I recently stayed at The Roosevelt in New Orleans before a cruise. I love the stories and charm behind this historic property within walking distance of the French Quarter. The location just off Canal Street is perfect for getting around.
Waldorf- Astoria took over the property after Hurricane Katrina. It was previously managed by Fairmont and was heavily damaged in the floods. Waldorf-Astoria restored many of the original features and hired artists to duplicate things they could not save. The end result is a beautiful property with so many fun details reminiscent of the 1920s.
The original mail slots that ran vertically from floor to floor
Cute sitting areas on each floor with rotary phones that actually work
They restored much of the relief work around the ceilings and there is even a rendering of Teddy Roosevelt that is fun to hunt for. Sorry no picture to guide you as that would be cheating!
There are many stories surrounding the hotel of dirty politicians and corruption in the old days. There is even a story about mayor Huey Long building a highway just to get to the Roosevelt faster and rumored he hid a box of taxes there though it has never been proven. The hotel hosted numerous famous and infamous guests over the years.
The property is also home to the state drink the Sazerac, and it’s bar by the same name. It is a drink of whiskey, bitters, and rye. The Sazerac did not allow women in the early days, except at Mardi Gras. So in 1949 women dressed up in their finest and stormed the bar. Each year they recreate the event by dressing in vintage clothing and large hats and storming it again.
Another beautiful feature is the clock in the lobby. It was in a World’s Fair in Paris and was purchased for the hotel from a private collector- Nicholas Cage.
Lobby Clock
In keeping with the style of the entire hotel, the rooms are traditional. They offer comfortable rooms with sitting areas and many larger suites. My picture is a little dark but you get the idea.
And one feature not so traditional is Rooftop at The Roosevelt. On the roof is a beautiful pool, hot tub spa,and bar. Great for relaxing and even has some open area for event space.
Rooftop at The Roosevelt
Not to be missed is Domenica, John Besh’s artisanal pizza and Italian restaurant. Wood fired pizzas with imaginative toppings. My family is a little plain so we stuck with margherita and the prosciutto pizzas. Wonderful.
The Roosevelt is a proud Virtuoso property. By making reservations through Kiel Travel you get breakfast for two daily at Teddy’s Cafe, a $50-100 Food and Beverage or Spa credit, and reserve a deluxe room and get upgrade at time of booking.
Kiel Travel 