Le Pavillon Hotel

Description:

• Established in 1907 in a prime CBD location, Le Pavillion was the first hotel in New Orleans to have elevators. It's now a member of Historic Hotels of America, and it feels like elegant old New Orleans in a way that so few places sadly now do. The building is a long, slender rectangle with a prominent columned motor entrance. The lobby is stunning, just what you want in a big, grand hotel, with giant columns and chandeliers. The standard guest rooms are all rather pretty and have similar furnishings, but they differ in size. Deluxe rooms have ceiling fans, detailed ceiling painting, and black marble baths. "Bay Rooms" are standard with two double beds and bay windows. Suites are actually hit-or-miss in terms of decor, with the nadir being the mind-bogglingly ugly Art Deco Suite. Much better is the Plantation Suite, decorated in -- you guessed it -- antiques including pieces by Mallard, C. Lee (who, as a slave, studied under Mallard), Mitchell Rammelsberg, Belter, Badouine, and Marcotte. The Honeymoon Suite has "Napoleon's" marble bathtub and is a riot of fantasy hilarity. Note the statues by the pool. Late-night peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwiches, one of New Orleans's sweetest traditions, are offered in the lobby. Tip: Covet those suites? If you are staying during a slow period, ask at check-in about upgrades -- they may offer you some incredible deal.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Highly Recommended 2010

Other features:

Rooms and suites are decorated with original artwork and antiques. The Crystal Room and the Gallery Lounge offer dining and drinking options.