Blake Hotel New Orleans, BW Signature Collection

This hotel is highly regarded for its prime location directly on the Mardi Gras parade route, offering guests a unique and memorable experience. Its central position makes it an excellent choice for sightseers, cruise passengers, and business travelers due to its proximity to major attractions and the convention center. Many guests appreciate the friendly and helpful staff who contribute significantly to a positive stay. The hotel is also a good fit for couples and families looking for convenient access to the city's vibrant atmosphere. To enhance your visit, it is advisable to confirm parking arrangements and costs in advance, and to be aware that while the hotel boasts classic charm, some areas may reflect its age.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities, though guest experiences are mixed. The elevators are frequently noted as being slow or inefficient, sometimes leading to longer wait times. While Wi-Fi is available, some guests found it to be spotty or unreliable. The fitness center is present but described as limited, potentially humid, and in need of equipment upgrades, with some weights missing or machines having broken handles. In-room amenities typically include a coffee maker, mini-fridge, and microwave, though their placement can be inconvenient, and some guests reported issues with their functionality, such as refrigerators not cooling effectively. Ice machines are available, but their location or working status can vary.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is varied. While many guests found their rooms to be clean and the beds comfortable, a notable number reported significant issues. Common complaints include filthy carpets, stains on linens and curtains, dust on surfaces and vents, and the presence of mold in bathrooms or on walls. Rooms are often described as dated and in need of updates, with peeling paint, holes in walls, and non-working fixtures. Issues with hot water availability or low water pressure are frequently mentioned, as are constantly running toilets and clogged drains. Some guests also experienced problems with the air conditioning being loud or ineffective, and windows often have a peeling film that obstructs views.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel features an attached restaurant or cafe that receives positive remarks for its convenience and the quality of its food. Guests often praise the breakfast options, describing the meals as good or delicious. However, it is important to note that breakfast is not typically included with the stay and incurs an additional cost, with some guests finding the buffet prices to be high, especially during peak seasons. The presence of a bar is also mentioned, providing a convenient option for guests looking to relax on-site.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently highlighted as its strongest asset, placing guests within easy walking distance of numerous popular destinations. It offers excellent proximity to the French Quarter, Bourbon Street, the Superdome, and the WW2 Museum, making it ideal for exploring the city on foot. Public transportation is highly accessible, with a streetcar stop directly in front of the hotel, providing convenient and affordable travel to areas like the Garden District. Parking is a significant point of concern for many, as the hotel primarily offers expensive valet parking which can be slow or unavailable, especially during major events. Guests often seek alternative public parking garages nearby due to the high cost and occasional inconvenience of the valet service.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Guests frequently commend the attentive service provided by the front desk team, who are often described as accommodating and responsive to requests. The check-in process is generally smooth, with some guests appreciating the option for early check-in. However, there are recurring issues with room keys frequently demagnetizing, requiring multiple trips to the front desk. Housekeeping service also receives mixed feedback, with some guests reporting inconsistent room cleaning or a lack of replenishment for towels and toiletries, despite the staff's overall willingness to assist when notified.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel is an older property and, while well-maintained in some aspects, many areas are noted as needing updates and renovations. A significant draw for many visitors is the hotel's location directly on the Mardi Gras parade route, with some reviews highlighting dedicated viewing areas and security measures during these events. A common point of contention among guests is the presence of undisclosed property service fees or other additional charges that are not clearly communicated at the time of booking. Furthermore, some guests reported persistent issues with water temperature and pressure in their rooms, indicating a need for plumbing improvements.