Virgin Hotels New Orleans

On Baronne Street, in the Warehouse District, the hotel is close to a whole new crop of shops and restaurants—and within walking distance of some great local events and venues. For example, just a block away, in Lafayette Square, check out “Wednesdays on the Square” for a concert series in the summer and blues music festival in the fall. And the 100-year-old Orpheum Theatre—a quick, 10-minute walk from the hotel—hosts everything from comedy performances to live podcast shows. And, of course, the airport is close by too: It’s a 20-minute ride from Louis Armstrong International Airport.  

Cool and trendy, the hotel has a great design aesthetic—bright colors and patterns mix with a variety of textures and shapes—that feels fresh without being overwhelming. There are 238 rooms and suites, referred to here as chambers, designed in the two-area method the brand is known for. That means rooms are split into two sections—The Dressing Room and The Lounge—which are separated by paneled doors: The Dressing Room has the bathroom, vanity, closet and the like, while in The Lounge area you’ll find the bed, SMEG mini-fridge, TV, yoga mat and more. In terms of suites, Richard’s Penthouse Flat is the largest at 1,097-square-feet and includes a separate bedroom and kitchenette with floor-to-ceiling windows offering downtown views.  

Along with the great design—done by the local firm Logan Killen Interiors—there is a lot to love about this new property. In particular, the public spaces offer guests a chance to experience local culture firsthand, from food to music to New Orleans Saints viewing parties. As the “social epicenter of the hotel”, Commons Club includes a bar, dining area, and private lounge area, known as The Bar, The Kitchen, and The Shag Room, respectively, with live music and events, too. (Example: Funky brunches with jazz trios, burlesque brunch, etc.) Headed by Executive Chef Alex Harrell, the menu itself focuses on Southern cuisine-made-modern. Next, be sure to check out the 13th-floor rooftop, which is home to both the Pool Club and Dreamboat, the hotel’s cocktail lounge. Rounding out the dining and drinking experience is the Funny Library Coffee Shop, perfect for grabbing coffee or lunch before heading out to see the city. Plus, you’ll find lots of spaces for meetings and events—to the tune of some 5,000-square-feet—as well as a 24/7 fitness center. And we couldn’t leave out our favorite features: The hotel is totally dog-friendly—and there are no extra fees or restrictions on breeds or size. There are fun pet amenities on hand too, like a dog bed, bowl, and treats.