Maison St. Charles by Hotel RL

The historic and elegant charm of New Orleans can be seen in the decor of Quality Inn & Suites Maison St. Charles. The property comprises a cluster of gray motel-style buildings with white trim and small brick courtyards filled with plants, fountains, and tables. Outside, wrought-iron fences, lush gardens, an entrance with a three-tiered fountain, and a Mississippi River mural on a brick wall give the property a bit more refinement than what many guests may expect from a budget chain. Interiors combine vintage French decor with a modern twist: black-and-white tile floors and striped walls look more contemporary, while antique velour chairs and couches, glass chandeliers, and patterned floral carpet lend a historic New Orleans vibe. That being said, some furniture and accents look worn. An outdoor pool and quaint brick breakfast room provide other places for guests -- mostly couples and families -- to hang out, though many spend their day out and about in New Orleans.

Quality Inn & Suites Maison St. Charles is located in the Garden District of New Orleans, a residential area located west of downtown and the French Quarter. It’s ideal for guests looking to stay far from the bustle of the Quarter, but still be able to easily access New Orleans attractions. A streetcar stop in front of the hotel allows guests to travel to the French Quarter and Bourbon Street in about 20 minutes (the ambitious can walk there in 30 minutes). The National WWII Museum is an eight-minute walk from the hotel and The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk, a shopping center, is a 25-minute walk and is located on the Mississippi River. Frenchmen Street, home to live music, arts, and flea markets, is a 50-minute trip via streetcar and bus, or 15-minutes away by cab. There's a variety of dining options on surrounding streets, including some fast food outlets directly opposite the hotel. Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is a 20-minute drive away. 

The hotel offers 130 rooms and suites, some of which are more modern than others. The updated rooms have a Mardi Gras theme with purple walls, striped curtains, mid-tone wood furniture, and gold-framed mirrors -- admittedly the look won't be for everyone. Other rooms -- including the suites we visited -- have vintage French decor. Think: antique wooden furniture, floral carpets, deep-red velour curtains, and glass chandeliers, though some furniture in these rooms is more dated than antique. All rooms include include a flat-screen TV, coffeemaker, and free Wi-Fi. Microwaves and mini-fridges are available in some rooms and in all suites, which also have safes, ironing facilities, and sleeper sofas -- plus the option of a balcony (some of which offer views along one of the Mardi Gras parade routes). Complaints have been made concerning in-room maintenance and cleanliness issues, as well as problems with housekeeping services. Bathrooms include shower/tub combos, hairdryers, and toiletries, and like the rooms, some may show signs of wear or have cleanliness issues. Standard Room bathrooms are sharp, though, and have distinctive black-and-white checkerboard floors plus turquoise accent walls and sleek fixtures.

The hotel has a variety of leisure features such as an outdoor pool and hot tub located in a lovely central courtyard with lounge chairs, tables with umbrellas and chairs, and a covered patio. The free breakfast includes a waffle-maker and hot and cold items such as eggs, biscuits and gravy, pastries, and fruit. The hotel provides free access to the St. Charles Avenue Athletic Club, a fitness center located across the street. A coin-operated laundry room is available for guests to use. Business travelers can make use of meeting spaces and a computer station with printer. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. There’s on-site parking that requires a fee, though it’s less than what many hotels in New Orleans charge.