Top Holiday Displays at New Orleans Hotels

The holidays are magical in Louisiana. Twinkling lights weave through oak trees, classic carols weave their way through bayous and levees glow by bonfire. 

And the hotels, homes and streetcars of New Orleans go all out (and we do mean all out) with elaborate displays that will leave you speechless. Imagine forests of Christmas trees, giant gingerbread houses and thousands upon thousands of twinkling lights. 

With fully festooned lobbies that invite you to stroll through an enchanting winter wonderland, the city’s historical and swanky hotels lead the way. While you’re indoors, warm up with a seasonal cocktail, mocktail or sweet treat. Here are some highlights to get you in the spirit. 

The Roosevelt New Orleans

At the top of almost everyone’s list is this grande dame of epic proportions. For nearly 90 years, The Roosevelt New Orleans has captured the imaginations of countless holiday visitors, thanks to a display featuring more than 100,000 glittering lights, over 1,000 feet of festive garlands and thousands of twinkling glass ornaments. There’s even a gingerbread house that pays tribute to the holiday classic “Cajun Night Before Christmas."

Try: Sip holiday-inspired bevvies like the Candy Cane or Christmas Cookie cocktails at The Roosevelt’s on-site bar, The Sazerac Bar, or make reservations for the family-favorite teddy-bear tea.

Windsor Court

Windsor Court is home to many merry happenings, from seasonal teas and menus to dazzling holiday décor. That splendor includes a nearly 20-foot Christmas tree sparkling with more than 25,000 white lights and a classic toy train circling its base. Find 10 more trees, along with decorative wreaths and gold garland, throughout the hotel, and don't forget to hang your holiday wish on the Windsor Wishes tree.

Try: The Réveillon dinner features rosé poached pear with blue cheese and roasted hazelnuts, turtle soup and espresso-rubbed strip steak with crispy potatoes. Indulge in festive cocktails like the Gingerbread Milk Punch and the Winter Paloma, sprinkled with Tajín.

Hotel Monteleone

The Hotel Monteleone features giant wreaths, red bows and lights flanking its windows, offering a peek at the equally festive lobby inside. 

Try: You’ve probably heard of The Carousel Bar & Lounge, a rotating social house inside of Hotel Monteleone. While you should definitely sample their signature Vieux Carré cocktail, also try a Hibiscus Poinsettia, Carousel sparkling wine topped with candied hibiscus flower.

The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans

Already a feast for the eyes, the elegant Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans decks its lobby halls and walls with a gingerbread streetcar and sparkly lights strung from its ceilings.

Try: Ultra-premium vibes await within the Davenport Lounge, located within The Ritz-Carlton. Try a Davenportini, where limoncello gives zesty dimension to Grey Goose. And stop by the Bingle Bar — named for Mr. Bingle, the iconic New Orleans character that generations of local families associate with the holidays — for themed to-go drinks served in the cutest Christmas cups.

Royal Sonesta

Just a few blocks away, the Royal Sonesta New Orleans sparkles with Christmas cheer. The lobby features twinkling lights, garland, fresh flowers and plenty of Christmas trees. You might even spot Santa and Mrs. Claus having tea with admirers during Santa’s PJ Party.

Try: At Royal Sonesta’s Bar R’evolution, order themed cocktails like Papa Jack’s Bourbon Cream, where Jefferson’s bourbon meets chocolate for an indulgent holiday treat. Non-alcoholic offerings include Tom Dooley’s Holiday, a delicious homemade spiced apple cider.

More Holiday Views

• For dazzling city views, cozy up by the fireplace at Le Pavillon and check out The Troubadour’s rooftop bar.
• Looking to explore homes outside of the Big Easy? Road-trip through Louisiana’s Holiday Trail of Lights.
• Experience the state’s 12 holiday must-dos.