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Pontchartrain Hotel

A 14-story architectural gem in the Garden District, this historic hotel has hosted presidents and celebrities, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the French Quarter from its rooftop lounge.

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Pontchartrain Hotel
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What is the Pontchartrain Hotel known for?

The Pontchartrain Hotel is a historic 14-story architectural gem located in the Garden District, known for its panoramic rooftop lounge with views of the French Quarter and four Uptown New Orleans dining options.

What is the history of the Pontchartrain Hotel?

Originally opened in 1927 as a luxury apartment building named after Count de Pontchartrain, it was converted into a luxury hotel in the 1940s. It reopened in summer 2016 after a renovation that added a panoramic rooftop and additional dining and entertainment venues.

Has the Pontchartrain Hotel hosted any famous people?

Yes, the hotel has hosted luminaries such as Frank Sinatra, The Doors, Rita Hayworth, and presidents Gerald Ford and George H. Bush. Additionally, Tennessee Williams worked on 'A Streetcar Named Desire' while staying there.

Where is the Pontchartrain Hotel located?

The hotel is located at 2031 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States, in the Garden District adjacent to the streetcar route.

What are the hours for the hotel's dining and lounge venues?

Hours vary by venue: Hot Tin is a 21+ venue open Sunday–Thursday 2 p.m.–12 a.m. and Friday–Saturday 2 p.m.–2 a.m. Other venues include one open daily 7 a.m.–11 a.m., another open Sunday–Thursday 11 a.m.–11 p.m. and Friday–Saturday 11 a.m.–12 a.m., and a third open Wednesday–Saturday 5 p.m.–10 p.m. and Saturday–Sunday 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Pontchartrain Hotel is a 14-story architectural gem located on St. Charles Avenue in New Orleans’ Garden District. Originally opened in 1927 as a luxury apartment building, the structure was named after the Louis XIV court’s Count de Pontchartrain. By the 1940s, the building was refashioned as a luxury hotel, becoming a hub for prominent locals and high-profile visitors. Over the decades, the hotel has hosted a diverse array of luminaries, including Frank Sinatra, The Doors, and Rita Hayworth. It also welcomed presidents Gerald Ford and George H. Bush. Notably, the city’s favorite son, Tennessee Williams, worked on his play A Streetcar Named Desire while staying at this storied establishment. In summer 2016, the hotel reopened after an extensive renovation. This update added a panoramic rooftop and three additional dining and entertainment venues, including the social coaster Bayou Bar. The hotel now serves as a mixed-use destination where visitors and locals mix, providing four Uptown New Orleans dining options. Today, the hotel remains a sanctuary of luxury in a beautiful neighborhood, situated adjacent to the charming streetcar route. It combines historic charm with modern luxurious amenities, providing a sophisticated atmosphere for those exploring the Uptown area.

Visitor tips

  • Visit the rooftop lounge, Hot Tin, which is exclusively a 21+ venue.
  • If you are looking for live music, check out the on-site dining venues between Tuesday and Saturday.
  • The hotel is located right next to the streetcar route, making it an easy stop on a Garden District walking tour.

Nearby context

Located on St. Charles Avenue, the Pontchartrain Hotel is a cornerstone of the Uptown New Orleans area, perfectly positioned for those utilizing the streetcar to explore the Garden District's historic homes and lush greenery.

Sources

Evidence and links