New Orleans, Louisiana, the soulful gem of the South, where jazz notes float through the air, vibrant Mardi Gras beads hang from every corner, and Creole flavor sets your taste buds dancing. The Crescent City is a haven for travelers, filled with rich history, intricate architecture, and undeniable energy.
But for the younger explorers among us, specifically those aged 18 to 20, there can be an unexpected obstacle in this journey: hotel check-in age policies.
While the standard age in many places is 21, New Orleans, with its warm spirit, offers a selection of accommodations that welcome those who are 18 and above.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the heart of the Big Easy, spotlighting hotels that embrace younger guests.
Ready to dive into a world of bayous, beignets, and hotels tailored for you? Let’s journey through the streets of New Orleans together!
Note: Please remember that hotel policies can change, so always confirm the minimum check-in age before finalizing your reservation.
New Orleans Hotels Check in Age 18
Navigating the hotel scene as an 18-year-old can sometimes feel like an uphill battle, especially when many places set age limits for check-in. But in New Orleans, there are welcoming doors aplenty!
We’ve curated a list of prime hotels in this vibrant city that greet young travelers with open arms. With several situated in the heart of all the action, you’re never far from the best attractions. Dive in as we detail essential information on location, top-tier amenities, and standout features for each recommended stay.
Your perfect New Orleans adventure awaits!
Note: You’ll need to present an I.D. and a credit card upon check-in.
1. Downtown/French Quarter Area
Location:
- 228 Iberville St, New Orleans, LA 70130
- Located a 5-minute drive from Morial Convention Center and a 5-minute walk from the French Quarter and Bourbon Street.
- The hotel is 15 miles from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.
Price: Starting at $149 per night
Amenities: Free breakfast, fitness center, outdoor pool, business center
Pet Policy: Pets are not allowed
Highly rated for: Location, cleanliness, comfort
Tripadvisor rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
2. Hotel St. Marie
Location:
- 1117 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70112
- Located just off Bourbon Street and 1 mile from the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.
- The hotel is 15 miles from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.
Price: Starting at $124 per night
Amenities: Tropical courtyard, pool, fitness center, business center
Pet Policy: Pets are not allowed
Highly rated for: Location, atmosphere, service
Tripadvisor rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
3. The Roosevelt Hotel New Orleans – Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts
Location:
- 123 Baronne St, New Orleans, LA 70112
- Located just 1 block from the French Quarter.
- The hotel is 15 miles from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.
Price: Starting at $299 per night
Amenities: Rooftop pool, spa, fitness center, business center
Pet Policy: Pets are allowed for a fee
Highly rated for: Luxury, location, service
Tripadvisor rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
4. La Quinta by Wyndham New Orleans Downtown
Location:
- 1010 Poydras St, New Orleans, LA 70113
- Located in the heart of the Central Business District and near the French Quarter.
- The hotel is 15 miles from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.
Price: Starting at $130 per night
Amenities: Rooftop pool, fitness center, business center
Pet Policy: Pets are allowed for a fee
Highly rated for: Location, value, cleanliness
Tripadvisor rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
5. Drury Plaza Hotel New Orleans
Location:
- 330 Poydras St, New Orleans, LA 70130
- Located in the Cumberland Phone Building, 1 block from the St. Charles streetcar.
- The hotel is 15 miles from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.
Price: Starting at $130 per night
Amenities: Free breakfast, free evening reception, outdoor pool, fitness center
Pet Policy: Pets are not allowed
Highly rated for: Value, location, cleanliness
Tripadvisor rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
6. Best Western Plus St. Christopher Hotel
Location:
- 330 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130
- Located steps away from the French Quarter.
- The hotel is 15 miles from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.
Price: Starting at $109 per night
Amenities: Free breakfast, fitness center, business center
Pet Policy: Pets are not allowed
Highly rated for: Location, value, cleanliness
Tripadvisor rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
7. St Charles Inn, Superior Hotel
Location:
- 1313 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130
- Located on St. Charles Ave in the Garden District of New Orleans.
- The hotel is 17 miles from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.
Price: Starting at $120 per night
Amenities: Free breakfast, fitness center, business center
Pet Policy: Pets are not allowed
Highly rated for: Location, atmosphere, service
Tripadvisor rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
8. Hilton Garden Inn New Orleans Convention Center
Location:
- 500 Convention Center Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70130
- Located near the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center and less than 1 mile from the French Quarter, Port of New Orleans, and The National WWII Museum.
- The hotel is 15 miles from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.
Price: Starting at $149 per night
Amenities: Free breakfast, fitness center, outdoor pool, business center
Pet Policy: Pets are not allowed
Highly rated for: Location, value, cleanliness
Tripadvisor rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
9. The Higgins Hotel New Orleans, Curio Collection By Hilton
Location:
- 1000 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130
- Located in the Warehouse/Arts District, next to The National WWII Museum.
- The hotel is 15 miles from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.
Price: Starting at $179 per night
Amenities: Free breakfast, fitness center, rooftop bar, business center
Pet Policy: Pets are allowed for a fee
Highly rated for: Location, atmosphere, service
Tripadvisor rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
10. French Market Inn
Location:
- 400 N Peters St, New Orleans, LA 70130
- Located on the banks of the Mississippi River in the center of the French Quarter of New Orleans.
- The hotel is 16 miles from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.
