Pulling into the main drive at Windsor Court Hotel, guests know they are in for an experience like no other in New Orleans. The only four-star, four-diamond property in the state of Louisiana, the Windsor Castle-inspired htoel is home to luxury accommodations, spa treatments, a museum-quality art collection, and elegant service. Host to movie stars, rockers, and celebrity legends of all types, the crème de la crème can be found at this top getaway on the banks of the Mississippi.
When luxury travelers think of New Orleans, often the first thought conjured is the raucous Bourbon Street — the bead-flinging capital of Mardi Gras. However, as with any city, the finer things are also in abundance. The quiet Jackson Square at the St. Louis Cathedral, the tree-lined streets highlighting the quaint shops and cozy hideouts, fantastic antique stores, world-class art galleries and an incredible culinary scene abound in the city. Far from the muggy, loud, and gregarious preconception of many, New Orleans shows its extravagant side in this fantastic hotel and spa.
Upon entering the ground-floor lobby, an anomaly in New Orleans, past the stoic water feature statue of St. George and the dragon, 12 dozen roses are prominently displayed in the lobby. With fresh flowers throughout this New Orleans luxury hotel, the grand entrance is pronounced and newly renovated with new furniture and lounge spaces in abundance. Concierge staff and front desk are particularly attentive, remembering names of guests and suggesting activities and sites suited to the individuals. Live music, a staple of New Orleans culture, is often heard playing in the lobby or adjoining lounges at the perfect decibel.
Also showcased in the lobby and displayed throughout the hotel is the curated $10 million luxury art collection. Owned by the hotel and not part of a traveling exhibition, the artwork is simply breathtaking. An audio tour is available through the hotel app, taking guests on a journey through the beautiful Louvre-like collection. Built in 1984 for the World’s Fair, Windsor Court recently underwent a $22 million restoration, elevating the gem of a property to a crown jewel.
The full-service lounge on Club Level affords guests sweeping views of the Mississippi River while sipping cocktails or enjoying a taste of fine dining in New Orleans with late afternoon appetizers. Floors 19 through 22 are considered a hotel within a hotel — the ultimate high-class hideaway in a bustling city. If you are really feeling like a rock star, the Presidential Suite, with river views, two terraces, sunroom, and a sprawling 2,800 square feet of living space, has been home to a wide variety of Jazz Fest performers, movie stars filming in the city, and, of course, elected officials.
316 keys in all, 60 of the suites are on club level within the hotel. A convenient floor plan allows for easy navigation off the central hallway to the spacious and well-appointed rooms. The rooftop swimming pool terrace is a perfect place to relax for the afternoon, with dining available poolside and a nearby fitness center to get a quick workout in. The brand new spa offers a full menu of services, including the Triple Crown Treatment, a warm stone relaxation followed by a cleansing of the hands and feet. The experience is completed by pressure point massage. The nine newly furbished treatment rooms accompany saunas and steam rooms in the locker room facilities; a crisp and clean feel throughout the new facility, it is sure to be a popular spot in New Orleans.
Dining delights awaken the senses at Windsor Court. The Grill Room, one of the best luxury restaurants in the city is also the only four-diamond restaurant in New Orleans. A glance at the menu and interaction with the charming staff only bolster the accolades. The adjacent Polo Lounge is also a popular spot. Nightly, guests can enjoy live jazz and impromptu performances by music legends, charming unsuspecting audience members sipping brandy or French 75's. With one of the only wine cellars that survived the Katrina disaster, the knowledgeable sommeliers offer a “scents class,” presenting several varieties of aromas such as fresh fruit and muddled herbs, which are placed on tables for participants to sniff while sampling wine.
This is a truly unique and educational experience, with a stunning NOLA mural in the private dining room setting the backdrop and tone of the course. Celebrating its Tri-Centennial in 2018, New Orleans is accented by the beautiful Windsor Court Hotel, befitting the royal atmosphere in the French-inspired city. Walking distance to Canal St and the French District, Windsor Court is ideally located steps from the aquarium, luxury shopping, and arts district. More information and reservations can be made at WindsorCourtHotel.com.
