Hotel Monteleone stands as one of New Orleans' most iconic French Quarter landmarks, where literary history and Southern hospitality have intertwined for over a century.
Located at 214 Royal Street in the heart of the French Quarter, this historic hotel has welcomed famous authors including William Faulkner, Truman Capote, Tennessee Williams, and Ernest Hemingway, who found inspiration within its elegant walls while crafting some of American literature's most celebrated works.
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Hotel Monteleone New Orleans: Historic French Quarter Luxury
Today, Hotel Monteleone honors that legacy as one of only three hotels in North America designated as an official literary landmark, while also offering modern luxury amenities including the famous rotating Carousel Bar, a heated rooftop pool with French Quarter views, and sophisticated rooms that blend historic charm with contemporary comfort.
From the moment you pull up to the Hotel Montleone you know you are going to be enjoying New Orleans luxury.
The doormen greet you and handle valet service and bags with ease and care.
The front desk staff is efficient, friendly and knowledgeable about not only the historic hotel but the city.
One thing to know is the hotel montleone takes a $100 a night authorization for a deposit. If you are staying 7 days they will put a hold of $700 on your card. This is to make it easier to charge meals or drinks at the Carousel Bar to your room.
Our Room Experience at Hotel Monteleone
We stayed in a gorgeous premium king room on the 8th floor of the hotel. I had read that the elevators can be slow but we did not experience this.
The Iberville tower has been renovated with a historic look and modern amenities.
The room design feels like it could be from years past but the modern amenities are everything you need for a visit.
USB A and USB C chargers right next to the bed, one touch buttons to turn the lights for the entire room on or off, Keurig with chicory coffee pods ready, flat-screen tv on the wall, and the most amazing black out curtains.
I need to wax poetic about the shower....I would book the hotel again just for the amazing rain water shower. The shower pressure feels like you are having your own private spa experience.
This historic hotel has the most amazing shower pressure we have experienced in a New Orleans Hotel. Don't worry they also have a shower wand if you want a gentle shower experience.
I find that the smallest touches can make a hotel feel luxurious and special. At the Hotel Montleone those moments come from a New Orleans praline in a beautiful package waiting for you with two large glass bottles of water, Bigelow and Co Lime and corriander toiletries in the bathroom including a lotion bottle that is full size and not stuck to the counter so you can use it outside of the bathroom while getting ready.
During our stay we could hear city noise throughout the night. If you are a light sleeper or used to a quiet space I would bring earplugs.
I have to admit hearing the New Orleans music and energy made us feel like we were in heart of the city. People laughing, brass bands playing, and excited chatter tells the story of a city that is truly one of a kind
Ready to experience New Orleans' most iconic literary hotel? Check current rates and availability at Hotel Monteleone for your French Quarter stay.
Hotel Monteleone Room Types and Recommendations
- Literary Suites
- Luxury Suites
- Guest Rooms
- Pet Friendly Rooms
Literary Suites: Rooms with a Story
Hotel Monteleone has a long history with famous authors who stayed here while writing, and the hotel honors this legacy with six Literary Suites named after literary legends.
The suites are named for William Faulkner, Truman Capote, Tennessee Williams, Ernest Hemingway, and Eudora Welty, along with the F.J. Monteleone Suite. These rooms celebrate the writers who found inspiration within the hotel during their stays in New Orleans.
If you're a book lover or appreciate literary history, staying in one of these suites adds an extra layer of meaning to your visit. The hotel has been part of the French Quarter's creative culture for generations, and these suites reflect that heritage.
Interested in staying where Faulkner and Hemingway found inspiration? Compare rates for Hotel Monteleone's Literary Suites and standard rooms.
Luxury Suites: Extra Space and River Views
Hotel Monteleone offers five types of luxury suites with different layouts and views to match what you're looking for during your French Quarter stay.
