Virgin Hotel, New Orleans, Louisiana
After numerous stays in New Orleans for both pleasure and work, I’ve found a hotel that truly stands out among the rest, Virgin Hotel New Orleans. Over the years, I’ve discovered a newfound appreciation for boutique hotels that offer unique aesthetics and provide a little more escapism from my daily life and the hotels I typically frequent for work. Located in the warehouse district, the Virgin Hotel is close enough to the popular destination of Bourbon & Canal Street if desired, but exudes low-key, modern, & eclectic vibes without pretentious.
The staff's warm hospitality stood out and remained consistent during the initial introduction and throughout the day & night throughout every part of the hotel. The lobby, restaurants, bars, rooftop. Should this be the norm with every hotel? Yes, however, we all have experienced a less than favorable interaction. During my stay, I found the hospitable nature of the staff to feel welcoming, warm, truly happy, and consistent. This is always a welcomed invitation to anyone after a long day or night of travel.
After the friendly staff welcomes you, your eyes may be diverted to the collection of eclectic artwork throughout the hotel. A great way to ensure the culture of the artists and city receives the admiration and intrigue it deserves. Speaking of intrigue, a piece has caught my eye and perhaps startled a few including myself. It’s a conversation starter!
Un-Official Nickname
The White Bunny Man
As you explore the hotel, your eyes are greeted with a chic seating area perfect for reading or grabbing a quick coffee with your friends or The White Bunny Man. The main level bar is spacious with ample artwork, chairs, and couches leading to the Commons Club restaurant. In a city like New Orleans, you will never starve. This hotel restaurant is a great, convenient choice to enjoy a meal. Bonus if you're jet-lagged and need a great bite! I frequently ate outside of the hotel, but the option to order food for myself or host an event with food & drinks is always a plus.
Must Try
La Waygu Smash Burger
The Butterfly Effect Zero Proof Cocktail
At 300 sq ft, the king bed chamber is spacious enough for two people. I especially appreciated the quietness of the neighborhood, especially after 8-12 hours of nonstop walking, eating, or partying! The open closets are enclosed in the vanity area with a separate bathroom, sink, and shower providing the necessary privacy with a spacious feel. Complete with a stocked mini-fridge, table, and window seat, it’s the cozy finishing touches that shine in this room.
Last but certainly not least, the rooftop bar ushers in the golden hour sunset complete with strong cocktails, great eats like the Smoky Chicken Wings with Calabrian Chili Sauce, a pool and cozy seatings. The top floor also offers a private event space perfect for hosting your next party or meeting. If fact, the rooftop was a hit with my co-workers after a regional conference. The rooftop is the icing on a king’s cake.
If I was a New Orleanian, the Virgin Hotel would be one of my top staycation spots. It provides the perfect amount of distance and proximity (a perfect balance) to main attractions such as Canal Street, The French Quarter, Morial Convention Center, or Caesar Superdome, but close enough to venture out to explore areas of New Orleans that aren’t the typical tourist attractions.
Let the Virgin Hotel New Orleans be the place to chat with a friendly stranger, enjoy the sunset view with your boo, and a sanctuary to rest your head on a fluffy pillow in the Big Easy.