Last Updated on July 29, 2024 by Laura

Photo credit: Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans

Sure, you can paint the town red on New Orleans’ infamous Bourbon Street. But there’s so much more to the Big Easy. It’s one of the most spirited of Southern cities, with colorful streets, a soulful jazz scene, Creole and Cajun flavors dominating the culinary scene, and gorgeous hotel pools where you can cool off after a day of sightseeing. So, as the city motto goes, laissez les bon temps rouler (“let the good times roll”) and chill in one of the best hotel pools in New Orleans.

Virgin Hotels New Orleans (550 Baronne St., 504-603-8000) Warehouse District

Nestled in the Warehouse District, this hip hotel has breathtaking skyline views from its rooftop pool and lounge. Guests can enjoy the Pool Club day or night. One Google reviewer calls Virgin Hotels New Orleans “funky and fun.” Another praises its amenities and hospitality: “Absolutely adore this hotel and everything about it. From the amazing interior design and comfortable beds, to the gorgeous rooftop bar and pool this hotel is five stars in my book. The staff are so kind; they made us feel like family.” >> Book this hotel for less

Ace Hotel New Orleans (600 Carondelet St., 504-900-1180) Warehouse District

This hotel is set in the Warehouse District, a stone’s throw from the historic French Quarter. Rooms evoke the French Deco grandeur of New Orleans and the hotel has world-class dining at its various restaurants and bars. But the star of the show is Alto, the rooftop garden, bar, and pool, for fantastic views — and a fantastic happy hour menu, to boot. According to Conde Nast Traveler, “the vibe is decidedly hipster; prepare to mix with young and beautiful people around the rooftop pool.” >> Book this hotel for less

Windsor Court (300 Gravier St., 800-262-2662) Central Business District

For a luxury stay in the buzzing Central Business District just two blocks from the French Quarter, head to Windsor Court, a European-style hotel with a full-service spa, top-notch dining, and a rooftop pool and bar. The 65-foot saltwater pool keeps guests entertained with a cabana-style bar. The oversized rooms mix modern design elements with old-world charm, plus Mississippi River or city skyline views. One Tripadvisor reviewer aptly describes the Windsor Court as “swanky, but in an elegant way.” >> Book this hotel for less

Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans (2 Canal St., 504-434-5100) Downtown

Want to check out the largest hotel pool in the Crescent City? This landmark, 34-story riverfront tower has a dazzling 75-foot pool with a crescent shape in honor of the gently curving Mississippi. Head to the 34th-floor observation deck to see some of the best views in town. Conde Nast Traveler praises its “understated elegance” while a Yelp reviewer says: “Enjoyed our stay there more than any hotel we’ve stayed in.” >> Book this hotel for less

Omni Royal Orleans (621 St. Louis St., 504-529-5333) French Quarter

Right in the heart of the French Quarter, the Omni has wrought-iron railings and Creole and French touches that add to the charm. Open year-round, its rooftop pool offers views overlooking the historic neighborhood and stretching to the Mississippi River. One Google reviewer calls the hotel “the best of all worlds. Centrally located yet calm and quiet. Feels fancy yet unpretentious.”  >> Book this hotel for less

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