Best Western Plus St. Christopher Hotel

This historic property dates back to 1883, when it opened as the tallest building in the city and housed Dwyer Brothers Wholesale, a dry goods dealer. After a long period of neglect, it was rescued in 1996 and turned into a hotel. The original eight-story building now has 10 floors, and many of the original historic details were preserved, such as brick walls, tall windows, and high ceilings. The soft beige exterior is lovely, with windows on all sides, plus white trim and detailing -- it makes an immediately charming first impression. The lobby is small and functional -- a clue to the fairly limited number of features at this hotel -- with just a reception desk, a period sofa, and a few chairs for seating. New Orleans artwork hangs on the walls. The breakfast area and lounge is to the rear, and the business center is above on the mezzanine. There are no other places for guests to gather here, and the hotel is best used as a base for exploring the nearby French Quarter. The hotel is geared toward a broad range of guests looking for a charming chain option in a convenient location. Families and couples on vacation make up the bulk of guests here, though business travelers and small groups of friends pass through as well.

This hotel sits on the opposite side of Canal Street from the French Quarter, putting its quaint streets and wild, boozy nightlife within easy striking distance. The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas is just over five minutes away on foot, as is Mother's (a popular local and tourist dining spot). The Riverwalk Mall and Harrah's Casino are a 10- to 15-minute walk from the property. New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center is also a 15-minute walk from the hotel, though it's a bit farther to the Superdome -- expect a 20-minute walk (or 10-minute cab ride). The hotel does sit on a sometimes busy road, and traffic can be heavy during peak times, though the area is relatively quiet compared to the nearby French Quarter. Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is about 30 minutes away by car, depending on traffic. 

Rooms include one king or queen bed, or two doubles, and decor is more charming than often found at this chain. All rooms feature historic details like exposed brick walls and high ceilings, and they feature original local art that gives them even more personality. While everything is quaint and well-kept, it's worth noting that interior rooms do not have windows. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, mini-fridges, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and alarm clock radios. Unfortunately, there is a fee for using safes. Compact bathrooms have pedestal sinks and come with toiletries, hairdryers, and shower/tub combos combo. Rooms with windows have views of the city and surrounding buildings, while interior rooms include whirlpool tubs. 

Features are limited at this hotel, even for a mid-range property. Still, there are some handy extras, and breakfast gets particularly high marks from previous guests. It's free and is served in a cozy, windowless breakfast area with exposed brick walls and cafe tables and chairs. Options include standard continental fare like pastries and cereals, plus hard-boiled eggs and local specialties like grits. On select nights of the week, the space is turned into a lounge serving cocktails and snacks. A flat-screen TV on the wall keeps guests up-to-date on the news, weather, and latest sports scores. Located on the mezzanine above the breakfast area, a business center is open around-the-clock and offers computers and a printer for guests to use. A 1,200-square-foot (111-square-meter) event room can handle groups of from 10 to 100 for business and social gatherings. Audiovisual services are provided and Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. Pets are allowed and valet parking is offered, though there are fees for both.