New Orleans is famous for its round-the-clock nightlife, vibrant streets, live music, incredible food scene, and festive parades. For my first trip to The Big Easy, I wanted to experience this lively city as much as possible, but also have a quiet and luxurious place to lay my head each night. At the Windsor Court Hotel, I was able to do just that and experience the best of both worlds.

This sanctuary of Southern sophistication is just blocks from all the action in the French Quarter. Close enough to easily stroll there yet far enough away to relax, I absolutely loved embracing the elegance of New Orleans in this luxury hotel. Along with its perfect location, guests can also enjoy impeccable suites, a full-service spa, rooftop pool and bar, plus award-winning dining. What more could you possibly want when it comes to a luxury hotel?

I quickly fell in love with the Windsor Court Hotel thanks to its lavish Christmas decorations throughout the property. In the lobby, there was a massive Christmas tree dressed to perfection with twinkling lights and ornaments, along with a model of the hotel made out of gingerbread! These festive touches really made the entire hotel feel warm and cozy, while still being sophisticated and elegant.

Luxury Suites

Speaking of sophistication, my Club Level Suite was one of the most wonderfully appointed hotel rooms I’ve ever had the pleasure of staying in. All of the rooms at the Windsor Court Hotel are newly renovated and include French-inspired details that are as timeless as the city itself. From in-suite dining and plush bedding to wet bars and Wi-Fi, these spacious rooms embrace the comforts of home while providing luxurious amenities.

Club Level Suites are located on the four top floors of the hotel which provides a haven of hospitality. As I walked into my suite, I was amazed at how spacious my living room was, complete with a full sofa, two sitting chairs, small table and chairs by the window, and a lovely writing desk. I was also so delighted with the welcome desserts and drinks waiting for us, that is always such a nice touch.

The spacious bathroom was an absolute dream with a beautiful Italian marble bath. The bath amenities were by the Spa at Windsor Court and smelled amazing. I also loved the super soft bathrobes and slippers provided.

Fine Dining 

One of the best parts about staying in a Club Level room is having access to the Club Lounge. Here you can enjoy an expanded continental breakfast every morning, as well as afternoon tea service and evening hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. This exclusive space was a wonderful place to unwind after a busy day of exploring New Orleans. Enjoying the Club Level benefits is truly the best way to experience Windsor Court at its best.

Even if you do have access to the Club Lounge and its amazing food, do not miss out on all of Windsor Court’s fine dining options. From high-end restaurants and salons, to a poolside bar, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Le Salon is a beautiful restaurant that is located in the lobby on the first floor. Its welcoming armchairs and sofas are accented with stunning artwork, creating a lovely space for anyone to enjoy a meal or drink. Afternoon Tea in the British fashion is served Thursday – Sunday here and is accompanied with live music. Throughout the year, Windsor Court enjoys taking traditional afternoon tea to the next level with a series of specialty themed teas. From Etiquette and Mad Hatter to Prohibition and Halloween, look out for a fun afternoon tea experience in Le Salon when you’re visiting the hotel!

I had the pleasure of dining at the Grill Room for dinner, which is perfect for any special occasion. In a city known for its distinguished restaurants, The Grill Room is recognized as one of the world’s best. It is one of New Orleans’ only four-star and four-diamond restaurants so you are sure to have a memorable meal here!

They are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and their menu’s masterfully blend contemporary Southern cuisine with timeless comfort food influences. There is no better place in the city to discover and share the flavors of the season. For dinner, I enjoyed the perfectly grilled salmon.

Another wonderful dining option is the Polo Club Lounge which is adjacent to The Grill Room. The style in this lounge is reminiscent of a private English club, with its dark woods, intimate lighting, and decadent leather furnishings. Here you can also enjoy live and local jazz music five nights a week!

While listening to music, choose from a fabulous list of classic cocktails or wine from more than 600 labels! The Polo Club Lounge impressively has the largest Cognac collections in New Orleans so keep that in mind. As well as an amazing drink selection, you can expect an array of elevated pub food here.

The Spa at Windsor Court – Health & Wellness 

It is almost impossible to fully enjoy New Orleans without treating your body to some R&R. Luckily, relaxation does not require escaping the city.

The Spa at Windsor Court welcomes you to slow down and indulge. They offer a fresh approach to spa services while maintaining the tranquility of old world charm. Their staff is devoted to making sure your experience is as wonderful as possible. This full service spa offers luxurious treatment rooms, a spa boutique, sauna, steam room and relaxation area. Every spa guest will be provided with a robe, sandals, a private locker, and vanity comforts as well.

If you need to work off all of that Southern food, head straight to their Fitness Center to treat your physical and mental well-being. This area is located on the rooftop and is open from 6 am – 10 pm daily. They have record cardio and weight machines, along with personal video monitors and complimentary water and fruit.

Last but certainly not least is Windsor Court’s Rooftop Pool where you can float above the city and under the stars. Lucky for guests, this pool is open year-round and you can now experience the new Waterman Poolside Bar which offers beer and wine on tap, along with light salads, burgers, and four flat-panel TV’s to catch a game.

This 65-foot saltwater pool (which is heated in the winter months) is the perfect escape in New Orleans. Even if you don’t want to take a dip in the water, I highly recommend taking in the spectacular views of the city’s skyline. I could hardly tear myself away from this fun space.

Meeting Space at Windsor Court Hotel

If you’re looking for a place to host a meeting, work conference, or even a wedding, the Windsor Court has plenty of options. They can accommodate executive and social events of any kind with their 10,000 square feet of function space, and various rooms accommodating meetings for up to 250 people and receptions for up to 400. I especially love their magnificent Waterford crystal chandeliers and 18th century tapestries from Brussels.

The Windsor Court goes above and beyond to makes its guests feel like one-of-a-kind. As far as luxury hotels go, this one really stands out and I look forward to returning here next time I’m in New Orleans!

By Carmen Edelson.