Frommer's Review
Pre-Katrina, Condé Nast Traveler voted the Windsor Court the Best Hotel in North America (and probably did it a disservice -- who, after all, could ever live up to such hype?). And post-? It's still mighty fine -- possibly the finest in town. The unassuming, somewhat office-building exterior (which got a bit Katrina battered) is camouflage for the quiet but posh delights found within. There's a reason this remains the center of high New Orleans society, from traditional afternoon tea to fancy dinners before or after some significant society function. It's that kind of place. Two corridors downstairs are mini-galleries that display original 17th-, 18th-, and 19th-century art, and a plush reading area with an international newspaper rack is on the second floor. Everything here is very, very traditional and serene, though not unwarm. It's not too stiff for restless children, though it still feels more like a grown-up hotel. The level of service is extraordinarily high; we doubt it could be much better were this Windsor Castle rather than Windsor Court.
The accommodations are exceptionally spacious, with classy, not flashy, decor. Almost all are suites (either really big or downright huge) featuring large bay windows or a private balcony overlooking the river (get a river view if at all possible) or the city, a private foyer, a large living room, a bedroom with French doors, a large marble bathroom with particularly luxe amenities (plush robes, high-quality personal-care items, thick towels, a hamper, extra hair dryers), two dressing rooms, and a "petite kitchen." You aren't going to get better traditional hotel accommodations anywhere else in New Orleans, though some of the aged furnishings will benefit from on-going gradual renovations. The top four floors have already received same, with new or refurbished interiors, and conversion to "club level." The latter provides continental breakfast, plus access to a stylish lounge with beverage service during the day, and cocktails and snacks in the evening.
Facilities:
The New Orleans Grill restaurant; Polo Club Lounge; health club w/resort-size pool, hot tub; concierge; suite service (much more than your average room service); in-room massage; laundry; dry cleaning
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
