Dew Drop Inn Hotel & Lounge

For those of us in Louisiana, a visit to New Orleans is often about more than just sightseeing; it's about connecting with the soul of the city, its history, and its unparalleled music. The "Dew Drop Inn Hotel & Lounge" at 2836 Lasalle St, New Orleans, LA 70115, USA, offers a truly unique opportunity to do just that. This isn't just a hotel; it's a living legend, impeccably restored to its former glory as one of the most culturally significant music venues in American history. What began in 1939 as a barbershop and hotel, and later expanded to become "the South's swankiest spot," is now an intimate boutique hotel with 17 themed rooms, a vibrant music lounge, and a new Haven Pool Club.

The Dew Drop Inn holds a revered place in music history, serving as an incubator for rhythm & blues and early rock & roll. Iconic Black musicians like Ray Charles, Little Richard (who famously improvised "Tutti Frutti" here), Allen Toussaint, Irma Thomas, and countless others graced its stage. It was a crucial hub during the Jim Crow era, not only offering entertainment but also providing respectable lodging for Black artists and acting as a haven where diverse audiences could mix, often in defiance of segregation laws. Frank Painia, the original owner, was a pioneer, even challenging discriminatory laws in court. Today, the Dew Drop Inn stands as a testament to that rich past, a "museum-hotel" that beautifully blends its historic roots with modern amenities.

While some past customer reviews mention initial growing pains with ticketing or minor room issues like a sticky lock, it's clear the spirit of the Dew Drop Inn is alive and well. The excitement of seeing performances by groups like the Original Pinettes, and the draw of experiences like the Buffet Lunch and history tour, speak to the unique allure of this establishment. It's a place where you can sleep in a room dedicated to a music legend, then walk out and experience live music where history was made. For anyone in Louisiana looking to deeply connect with the heart and soul of New Orleans' musical legacy, the Dew Drop Inn Hotel & Lounge is an unparalleled destination.

The Dew Drop Inn Hotel & Lounge is located at 2836 Lasalle St, New Orleans, LA 70115, USA. This address places it in New Orleans' historic Central City neighborhood, an area rich in cultural significance and just a short distance from the city's main attractions. Central City played a crucial role in New Orleans' African American history and the development of unique musical genres.

For Louisiana residents arriving by car, Lasalle Street is accessible via major thoroughfares in New Orleans. It's important to note that while the area is centrally located, reviews indicate that on-site parking might be limited or not available. Guests should plan for street parking or inquire directly with the hotel about any preferred nearby parking solutions.

If you're flying into Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), the hotel is approximately 10-12 miles away, generally a 20-25 minute drive depending on traffic. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available from the airport.

The Dew Drop Inn's location offers good accessibility to various parts of the city. While not directly on a streetcar line, it's reasonably close to bus routes (like route 16, about a 10-minute walk away) that can connect you to the broader public transit network. The New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center is approximately 1.7 miles away, and the Mercedes-Benz Superdome and Smoothie King Center are about 1.2 miles, making it convenient for events. The famous French Quarter is around 2.2 miles from the hotel, easily reachable by a short taxi or ride-share. Its position allows guests to experience a historically significant New Orleans neighborhood, away from the immediate tourist crowds, while still having relatively easy access to the vibrant downtown and French Quarter areas.

• 17-Room Boutique Hotel: Offers uniquely designed guest rooms, each evoking 1950s-era nostalgia and paying homage to a legendary music or cultural figure from the Dew Drop Inn's history.
• The Lounge / Music Venue: The historic nightclub has been restored, featuring live music performances, jam sessions, and special event series.
• Haven Pool Club: A brand new pool and patio area, serving as a modern oasis. Daily passes are available for purchase.
• The Bistro / Restaurant: Offers on-site dining, including a celebrated Creole brunch buffet as part of the "Legends of the Dew Drop" experience. Specific details on regular lunch/dinner services should be confirmed.
• 24-Hour Front Desk: Staff available around the clock for guest assistance.
• Complimentary Wi-Fi: High-speed wireless internet access available throughout the hotel and in rooms.
• Air Conditioning: Essential for New Orleans' climate, available in all rooms.
• Smart TVs: Rooms include 43-inch Smart TVs with cable channels, music library, and stereo.
• Private Bathrooms: Each room has a private bathroom, often with hydromassage showerheads and complimentary toiletries.
• Room Amenities: Includes in-room safe, blackout drapes/curtains, iron/ironing board, hair dryer, and free bottled water.
• Housekeeping: Regular cleaning services provided.
• Luggage Storage: Available for guests who arrive early or depart late.
• Bar/Lounge Area: Part of the vibrant music venue, offering drinks.
• History Tours: Guided museum tours of the establishment are offered, often as part of the "Legends of the Dew Drop" brunch experience.
• ADA Accessible Rooms: Some rooms are specifically designed for accessibility.

