Hilton Garden Inn New Orleans French Quarter/CBD

Retrofitted into an older office building, the exteriors of the Hilton Garden Inn New Orleans French Quarter/CBD may be a bit bland and nondescript, but guests are greeted in a bright and modern lobby that's filled with light and cozy corners to settle into. The ample, granite-floored space features a cheery tangerine-hued recessed ceiling suspended with a medley of white lamps framing a large white front desk with lime green trim. The comfortable seating area is full of contemporary couches and armchairs in an array of colors, as well as a large communal wooden table and a fireplace.

While the surrounding streets are mostly commercial buildings and other hotels, this property is two blocks away from Bourbon Street, where travelers will find many restaurants and bars, and within walking distance of the French Quarter. There's a tram that stops right down the street and several more stopping on Canal Street, which is two blocks away. The convention center is a seven-minute drive away or about 20 minutes on foot or by bus. There's a bus that goes directly to the airport that stops about a seven-minute walk from the hotel.

The fairly spacious and comfortable rooms are a bit bland due to chain-like decor that includes wall-to-wall carpeting in graphic patterns and the occasional framed photograph on mustard-colored walls, but they're clean and pleasant. Contemporary furnishings include dark wood headboards and work desks with ergonomic chairs. All rooms are outfitted with an array of modern amenities that include Keurig coffeemakers, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, microwaves, and free Wi-Fi (though guests complain that it's slow); some also have sleeper sofas, and suites add a separate living room. Bathrooms have standard white granite vanities and shower/tub combos and are stocked with Neutrogena products and fluffy towels.

A small rooftop pool and hot tub are surrounded by a deck which offers expansive views of the city. There's a fitness center with large windows that overlooks the pool and is equipped with several exercise machines, free weights, and exercise balls. There's also a casual dining restaurant that serves breakfast (not included in the room rate), lunch, and dinner, and offers a kids' menu, plus evening room service. The hotel offers valet parking, a small convenience store with snacks, and a 24-hour business center with access to a computer, fax, and copier. Coin-operated laundry facilities are also available. The hotel has several meeting rooms and event spaces.