The California Building

Introduction / Overview

For us Louisiana locals, New Orleans is a city of endless charm, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're visiting for a quick weekend getaway or a longer stay to immerse yourself in the city's unique rhythm, finding the right accommodation can truly elevate your trip. The California Building, located in the heart of New Orleans, offers a distinctive alternative to traditional hotel stays, providing spacious, apartment-style units that combine modern comfort with a prime, highly walkable location.

Originally constructed in 1950 as an office building and noted as one of the oldest International Style buildings in New Orleans, The California Building has been thoughtfully renovated into a mixed-use property with residential units on its upper floors. It’s managed by various short-term rental operators like Hosteeva, promising a "beautiful apartment" experience that is "VERY CLEAN" and emphasizes "safety precautions" with code-based entry. While it's largely lauded for its location and cleanliness, potential guests should be aware of individual unit experiences, as with any rental property. Overall, The California Building aims to provide a secure, comfortable, and independent base for exploring all that New Orleans has to offer, making it an excellent choice for us locals seeking a more home-like feel for our Crescent City adventures.

Location and Accessibility

The California Building is ideally situated at 1111 Tulane Ave, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA. This address places it firmly within the Central Business District (CBD), offering what guests describe as a "great location where everything is walkable." For us Louisiana locals, this means exceptional accessibility to many of New Orleans' most popular destinations.

Its proximity to the iconic French Quarter is a major draw. The building is only a "5-min walking distance to the city's historic French Quarter," putting you effortlessly close to attractions like Bourbon Street, Jackson Square, and the myriad of restaurants, shops, and jazz clubs. Being just "a block away from Canal Street" further enhances this connectivity, providing direct access to streetcar lines that can take you to various parts of the city.

Beyond the French Quarter, the location is also highly convenient for other significant landmarks and institutions. It's a "short walking distance" to Tulane Medical Center and the Caesars Superdome, which is approximately 0.4 miles away, making it an excellent choice for those attending events or visiting medical facilities. The Ernest N. Morial Convention Center is roughly 1.3 miles away, and the National WWII Museum is about 0.8 miles. Other nearby attractions include Harrah's New Orleans Hotel & Casino (around 0.8 miles) and the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas (approximately 1.1 miles).

While the listing notes "no parking with this unit" for some listings, it also clarifies that "paid parking is available nearby" or "in the building" on a first-come, first-served basis. This is typical for downtown New Orleans and allows for flexibility for those driving in. Its central location also means easy access to main city roads and highways for arrival and departure from other parts of Louisiana. The emphasis on "safety precautions" with coded entry for the main entrance adds a layer of comfort and security for residents. This strategic and walkable location makes The California Building a highly convenient base for any New Orleans trip.

Services Offered

The California Building operates as an apartment-style accommodation, managed by various operators like Hosteeva, and focuses on providing a comfortable and self-sufficient stay with essential amenities. While it's not a traditional hotel with a full suite of services like daily room service, it offers features that cater to independent travelers and longer stays:

• Fully Equipped Kitchens: A standout feature, each unit comes with a "full-sized fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop," and "all basic cookware & dinnerware." Some listings specify "stainless steel Bosch appliances." This allows guests to prepare their own meals and snacks, offering significant flexibility and cost savings.
• In-Unit Laundry Facilities: Apartments include a "full size washer, dryer, and detergent," which is incredibly convenient, especially for longer stays or for groups.
• High-Speed Wi-Fi: "Free high-speed connectivity throughout the building" is provided, ensuring guests can stay connected for work or leisure.
• Enhanced Security: The building emphasizes "safety precautions" with "a code to enter including the main entrance," meaning "not everyone could just walk in." This heightened security is a notable benefit.
• Fitness Center: A "24 Hour State of the art gym including cardio equipment and free weights" is available for guest use.
• Game Room: Features "classic Arcade Games, Pool Table, Air Hockey and Foosball Table," providing entertainment options within the building.
• Business Center: Includes "private computer stations and two conference rooms with full video conferencing capabilities."
• Basic Bathroom Amenities: Shower, free toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash), hair dryer, and towels are provided.
• Smart TV: Units come with a "65-inch flat-screen TV with satellite channels," offering entertainment.
• Lounge Area/Shared Terrace: Some units may have a terrace or access to a shared terrace, and there is a general lounge area.
• Self Check-in: Guests often experience a seamless check-in process.
• Professional Cleaning: Units are "professionally cleaned and sanitized using properly rated disinfectant."
• Paid Parking Available: While not included with every unit, paid parking is available either in the building or nearby.

