Description: I knew New Orleans hotels for Mardi Gras would be expensive, so I booked early. I wanted to stay at a decent place, and since there wasn't a big difference in price between a 2 and a 4 star hotel, I went with the 4.
Le Pavillon was listed as a fours star hotel on Expedia, and went for $250 a night. It is located about four blocks from the French Quarter and a block from the parade route - in fact, I could see the parade from my room.
The exterior had huge columns, and some statues built into the walls, with greenery behind them. If looking at a picture, you'd think you were in Paris, or Rome, but not the Dirty South.
Not knowing what to expect, when I walked in I was stunned. The place was insane. 20-foot high ceilings, giant chandeliers, classic 17th century furniture, marble pillars... old school, old world, not like anyplace I've ever stayed.
The elevators continued the theme, and the hallways were lined with classic French style paintings of soft-doll like women in 2d. Upon entering my room, I thought, this is the smallest grand room around. The ceilings were probably 12 feet high, but the room wasn't 12 feet wide. The decor matched the lobby's with colors and styles I'd never consider in a thousand years, but it somehow kind of worked. The room was small, but felt luxurious, and the bathroom felt grand as well.
Unfortunately, I didn't go to the rooftop to check out the pool and terrace (it was Mardi Gras and I was only in town for a day and a half).
If you are looking for something grand, then this is a great place to check out. In fact, the Crystal Room, the dining area claims to be the grandest room in New Orleans, and it's hard to argue that.
But, if you are looking for a room to crash in with your friends while you party your ass off on Bourbon street - look for something else, because this just ain't your kind of place.
Close