Look, the French Quarter is packed with hotels, but the Holiday Inn French Quarter-Chateau Lemoyne stands out for one simple reason: it gives you that historic New Orleans charm without the Bourbon Street chaos keeping you up all night. It's a block off the madness, steps from the action, and tucked inside a building that's been around since 1847. Plus, there's the whole "is it haunted?" question that seems to follow this place around — and honestly, that alone makes it worth talking about. Let's get into it.
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Quick Facts
The Full Write-Up
Location, Location, Location
Let's start with the obvious: this hotel's address is practically a cheat code for exploring New Orleans. Situated at 301 Dauphine Street, the Chateau LeMoyne is literally steps from Bourbon Street — about a one-block walk — but just far enough that you won't be serenaded by drunken renditions of "Sweet Caroline" at 3 AM. Jackson Square is a 10-minute walk, Canal Street is five minutes on foot, and the French Market is an easy stroll away.
The walkability score here is a perfect 100 out of 100. That means you can park your car (more on that in a minute) and forget about it for the entire trip. Everything you came to New Orleans for — the food, the music, the history, the beignets — is within walking distance.
The Vibe: Historic Charm Meets Modern Comfort
The Chateau LeMoyne isn't some generic chain hotel dropped into the French Quarter. It's housed in a complex of buildings dating back to the mid-1800s, originally three townhouses that cost $24,000 to build back in 1847. The building was designed by famed architect James Gallier, who also designed Gallier Hall and the Pontalba buildings at Jackson Square. Over the years, it served as a clothing store and even a parking garage before becoming a hotel.
The 2015 renovation brought the property into the modern era while preserving its historic soul. Guest rooms feature exposed brick walls, sophisticated furnishings with natural wood accents, and vintage artwork. You'll also find modern touches like complimentary Wi-Fi, 48-inch flat-screen HDTVs, Keurig coffee makers, and mini refrigerators. Bathrooms have walk-in showers with chic subway tile and illuminated mirrors.
Some rooms even come with wrought-iron balconies overlooking the French Quarter streets below. Can you imagine sitting out there with your morning coffee, watching the city wake up? That's the kind of energy this place has.
Amenities That Actually Matter
The courtyard pool area is a real highlight — a heated saltwater pool tucked away in a brick courtyard that feels like a secret garden. It's the perfect spot to cool off after a day of walking or to just unwind with a drink in hand.
Other amenities include:
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the property
- On-site restaurant (breakfast served, converts to a bar/lounge in the evenings)
- Fitness center (via partnership)
- Valet parking ($50/day for standard vehicles, $65 for oversized)
- Pet-friendly policy ($75 per stay)
- Kids eat free
- 24-hour front desk and concierge service
One thing to keep in mind: housekeeping is limited, so don't expect turndown service every single day. But honestly, you're in New Orleans — you should be out exploring, not sitting in your room waiting for someone to fluff your pillows.
The Haunted Question
Alright, let's address the elephant in the room. Or should I say, the ghost in the bathroom?
Yes, the Holiday Inn French Quarter-Chateau Lemoyne is widely considered to be haunted.
Now, before you roll your eyes or start packing your crucifix, let me explain. New Orleans is one of the most famously haunted cities in America, and the Chateau LeMoyne has earned its place on that list. The hotel has been mentioned as one of the most haunted properties in the French Quarter.
So what's the story? There isn't one single ghost with a tidy backstory here — no tragic bride, no murderous pirate, no voodoo priestess. Instead, the hauntings at Chateau LeMoyne seem to be more of a general presence, with multiple guests reporting similar experiences over the years.
One guest shared a story about waking up around 3 AM to the sound of someone in the bathroom, picking things up and putting them down on the vanity. When they investigated, they saw nothing — but later captured a shadowy figure blocking the bathroom light on video. The same guest reported that when they asked the presence to stop, it did.
Another visitor described staying on the second floor of the Creole Quarters a few years after Hurricane Katrina. Around 3 AM, his wife woke up to the sensation of hands pressing down on her leg, slowly moving upward. She was frozen with fear until she moved her leg and the sensation stopped.
Other guests have reported waking up at 2 AM feeling like they were being watched, walking through cold spots, and even seeing floating orbs above the bed.
Here's the thing, though: most people who've experienced these phenomena don't describe feeling threatened. One guest said, "Oddly enough I didn't feel the least bit threatened. I just told it to be quiet". Another said, "I didn't feel frightened at all. I slept like a baby that week".
So is it haunted? Based on the number of first-hand accounts, the answer seems to be yes. But is it scary? That depends on your tolerance for unexplained bathroom noises at 3 AM. For many guests, it's just part of the charm — a little extra New Orleans flavor you won't get at a cookie-cutter chain hotel.
My Take (Because You Asked)
Look, I haven't stayed here myself — yet. But after digging into the history and reading through guest experiences, I can honestly say this place is on my list for the next NOLA trip. The location is unbeatable, the historic charm is genuine, and the ghost stories add a layer of intrigue that you just don't get at most hotels.
Would I be nervous about staying in a haunted room? Maybe a little. But I'd also be the one asking the front desk for a room on the "active" floor just for the story. That's the thing about New Orleans — the city leans into its weirdness, and the Chateau LeMoyne is no exception.
Practical Tips for Your Stay
Parking: Valet only, and it's not cheap ($50/day). If you're flying in, consider skipping the rental car altogether — you won't need it in the French Quarter.
Best Rooms: If you want the full experience, ask for a room with a balcony overlooking Dauphine Street. If you're hoping to avoid any supernatural encounters, maybe request a room away from the Creole Quarters (that's where some of the more active reports have come from).
Pool Hours: The pool closes at 10 PM, so plan your evening swim accordingly.
Noise: The hotel is generally quiet, but you're still in the French Quarter. If you're a light sleeper, bring earplugs just in case.
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Nearby: What to Do Within Walking Distance
One of the best things about the Chateau LeMoyne is how much is right outside the door. Here are a couple of can't-miss activities just a short walk away:
Jackson Square & Café du Monde — A 10-minute walk gets you to the heart of the French Quarter. Grab some beignets and chicory coffee at Café du Monde, watch the street performers in Jackson Square, and soak in the energy of one of America's most iconic public spaces.
Bourbon Street — It's literally a block away. Whether you're there for the live music, the bars, or just people-watching, Bourbon Street delivers. Just remember: what happens on Bourbon stays on Bourbon (and in your camera roll).
French Market — An easy stroll from the hotel, the French Market is perfect for souvenir shopping, local crafts, and more food than you can possibly eat in one visit.
Preservation Hall — About a seven-minute walk, this legendary jazz venue is a must for music lovers.
Summary / Takeaway
The Holiday Inn French Quarter-Chateau Lemoyne offers the best of both worlds: a historic, character-filled property in the heart of the French Quarter, with modern amenities and a location that can't be beat. It's close enough to Bourbon Street to feel the energy but removed enough that you can actually sleep at night. The ghost stories add an extra layer of intrigue — whether you're a believer or a skeptic, there's no denying this place has a story to tell.
If you're planning a trip to New Orleans and want a hotel that feels like part of the city's history rather than just a place to sleep, the Chateau LeMoyne is worth a serious look. Just maybe pack a nightlight if you're easily spooked.
Ready to book? Check rates and availability now — and who knows, you might just leave with a ghost story of your own.
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