The suite options include Executive Suites, Vieux Carre Suites, Riverview Suites (with views of the Mississippi River), Iberville Tower Suites, and French Quarter Suites. Each suite type offers more space than standard rooms with separate living areas.
If you're celebrating a special occasion, planning a longer stay, or just want extra room to spread out, the luxury suites give you more comfort and amenities than a standard hotel room.
Guest Rooms: Classic French Quarter Style
Hotel Monteleone offers three types of guest rooms with high ceilings, crown molding, and classic decor that reflects the hotel's historic French Quarter setting.
The room options include Traditional Rooms, Preferred Rooms, and Iberville Superior King rooms. Each room includes modern amenities while maintaining the hotel's timeless style.
All guest rooms come with the comforts you need for your New Orleans stay, whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway or longer trip to the French Quarter.
Pet Friendly Rooms and Monte's Pet Package
Hotel Monteleone welcomes pets and offers pet-friendly floors where your dog or cat can stay with you during your New Orleans visit.
When you check in with your pet, you'll receive Monte's Pet Package including a mat, monogrammed water and food bowls, chew toy, gourmet treats, waste bags, and a brochure of pet-friendly attractions around the city. You can take these items home with you after your stay.
The hotel also offers an in-kennel dining menu with food options for both dogs and cats if you want to order room service for your pet.
The pet fee is $100 non-refundable plus $25 per night. With the French Quarter's walkable streets right outside the hotel, you and your pet can explore New Orleans together without needing to find a pet sitter.
Room Amenities
Hotel Monteleone's guest rooms and suites come equipped with thoughtful amenities that blend classic luxury with modern convenience:
Daily Comfort and Convenience:
- Twice daily housekeeping service
- High-speed internet access (complimentary throughout the hotel)
- Keurig coffee brewer for in-room coffee
- Premium bottled water
- Mini refrigerator
- New Orleans-themed welcome amenity
- Iron and ironing board
- In-room safe for valuables
- Courtesy umbrella (essential for New Orleans' afternoon showers!)
Bathroom Luxuries:
- Marble bathrooms with elegant finishes
- Glass shower with rain shower head
- Electric mirrors
- Separate dressing area and vanity
- Hairdryer
- Plush robes and slippers
- Gilchrest & Soames Toiletries
Entertainment and Technology:
- 55-inch LG flat-screen TV
- Bluetooth-enabled sound system with wireless charging station
Exclusive Hotel Monteleone Perk:
- Early access to the famous Carousel Bar (fees apply) - Skip the wait and enjoy the iconic rotating bar before it opens to non-guests
The combination of marble bathrooms, plush robes, and thoughtful touches like the New Orleans-themed amenity and courtesy umbrella shows Hotel Monteleone's attention to both luxury and practicality. The twice-daily housekeeping is a nice touch you don't always find at hotels anymore, and having that Keurig coffee maker means you can enjoy your first cup before heading down to Criollo for breakfast.
Dining at Hotel Monteleone
The Famous Carousel Bar: New Orleans Icon
The Carousel Bar is Hotel Monteleone's famous rotating bar that's been spinning since 1949. It's the only revolving bar in New Orleans and one of the hotel's most iconic features.
The bar makes a complete rotation every 15 minutes while you enjoy cocktails and live entertainment (Wednesday through Sunday). It's a unique experience you won't find anywhere else in the city.
If you're staying at Hotel Monteleone, stopping by the Carousel Bar for at least one drink is practically required. It's become a New Orleans landmark in its own right.
We love sitting in the Carousel Bar with a New Orleans Cocktail, watching the carousel spin and people having a great time. New Orleans is one of those cities you find yourself people watching, and the Carousel Bar is the perfect location to enjoy the show
The Carousel Bar is open daily from 11:00am to midnight. Keep in mind that guests under 21 aren't allowed after 6:00pm.
Want the famous Carousel Bar just an elevator ride away? See today's best rates for Hotel Monteleone and book your French Quarter experience.
