HI New Orleans Hostel Review: Affordable Comfort Near the French Quarter

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Have You Been Looking For The Best Hostel in New Orleans? You Need To Check Out HI New Orleans Hostel!

When it comes to exploring New Orleans, finding affordable and centrally located accommodations can feel like a challenge—especially if you want to stay close to iconic spots like the French Quarter and Canal Street. Enter HI New Orleans Hostel, a hidden gem that combines budget-friendly rates with unbeatable convenience.

During my most recent trip to New Orleans, I stayed at HI New Orleans Hostel and was blown away by its thoughtful amenities, welcoming atmosphere, and prime location. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or just curious about hostel stays, this property is a standout option for travelers looking to experience the city without breaking the bank.

In this post, I’ll share everything you need to know about staying at HI New Orleans Hostel, from its room options and facilities to its unique features that make it one of the best places to stay in NOLA!

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Where Is HI New Orleans Hostel?

One of the top reasons I chose HI New Orleans Hostel was its unbeatable location. Situated just across the street from the French Quarter, it offers an affordable alternative to pricier accommodations in the heart of the action.

Key Benefits of the Location:

• Proximity to Attractions: A short walk to the French Quarter, Canal Street, and the Riverwalk.
• Budget-Friendly: Save on rideshare or transportation costs without compromising on convenience.
• Perfect for Events: The hostel’s location made it easy for me to attend Wanderfest, held at the Spanish Plaza by the Riverwalk—a manageable 15-minute walk.

What Types Of Accommodations Are Available At HI New Orleans Hostel?

HI New Orleans Hostel offers various dorm styles and private room options to suit all preferences and budgets. I stayed in a 6-bed female dorm during my stay, and it was a good way to meet people while still not being in too crowded of a room.

Dorm Room Options:

• 4-Bed Dorms: Ideal for smaller groups or solo travelers looking for a quiet experience.
• 6-Bed Dorms: Perfect balance of space and affordability (my choice).
• 8-Bed Dorms: For those seeking a more social experience.

Private Room Options:

• Queen and Bunk Dorms: For couples or friends.
• Queen Ensuite Dorms: Includes a private bathroom for added comfort.

I’ve seen dorm rates start at approximately $26 per night and up depending on seasonality, offering excellent value for money!

Key Features Of The Dorm Beds

The dorms at HI New Orleans Hostel are thoughtfully designed with comfort and convenience in mind:

• Privacy curtains for each bunk.
• Fluffy comforters and clean bedding.
• USB and power outlets at each bed.
• Lockable storage lockers with built-in outlets (accessible via your key card).

Each bed in the dorm rooms is equipped with privacy curtains, a fluffy comforter and clean bedding, USB and power outlets, and a small shelf/cubby for your phone or personal items.

You also get free towels and an area next to your bunk to securely store your luggage and personal items (accessible only with your individual key card for added protection). Some hostels I’ve stayed at in the past required guests to bring their own towels or bedding, but I love that that isn’t the case at HI New Orleans Hostel.

The storage lockers also feature outlets inside, which is a fabulous touch–this way, you can safely charge your laptop/camera/batteries/etc. while you’re sleeping or away without worrying about your items getting lost or stolen. 

🤩Book Your Stay Today to Reserve a Dorm Space for Your Trip to New Orleans🤩

HI New Orleans Hostel Amenities

Staying at HI New Orleans was such a stress-free experience, and the staff made everything incredibly comfortable–all guests needed to do was show up and have a phenomenal stay. The amenities at the hostel were also great!

HI New Orleans Hostel also boasts modern and spacious common areas, including:

• A cozy lobby for socializing and morning coffee.
• A well-equipped kitchen with a large refrigerator for guest use.

I loved connecting with fellow travelers while enjoying breakfast and coffee in the common areas, which were always clean and welcoming! I also took food to-go from a couple of restaurants throughout the weekend, and HI New Orleans Hostel has a large refrigerator for guests to store their take-out in and a full kitchen set-up to cook or reheat food at your leisure. 

Another thing I absolutely love about this hostel is that everything is accessible with just your key card. No need to worry about bringing old-fashioned locks for luggage or holding onto a singular key to enter your dorm. 

The best part about this keycard system is that it’s easy to lock and unlock your individual storage closet in the middle of the night (or early in the morning). When I stay in hostels, I try to be as respectful as possible and keep my noise to a minimum. But it’s pretty challenging to unlock your storage locker and pull out your entire suitcase in complete darkness when everyone around you is sleeping. Not to mention, having to put everything back into the locker and dial your combination in the dark–haha! With the keycard system at HI Hostel New Orleans, it’s much easier to retrieve your belongings in the dark because you don’t need to fidget with any lockpads or remember any codes! 

The property and dorms are very clean, and I felt extremely secure and safe while staying here. The staff was respectful and polite, which made me feel even more at ease during my visit. 

Sustainability Features

As someone passionate about ecotourism and sustainability, I appreciated HI New Orleans Hostel’s thoughtful touches, around the property that were a nod to sustainability like:

• Water-saving showerheads that change color to encourage mindful usage.
• Efforts to minimize waste through shared kitchen facilities.

