Mardi Gras and parade logistics at the hotel

Where the parades pass the hotel

InterContinental New Orleans is located at 444 St Charles Ave and sits directly on the St. Charles Avenue route used by Mardi Gras parades. The hotel reports more than thirty annual parades pass by the front door during the season.

Being on St. Charles means parades travel along the streetcar line that runs past the hotel; that gives you street-level access to many processions without a long walk into the French Quarter. Photo: 0

Watching parades from the hotel

Curbside viewing: guests can watch parades from the sidewalk outside the hotel. Expect crowds on parade days and plan to arrive early to secure a spot on St. Charles Avenue.

Room viewing: if you prefer privacy, request a room with a balcony or a room facing St. Charles. The hotel’s room types that specifically include balconies are Premium Room, Balcony and Suite, 1 Bedroom, Balcony — ask the concierge about available views and room assignments.

• Arrive several hours before parade start for best curbside spots.
• Ask front desk or concierge about recommended floors and room orientation facing St. Charles.
• If you need a private outdoor space, request Premium Room, Balcony or Suite, 1 Bedroom, Balcony when booking.

Reservations, check-in and room logistics

Standard check-in at InterContinental New Orleans is 4:00 PM and check-out is 11:00 AM; late check-out may be available for a fee subject to availability. During Mardi Gras, early arrivals for parade viewing are common — contact the front desk about luggage hold if you arrive before 4:00 PM.

Minimum check-in age is 21 for the lead guest on the reservation. The hotel welcomes children of all ages, but note the registration policy when booking. For groups, use the hotel’s meetings and event team to discuss private event space or hospitality suites.

• Bring a government photo ID and the card used for incidentals — hotels commonly require a deposit at check-in.
• If you arrive early, ask about luggage storage and whether an earlier room assignment is possible.
• For group hospitality (hospitality suites, private viewing), contact the meetings/events team well in advance.

Getting to and from the hotel during Mardi Gras

St. Charles streetcar runs past the hotel and provides a practical, low-cost way to travel along the route; individual fares and multi-day Jazzy Passes cover streetcars and buses. Streetcar service can be slower during parade season due to crowds and occasional route adjustments.

Taxis and rideshares are available but expect longer pickup times and surge pricing during large parades. The hotel offers on-site valet parking (height restrictions and daily surcharge apply); nearby self-parking options exist but fill up on busy days.

• Streetcar fares: standard one-way fares apply; consider multi-day Jazzy Passes for multiple rides.
• Plan extra travel time for pickups and drop-offs during parades.
• Confirm valet hours and policies with the front desk on parade days; nearby public lots are alternatives if valet is full.

Dining, amenities and where to eat during parades

On-site dining includes Trenasse (Cajun-Creole) and Pete’s (English-style pub). Trenasse serves lunch and dinner daily and Pete’s offers breakfast and evening menus; Pete’s breakfast runs early enough for pre-parade meals and does not require reservations for its breakfast service or cocktail hour.

If you plan to watch from outside, Trenasse or Pete’s can provide meals before or after parades; poolside dining on the rooftop is available daily between 7:00 AM and 10:00 PM, which overlaps many parade schedules.

• Pete’s breakfast is served daily from about 6:30–11:00 AM—good for pre-parade meals.
• Trenasse is open 11:00 AM–10:00 PM (10:00 AM opening on Sundays).
• Rooftop pool offers poolside dining service during its open hours (7:00 AM–10:00 PM).

Safety, crowds and practical tips

Expect large crowds on St. Charles Avenue during Mardi Gras; keep personal items secure and discuss meeting points with your party before parades start. The hotel’s concierge can provide up-to-date local guidance on safety and best viewing locations.

Remember the hotel is smoke-free and family-friendly. If you travel with pets, the property requires a signed pet waiver and a pet deposit; confirm the pet policy and any parade-day restrictions with the front desk before arrival.

• Arrive early to claim curbside space; chairs and small coolers are common but check local parade rules for prohibited items.
• Use the hotel’s concierge for current parade maps, crowd-control notices, or recommended arrival times.
• If traveling with children, set a clear rendezvous point and consider balcony or indoor viewing from the hotel to avoid street crowds.