Criollo Restaurant: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Hotel Monteleone's on-site restaurant, Criollo, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with seasonal dishes focused on Gulf seafood and Louisiana flavors.
Breakfast is available daily from 6:30am to 10:30am. On weekends, they offer a specialty Jazz Brunch from 11:30am to 2:00pm. Lunch runs daily from 11:30am to 2:00pm, and dinner is served Thursday through Monday from 5:00pm to 9:00pm.
The restaurant also features Le Petit Chef, an immersive dining experience, Thursday through Monday at 7:00pm and Saturday and Sunday at 12:30pm.
Acqua Bella Poolside Bar
Acqua Bella Poolside Bar is located next to the rooftop pool and offers a menu with starts, tacos and rolls, hand helds, flatbreads, salads, and popsicles.
In Room Dining
Hotel Monteleone offers in-room dining if you want to enjoy a meal without leaving your room.
The breakfast menu is available from 7am to 11am, perfect for a relaxing morning before heading out to explore the French Quarter. An all-day menu runs from 11am to 10pm with options for lunch and dinner.
If you're out late enjoying New Orleans nightlife, the overnight menu is available Tuesday through Saturday from 10pm to 7am.
The hotel also offers purchasable amenities you can add to your room during your stay, like champagne or special occasion packages.
Hotel Monteleone Amenities and Facilities
Heated Rooftop Pool with French Quarter Views
Hotel Monteleone has a heated rooftop pool open year-round from 6:00am to 10:00pm, exclusively for hotel guests.
The rooftop location gives you views over the French Quarter while you swim or relax by the pool. Acqua Bella, the poolside bar, is open seasonally from 11:00am to 6:00pm and serves drinks and refreshments.
Spa Aria: Relaxation in the French Quarter
Hotel Monteleone's intimate spa offers a quiet escape from the energy of the French Quarter. Spa Aria provides massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, and full spa packages if you want to spend a few hours relaxing during your New Orleans visit.
They offer several spa packages including couples treatments, pre-wedding packages for groups, and combination services that pair massages with facials or body treatments.
Couples can book the Honeymoon Retreat with side-by-side massages and pedicures, or larger groups can reserve spa time for bachelorette parties or wedding celebrations.
The spa uses Pevonia and Cinq Mondes products and can accommodate groups with advance booking. If you're celebrating a special occasion or just need a break from sightseeing, Spa Aria is worth adding to your stay.
24-hour Fitness Center with River Views
Hotel Monteleone has a complimentary 24-hour fitness center available exclusively for hotel guests. Access the gym anytime during your stay using your room key.
The fitness center includes Techno-Gym cardio equipment (elliptical, four treadmills, recumbent bike, and upright bike) and strength-training equipment (Smith machine with weights, rowing machine, dumbbells with rack system, and incline bench). Bottled water and fresh fruit are available while you work out.
The gym offers panoramic views of the Mississippi River and French Quarter, so you can take in the scenery while staying active during your New Orleans visit..
Meeting and Event Rooms
Hotel Monteleone is the largest hotel in the French Quarter, offering over 26,000 square feet of meeting and event space perfect for corporate gatherings, conferences, and special celebrations. With more than 25 meeting rooms ranging from the impressive 6,200-square-foot Grand Ballroom to intimate 270-square-foot breakout rooms, the hotel can accommodate events of virtually any size while maintaining the historic elegance and Southern charm that makes New Orleans special.
Whether you're planning a multi-day conference, corporate retreat, business meeting, or company celebration, Hotel Monteleone's variety of meeting spaces gives you flexibility to create the exact event layout you need. The hotel's French Quarter location means your attendees can walk to restaurants, entertainment, and attractions during breaks, making it convenient for both work and exploring New Orleans.