Price: Starting at $129 per night
Amenities: Free breakfast, fitness center, business center
Pet Policy: Pets are not allowed
Highly rated for: Location, value, cleanliness
Tripadvisor rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Things for 18-Year-Olds to Do in New Orleans, Louisiana
Entering adulthood in vibrant New Orleans? From tramcars to jazz beats, the city brims with unique experiences for the young at heart. At 18, beyond Bourbon Street and Mardi Gras, awaits a world of music, cafes, and traditions. This guide, tailored for budding adults, delves into the heart of the Crescent City. Embark on your youthful journey through the Big Easy!
1. Explore the French Quarter: No trip to New Orleans is complete without wandering the cobbled streets of the French Quarter. Bursting with history, every corner tells a story. Stop by the iconic Jackson Square, admire the street performers, and don’t forget to grab a beignet (or three) from Café du Monde.
2. Frenchmen Street’s Live Music: While Bourbon Street is the most famous, Frenchmen Street offers a more authentic musical experience. With a lineup of local bands playing jazz, blues, and more, it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in the city’s rich musical heritage.
3. Kayak in Bayou St. John: Escape the city’s hustle and bustle by kayaking in Bayou St. John. This peaceful waterway offers a unique perspective of New Orleans and a chance to connect with nature.
4. Visit the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA): Housing an impressive collection of art spanning centuries, NOMA is a haven for art enthusiasts. The adjacent Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden is also worth a visit, showcasing over 60 sculptures amidst picturesque landscapes.
5. Take a Haunted Tour: New Orleans is known for its haunted tales. Join a nighttime ghost tour and discover the spooky side of the city, from haunted mansions to eerie cemeteries.
6. Explore the Bywater District: This colorful and artsy neighborhood is a hub for the young and creative. Explore local art galleries, vintage shops, and don’t miss out on trying some of the local eateries and cafes.
7. Treme Cultural Tours: Dive deep into the history of America’s oldest African-American neighborhood. Discover its profound musical roots, its role in the Civil Rights Movement, and its rich cultural heritage.
8. Attend Free Workshops at The Music Box Village: This unique space in the Bywater is part art installation, part musical instrument. Attend one of their free workshops and get hands-on experience creating music in the most unconventional ways.
9. Food Adventures: Dive into the culinary wonders of New Orleans. From po’boys to gumbo, the city’s cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavors. Attend a cooking class or embark on a food tour to truly savor what the city has to offer.
10. Shop at the French Market: An eclectic blend of crafts, foods, and antiques, the French Market is a great place to pick up souvenirs and sample local delights. Dive into the vibrant atmosphere and find yourself a treasure or two.
New Orleans is a city like no other, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and fun for explorers of all ages. For 18-year-olds, it promises not just entertainment but also a deep dive into the soul of a place where every street has a story, every corner sings a song, and every moment is a celebration. Enjoy your journey!
Alternatives to Hotels for 18-Year-Olds:
Navigating the world of accommodations as an 18-year-old can be challenging, especially with age restrictions at certain hotels. However, Birmingham offers a plethora of other welcoming options to make your stay comfortable and memorable. Here are some alternatives to traditional hotels:
Hostels: A popular choice among younger travelers, hostels are not only budget-friendly but also provide a social atmosphere. You’ll find shared dormitory-style rooms or sometimes private ones, and they often come with communal spaces to meet fellow travelers.
Vacation Rentals: Websites like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com feature a variety of properties, from apartments to entire homes, that can be rented directly from owners. These platforms allow for flexibility in terms of age requirements—just be sure to communicate with the host in advance.
Bed & Breakfasts: These intimate accommodations can offer a unique and local experience. While some may have age restrictions, many are independently owned and may provide more flexibility.
University Accommodations: Especially during off-peak times like summer vacations, some universities and colleges rent out their dorm rooms to travelers. Given the proximity to student-aged individuals, these accommodations might have more lenient age policies.
Camping & Glamping: If you’re more of the adventurous type, consider embracing the outdoors. Birmingham and its surrounding areas might have campsites or even “glamping” (glamorous camping) locations which can be a unique experience altogether.
Extended Stay Hotels: While they’re still technically hotels, extended stay options are designed for longer-term stays. They often come with kitchen facilities, making them a good choice for those wanting more of a home-like atmosphere. Plus, their policies might be more favorable for younger guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some hotels have a 21+ age requirement for check-in?
Various reasons include concerns about underage drinking, the potential for room damage, and some insurance policies.
Can I book a hotel room for someone else?
Yes, many hotels allow you to book a room for someone else, but it’s crucial to inform the hotel ahead of time, and the person checking in will typically still need to provide their I.D. and credit card.
What if I’m refused a room because of my age after booking?
Always double-check age policies before booking. If a mistake happens, most hotels will refund your money, but it’s essential to sort this out immediately upon check-in.
Are there any other requirements or fees I should be aware of when booking a hotel at 18?
Some hotels may require an additional deposit from younger guests. Always check with the hotel ahead of time and be prepared for potential extra charges.
Jerry Sloan
Hey, I'm Jerry Sloan, an impassioned globetrotter who has journeyed through countless cities and landscapes. Every hotel I stay in becomes a story, and through my detailed reviews, I strive to guide fellow travelers toward accommodations that resonate with comfort, culture, and the promise of unforgettable memories.