The hype
Perfect for first-timers who want to walk everywhere, but the sheer size of the hotel makes everything from coffee to elevators a line-waiting game.
New Orleans Marriott
$160-350 / night
Book this if You want to be in the absolute center of the action and have Marriott status that grants you access to the legendary M Club.
Why People Love It
- The M Club lounge is widely considered one of the best in the U.S.
- Location is unbeatable: cross the street and you're in the French Quarter
- River View rooms offer spectacular sights of the Mississippi and cruise ships
Quick Take: A massive, frenetic convention machine that delivers convenience and views but suffers from agonizing elevator waits and thin walls.
Reviewed by @AishaNicole: I stayed here for a quick trip and loved the modern vibe. The lobby was a great spot to work, and having the 24/7 market was a lifesaver. It’s a sleek, quiet escape right near the action.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'Destination Fee' of ~$29/night feels like a cash grab, offering 'perks' like a city tour that most guests don't use.
- You are a Marriott Platinum/Titanium member (the lounge is worth it)
- You are attending a convention at the hotel or nearby
- You prioritize a river view over a quiet boutique atmosphere
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8
- Housekeeping: Generally consistent daily service, though some reports of 'rushed' cleaning and missed dust in corners.
- Bathroom hygiene: Mostly good, but recurring complaints about 'tub down spouts' not working and occasional mildew in grout.
- Maintenance: The building is older. Expect some scuffs, worn carpets in hallways, and slow drains.
- Linens & towels: Standard Marriott quality—crisp and clean, though towels can feel a bit thin.
- Odors & scents: Lobby is heavily perfumed. Some guest rooms have a lingering 'damp' or 'musty' smell due to NOLA humidity.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Street noise (sirens, streetcars, music) from Canal Street
- Hallway noise and connecting room bleed
- Elevator dings if near the bank
Before you book
Good to know
- The M Club is located on the ground floor/lobby level, not a high floor.
- Valet is the only on-site parking option; use SpotHero to find cheaper garages nearby if you don't need in/out privileges.
- The 'Destination Fee' is mandatory and added at check-in.
What to pack
- White noise machine or heavy-duty earplugs
- Cash for tipping the valet and bellhops (you will rely on them)
- Comfortable walking shoes (you are close to everything)
Room Genie
Best picks
- River View rooms on floors 25+ (spectacular views, less street noise)
- Corner rooms (often slightly larger with dual-aspect views)
Rooms to avoid
- Low floors facing Canal Street (noise trap)
- Rooms near the elevator bank (high foot traffic)
- Connecting rooms if you aren't booking both (sound bleed is real)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a room on a high floor (25+) facing the River side to minimize street noise. Please ensure it is NOT a connecting room and is located away from the elevator bank.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, the outdoor rooftop pool is heated and open year-round, typically 7am-11pm.
Does the hotel have a free shuttle?
No, there is no airport shuttle. You'll need to Uber/Lyft or take a taxi (~$40-50).
Is breakfast included?
Only if you have a rate that includes it or Platinum+ status for the M Club. Otherwise, the buffet is ~$24/person.
Can I self-park?
No. The hotel is valet-only (~$62/night). Nearby garages (Premium Parking P402 or P145) are cheaper options.
Is it safe to walk around at night?
Generally yes, as it's a high-traffic tourist area, but Canal Street can get sketchy late at night. Stay aware.
What is the Destination Fee?
A mandatory ~$29/night fee that includes premium wifi, a daily city tour for two, and local food/beverage credits.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The elevators require a room key to operate, which is great for security but slows down the flow—have your key ready.
- ✨
Skip the hotel Starbucks line in the morning; go to French Truck Coffee on Chartres St for better coffee and shorter lines.
- ✨
If the main valet line is backed up, there is sometimes a second entrance/exit flow that bellhops can direct you to during events.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'River View' can sometimes be partially blocked by other towers depending on the specific angle of your room.
💡The gym is split into two separate rooms (cardio vs. weights) which can be confusing.
💡Housekeeping can be aggressive about knocking early on checkout day.
💡The lobby smell is a distinct Marriott 'white tea' scent that they pump in heavily.
💡You can hear the streetcar rumble from lower floors—it's charming at 2pm, annoying at 6am.
Local Playbook
Map
See where New Orleans Marriott is located and what's nearby.