Hotel Monteleone transforms into a magical setting for holiday parties and seasonal celebrations. Host your company holiday party, family reunion, or festive gathering in the hotel's historic French Quarter venue where timeless elegance meets Southern hospitality. The hotel's event team works with you to create dazzling seasonal décor, design custom menus featuring exquisite cuisine, and coordinate impeccable service that lets you enjoy your celebration alongside your guests.
Why you will love staying at the Hotel Monteleone
- One of only three hotels in North America designated as a historic literary landmark
- The famous rotating Carousel Bar - The only revolving bar in New Orleans, spinning since 1949
- Prime Royal Street location - Heart of the French Quarter on the quieter, elegant side (one block from Bourbon Street)
- Literary history and heritage - Stay where Faulkner, Hemingway, Capote, and Tennessee Williams found inspiration
- Six themed Literary Suites - Rooms honoring famous authors who stayed at the hotel
- Heated rooftop pool open year-round - Swim with French Quarter views from 6am to 10pm daily
- Full-service Spa Aria - Massages, facials, couples treatments, and spa packages
- 24-hour fitness center - Panoramic views of the Mississippi River and French Quarter
- Criollo Restaurant - On-site dining featuring Gulf seafood and Louisiana flavors
- Pet-friendly accommodations - Monte's Pet Package with monogrammed bowls, treats, and pet dining menu
- Family-owned since 1886 - Generations of Southern hospitality and service
- Walking distance to everything - Jackson Square, Cafe Du Monde, restaurants, jazz clubs, and French Quarter attractions
- Complimentary high-speed WiFi - Throughout guest rooms and public areas
- On quieter Royal Street - Sleep peacefully while staying in the heart of the action
Convinced Hotel Monteleone is your perfect French Quarter hotel? Check current rates and book your dates before the Literary Suites sell out.
Things to know when planning your stay
Make sure to bring your photo identification and credit card for checking into the hotel.
Reservations - Book your hotel stay here.
Hotel Address - 214 Royal Street, New Orleans
Hotel Monteleone occupies one of the French Quarter's best locations at 214 Royal Street, where you get the perfect balance of being in the heart of everything while avoiding the chaos of Bourbon Street one block away.
Check-in Time - 4 pm
Check-Out Time - 12 pm
Minimum check-in age - 21
Smoking - The hotel is non-smoking
Parking - Hotel Monteleone offers valet parking at two 24-hour facilities for guests. Valet parking costs $48 plus tax per day for regular-size vehicles.
The hotel has limited parking availability for oversized vehicles like F-350s and 15-passenger vans. They cannot accommodate vehicles over 9 feet 4 inches high, 79 inches wide, 197 inches long, or with a wheelbase over 116 inches. If you're driving a larger vehicle, contact the hotel before your arrival to confirm they can accommodate your vehicle.
Accessibility - Hotel Monteleone offers full wheelchair access through the Bienville Street entrance. The hotel has accessible Traditional King and Traditional Double Double rooms available upon request.
Some accessible rooms include roll-in showers, and shower chairs are available if you need one. Make sure to request an accessible room and any specific accommodations when you book your stay so the hotel can confirm availability and prepare your room.
Wifi - Hotel Monteleone currently has complimentary high-speed WiFi Internet access in all guest rooms and public areas
Distance from nearby airports:
- New Orleans International Airport - 15.5 miles
New Orleans Restaurants and Attractions Near Hotel Monteleone
Sucre - Delicious macarons and patisserie shop right across the street from the Hotel Montleone.
Sazerac Bar - Located on Canal Street is one of the best free tours we have enjoyed almost anywhere in the world.
Steamboat Natchez - Check out photos and what to expect when taking a cruise on the mighty Mississippi River.
Jean Lafitte Swamp Tour - Take an epic boat tour through the bayous to see gators and other wildlife.
New Orleans Souvenirs - The best gifts to bring home from the Big Easy!
Cafe du Monde French Quarter - A trip to NOLA isn't complete until you visit the world-famous Cafe du Monde!
