The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans

Hey there, Louisiana! When you envision a truly exceptional escape to our one-of-a-kind city, New Orleans, what comes to mind? If it's a blend of sophisticated luxury, impeccable service, and an authentic taste of local charm, then The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans should be at the top of your list. This renowned hotel consistently stands out, offering a distinguished experience right in the heart of the action.

New Orleans is a mosaic of vibrant cultures, captivating music, and culinary delights, and choosing the right accommodation can elevate your visit from memorable to truly extraordinary. The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans, nestled on Canal Street, is celebrated for "blending elegance with that unmistakable New Orleans charm." It's a place where every detail is considered, from the "beautiful" decor to the "gracious and attentive" staff who often set a delightful tone for your entire stay, as exemplified by the warmth of individuals like Mr. Kermit at the front. While a luxury experience, it's also a gateway to our city’s unique spirit. Let’s explore what makes this five-star property a standout choice for us locals seeking an indulgent and unforgettable New Orleans adventure.

Location and Accessibility

The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans boasts an enviable and highly strategic location at 921 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA. This address places it directly on Canal Street, a major artery of the city, and critically, "just steps from the French Quarter." This prime positioning makes it exceptionally convenient for exploring the best of New Orleans on foot and via public transport.

Being on Canal Street means you're at the nexus of several distinct New Orleans experiences. To one side lies the historic and vibrant French Quarter, with its iconic Bourbon Street, Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and endless opportunities for music, dining, and cultural immersion. Guests can literally walk out of the hotel and immediately find themselves immersed in the lively atmosphere that the city is famous for.

Canal Street itself is a bustling thoroughfare that serves as a major commercial district and a hub for the city's charming streetcar lines. From the hotel, you can easily hop on a streetcar to explore other renowned neighborhoods such as the elegant Garden District with its stunning mansions, or venture further to areas like the Arts/Warehouse District for contemporary art galleries and museums. Nearby attractions also include the Saenger Theatre and Joy Theater for live performances, the Audubon Insectarium, and The Sazerac House.

For those attending conferences or events, the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Caesars New Orleans Casino, and the Caesars Superdome are all within close proximity, generally a short drive or an accessible streetcar ride away. This means whether your visit is for business, leisure, or a blend of both, your commute to key destinations will be minimal. The hotel also offers valet parking (for a surcharge), providing convenience for guests arriving by car, which is a significant advantage in a dense urban environment. This highly central and accessible location allows guests to immerse themselves fully in the New Orleans experience with remarkable ease.

Services Offered

The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans is synonymous with five-star service, offering a comprehensive array of amenities designed to provide a truly luxurious and seamless guest experience. While one past guest experienced a specific issue with their rental vehicle during valet service, the overall suite of services aims for excellence.

• Personalized Welcome: Guests are greeted with "genuine warmth and joy," setting a welcoming tone from the moment of arrival, as highlighted by praise for staff like Mr. Kermit.

• Concierge Services: A dedicated concierge team is available to assist with local recommendations, dining reservations, tour bookings, and general inquiries, ensuring guests make the most of their visit. For Club Level guests, a dedicated Club Concierge offers even more personalized service.

• Valet Parking: Convenient valet parking is available for a surcharge (around $57 per night with in/out privileges), offering ease of access in the busy downtown area.

• On-site Dining and Lounges:

  • M bistro: A signature restaurant offering "authentic cuisine" with a focus on "organic and seasonal dining," featuring "finest meats, seafood, and produce from farmers in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama." It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including a Saturday and Sunday Breakfast Buffet.

  • Davenport Lounge: A sophisticated hotel bar known for its cocktails and live jazz music featuring resident musician Jeremy Davenport. Afternoon Tea is also available on weekends.

  • Spa Café: Offering light, delectable cuisine for those enjoying the spa facilities.

  • In-Room Dining (Room Service): Available 24 hours a day for guests wishing to dine in the comfort of their room or suite.

• The Ritz-Carlton Club® Level: An elevated "hotel within a hotel" experience offering:

  • Dedicated Club Concierge.

  • Private Club Lounge access with continuous culinary presentations throughout the day (breakfast, light lunch, snacks, hors d'oeuvres/cocktails, desserts/cordials).

  • Exclusive in-room amenities.