Each bathroom is private and lockable, and features a sink, toilet, and full size shower with a water-saving shower head! It changes colors to let you know how long you’ve showered in an effort to have guests be more mindful of their water-usage. 

Things To Do Near HI New Orleans Hostel

One of the biggest advantages of staying at HI New Orleans Hostel is its proximity to some of the best attractions and activities New Orleans has to offer. From historic neighborhoods to lively entertainment, you’re perfectly situated to explore the heart of the city without needing a car or rideshare.

Here’s a list of top things to do within walking distance of the hostel:

• Explore the French Quarter (2-minute walk) – The French Quarter is just steps away from the hostel, making it easy to immerse yourself in New Orleans’ vibrant history and culture. Wander through the charming streets, take in the architecture, and stop by iconic spots like Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral. Don’t forget to explore Royal Street for its unique shops and galleries.

Looking for fun things to do in the French Quarter? I highly recommend taking a walking tour, doing a carriage ride, or participating in a ghost/vampire tour of the French Quarter for maximum fun!

• Stroll Along the Riverwalk (15-minute walk) – A short walk down Canal Street brings you to the Riverwalk, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Mississippi River. This area is home to shopping, dining, and entertainment, including the Spanish Plaza, a popular spot for festivals and events. Plus, you could even stop for beignets along the way from Cafe Du Monde—read my post comparing Cafe Beignet vs. Cafe Du Monde to help you decide which spot to visit!

If you have the time and interest in doing a boat ride along the Mississippi River, I can’t recommend it enough! It’s a great way to get a unique perspective of the New Orleans area and the Riverwalk area from the water. My personal recommendation is to book a ride on the Steamboat Natchez or the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen!

• Discover Bourbon Street’s Nightlife (5-minute walk) – For those looking to experience New Orleans’ famous nightlife, Bourbon Street is a must-visit. From jazz bars to lively clubs, there’s something for everyone. Just remember to pace yourself—Bourbon Street can get wild!

If you’re traveling solo and want to explore Bourbon Street safely, I recommend joining a pub crawl or guided group tour.

🤩Ready to Book Your Stay at HI New Orleans Hostel?! Check it Out on Hostel World!🤩

FAQs About Staying At HI New Orleans Hostel

Is HI New Orleans Hostel safe for solo female travelers?

Absolutely! HI New Orleans Hostel takes guest safety seriously. The property is equipped with key card access for the building, dorm rooms, and lockers, ensuring only guests can enter secure areas. Additionally, the hostel offers female-only dorms, providing an added level of comfort and security for women. During my stay, I felt safe and well cared for thanks to the helpful staff and clean, secure environment.

How can I get a good night’s sleep if my hostel mates are being loud?

While staying in hostels can be a social experience, noise levels may sometimes be an issue. To ensure a good night’s sleep, consider packing essentials like earplugs or noise-canceling headphones.

HI New Orleans Hostel also provides privacy curtains on each bunk, which can help block out light and some noise. If you’re a light sleeper, request a lower bunk or bring a white noise app to drown out background sounds.

What is the HI Hostel network?

HI (Hostelling International) is a global network of hostels that focuses on creating safe, affordable, and eco-friendly accommodations for travelers. HI hostels are known for their high standards of cleanliness, security, and community-building amenities like shared kitchens and common spaces. HI New Orleans Hostel is part of this network, offering budget-friendly stays without compromising on quality or experience.

Are towels and bedding provided at HI New Orleans Hostel?

Yes, HI New Orleans Hostel provides clean bedding and towels at no additional charge, so you don’t have to worry about packing your own. This makes packing lighter and your stay more comfortable!

What’s the best way to get around New Orleans from the hostel?

HI New Orleans Hostel is centrally located, making it easy to explore the city on foot. For longer distances, the Canal Street streetcar is just a short walk from the hostel and provides affordable access to attractions like the Garden District and City Park. Rideshare apps are also readily available if you prefer a faster option, or you can rent a scooter or bike!

Why I Recommend Staying at HI New Orleans Hostel

HI New Orleans Hostel is the best hostel I’ve visited in a long time, and I absolutely love this property and the amazing staff.

Overall, my experience at HI New Orleans Hostel was fantastic. The property is clean, secure, and perfectly located for exploring the best of New Orleans. The staff were welcoming and helpful, making my stay stress-free and enjoyable.

Would I stay here again? Absolutely! If you’re looking for an affordable, convenient, and social base in New Orleans, HI New Orleans Hostel is the perfect choice.

Have you ever stayed in a hostel? Tell me about your experience below by leaving a comment, or sending me an email at sydney@sydneybrowntravels.com!

Read More from Sydney Brown Travels

• Cafe Beignet vs. Cafe Du Monde: Who Has the Best Beignets in New Orleans?
• Solo Trip to Washington DC: 15 Things to Do in DC Alone
• Solo Trip to San Diego: 8 Things to Do Alone in San Diego
• Solo Trip to Memphis: 30 Things to Do Alone in Memphis
• One Day in Salt Lake City Itinerary: What to See And Do in Utah’s Capital

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