Here is a sentence I never thought I’d write: I had one of the most relaxing weekends in my life in New Orleans, Louisiana. And it’s all because of a two-day stay at the Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans. Tucked just steps from the madness of the French Quarter, the property opened its doors in August of 2021, so the interiors still feel brand new and fresh, but service and experience have all been refined to fit the loyal guests. Being the city’s only five-star hotel, the landmark 34-story tower originally served as the World Trade Center, and nods to the Edward Durell Stone building can be found throughout the current property.
The hotel’s 276 rooms and 65 suites feel like a serene breath of fresh air after a day spent in New Orleans; creamy white interiors with touches of gray and splashes of marble. Suites are impressive with a separate living space to sprawl out and an egg-shaped soaking tub.
While the structure and size might feel palatial, the service feels more like a boutique property; friendly hellos and helpful chit-chat offer up a warm welcome that’s signature to the brand…and the city.
There are two full-service restaurants and because this is New Orleans, each is helmed by award-winning chefs. There’s Miss River operated by Chef Alon Shaya and Chemin à la Mer, from Chef Donald Link. Don’t sleep on the Friday Jazz Brunch at the former, where you can sip a banana-infused milk punch next to a spirited jazz duo. The Chandelier Bar is the hotel’s pièce de résistance that sits beneath 15,000 glass crystals. It’s truly a place where locals and hotel guests gather under the sparkling lights for the signature martini, paired with caviar service for those who want to splash out.
The spa is a 5,000-plus square foot sanctuary that they call a beauty atelier, located on the fifth floor of the property with eight treatment rooms including a couple’s suite. A visit starts in one of the pre-treatment relaxation rooms with hot tea and light bites and then concludes in the post-treatment lounge where you can sip bubbly in a private nook or on the adjoining terrace. Our recommendation? Book the 110-minute Ultimate Indulgence treatment, which includes a signature body wrap, deep hydration, and a warm river stone massage. The spa also features a crescent-shaped infinity pool (the largest hotel pool in New Orleans) that is heated or cooled seasonally; cabanas are available to rent. The gym, designed by Harley Pasternack–trainer to the stars is open 24 hours a day.
Photos courtesy of Four Seasons
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