New Orleans does hotel bars exceptionally well. The Best Hotels Bars in NOLA are not just places to grab a drink before dinner; they are destinations in themselves, full of music, history, gorgeous design, and that only-in-New-Orleans sense of occasion.

From grand French Quarter classics to Garden District charm and glamorous lobby bars, these are the best hotel bars in NOLA.

The Carousel Bar & Lounge at Hotel Monteleone

The Carousel Bar is one of the most famous hotel bars in New Orleans, and yes, it is touristy, but it is also fabulous. The rotating bar, the French Quarter setting, and the old-school glamour all make it a must.

Go early if you want a seat at the carousel itself, order a classic cocktail, and enjoy the show. It is one of those experiences that feels playful, iconic, and totally NOLA. 214 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Chandelier Bar at Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans

Chandelier Bar at the Four Seasons is one of the most beautiful hotel bars in the city. It is glamorous, elegant, and centered around a stunning chandelier that makes the whole space feel like a sparkling New Orleans jewel box. Read more about my magical stay at the Four Seasons New Orleans on the blog here.

This is where to go when you want polished cocktails, a luxe atmosphere, and a chic start or finish to the evening. 2 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130

The Columns

The Columns is a Garden District classic and one of the prettiest hotel bars in New Orleans. Set inside a historic mansion on St. Charles Avenue, it has that dreamy porch, gorgeous interiors, and a timeless Southern feel.

Come for cocktails on the veranda, stay for the architecture, and enjoy a slower, more romantic side of New Orleans. 3811 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115

The Davenport Lounge at The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans

The Davenport Lounge at The Ritz-Carlton is a classic New Orleans hotel bar with live jazz from Jeremy Davenport. It is elegant, musical, and a perfect choice when you want a cocktail with a little old-school glamour.

This is a lovely stop for martinis, champagne, and live music in a polished French Quarter setting. 921 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70112

Hotel Monteleone

Hotel Monteleone is one of the great historic hotels of New Orleans, and even beyond the Carousel Bar, the whole property has that grand French Quarter energy. It is literary, glamorous, and full of history.

If you are doing a hotel bar crawl, this is an essential stop. It captures the classic New Orleans hotel experience beautifully. 214 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Hotel Saint Vincent

Hotel Saint Vincent is one of the most stylish hotel stops in New Orleans. The whole property feels design-forward, glamorous, and a little unexpected, with several places to eat and drink depending on your mood. I have stayed here and it’s fabulous! Super quant, charming, has an amazing restaurant, bar, even a lounge that’s a hot spot at night. Did i mention the amazing pool as well? Truly one of my favorite boutique hotels.

Come for the atmosphere, stay for cocktails at Paradise Lounge or Chapel Club, and enjoy a very chic Lower Garden District moment. 1507 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130

JW Marriott New Orleans

JW Marriott New Orleans is a convenient French Quarter-adjacent hotel stop for a polished cocktail before heading out into the city. It is especially useful if you want something central, comfortable, and easy before dinner or a night on Bourbon, Royal, or Canal.

It may not be the quirkiest bar in town, but it is a reliable hotel-bar option with a prime location. 614 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130

The best hotel bars in New Orleans each offer their own kind of magic. Some are grand and historic, some are polished and glamorous, and some are tucked inside beautifully restored properties that feel like their own little world. Whether you are sipping under a chandelier, listening to Jeremy Davenport at The Ritz, or having a cocktail on the porch at The Columns, a great NOLA hotel bar always feels like part of the trip.