Discovering Timeless Elegance: A Journey Through The Monteleone Hotel, New Orleans

Steeped in over a century of history, the Hotel Monteleone stands as a pillar of heritage in New Orleans' French Quarter. Since its opening in 1886, it has been family-owned, contributing to its deeply rooted sense of tradition and community. Known for its illustrious past, the hotel has welcomed famous guests like Ernest Hemingway and Truman Capote, enhancing its legendary status. Among its best amenities, the Carousel Bar, an ever-spinning marvel, draws locals and tourists alike for its unique atmosphere and classic cocktails. The rooftop pool offers a serene escape with stunning views of the city, while the luxurious accommodations blend antique charm with modern conveniences, making the Monteleone Hotel New Orleans a timeless destination for travelers seeking the soul of the Big Easy.

At the heart of the Hotel Monteleone's dining experience is the Carousel Bar & Lounge, a piece of living history renowned not just for its drinks but for its enchanting, carousel-themed design that literally rotates, making a full turn every 15 minutes. Opened in 1949, this bar has become a must-visit for anyone in New Orleans. From Wednesday through Saturday, experience live local music from jazz artists to musical ensembles. The Carousel Bar offers guests a unique experience, allowing them to sip on classic cocktails in a space that feels frozen in time, yet vibrantly alive with the spirit of the city.

Beyond the bar, the hotel's restaurant, Criollo, offers a culinary journey through Louisiana's rich flavors, with dishes crafted from local ingredients that embody the fusion of cultures characteristic of New Orleans cuisine. Criollo offers a jazz brunch on Saturdays and Sundays and offers one dollar martinis during lunch Monday through Friday. The Criollo dining experience at New Orleans’ historic Hotel Monteleone becomes even more captivating with the introduction of Le Petit Chef, a family-friendly immersive dinner experience created in partnership with TableMation Studios™. This exclusive offering combines a seasonal five-course meal with engaging 3D cinematic storytelling by TableMation Studios™, perfectly synchronized with the attentive service of Criollo’s staff. For those dining at Criollo, complimentary parking is available at the Solaris Garage. The dining options at the Monteleone blend history with luxury, providing guests an immersive experience into the culinary heart of the French Quarter.

The rooftop pool at the Hotel Monteleone offers guests a refreshing oasis with stunning views of the New Orleans skyline, making it a perfect retreat from the bustling city below. Alongside, the fitness center is well-equipped, providing visitors with a range of exercise equipment to maintain their workout routine while on vacation.

Hotel Monteleone offers an array of rooms that cater to the needs of every traveler boasting 522 elegant guestrooms, including 55 suites, ensuring a luxurious stay. The accommodations blend traditional décor, including high ceilings and crown molding, with modern amenities like high-speed internet, Keurig coffee brewers and marble bathrooms. Guests can choose from four regular room types: the cozy Traditional Room, the spacious Preferred Room with stunning views, the opulent Royal Salon and the serene Iberville Superior King.

Hotel Monteleone's Luxury Suites embody the pinnacle of French Quarter elegance, offering five distinct layout options tailored to fulfill the desires of its guests. Meanwhile, the Literary Suites pay homage to the hotel's rich history of inspiring renowned authors, celebrating the creative legacy left by literary giants who have stayed within its walls, making these accommodations a tribute to the hotel's storied past in the heart of New Orleans.

Hotel Monteleone introduces the next generation of luxury in the new Iberville Tower, featuring fully renovated guest rooms and suites with detailed millwork, spacious marble bathrooms, and modern amenities including 55″ LG TVs and Bluetooth-enabled sound systems. Guests of the Iberville Tower enjoy exclusive benefits such as twice daily housekeeping, premium bottled water, New Orleans-themed amenities, plush robes and slippers and early access to the Carousel Bar (fees apply), ensuring a stay that combines traditional luxury with contemporary comfort and convenience.

The Monteleone Hotel New Orleans remains a shining testament to the city's rich history and cultural tapestry. This iconic establishment not only offers luxurious accommodations and top-notch amenities but also serves as a gateway to the soulful rhythm of the French Quarter. With its historic charm, modern comforts and unparalleled hospitality, Monteleone invites travelers to immerse themselves in an experience that is as enchanting as the city itself.

Quick Facts about Hotel Monteleone

• Historic Landmark Status: The Hotel Monteleone is a historic landmark, recognized for its significant architecture and rich history, reflecting the vibrant spirit of New Orleans.

• The Carousel Bar & Lounge: Famous for its revolving bar, the Carousel Bar & Lounge has been a favorite spot for both locals and tourists since its installation in 1949, making it a unique feature of the hotel.

• Literary Legacy: The hotel has hosted numerous famous authors over the years and is recognized as a literary landmark by the Friends of the Library Association for its significant contributions to the literary culture of New Orleans.

• Hotel History: Originally the Commercial Hotel, Hotel Monteleone, was founded in 1886 by Antonio Monteleone, a Sicilian nobleman and successful shoemaker, who expanded and renamed the property in 1908 after immigrating from Sicily and establishing a prosperous cobbler shop in the French Quarter.

• Haunted Reputation: Hotel Monteleone is known for its ghost stories, with guests and staff reporting sightings of friendly spirits, adding a mystical allure to its historic charm.

• Luxurious Accommodations: Offering a range of room types, from traditional guest rooms to luxurious suites, the hotel combines antique elegance with modern amenities.

• Rooftop Pool: The hotel features a rooftop pool offering breathtaking views of the city, providing a serene escape amid the bustling French Quarter.

• Family-Owned Tradition: Unlike many historic hotels, Hotel Monteleone has remained family-owned and operated since its inception, contributing to its warm, welcoming atmosphere.

• Location in the French Quarter: Situated in the middle of the French Quarter, the hotel offers easy access to New Orleans' most famous attractions, including Bourbon Street and Jackson Square.

• LGBTQ+ Friendly: Hotel Monteleone is an LGBTQ+ friendly hotel, proudly welcoming guests from all walks of life. It is a member of the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association and is a TAG-approved hotel, underscoring its commitment to inclusivity and hospitality for all guests.

• Event and Meeting Spaces: With extensive event and meeting spaces, the hotel is a popular venue for weddings, conferences and other events, offering elegant settings and professional planning services.

• Award-Winning Service: Over the years, Hotel Monteleone has received numerous accolades for its outstanding service, luxurious amenities and commitment to preserving the historical and cultural heritage of New Orleans.

Hotel Monteleone is the perfect options for exploring New Orleans with elegance, tradition and fun! As a New Orleans local, I can guide you to the perfect accommodation in the city, from the historic Hotel Monteleone to other top-rated options; I look forward to hearing from you!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to New Orleans. In need of further inspiration? Check out Fora Advisor Alyssa Manning's guide, From Rooftop Views to R&B-filled Nights: Our Stay at the Ace Hotel New Orleans.