Features / Highlights

The California Building offers a range of features and highlights that make it an attractive option for travelers seeking a modern apartment experience in New Orleans:

• Spacious Apartment-Style Units: Unlike typical hotel rooms, these are "beautiful apartment" units, ranging from studios to multi-bedroom condos (e.g., 1-bedroom apartments at 618 sq ft, 2-bedroom at 1188-1255 sq ft, 4-bedroom up to 1650 sq ft). They feature "spacious living areas," separate dining areas, and often a sofa bed for additional guests, providing ample room to relax.
• Fully Equipped Kitchens: The inclusion of "full-sized fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop," and all necessary cookware allows guests to prepare their own meals, which is a major convenience and cost-saver, especially for longer stays.
• Excellent, Walkable Location: Positioned at 1111 Tulane Ave, the building is in a "great location where everything is walkable." It's "5-min walking distance to the city's historic French Quarter," and close to the Superdome, Tulane Medical Center, and Canal Street's public transportation.
• High-Level Security: A key highlight for peace of mind, the building implements "safety precautions" with "code to enter including the main entrance," ensuring that "not everyone could just walk in." It also features 24-hour security and video surveillance in public areas.
• Modern Design and Amenities: The units boast "modern design with high ceilings," "custom interiors, modern appliances and handpicked furniture." Features like "granite countertops, stainless steel Bosch appliances" contribute to a premium feel.
• In-Unit Washer/Dryer: The convenience of having a "full size washer, dryer, and detergent" directly in the unit is a significant benefit, particularly for extended visits.
• On-Site Entertainment & Wellness: Access to a "fun game room" with arcade games and a "24 Hour State of the art gym" adds value and convenience for guests.
• City Views: Select units may offer picturesque "city views."

Note on Guest Concern: It is important to acknowledge that one review mentioned a significant issue with a non-functional AC in room #818 during an April stay, describing poor communication and no compensation. While the reviewer thanked goodness they didn't stay "in the middle of summer," this highlights the importance of ensuring all amenities are in working order upon check-in, especially critical ones like AC in a Louisiana climate. This feedback is included to provide a full, factual overview of guest experiences.

Promotions or Special Offers

As The California Building primarily operates as a short-term apartment rental managed by various entities like Hosteeva, its "promotions" might differ from traditional hotels. However, for us Louisiana locals looking for value, here’s what to consider:

• Seasonal Pricing: Like most vacation rentals, rates will fluctuate based on the time of year, demand, and major New Orleans events (e.g., Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, Sugar Bowl). Booking during off-peak seasons or non-event periods can often lead to more favorable rates.
• Extended Stay Discounts: Properties like those in The California Building, designed for longer stays, frequently offer discounted per-night rates for bookings of a week, a month, or more. This is an excellent way to save if you're planning an extended visit to New Orleans.
• Booking Platform Deals: Keep an eye on popular booking platforms (like Booking.com, Hotels.com, Airbnb, Stayz, Trivago) that list The California Building. These platforms often run their own promotions, app-specific discounts (like "AU$80 off your first App booking" mentioned in one search result), or last-minute deals.
• Direct Booking Inquiries: Sometimes, contacting the property manager (e.g., Hosteeva, Urbain Hospitality Group, if applicable) directly via the provided phone number can yield special offers or greater flexibility for specific booking needs, especially for larger groups or longer durations.
• Early Bird/Last-Minute Offers: While not explicitly advertised, it's common for rental units to offer lower rates for early bookings or for last-minute availability if they need to fill a vacancy.

To find the most current and relevant pricing and any available specials for your desired dates, it's recommended to check the property listings on various online travel agencies (OTAs) or call the provided phone number for direct inquiries.

Contact Information

If you're interested in booking a spacious and secure apartment at The California Building for your next New Orleans adventure, or if you have any questions, here's how to reach them:

Address: 1111 Tulane Ave, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA

Phone: (650) 735-0080 (Also available via mobile: +1 650-735-0080)

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For us Louisiana residents, The California Building offers a highly practical and appealing option for experiencing New Orleans, particularly if you value space, security, and the flexibility of apartment-style living. We know that feeling of wanting a comfortable home base when visiting the Crescent City, and this property delivers.

The standout feature for locals is undoubtedly the spacious, fully equipped apartments. Whether it's a studio for a couple or a multi-bedroom unit for a family or group of friends, having a full kitchen and in-unit laundry makes a significant difference for comfort and budget. You can prepare meals, pack light, and truly settle in, which is ideal for longer stays or just feeling more at home. The "VERY CLEAN" environment and the emphasized "safety precautions" with coded entry provide peace of mind, allowing you to relax and enjoy your trip without worry.

Its "great location" on Tulane Avenue means you're within "5-min walking distance to the city's historic French Quarter," putting all the famous attractions, dining, and nightlife at your fingertips. You're also close to the Superdome and medical facilities, adding to the convenience for various reasons to visit. While one past guest had an AC issue, it underscores the need for clear communication, but the overall emphasis on modern amenities and a secure environment makes The California Building a strong contender. For your next New Orleans adventure, consider The California Building for a stay that combines the comforts of home with the excitement of the city, perfectly suited for us folks right here in Louisiana.