• The Ritz-Carlton Spa: The largest hotel spa in New Orleans (25,000 sq ft) with 20 treatment rooms, offering a full range of services including massages, body treatments, facials, and signature New Orleans-inspired rituals like the Voodoo Ritual. It also features a sauna, steam room, and whirlpool.

• Indoor Swimming Pool: A heated indoor pool for guest relaxation and enjoyment.

• 24-hour Fitness Center: Equipped with state-of-the-art cardiovascular and strength training equipment.

• Business Center and Meeting Facilities: A 24-hour business center and extensive meeting spaces (35,000 sq ft with 33 meeting rooms) cater to corporate and event needs.

• Housekeeping Services: Daily housekeeping, with an option for guests to opt out.

• Complimentary Overnight Shoeshine Service: A classic luxury amenity.

• Pet-Friendly Policy: Pets are allowed with applicable surcharges.

• Wi-Fi Access: Available for a surcharge in rooms, and complimentary in public areas for Marriott Bonvoy members.

These comprehensive services underscore The Ritz-Carlton's commitment to providing a top-tier luxury experience, making every stay feel indulgent and well-catered.

Features / Highlights

The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans stands out with several distinguished features and highlights that contribute to its reputation as a five-star luxury destination, blending opulence with the city's unique charm.

• Elegant Beaux-Arts Architecture and Decor: Housed in the historic Maison Blanche building, the hotel "blends elegance with that unmistakable New Orleans charm." The interiors are "beautiful," featuring "sumptuous jewel tones and commissioned artwork inspired by local heritage," creating a sophisticated yet authentic ambiance.

• Prime French Quarter-Adjacent Location: Positioned directly on Canal Street and "just steps from the French Quarter," the hotel offers unparalleled walkability to iconic attractions like Bourbon Street, Jackson Square, world-class restaurants, and entertainment venues.

• Exceptional Staff and Genuine Warmth: Guests consistently praise the "gracious and attentive" staff, with specific recognition for individuals like Mr. Kermit at the front desk, who greets everyone with "genuine warmth and joy." This level of personalized service sets a high standard for the guest experience.

• World-Class Spa: The hotel boasts the "largest spa in New Orleans," spanning 25,000 square feet with 20 treatment rooms. It offers over 100 treatments, including signature New Orleans-inspired rituals like the Voodoo Ritual, along with an indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and couples' treatment rooms, providing a true sanctuary for relaxation.

• Sophisticated Dining and Entertainment:

  • M bistro: Offers "consistently great food" with a farm-to-table approach, showcasing "organic and seasonal dining" with local ingredients.

  • Davenport Lounge: Features live jazz music by resident musician Jeremy Davenport, providing a quintessential New Orleans experience without leaving the hotel. It's a "Terrific Jazz lounge" with "great food" and a lively atmosphere.

• Comfortable and Stylish Rooms: The guest rooms are described as "comfortable, stylish, and well cared for," featuring "pillowtop beds," "down comforters," "Egyptian cotton sheets," designer toiletries, and Smart TVs with streaming capabilities. Many are newly renovated in the Maison Orleans section.

• The Ritz-Carlton Club® Level: Offers an exclusive "hotel within a hotel" experience with a private lounge, dedicated concierge, and continuous culinary presentations throughout the day, providing an enhanced level of luxury and personalized service.

• Versatile Event Spaces: With 35,000 square feet of "perfect" event spaces and 33 meeting rooms, the hotel is well-suited for business conferences, weddings, and other special occasions.

These highlights collectively define The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans as a premier destination for those seeking an indulgent, culturally rich, and impeccably serviced stay in the city.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a part of the esteemed Marriott Bonvoy portfolio, The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans regularly offers a variety of exclusive promotions and packages designed to enhance your luxury stay. While specific offers can be seasonal and change, here are the types of promotions you can typically anticipate:

• Marriott Bonvoy Member Exclusive Rates: Loyalty program members consistently receive the lowest available rates, along with benefits like earning points on stays, complimentary Wi-Fi, and personalized services.

• "Stay Longer & Save" Offers: These promotions often provide a percentage off your room rate for booking a minimum number of nights (e.g., 3rd or 4th night free, or a discount for extended stays).

