Henry Howard Hotel

Located in New Orleans’s serene Garden District, this mansion–turned–boutique hotel boasts stylish accommodations.

Surprising for a city that so freely celebrates its cultural heritage, New Orleans has previously suffered from a shortage of hotels that truly have a sense of place. However, the Henry Howard Hotel, which opened in 2016 on quiet Prytania Street in the Garden District, changed that. Originally built as a mansion in 1860 by local architect Henry Howard, the boutique hotel celebrates the history of the building by preserving its architectural integrity while repurposing certain elements, such as the exterior column capitals (now coffee table bases). The hotel features Corinthian columns, wrought-iron balconies and spacious front porches with rocking chairs that encourage guests to relax and enjoy the Big Easy. Collectively, the ambiance feels authentically New Orleans.

While the hotel has an inviting, old-world charm, it is the modern comforts inside and the  Southern hospitality of the staff that makes it such a special place. The property has just 18 rooms, which are spread across three floors and mix vintage furniture with contemporary accents that were curated by New York–based designers but sourced locally whenever possible. Canopied iron beds sit beneath mounted brass instruments, while toile wallpaper and antique armoires flank colorful modern art commissioned by local artist Hayley Gaberlavage.

The hotel's public spaces include a parlor with 12-foot-high ceilings and a bar serving cocktails that can be enjoyed on the front porch or in the back courtyard. Though the hotel lacks a gym and spa, guests can easily while away several hours on the relaxing, light-filled property.

Travelers looking for a quiet or removed location (the hotel is a 10- to 15-minute drive from the bustling French Quarter), as well as couples and independent travelers who do not require a gym or spa.