The Place D'Armes - Breathtaking Hotel in the Heart of New Orleans

The Place d'Armes may look plain and unassuming from the outside. Sporting a single balcony, a gas lamp, and its sign, the hotel might easily be passed by. But step inside, walk down the carriageway, and suddenly the place opens up to a breathtaking courtyard surrounded by several restored townhouses. A swimming pool, an outside bar, fountains and multiple tables are just some of the treasures to be found among the dense, tropical foliage. In the middle of a setting like this, it's easy to forget you're anywhere near modern society.

The Place d'Armes, originally built in 1725, offers 85 guestrooms, each of which supplies modern amenities without losing any of their historic charm. Renovated in 2003, every room includes a king or two double beds, cable TV, hairdryer, iron, coffee maker, and wireless internet. However, all the modern touches are quickly over shadowed by old world charm conveyed by exposed bricks, authentic antique furnishings and 19^th century-inspired décor that are present in all rooms. Rooms with a courtyard view also have balconies, while other rooms offer views of St.Ann and St.Charles streets.

Located at 625 St.Ann Street, the Place d'Armes might just be the best placed hotel in New Orleans. The only hotel in Jackson Square, it is in the heart of the French Quarter, and many famous attractions are mere blocks away. (For those who don't know, what is known as the French Quarter today was the original city of New Orleans, and Jackson Square was considered the hub.) Move one block toward the river and you're at Café du Monde, well known for their French donuts, called beignets. One block in the other direction will leave you on the rather infamous Bourbon Street. And Bourbon Street, well, it's known for its alcohol content mostly, but also has the usual array of specialty shops and souvenir stores. One of the more interesting bars on Bourbon Street is called Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop (941 Bourbon Street), and is actually one of the two surviving original buildings in the city. For excellent dining, Muriel's sits in the building directly beside the Place d'Armes, and offers a wonderful selection of food, plus a full bar. Private rooms can be rented for parties and the restaurant also has two public dining rooms. A full menu and more information can be found at Muriels.com. In addition to the many other historic streets within a block or two, most of New Orleans' walking tours (such as the ghost and vampire tours) depart from in front of St. Louis Cathedral, literally around the corner. These tours are entertaining and educational, giving groups a plethora of information on the supernatural, as well as on the history of the city itself.

As with most of the buildings in New Orleans, the one that houses the Place d'Armes has its share history and stories. The first school in New Orleans was located in the building, as noted on a plaque in the front, but most of the original building was destroyed in the fire of 1788. However, it's thought that the school's headmaster, who was killed in the fire, has not yet felt the need to leave. He is reported to be the resident ghost of Place d'Armes. Every good historic building needs a ghost. (Unfortunately, I didn't see anything strange during my recent stay. However, I didn't learn about this until afterward. Next time I'll be on the lookout!)

For any travels to New Orleans, and for any occasion, I would highly recommend the Place d'Armes. As far as location goes, it simply can't be beat, and the hotel ranks pretty high when it comes to charm, beauty, and seclusion as well. Rates are also very reasonable, especially considering the location. The Place d'Armes is a true hidden gem in the city of New Orleans!!