• Experience Packages: The Ritz-Carlton often curates packages that include more than just the room. These might feature:

  • Spa Credits: A monetary credit to use at their renowned, expansive spa, allowing guests to indulge in treatments.

  • Dining Credits: A credit to be used at M bistro or Davenport Lounge, encouraging guests to savor their on-site culinary experiences.

  • Breakfast Inclusive Packages: Including daily breakfast for guests, often at M bistro.

• "Elevate Your Stay" with Club Level Access: While Club Level access is typically an upgrade, occasionally there are promotions that offer a discounted rate or added perks when booking a Club Level room, enhancing your experience with exclusive lounge access and culinary presentations.

• Seasonal & Holiday Promotions: Given New Orleans' vibrant calendar, expect special packages around major events like Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, or during holiday periods (e.g., a "Summer Sale" offering discounts on stays).

• AAA/CAA Member Rates: Special discounted rates are usually available for members of these automotive clubs.

• Senior & AARP Discounts: Reduced rates are often provided for senior travelers and AARP members.

• Government/Military Rates: Specific discounts are typically offered for government employees and military personnel.

• Bonus Marriott Bonvoy Points: Periodically, Marriott Bonvoy runs global promotions that allow members to earn extra points (e.g., double or triple points) on their stays, accelerating their path to free nights and elite status.

• Meeting & Event Incentives: For those planning business meetings or social events, the hotel may offer special rates or added benefits for booking group blocks and event spaces.

To ensure you receive the best available rates and take advantage of any current and relevant promotions, it is always advisable to:

• Visit the official Marriott.com website and search directly for The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans.

• Call the hotel's reservations line directly using the provided contact information.

• Sign up for Marriott Bonvoy newsletters to receive updates on exclusive offers.

Always review the terms and conditions of any promotion to confirm eligibility and inclusions.

Contact Information

If you're planning a luxurious stay at The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans, or if you have any questions about their renowned services and amenities, here's how you can get in touch:

Address: 921 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA

This address places the hotel in a highly coveted location on Canal Street, perfectly positioned at the edge of the historic French Quarter, making it easily accessible and an ideal starting point for exploring the city.

Phone Numbers:

• Main Phone: (504) 524-1331

• Mobile Phone: +1 504-524-1331

You can use these direct lines to speak with the hotel staff regarding reservations, specific room requests, details about their spa or dining options, or any other inquiries you might have. The staff, known for their gracious and attentive service, will be pleased to assist you in planning your exceptional New Orleans experience.

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

For us Louisianans, The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans offers more than just a hotel stay; it provides an opportunity for a truly elevated and luxurious escape within our own cherished city. It's perfectly suited for locals seeking a refined experience, whether it's a romantic weekend, a special celebration, or a chance to reconnect with New Orleans from a fresh, indulgent perspective.

Firstly, the prime location on Canal Street, right at the edge of the French Quarter, is ideal for us. Driving in from other parts of the state is straightforward, and once you arrive, you’re perfectly positioned to explore on foot. You can immerse yourselves in the vibrant culture of Bourbon Street, explore the historic architecture of the Quarter, and discover hidden gems, all just steps from your sophisticated retreat. This convenience means less time spent in transit and more time enjoying the city, which is a major plus for a local getaway.

Secondly, the five-star service and elegant atmosphere are a cut above. As Louisianans, we appreciate genuine hospitality, and The Ritz-Carlton delivers, with staff noted for their "genuine warmth and joy." From the moment you arrive, you feel welcomed and cared for. The "beautiful" hotel itself, with its "unmistakable New Orleans charm," provides a luxurious backdrop for your escape. This isn't just a place to sleep; it’s an experience in itself, offering a sense of indulgence that can make a local trip feel like a true vacation.

Finally, the exceptional amenities, such as the renowned spa (the largest in New Orleans!), the delightful M bistro, and the enchanting Davenport Lounge with live jazz, provide ample opportunities for relaxation and entertainment without even leaving the property. While a past guest highlighted a unique issue with valet service, the hotel's overall commitment to luxury and guest satisfaction, especially through its dedicated Club Level, makes it a top choice. For a sophisticated, comfortable, and truly memorable New Orleans experience that feels like a world away, The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans, is an exquisite choice for us locals.