Mardi Gras in New Orleans is an annual extravaganza that takes the city by storm. In 2020, Mardi Gras Day is February 25. Fat Tuesday is the last day of the carnival season as it always falls the day before Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. If you are looking to partake in this year’s festivities, the most popular time to visit New Orleans is the extended weekend before Mardi Gras when you can catch parades like Endymion, Bacchus, Zulu, Rex and all of the festive celebrations throughout the whole city. Whether you want to stay in the French Quarter or on the parade route, we’ve got you covered with the best hotels in the area.
Best Hotel On The Parade Route: St. Christopher Hotel
Located at the foot of Magazine Street just steps from the hip Warehouse District and historic French Quarter, the Best Western Plus St. Christopher Hotel offers boutique luxury in an exquisite 1800s setting. Your reservation comes with complimentary breakfast, discounts at the hotel’s cocktail lounge, and access to sightseeing tours around the city.
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Best French Quarter Location
Maison Dupuy New Orleans Hotel
Be near the action in the heart of the historic French Quarter. The Maison Dupuy is ideally located only two blocks from the hustle and bustle of Bourbon Street, nestled in a charming, residential section of the French Quarter. Their newly renovated courtyard features one of the largest heated swimming pools in the French Quarter, along with cabana beds and upscale pool furniture for your relaxation.
Best Budget-Friendly Option
HI New Orleans Hostel
You don’t have to shell out a ton of cash to enjoy a comfortable stay in New Orleans. Located, on the parade route, the new HI New Orleans Hostel is a spacious, contemporary budget-friendly hostel in the heart of New Orleans, right on the Canal Street parade route, across the street from the French Quarter. Your room comes with free breakfast, access to an onsite patio and café, and first-class dorms or private rooms are available.
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Best Authentic Mardi Gras Experience
Le Richelieu Hotel
For an authentic Mardi Gras experience, you can do no better than Le Richelieu, a jewel at Carnival time and all year long. The New York Times said Le Richelieu is “a place you don’t ever want to leave.” Travel & Leisure called it “The best quality buy in the French Quarter.” Built in 1845, the deeply historic hotel is located in the quiet part of the colorful, romantic French Quarter with easy access to the parade as well as the sights, sounds, and restaurants that make New Orleans famous.