• Iconic Music History: The Dew Drop Inn is a legendary landmark, known as an incubator for R&B and Rock & Roll, hosting legends like Little Richard, Ray Charles, and Irma Thomas. Staying here is an immersion in musical heritage.
• Boutique Themed Rooms: Each of the 17 guest rooms is uniquely decorated and named after a significant musician or figure connected to the Dew Drop Inn, offering a personalized and historically rich experience.
• Active Music Venue: Beyond being a hotel, it's a thriving live music venue that continues its legacy, offering regular performances, jam sessions, and special event series, giving guests direct access to New Orleans' vibrant music scene.
• Haven Pool Club: A new addition, providing a refreshing outdoor oasis with a pool and patio area, perfect for relaxing after exploring the city.
• "Legends of the Dew Drop" Brunch & Tour: A unique offering that combines a delicious Creole brunch buffet with a guided museum tour of the historic establishment and a live music performance celebrating its legacy.
• Central City Location: Situated in a culturally rich and historically significant neighborhood, offering a more authentic and less tourist-heavy experience than staying in the French Quarter.
• "Black Aesthetics" & History: The property is noted for its beautiful black aesthetics and its profound significance as a Black-owned hotel and venue that defied segregation, even being listed in the "Negro Motorist Green Book."
• Unique & Engaging Atmosphere: The entire experience is geared towards celebrating New Orleans' unique culture and history, promising an unforgettable stay that goes beyond typical lodging.

The Dew Drop Inn Hotel & Lounge, with its unique blend of historic venue and boutique hotel, offers a variety of experiences that often come with inherent value or specific promotional packages. While traditional "hotel discounts" might vary, it's always best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current information. Here are types of promotions or special offers you might find:

• "Legends of the Dew Drop" Experience: This is a prominent offering that often includes a Creole brunch buffet, a guided history tour of the venue, and a live music experience, celebrating the legends who performed there. Tickets for this unique event are sold separately from room bookings but are a major draw.
• Event-Specific Packages: During major New Orleans festivals (like Jazz Fest) or when specific artists are performing, the Dew Drop Inn might offer packages that include both accommodation and concert tickets.
• Haven Pool Club Passes: While the pool is an amenity, day passes are available, which could be part of a package or offered as a standalone leisure option.
• Direct Booking Perks: Sometimes, booking directly through the hotel's official website can unlock exclusive rates or small added benefits not available through third-party booking sites.
• Seasonal Rates: Like many hotels, rates for rooms and events can fluctuate based on the season and demand in New Orleans. Looking into off-peak times might provide better value.

Given its status as an active music venue, checking their "Events" section on their website is crucial, as many offerings are tied to specific performances, brunches, or jam sessions. For detailed pricing and to book these unique experiences, the contact information provided below is your best resource.

To immerse yourself in the history and vibrant culture of the Dew Drop Inn Hotel & Lounge, or to inquire about booking a room or tickets for an event, please use the following contact details:

Address: 2836 Lasalle St, New Orleans, LA 70115, USA

Phone: (504) 948-3002

Mobile Phone: +1 504-948-3002

Their official website (dewdropinnnola.com) is also an excellent resource for exploring the hotel rooms, checking the music schedule, and learning more about their history tours and other unique offerings.

For us Louisianans, the Dew Drop Inn Hotel & Lounge is far more than just a place to stay; it's an opportunity to deeply connect with the soul of New Orleans. If you're a local looking for a unique "staycation," an immersive historical experience, or simply a fantastic night out with live music, this iconic establishment offers something truly special.

Imagine stepping into a meticulously restored piece of New Orleans history, where legends like Little Richard and Ray Charles once performed. As a local, you understand the profound impact of these artists and this venue on American music. Staying in a themed room dedicated to one of these icons offers a personal connection to that legacy. Beyond the hotel, the active music lounge means you can enjoy world-class performances, often featuring local talent, right at your doorstep. This is an unparalleled experience for anyone who appreciates the authentic New Orleans sound.

The "Legends of the Dew Drop" brunch and history tour is a must-do for any history buff or music lover among us, providing an insightful and delicious way to learn about the venue's groundbreaking past. Furthermore, the newly added Haven Pool Club provides a refreshing oasis right in the city, perfect for a relaxing afternoon. For locals seeking an authentic, culturally rich, and uniquely New Orleans experience that celebrates our state's incredible heritage, the Dew Drop Inn Hotel & Lounge is a destination that feels both historical and vibrantly alive, offering a sense of pride and belonging.