When it comes to holiday travel, few destinations capture the magic, nostalgia, and luxury of the season quite like The Roosevelt Hotel in New Orleans. Known worldwide for its breathtaking Waldorf Wonderland, this historic Waldorf Astoria property has become the place to experience Christmas in New Orleans. With its glittering lobby, iconic seasonal events, and timeless grandeur, The Roosevelt has rightfully earned the title of “thee holiday hotel” of the Crescent City.
Why The Roosevelt Hotel Is the Best Holiday Hotel in New Orleans
Every December, The Roosevelt transforms into a festive masterpiece that draws thousands of visitors eager to experience its dazzling décor and beloved traditions. Whether you’re planning a holiday getaway, seeking the best Christmas photo spots in New Orleans, or searching for a hotel filled with seasonal magic, The Roosevelt delivers an unforgettable experience.
A Waldorf Wonderland: 112,000 Lights of Pure Holiday Magic
Forget walking in a winter wonderland—New Orleans locals and visitors alike walk straight into a Waldorf Wonderland. The Roosevelt’s legendary lobby is transformed with:
- 112,000 twinkling holiday lights
- 1,600 feet of lush garlands
- 4,000 sparkling glass ornaments
The result is one of the most photographed holiday displays in the South. This immersive holiday walkway stretches through the hotel’s grand lobby, inviting guests to slow down, take pictures, and soak in the enchanting atmosphere.
A Life-Sized Gingerbread House & a New Orleans–Style North Pole
Holiday magic continues as The Roosevelt unveils its charming life-sized gingerbread house, crafted with rich detail and nostalgic whimsy. It’s a favorite among families, photographers, and anyone who appreciates the artistry of traditional holiday baking.
Just steps away, the hotel’s on-site North Pole embraces New Orleans culture with a set inspired by the iconic St. Louis Cathedral. This NOLA-flavored Christmas backdrop hosts the famous Teddy Bear Tea, one of the city’s most beloved holiday traditions.
Seasonal Cocktails at the Sazerac Bar
Adults will find their holiday spirit at the historic Sazerac Bar, the birthplace of the iconic Sazerac cocktail. During the holiday season, the bar introduces festive specialty drinks like:
- The Candy Cane Cocktail
- The Christmas Cookie
Served in a warm, wood-paneled setting that feels timeless and intimate, these holiday cocktails turn an ordinary evening into a seasonal celebration.
The Perfect Holiday Getaway in New Orleans
Whether you’re traveling for family traditions, a romantic holiday weekend, or a luxury staycation, The Roosevelt Hotel offers the best holiday hotel experience in New Orleans. Guests enjoy:
- Elegant rooms and suites with classic New Orleans charm
- Easy access to French Quarter attractions
- On-site dining and seasonal events
- One of the most iconic Christmas lobbies in the United States
A Tradition That Defines the Season
For generations, The Roosevelt has been the heart of New Orleans’ holiday celebrations. Families return year after year to take pictures under the lights, sip cocoa at the Teddy Bear Tea, and start their Christmas season in a place that feels both grand and deeply familiar.
This is more than a hotel—it’s a holiday tradition, a cultural staple, and a symbol of all the beauty that the season brings to the city.
Why The Roosevelt Is “Thee Holiday Hotel” of New Orleans
If Christmas had a headquarters in New Orleans, it would be The Roosevelt.
If the holidays had a signature scent, it would be the aroma of pine, gingerbread, and warm cocktails drifting through its lobby.
If the season had a soundtrack, it would echo off those marble floors.