Hotel Monteleone Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hotel Monteleone a good hotel in New Orleans?
Yes, Hotel Monteleone is one of New Orleans' most iconic and historic hotels. It's one of only three hotels in North America designated as a literary landmark, known for hosting famous authors like William Faulkner, Truman Capote, and Ernest Hemingway. The hotel combines historic charm with modern amenities and offers the famous Carousel Bar, a unique New Orleans experience.
Where is Hotel Monteleone located?
Hotel Monteleone is located at 214 Royal Street in the heart of the French Quarter. Royal Street is known for its art galleries, antique shops, and historic architecture, and is generally quieter than nearby Bourbon Street while still being walkable to all major French Quarter attractions.
How far is Hotel Monteleone from Bourbon Street?
Hotel Monteleone is about a 2-3 minute walk (one block) from Bourbon Street, close enough to enjoy the nightlife but on quieter Royal Street so you can actually sleep at night.
Is the Carousel Bar open to non-guests?
Yes, the Carousel Bar is open to the public, not just hotel guests. It's a popular New Orleans attraction and can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends.
Does the Carousel Bar really rotate?
Yes! The Carousel Bar makes one complete rotation every 15 minutes. It's been rotating since 1949 and is the only revolving bar in New Orleans.
What are the Literary Suites at Hotel Monteleone?
Hotel Monteleone offers six Literary Suites named after famous authors who stayed at the hotel: William Faulkner, Truman Capote, Tennessee Williams, Ernest Hemingway, Eudora Welty, and the F.J. Monteleone Suite. These suites celebrate the hotel's rich literary history.
Is Hotel Monteleone pet-friendly?
Yes! Hotel Monteleone offers pet-friendly rooms and provides Monte's Pet Package including a mat, monogrammed bowls, chew toy, treats, waste bags, and a pet-friendly attractions brochure. The pet fee is $100 non-refundable plus $25 per night. They also offer an in-kennel dining menu for dogs and cats.
Does Hotel Monteleone have a pool?
Yes, Hotel Monteleone has a heated rooftop pool open year-round from 6:00am to 10:00pm exclusively for hotel guests. The rooftop location offers views over the French Quarter. Acqua Bella poolside bar operates seasonally.
Does Hotel Monteleone have parking?
Yes, Hotel Monteleone offers valet parking at two 24-hour facilities. Valet parking costs $48 plus tax per day for regular-size vehicles. The hotel has limited availability for oversized vehicles and cannot accommodate vehicles over specific dimensions (9'4" high, 79" wide, 197" long, or wheelbase over 116").
Is there free WiFi at Hotel Monteleone?
Yes, Hotel Monteleone offers complimentary high-speed WiFi in all guest rooms and public areas.
What time is check-in and check-out at Hotel Monteleone?
Check-in is at 4:00pm and check-out is at 12:00pm (noon).
Does Hotel Monteleone have a restaurant?
Yes, Criollo Restaurant serves breakfast (6:30am-10:30am daily), weekend Jazz Brunch (11:30am-2:00pm), lunch (11:30am-2:00pm daily), and dinner (Thursday-Monday, 5:00pm-9:00pm). The hotel also offers in-room dining and the Carousel Bar.
Is Hotel Monteleone accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, Hotel Monteleone offers full wheelchair access through the Bienville Street entrance. Accessible Traditional King and Traditional Double Double rooms are available upon request. Some accessible rooms include roll-in showers, and shower chairs are available.
How far is Hotel Monteleone from the airport?
Hotel Monteleone is 15.5 miles from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, approximately a 30-40 minute drive depending on traffic.
Can you smoke at Hotel Monteleone?
No, Hotel Monteleone is a non-smoking hotel.
What is the minimum age to check in at Hotel Monteleone?
The minimum check-in age is 21.
Is Hotel Monteleone good for families?
