French Quarter Festival - places to stay.

Question

Hi, this will be my first time visiting New Orleans, I'm traveling solo (late 50's/female) to the French Quarter Festival in April. After looking at many many hotels, I thought I'd decided on the Monteleone. It seems like it's in an ideal location and very nice. But then I ran across the Copper Vine Inn, which looks lovely, although it's outside the FQ. I don't mind walking and I'm rarely out late at night. Does anyone have thoughts on which would be better? Is it safe to walk to and from Poydras Street in the event I'm out after dark? I take all the usual precautions; I've traveled a great deal by myself. I'm just unsure of the area of the Copper Vine Inn. Thanks!

Answer

It sounds like you're planning an exciting trip to New Orleans for the French Quarter Festival! Both the Monteleone and the Copper Vine Inn are great options, but they each offer different experiences, so I can understand your hesitation in choosing between them. Here’s a breakdown of each option, including safety considerations for walking in the area.

Monteleone Hotel

The Hotel Monteleone is a classic choice for staying in the French Quarter, and it’s known for its beautiful, historic architecture and prime location. The hotel is just a short walk from all the major attractions of the French Quarter, including Jackson Square, Bourbon Street, and the Mississippi Riverfront. The Monteleone also has a lovely rooftop pool and the famous Carousel Bar, which offers a unique experience with its rotating bar stools.

Location: Located right in the heart of the French Quarter, you’ll be within walking distance of all the festivities during the French Quarter Festival, which means you won’t need to rely on taxis or public transport for most of your activities. This is ideal for someone traveling solo, as you can easily pop in and out of the area without worrying about transportation late at night.
Safety: The French Quarter is generally safe for tourists during the day and evening, especially around the hotel. While some areas can be quieter or more isolated at night, the Monteleone is located on a busy street and close to bars, restaurants, and other hotels. In terms of safety, staying in the French Quarter means you’ll be in a more lively, tourist-friendly area, with many people around even after dark.
Amenities: The Monteleone offers a high-end experience, with excellent service, an elegant lobby, and upscale rooms. It’s a great choice if you want a classic, traditional New Orleans experience.

Copper Vine Inn

The Copper Vine Inn is located just outside the French Quarter, closer to the Central Business District (CBD). While the hotel itself looks lovely and has received great reviews, it’s a bit further from the action of the French Quarter. However, it’s still within walking distance (about 10–15 minutes) and close to Poydras Street, which is a major street with good connections to other areas of the city.

Location: The Copper Vine Inn is in a quieter area of the city, which could be appealing if you’re looking for a bit of peace and calm away from the busy French Quarter. It’s also close to some great restaurants and attractions like the Lafayette Square area and the Warehouse District. However, it’s a little farther from the core of the festival events, which might mean a longer walk back if you're out after dark.
Safety: The area around the Copper Vine Inn is generally safe, especially during the day. However, since it’s a less tourist-heavy part of the city, there might not be as much foot traffic late at night. Walking to and from Poydras Street at night is generally fine, but as with any city, it’s a good idea to take the usual precautions. If you're concerned, you could always consider using a rideshare like Uber for peace of mind when traveling after dark.
Amenities: The Copper Vine Inn is more modern and boutique-style compared to the Monteleone, with a lovely wine bar and a more contemporary feel. It might be a better choice if you’re looking for a quieter, more relaxed vibe away from the hustle and bustle of the Quarter.

Safety Considerations for Walking at Night

New Orleans is a great city, but like any major city, it’s important to be cautious when walking at night, especially if you're not familiar with the area. While both the French Quarter and the CBD are generally safe, here are a few tips:

Stick to well-lit, busy streets. Bourbon Street and the main streets in the French Quarter are usually busy well into the night, but once you get into quieter side streets, it can be a little more isolated.
If you’re walking back from the Copper Vine Inn to the French Quarter or the hotel late at night, it’s a good idea to stay on main streets like Poydras or Chartres, which tend to have more activity.
Use rideshare options like Uber or Lyft if you feel uncomfortable walking late at night. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.
Always trust your instincts and avoid poorly lit or unfamiliar areas, especially late at night when there’s less foot traffic.

Summary

Both hotels offer unique experiences. If you want to be right in the heart of the French Quarter and close to all the action, the Hotel Monteleone is your best bet. You’ll be able to walk everywhere and experience New Orleans' nightlife up close. If you prefer a quieter, more modern stay and don’t mind a little extra walking or the occasional rideshare, the Copper Vine Inn could be a good choice, though it’s a bit farther from the French Quarter festivities. Either way, both options are safe, and with your travel experience, you’ll be just fine taking the necessary precautions.

Enjoy your time in New Orleans—there’s so much to explore, and the French Quarter Festival will be a fantastic event to experience! Safe travels!