New Orleans hotel rooms can fill quickly, particularly during annual events like Mardi Gras (mid-February to early March) or the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (late April or early May). Try to reserve a room for those times at least two months in advance. Hotels in the main touristy areas are known to raise their rates during this season as well, so you might want to veer away from the French Quarter and choose accommodations in the Garden District, Central Business District or Faubourg Marigny.

French Quarter

A room in the French Quarter is prime real estate: You'll be in the heart of the action, and you'll have an easy time getting back to your hotel at the end of the evening, though the constant sound of revelers can grow tiresome if you're not partaking in the festivities. A property like Hotel Monteleone, on Royal Street, captures that perceived Big Easy charm. If you want more standard – but still luxurious – accommodations, consider The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans.

Central Business District

There are definite perks to choosing a Central Business District spot: cheaper rates, plentiful selection, convenience to French Quarter and a better night's sleep. In fact, one of the city's top hotels resides in this part of town. The hotel in question, Windsor Court, gives great views of the Mississippi and features live contemporary jazz performances every night in the Grill Room.

Garden District

Check out the Garden District if you're partial to bed and breakfasts. This area features a handful of smaller guesthouses – like the Magnolia Mansion and the Chimes B&B – that offer a quiet, rather luxurious atmosphere in the heart of one of the city's most aesthetically pleasing areas. However, there is not much to do here, and there aren't a lot of restaurants to choose from.

Faubourg Marigny

Faubourg Marigny combines the style of Garden District inns with a more central location. Here, small hotels like the Maison Marigny are charming, affordable and close to all the French Quarter action.