Family Friendly Astor Crowne Plaza

 Location The Astor Crowne Plaza is located at 739 Canal Street on the outskirts of what is considered old town New Orleans. It boasts  693 rooms and suites and is within walking distance of most famous New Orleans landmarks as well as eateries and shopping venues.

What makes it family worthy?

Not only is the location itself quite good but the rooms and amenities were incredible. We also received excellent service from all members of the staff that we encountered. Overall, I would highly recommend this hotel to anyone who happens to be traveling through the area.

Fellow Travelers

In general, New Orleans is a top travel destination for couples, but all travelers are well-represented at this particular establishment.

Décor

As is typical of most hotels, the Astor Crowne Plaza uses a lot of neutral colors throughout the building. Boldly patterned accent pieces are also used to add much-needed splashes of color in some areas.

Noteworthy

Check out the lobby antique looking candelabras, the colorful streetcar in the entrance and the different Mardi Gras and Santa decorations around the lobby.

Steal for home

The high back green velvet seats in the lobby were our favorites!

Rooms

We stayed in a standard room at this hotel, but it was very spacious nonetheless. Our large, comfortable two queen beds each with several pillows .and a  large nightstand between them. It held an alarm clock and a standard phone. There was also a small work desk area, which contained a lamp, an additional phone, and a chair for us to use. The room further contained a low chest of drawers with a regular television on top of it so that travelers could sit on the bed and watch their favorite shows. As one walked into the room, they encountered a large full-length mirror, but there were some others in the room. There was also a lovely sitting area which included a sizeable, patterned arm chair and a footrest that was large enough that it could be used for seating purposes if necessary. This was further complemented by a small, round tea table that was made of wood and contained several clean drinking glasses and an ice bucket for travelers to utilize. There was also a lamp behind the sitting area, which provided good lighting for reading and other activities. The bathroom area was standard but fit our needs well nonetheless. It contained tiled floors and the usual features such as a toilet, a tub, and a sink with a sizeable mirror. Above the bathroom was a large silver rack that held ample amounts of linens. The typical bathroom supplies were provided including shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and soap. A second mirror was attached to the walls which could be pulled out when guests were shaving or applying makeup in the morning. Guests with long or thick hair will be happy to know that these rooms each included a hairdryer attached to the bathroom wall. The bathroom area also contained a coffee maker along with all the relevant supplies.We were delighted to discover that unlike many hotels we have stayed in, this one provides a rubber anti -slip mat for its guests.

Nice touch

The mini pepper spice and nightly cookie in the room were appreciated touches.

Facilities

The impeccably clean hotel contains both a gym and an outdoor swimming pool. The reception desk never closes, so that customers can reach someone at all hours should they require assistance with any matter. The service found at this hotel is exceptional. However, guests should note that, while Wi-Fi is free of charge in public sections of the hotel, there is an additional charge if one wishes to use it in their rooms. The Crowne Plaza also has vending machines that are perfect for facilitating quick snack breaks, but those who are in need of more food can enjoy delicious meals at the onsite restaurant. Those who are merely craving cocktails or other adult beverages might instead make their way over to the hotel’s bar for refreshing libations. Executive Lounge As platinum IHG members we were upgraded and given access to the executive lounge.The breakfast is a typical continental one with a few added dishes, but they do offer a cocktail hour with wine and beer (extra charge) as well. Don’t miss the excellent Dickie Brennan restaurant located in the hotel offering delicious NOLA grub but make sure you reserve in advance since it tends to get busy in the evenings. If you wish to stay on budget and still taste some of their appetizers and cocktails make sure you drop by during their Happy Hour (weekdays 3-6.)

Autism Travel Tips 

It is a good idea for noise -sensitive travelers to request a room overlooking the courtyard rather than one that is facing out on the busy Canal or Bourbon streets.We had a room of the former type, and it was incredibly peaceful. We had a room with very high beds (30 inches off the floor) that got us a tad bit worried about our son with autism falling off. If this is a concern ask for a different room or, at least, a couple of chairs you can place on both sides of the bed to block the potential fall. The tub in our room had safety handles, which always makes it easier for disabled persons to enter and exit the bath. https://youtu.be/yfvKPFt2Z4o     [mappress mapid=”89″]]]>