Waking Up to the Mississippi: A Stay in New Orleans’ Most Stunning Riverside Hotels
New Orleans is a city that pulses with life, from the rhythmic beats of jazz floating through the streets to the tantalizing aroma of Creole cuisine filling the air. But for me, the most magical part of visiting this historic city is waking up to the sight of the mighty Mississippi River right outside my window. There’s something deeply calming about watching the riverboats glide along the water while sipping on a freshly brewed café au lait.
On my latest trip to New Orleans, I decided to make the river my home base by choosing hotels with breathtaking river views. In this guide, I’ll take you through my personal experience staying at some of the best hotels along the Mississippi, complete with tips on where to book, what to expect, and how to get the best deals.
Why Stay by the Mississippi River?
Staying along the Mississippi River in New Orleans offers more than just picturesque views. Here are a few reasons why I always opt for a riverfront stay:
- Unbeatable Views – The river’s ever-changing scenery, from vibrant sunrise reflections to the twinkling lights of steamboats at night, creates an unforgettable experience.
- Convenient Location – Many riverside hotels are just steps away from iconic attractions like the French Quarter, Jackson Square, and the lively Bourbon Street.
- Tranquility Amidst the Chaos – While the French Quarter can be loud and bustling, the riverfront provides a quieter retreat where you can unwind after a day of exploring.
- Easy Access to River Cruises – Some hotels are within walking distance of steamboat docks, making it effortless to hop aboard for a jazz-filled river cruise.
Top Riverfront Hotels in New Orleans
1. The Westin New Orleans
📍 Location: 100 Iberville St, New Orleans, LA 70130
The moment I walked into The Westin New Orleans, I knew I had chosen the perfect spot. Situated on the edge of the French Quarter, this luxury hotel offers some of the most stunning panoramic views of the Mississippi River. From my window, I could see the riverboats slowly gliding across the water, while the golden hues of sunrise reflected on the surface. It was the perfect backdrop for my New Orleans adventure.
One of the standout features of The Westin New Orleans is its elevated location—literally. Unlike many hotels in the city, the lobby is on the 11th floor, giving guests an immediate taste of the breathtaking views that make this place so special. Whether you’re sipping your morning coffee or enjoying a cocktail in the evening, the floor-to-ceiling windows offer a mesmerizing perspective of the river and cityscape.
What Makes It Special?
- Unmatched Views – The higher floors offer some of the best river views in the city, making it an ideal spot to watch steamboats drift by or take in a stunning sunset over the water. Even standard rooms offer partial river views, but for the best experience, a high-floor river-view room is a must.
- Spacious, Modern Rooms – The rooms at The Westin are designed for relaxation. The plush Westin Heavenly Beds ensure a great night’s sleep, while the contemporary decor, soft lighting, and large windows create a peaceful atmosphere. I particularly loved the deep soaking tub in the bathroom—after a long day of exploring the city, it was the perfect way to unwind.
- Fantastic Dining – Bistro at the Bend, the hotel’s signature restaurant, is a must-visit. Not only does it offer delicious seafood dishes, but the view from the dining area is just as memorable as the food. I highly recommend trying the blackened redfish and pairing it with a local craft cocktail. Breakfast here is also a treat, with a selection of fresh pastries and classic Southern dishes like shrimp and grits.
- Prime Location – While many luxury hotels are a bit further from the French Quarter, The Westin offers the best of both worlds. It’s right on the edge of the action, meaning you can easily walk to Jackson Square, the French Market, and Bourbon Street, but you still get a quieter, more refined atmosphere inside the hotel.
Guest Reviews
Guests frequently rave about the incredible views, often calling them “the best in New Orleans.” Many also appreciate the peaceful ambiance, noting that despite being close to the French Quarter, the hotel feels like a tranquil retreat. The spacious rooms and comfortable beds are another highlight, with many travelers praising the Westin Heavenly Beds as the most comfortable they’ve ever slept in.
Some guests mention that the hotel’s main entrance is a little difficult to find, as it’s located on a higher floor, but once you get there, the experience is seamless. A few have also noted that the lobby and hallways could use a refresh, but the modern, well-appointed rooms more than make up for it.
Booking & Pricing
- Best Booking Platforms: I found the best rates on Expedia and Hotels.com, especially for longer stays. Sometimes, Westin’s official site offers exclusive deals for members.
- Estimated Cost: $180–$300 per night, with prices fluctuating based on the season and demand.
- Booking Tip: For the best views, request a corner king room on a higher floor—you’ll get a sweeping panoramic view of the river that’s well worth the price.
2. Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans
📍 Location: 2 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130
If you’re looking for an extravagant five-star experience, Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans is an unbeatable choice. As soon as I stepped inside, I was struck by the sheer elegance of the space—soaring ceilings, grand chandeliers, and a refined modern design that blends perfectly with New Orleans’ historic charm.
