Book Cheap Last-Minute Hotels in New Orleans

If you’re ready for a weekend adventure in New Orleans, brace yourself for the humidity, get hydrated, and laissez le bon temps rouler. While you may think of nothing but Mardi Gras beads and beignets when New Orleans comes to mind, there’s more simmering in this city than drool-worthy pots of gumbo.

When you book last-minute hotel deals in New Orleans, hit the Crescent City with your party pants on. Join the parade route, stroll through the lush Garden District, cruise Bourbon Street, grab a slice of king cake, and hope you get the embedded baby for luck. If you want to do N’Awlins to the max, here are the top ways to keep it breezy in the Big Easy.

Close (French) Quarters

Sipping in the Streets: Good news, French Quarter devotees—that yard-long Hurricane drink you just ordered? You can take it to-go as you wander freely down Bourbon. As long as your cocktail comes served in plastic, you’re good to roam. You can even order daiquiris from a drive-thru window. New Orleans Original Daiquiris has been around for decades and has locations all around the city. Just make sure to bring the frosty treat back to your New Orleans French Quarter hotel before you start slurping.

Now That’s Some Good Eatin’: The rumors about the South are true—folks love to feed you down here. So, make sure you pack your eating pants, and prepare to chow down on New Orleans’ finest bites. From fried oyster po’boys at Liuzza’s by the Track to crawfish boils (yes, you should suck the head) eaten over the daily newspaper, this city knows how to eat. Don’t forget to leave room for a sno-ball (try the Cream of Nectar) at the iconic Hansen’s Sno-Bliz.

See You Later, Alligator: Seeing the swampy side of New Orleans is a must-do while you’re here. Whether you book an airboat gator tour or just keep your eyes peeled on a walk through City Park, you’ll find alligators making a splash in the area. If your taste buds lean toward the adventurous, you can even find them on a plate. Popular Cajun eatery Cochon offers up fried bites of gator sauced with a chili garlic mayo, while Dat Dog slings gator sausages decked out on a bun.

Get Jazzy with It: This is the birthplace of jazz, and you will hear it played live all around town—including church services and funerals. No matter which neighborhood you’re exploring, from Treme to uptown, the tunes will find you. Swing into free jazz sets played at Musical Legends Park or seek out the world-renowned Preservation Hall, then saunter back to one of the best hotels in New Orleans to give those dancing feet a break. At least until tomorrow.

Frequently Asked Questions About New Orleans