When there is cause for a family celebration, we frequently head to New Orleans. The party-like atmosphere of the Big Easy insures the weekend will be special.

On a busy Saturday afternoon, we pulled into the Loews Hotel, and the extremely friendly valet made us feel immediately welcomed. Inside, the lobby buzzed with activity as guests worked on laptops, sipped their drinks and conversed. A wall of windows faces the street making it a fun spot to people-watch.

A three-dimensional collage of New Orleans’ images hangs behind the reception desk. The rich gold, silver and black motif used to divide the entrance of the hotel emits modern elegance. The staff swiftly checked us into a grand two-double-bedded guestroom on the 12^th floor.

From our window we could see Harrah’s Casino and the Mississippi River. Artwork depicting New Orleans architecture hangs on the walls and the gray carpet emulates historic wrought iron. The gray and blue palette of the guestroom is soothing. Appreciated amenities include free WiFi, a desk, a flat-screen television, coffee bar, mini fridge, safe and umbrella. The bathroom features a bathtub and a shower.

Schedule a massage or a manicure at the hotel’s Balance Spa on the eighth floor. Beside the spa is an indoor, heated, saltwater lap pool. Guests may also use the whirlpool and dry sauna or get an invigorating workout in the 3,000-square-foot fitness center with a view of the Big Easy skyline.

The hotel’s Café Adelaide belongs to the Commander’s Palace family of restaurants. Dine on Creole dishes in a playful atmosphere. While we didn’t have the opportunity to sample the cuisine, our arrival coincided with the Swizzle Stick Bar’s Happier Hour where drinks cost only $3–6.  We were surprised to learn this perk is offered every day, 3–6 p.m. and until 8 p.m. on Thursdays. Live jazz accompanies the drinks Friday and Saturday, 4–7 p.m.

Within walking distance to the French Quarter and Riverfront, the Loews Hotel’s amenities, hospitable staff and NOLA vibe make the property an excellent choice for travelers who appreciate a bit of sophisticated fun.

Loews New Orleans Hotel

300 Poydras St.
New Orleans, LA 70130
tel 877 877 4941