Drifter Motel

For those of us who call Louisiana home, and for anyone venturing into our captivating Crescent City, sometimes you seek an experience that steps beyond the traditional. Welcome to The Drifter Motel, a truly distinctive establishment located in the heart of New Orleans' Mid-City. This isn't your average hotel; it's a re-imagined mid-century motel that blends a retro aesthetic with a vibrant, modern energy, offering a fresh perspective on hospitality in our beloved city.

The Drifter has carved out a unique niche, appealing to those who appreciate a blend of artistic flair, social atmosphere, and comfortable, no-frills accommodations. It embodies a certain New Orleans spirit – a little unconventional, always welcoming, and brimming with character. From its iconic signage to its thoughtfully curated spaces, The Drifter invites guests to relax, socialize, and immerse themselves in a different side of the city. It’s a place where the pool isn't just for swimming, but for gathering, and where the culinary offerings are as dynamic as New Orleans itself.

Whether you're a local looking for an exciting staycation to explore a different neighborhood or a visitor eager to experience New Orleans beyond the well-trodden paths, The Drifter offers an authentic and memorable stay. It's designed for those who appreciate good company, good music, and an atmosphere that feels both relaxed and creatively charged. This property has quickly become a notable spot in the New Orleans scene, recognized for its commitment to offering an experience that is both stylish and genuinely engaging.

The Drifter Motel is conveniently situated at 528 S Dorgenois St, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA. While the provided address is Dorgenois St, public information frequently refers to its primary location as 3522 Tulane Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70119. This places The Drifter firmly in the Mid-City neighborhood, a thriving area known for its local charm, burgeoning food scene, and excellent connectivity to other parts of New Orleans.

For Louisiana residents, reaching The Drifter is straightforward. If driving, it’s easily accessible from major interstates, and there is on-site parking available, though it’s always wise to confirm availability and any associated fees directly with the hotel.

For those flying in, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is approximately 9.5 to 13 miles away, typically a 20-30 minute drive depending on traffic. Taxis, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, and airport shuttle services are readily available from MSY to take you directly to the motel.

One of the significant advantages of The Drifter's Mid-City location is its excellent access to New Orleans' public transportation network. The RTA (Regional Transit Authority) offers extensive bus and streetcar services that connect Mid-City to the French Quarter, Central Business District, Garden District, and other popular areas. Bus stops are often just a short walk away, providing an affordable and authentic way to explore the city without the hassle of driving or parking. For example, Tulane Avenue, where the motel is prominently located, is a major thoroughfare with multiple bus routes. While not directly on a streetcar line, connections to the iconic streetcars (like the Canal Street line) are easily made via a short bus ride or walk. This allows guests to experience the city like a local, hopping on and off to discover hidden gems and popular landmarks.

• Outdoor Swimming Pool: A central feature of the motel, providing a refreshing oasis and a vibrant social hub for guests. The pool is complimentary for hotel guests, with options to reserve poolside chairs.
• Complimentary Wi-Fi: High-speed internet access is available in both common areas and guest rooms, ensuring guests can stay connected.
• Café and Lounge: An on-site café serving specialty coffee (from La Colombe) and baked goods, complemented by a licensed bar offering fresh frozen cocktails, Japanese beers and sakes, and local wines.
• Rotating Food Trucks and Pop-ups: The culinary program features a dynamic rotation of chic food trucks and on-property pop-ups, offering diverse and ever-changing tastes from various global cuisines.
• Pets Allowed: The Drifter is pet-friendly, with a charge (typically $50 per night per pet under 25 lbs). Guests with larger or different pets are encouraged to contact the hotel directly. Service animals complying with ADA Title III regulations are allowed without charge.
• 24-Hour Front Desk (with limitations): While the lobby might have limited hours (e.g., closing at 8 PM), the hotel provides self check-in instructions for late arrivals and offers an emergency contact number for after-hours assistance.
• Daily Housekeeping: Rooms receive daily cleaning to ensure comfort and tidiness throughout your stay.
• Air Conditioning and Central Heating: All rooms are equipped for comfortable temperatures year-round.
• Private Bathrooms: Each room features a private bathroom with a walk-in shower or bath/shower combination, along with a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries.
• In-Room Amenities: Rooms include radios, safe deposit boxes, work desks, irons, closets, fans, and outdoor furniture on patios (for ground floor rooms).
• Laundry Valet Service: Available for guest convenience.
• Multi-Lingual Staff: To assist a diverse range of guests.
• Event Venue Capabilities: The Drifter is also known for hosting events, including weddings, with both indoor and outdoor capacities.

