Omni Royal Orleans

After The City Exchange closed its doors in 1830, aspiring businessman James Hewlett decided to use the building to house a grand hotel. Hewlett, a Creole man descended from the city’s Black and French populations, had long yearned to own a magnificent commcercial hub that would rival other New Orleans hotels in its elegance. When the hotel opened in 1843, it stood as one of the most glorious buildings in New Orleans. Its opening ceremony was attended by some 600 guests.

From then onward, this single block of the French Quarter has been a witness to the city’s transformations. Paul Newman, Patti LaBelle, and Muhammad Ali are just some of the 20th-century guests who stepped through its doors. Today, Omni Royal Orleans stewards the grand building at the spirited intersection of St. Louis and Royal streets. This AAA Four Diamond hotel incorporates modern amenities with a classic design and offers gastronomy influenced by the crossroads of cultures in New Orleans.

Omni Royal Orleans has been named to these Historic Hotels of America Top 25 Lists

The 2025 Top 25 Historic Hotels of America in Film and Television History
The 2023 Top 25 Historic Hotels of America in Film and Television History
The 2021 Top 25 Historic Hotels of America for a Romantic Proposal


Omni Royal Orleans is currently renovating the fitness center and pool. The fitness center and pool will be closed will be closed until further notice.