Canal Street two blocks away
- During Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest, rates increase significantly — book several months in advance
Accessibility
The Bourbon Orleans Hotel offers accessible guest rooms with roll-in showers and grab bars available on request. An elevator provides access to all floors from the lobby. The Bourbon Street and Orleans Street entrances are step-accessible; guests with mobility needs should contact the hotel prior to arrival to confirm room placement.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the history of the Bourbon Orleans Hotel building?
The building was constructed in 1817 as the Orleans Ballroom and Theatre, a prominent venue in antebellum New Orleans social life. It later became a convent operated by the Sisters of the Holy Family before being converted to its present use as a hotel.
Does the Bourbon Orleans have a pool?
Yes, the hotel features a rooftop pool with views over the French Quarter. It is available to hotel guests during posted hours.
Is the hotel noisy due to its Bourbon Street location?
Bourbon Street is one of New Orleans' busiest entertainment corridors and generates significant noise, particularly on weekend nights. Guests sensitive to noise should request a room on a higher floor or facing away from Bourbon Street.
How close is the Bourbon Orleans to Jackson Square?
Jackson Square and the St. Louis Cathedral are approximately three blocks south of the hotel, a five-minute walk through the French Quarter.
Is parking available at or near the hotel?
The hotel does not operate its own parking garage. Several paid public parking garages are located within two blocks on Canal Street and in the adjacent Central Business District.