• Retro-Chic Mid-Century Design: The Drifter boasts a unique aesthetic, housed in a renovated mid-century motel with custom-made furnishings, vintage pieces, retro light fixtures, and Oaxacan tiles.
• Lively Courtyard Pool Scene: The central courtyard, once a parking lot, has been transformed into a lush, hedonistic poolside lounge, serving as the social heart of the hotel. It's an ideal spot for relaxing, socializing, and enjoying the New Orleans sun.
• Dynamic Culinary Program: Beyond a static restaurant, The Drifter features a rotating selection of food trucks and on-property pop-ups, offering an exciting and varied dining experience that reflects New Orleans' diverse food culture.
• Focus on Local Art and Music: The hotel incorporates artwork from local creatives and features a busy events calendar, including live music most nights of the week, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. (Note: light sleepers may want to plan accordingly).
• Adult-Oriented Environment: Generally, guests must be 21+ to be permitted on the property, contributing to its unique social vibe.
• Minimalist Yet Comfortable Rooms: The rooms offer a clean, modernist design with plaster walls and well-chosen furnishings, focusing on sturdy, comfortable beds and practical amenities like bedside Tivoli radios.
• Community and Social Hub: The Drifter is more than just a place to sleep; it’s a destination for locals and travelers alike to connect, enjoy events, and experience a different side of New Orleans hospitality.
• Proximity to Local Favorites: Situated in Mid-City, it’s close to local bars and restaurants, providing an authentic neighborhood experience away from the busiest tourist crowds.

While specific promotions at The Drifter Motel can change, much like the dynamic city it inhabits, it’s always worth checking directly with the hotel or their official booking channels for the latest deals. Unique boutique motels like The Drifter often tailor their offers to reflect their distinctive experience. Potential promotions you might find include:

• Direct Booking Perks: Sometimes, booking directly through the hotel’s website can unlock exclusive benefits, such as a discount on your stay, a complimentary welcome drink, or a credit for on-site food and beverage.
• Weekend Getaway Packages: Given its social atmosphere and unique features, The Drifter may offer packages designed for weekend escapes, potentially including special access to pool events or curated experiences.
• Extended Stay Discounts: For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the Mid-City scene or exploring New Orleans at a leisurely pace, discounts might be available for stays of multiple nights.
• Special Event Tie-Ins: New Orleans is a city of festivals and events. The Drifter may offer promotions linked to local happenings, whether it’s a major festival, a concert series, or a specific art exhibition in the area.
• Seasonal Rates: Prices can fluctuate based on demand and seasonality. Keep an eye out for off-peak deals if your travel dates are flexible.
• "Staycation" Deals for Locals: Occasionally, hotels in popular tourist destinations offer special rates or packages exclusively for residents, encouraging local patrons to experience their unique offerings.

To ensure you receive the most up-to-date and valuable offers, we highly recommend visiting The Drifter Motel's official website or contacting their reservations team before planning your visit.

To learn more about The Drifter Motel or to make a reservation, you can use the following information:

Address: 528 S Dorgenois St, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA.

Please note, as mentioned, public information often refers to its main presence at 3522 Tulane Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70119. When planning your visit, using "The Drifter Hotel New Orleans" in searches will typically lead to the correct establishment.

Phone: +1 504-605-4644 (This number is frequently listed for inquiries and emergencies after lobby hours.)

For the most accurate and immediate information regarding bookings, availability, and specific events, checking their official website is always recommended.

For us Louisianans, The Drifter Motel isn't just another hotel; it's a vibrant extension of New Orleans' eclectic soul, perfectly suited for a local getaway or a fresh perspective on our own city. Its Mid-City location offers a fantastic base to experience New Orleans without being caught in the thick of the most intense tourist crowds, while still providing easy access to all the action.

Imagine treating yourself to a 'staycation' at The Drifter. You can unwind by the lively poolside, soaking in the sun and enjoying the unique social atmosphere with fellow locals and adventurous travelers. The rotating food trucks and pop-ups mean you don't even have to leave the property to discover exciting new flavors, making it a culinary adventure right at your doorstep. For those who appreciate live music, the regular performances mean your evenings are set for unique entertainment.

The Drifter encourages a relaxed, community-focused vibe that resonates with the true spirit of New Orleans. It’s a chance to step out of your routine, explore the charming Mid-City neighborhood – with its growing number of local restaurants, bars, and shops – and rediscover why we love living in this incredible state. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a fun weekend with friends, or simply a change of scenery with a touch of retro cool, The Drifter offers an experience that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. It’s an invitation to be a tourist in your own town, enjoying the comfort and unique character of a place that truly understands the New Orleans way of life.