Yes, Hotel Monteleone can accommodate families with various room types including Double Double rooms and suites with separate living areas. The rooftop pool is a nice amenity for families, though the hotel's historic nature and French Quarter location may appeal more to couples and adult travelers.
Is Hotel Monteleone good for couples or romance?
Absolutely! The historic charm, luxury suites, Spa Aria couples treatments, Carousel Bar, and French Quarter location make it excellent for romantic getaways, anniversaries, and honeymoons.
What attractions are near Hotel Monteleone?
Hotel Monteleone is walking distance to Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, Bourbon Street, Royal Street shopping and galleries, Cafe Du Monde, the French Market, and all major French Quarter attractions.
New Orleans Tours and Attractions
Mardi Gras World - Take a self-guided tour of this world-famous NOLA Attrraction. Buy Tickets HERE
Steamboat Natchez - Check out what it is like to cruise on the Mighty Mississippi River. Boat tour photos and info. Book tickets HERE
New Orleans Hop On Hop Off Bus - A great way to explore the city and see a ton of sites. Book tickets HERE
Ghost and Cemetery Tours - Join a spine-tingling adventure into the haunted streets of New Orleans. Check out tours HERE
Airbot Tours - This is one of our favorite activities in NOLA. Get out in the Bayou and see alligators and the swamp. Check out tours HERE
Click HERE to see all of the top rated tours and activities in New Orleans
New Orleans Lodging and Hotels
We have stayed at each of these New Orleans hotels and can personally recommend all of them. Here are our top picks for every type of trip:
🏨 Sheraton New Orleans - Located right on Canal Street, the Sheraton New Orleans puts you steps from the French Quarter, the streetcar, and everything the city has to offer. We have stayed here multiple times and love how easy it is to walk to everything. Don't miss the Blue Dog art collection by George Rodrigue throughout the hotel - it's one of our favorite surprises. Check Rates and Availability | Read Our Full Review
🏨 Hotel Monteleone - One of the most iconic hotels in New Orleans, sitting right in the heart of the French Quarter on Royal Street. The famous Carousel Bar rotates slowly while you sip your cocktail, and the history of the building is woven into every corner. A bucket list New Orleans stay. Check Rates and Availability | Read Our Full Review
🏨 The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans - Located on Canal Street at the edge of the French Quarter inside the historic 1908 Maison Blanche building. A full-service spa, the Davenport Lounge with live music, and one of the most elegant lobbies in the city. The splurge-worthy pick for a special occasion. Check Rates and Availability
🏨 The Saint Hotel New Orleans - One of our favorite hotels in the city for atmosphere and personality. The Saint has a rooftop pool, a great bar, and a style that feels very New Orleans without being a museum piece. A great pick for a girls trip, a birthday, or anyone who wants a hotel with some character. Check Rates and Availability | Read Our Full Review
🏨 Old No. 77 Hotel and Chandlery - A boutique hotel in the Warehouse Arts District inside a former coffee warehouse. This is where you stay if you want something that feels less like a chain and more like New Orleans itself. It is also home to Compère Lapin, Chef Nina Compton's James Beard Award-winning restaurant. Dinner is already handled. Check Rates and Availability | Read Our Full Review
🏨 Sheraton Metairie New Orleans - Our top pick if you are flying in and out of Louis Armstrong Airport or want to keep your nightly rate lower while still having easy access to downtown. About 8 miles from the French Quarter with a rooftop pool, renovated rooms, and Cajun-American dining on site. Check Rates and Availability | Read Our Full Review
🏨 Holiday Inn Express New Orleans Airport - The ideal pick if you need a convenient stay close to Louis Armstrong Airport without sacrificing comfort. A solid option for early flights, late arrivals, or keeping costs down on a longer trip. Check Rates and Availability | Read Our Full Review
The map below shows the current hotels and vacation rentals available in the area. You can select the dates you are visiting to see current availability.
The map below shows the current hotels and vacation rentals available in the area. You can select the dates you are visiting to see current availability.
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