Hyatt Regency New Orleans

Because this property caters to business travelers and convention-goers, it gets busy. People are constantly streaming in and out of the huge marble-floored, escalator-flanked lobby, which is impressively backed by a sweeping staircase and tons of natural light thanks to huge windows. There are multiple check-in desks but also virtual check-in possibilities. Even the elevators are efficient and room key-activated. Guests often gather in the common areas between work sessions, or stream toward the nearby Superdome for events. The size of this hotel can actually feel a little intimidating and hard to navigate, but there is good signage, and it starts to make more sense once guests get their bearings.

Located in the Central Business District, literally across from the Mercedes Benz Superdome, the Hyatt Regency New Orleans is situated at the convergence of two main downtown roads (which can get pretty busy). However, it's easy to reach all of NOLA's attractions from this property. The French Quarter is less than a mile away, and the Loyola Avenue Streetcar stops right outside the hotel. Parking here, as with almost all NOLA hotels, is valet or self-park near the hotel for a pricey penny. Guests may want to consider a daily unlimited ride "Jazzy Pass" for the streetcar lines, rather than drive.

There are 1,193 guest rooms at the Hyatt Regency new Orleans, and all look pretty similar to each other. The contemporary style and calming colors -- neutrals with a splash of cranberry or sapphire -- ensure a cozy stay. The trademarked Hyatt Grand Beds are plush and topped with quality white linens. Technology includes 42-inch flat-screen TVs and iPod docking stations. All rooms have mini-fridges and coffeemakers. Spacious bathrooms have natural stone counters, spa-style toiletries, and shower/tub combos. Only Hyatt Regency Club members with Platinum status get free in-room Wi-Fi, everyone else has to pay for it. The property tries to adhere to environmentally friendly policies (guests decide whether they need fresh linens, etc.). Some rooms have cool views of the Superdome.

The heated saltwater swimming pool (located on the fifth floor) has plenty of free sun loungers and a few cabanas for rent. The Bywater Pool Deck & Bar serves salads and grilled fare, along with mixed drinks, including the "Best Hurricane in NOLA" (pun clearly intended). In addition, there are four restaurants: the sporty Vitascope Hall; farm-to-table 8 Block Kitchen and Bar; barbecue at Q Smokery & Buffet; and award-winning seafood restaurant Borgne. Plus, there is a Starbucks on the property with free Wi-Fi. Room service is available, including through the Hyatt app. The 24-hour fitness center has amazing city views. There are 200,000 square feet of event space available (the most of any hotel in New Orleans), along with 70 meeting rooms, two large ballrooms, and exhibit spaces. On Friday and Saturday nights, the Hyatt offers free live jazz in the 8 Block Kitchen and Bar area.