This luxury hotel sits directly on the riverfront, offering some of the most dramatic views of the Mississippi. The floor-to-ceiling windows in each room provide an uninterrupted view of the water, making it feel as though the river is right at your doorstep. From my room, I watched the Steamboat Natchez glide by while sipping on a freshly brewed espresso from the in-room coffee machine—it was the kind of moment you dream about when visiting New Orleans.
What Makes It Special?
- Luxury at Its Finest – From high-end furnishings to marble-clad bathrooms, everything in this hotel is designed for indulgence. The rooms are spacious, featuring plush linens, deep soaking tubs, and state-of-the-art technology like smart controls for lighting and drapes.
- Infinity Pool Overlooking the River – One of the highlights of my stay was relaxing by the rooftop infinity pool, which offers an incredible panoramic view of the Mississippi. Whether you’re swimming in the morning or sipping a cocktail poolside in the evening, the experience is pure bliss.
- Michelin-Quality Dining – The hotel boasts some of the best restaurants in the city, including Miss River, which offers a refined take on Louisiana classics. The seafood gumbo was easily one of the best I’ve ever had, and the ambiance was equally impressive.
- World-Class Spa & Amenities – If you’re in need of some relaxation, the hotel’s full-service spa is a must-visit. I treated myself to a hot stone massage, and it was the perfect way to unwind after a day of walking through the French Quarter.
Guest Reviews
Visitors consistently highlight the impeccable service, with many describing the staff as warm, accommodating, and highly attentive. The stunning river views and high-end amenities are also frequently mentioned, with some guests saying they felt like royalty during their stay.
Some travelers note that while the hotel is undoubtedly luxurious, it comes with a hefty price tag. However, many agree that the experience is well worth it, especially for special occasions like honeymoons or anniversary trips.
Booking & Pricing
- Best Booking Platforms: I found the best rates through Amex Travel (great for cardholders) and Booking.com. Luxury Escapes sometimes offers exclusive package deals as well.
- Estimated Cost: $500–$800 per night, depending on the season and availability.
- Booking Tip: For the best value, book at least three months in advance, or check for luxury travel packages that include dining credits or spa discounts.
3. Hilton New Orleans Riverside
📍 Location: 2 Poydras St, New Orleans, LA 70130
If you’re looking for a mix of affordability and convenience, Hilton New Orleans Riverside is a fantastic mid-range option. This hotel is directly connected to the Riverwalk Outlet Mall and just a short walk from the French Quarter.
What Makes It Special?
- Perfect for Families & Business Travelers – Spacious rooms and excellent amenities, including two outdoor pools.
- Prime Riverfront Location – Steps away from Harrah’s Casino and the Convention Center.
- On-Site Dining & Bars – Drago’s Seafood Restaurant, famous for its charbroiled oysters, is located within the hotel.
Guest Reviews
Many guests appreciate the location and amenities, particularly the fitness center and riverside jogging path. Some mention that certain rooms could use an update, so requesting a renovated room is recommended.
Booking & Pricing
- Best Booking Platforms: Found great deals on Hilton Honors (for members) and Priceline.
- Estimated Cost: $150–$250 per night.
- Booking Tip: Sign up for Hilton Honors for exclusive member discounts and free Wi-Fi.
How to Get the Best Deals on Riverfront Hotels
If you’re looking to snag the best rates, here are a few of my tried-and-true strategies:
- Book Early, But Check Last-Minute Deals – While booking months in advance can lock in good prices, last-minute deals on platforms like Hotwire and HotelTonight sometimes offer steep discounts.
- Use Membership Discounts – Platforms like AAA, Amex Travel, and Chase Sapphire Rewards can offer hidden discounts.
- Stay Midweek – Hotel rates in New Orleans tend to be much cheaper from Sunday to Thursday compared to weekends.
- Bundle Flight & Hotel – Websites like Expedia and Kayak offer discounts when you book a flight and hotel together.
- Check Refundable Rates – Sometimes, flexible rates drop in price closer to the date, allowing you to rebook for less.
Final Thoughts: The Magic of a Mississippi River Stay
There’s truly nothing like waking up to the sight of the Mississippi River in New Orleans. Whether you’re looking for a five-star escape, a cozy boutique stay, or an affordable yet scenic option, there’s a perfect riverfront hotel for you.
For me, staying by the river added a whole new layer of magic to my trip. Watching the paddlewheel boats drift past while enjoying my morning coffee felt like stepping into a postcard from the past. If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans, I can’t recommend a riverfront stay enough.
So, where will you stay by the Mississippi? Let me know your favorite hotel picks in the comments below!
New Orleans is a city that pulses with life, from the rhythmic beats of jazz floating through the streets to the tantalizing aroma of Creole cuisine filling the air. But for me, the most magical part of visiting this historic city is waking up to the sight of the mighty Mississippi River right outside my…
