The Pontchartrain Hotel
What We Love
- A revamped, historic luxury hotel in the elegant Garden District, with a rooftop bar
- Being right next to the St. Charles streetcar that inspired A Streetcar Named Desire – written here
- Sipping a whiskey at the bar where the New Orleans Saints football franchise was christened
- Staying where Rita Hayworth, Frank Sinatra and the Doors all stayed
What To Know
- The Hot Tin rooftop bar is the place to be for happy hour sundowners
- Located along the streetcar route, so it's very easy to get around
Amenities
- Free WiFi
- Gym
- Handicap-accessible
- Parking On Site
- Pet-friendly
- Restaurant
Overview
The Lowdown
Stay among the who’s who in the bayou at Pontchartrain Hotel. This property’s past visitors include Frank Sinatra, The Doors, Rita Hayworth, presidents Gerald Ford and George H. W. Bush and most notably, Tennessee Williams; The playwright famously lived here while writing A Streetcar Named Desire, which was inspired by the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line just outside. Though the hotel underwent a massive renovation, the history still shines through in the cuisine, the cocktails, and the painstaking attention to design details. Just beyond the front door is the historic Garden District, while the French Quarter is a streetcar ride away. But within the hotel’s doors, an eclectic mix of deep-south and European influences come together in the cozy rooms, featuring romantic palettes and Moroccan rugs and antiques, while the building’s history and local culinary culture receive a fitting tribute in Hot Tin Rooftop bar. There’s also Bayou Bar, where the New Orleans Saints football franchise was christened, plus a café formerly patronized by local judges and tycoons. Who said you even need to take the streetcar to experience the Big Easy’s best? Simply hop on the Pontchartrain train – it’s all right here.
In the Area
In the heart of the historic Garden District, this boutique hotel puts you amid scores of elegant Victorian homes and just a streetcar ride from the action. Shop on Magazine Street or relocate to the French Quarter to check out the iconic dining, live music and buzzing nightlife scene. And learn about the city’s famous history and culture at spots like Artillery Park, the Cabildo (The Louisiana State Museum), and the St. Louis Cathedral.
How to Get There
Reviews
The staff was great, service very good in the bar.
Very bohemian and as a restored hotel, exceptional. The art is also great. Room had some issues with maintenance, a little to obvious.
Allows dogs which was a big plus for us. Very reasonably priced!
Would do again.
Just returned from a 4-night stay here and couldn't be happier with our choice to stay at the lovely Pontchartrain. We stayed in one of the suites, with a separate bedroom with two twin beds for the kids, a large spacious main bedroom, and very large clean bathroom. Beautiful views overlooking the city on the 9th floor, and it was quiet and peaceful on our floor. The suite was very comfortable, beds were plush, and ideal for a family. All the staff were very friendly. We enjoyed breakfast one morning at the Cafe next to the lobby which was tasty, and the service was fast. We all loved the design of the hotel, it was so unique and charming and felt warm and welcoming. Also, we enjoyed the location - we walked around the area to see the beautiful Garden District mansions, spent a few hours at the WW2 Museum, discovered great eateries and shops on Magazine Street, and took the trolley to the French Quarter which stops right outside the hotel. Thanks for a great stay!
Some distance away from the partying in the French Quarters but conveniently located close to the streetcar line that will take you there. There are many very good restaurants within easy walking distance. We tried several of the restaurants and were not disappointed.
The rooms are very clean and the staff is very service minded and answered all our questions. The bar on the top floor is popular due to the very good view of New Orleans.
We recommend this hotel!
My sister and I stayed at this lovely old hotel for 2 nights. I felt pampered with a lovely room and bath. There were soft pink robes to lounge in. The staff was friendly and helpful. The restaurant for breakfast was welcoming and the food was delicious. The street car stopped just out the door and you can ride all day for $3.00. I would stay there again when in NOLA.
hotel is decorated beautifully, however, if you like sleek/modern this is not the place for you.
The roof top bar has the best view in NOLA, hands down. it can get crowded- but the crowds can be avoided between 2pm-8pm. So we enjoyed doing our pre-drinks at the rooftop. Bartenders were semi-friendly but the table waitress was always smiling and willing to help. I preferred service from her.
The cafe was good, easy to grab breakfast or lunch (open 7am-3pm)
Jack Rose/Tavern share the same kitchen and bar staff. Food was great.
I wasn't thrilled the first day by the tavern's bartenders but the second night we meet Colby and he was awesome; friendly, talkative...makes you feel welcomed.
Also, loved the door staff/elevator staff they are always friendly and willing to assist.
We used Uber, Private car services, and the street car...all were great!