Why is it called the Lookout?
The building was commandeered by the US Navy and used as a lookout over the Mississippi River for submarines prior to WWI.
Did the building flood during Katrina?
No. We were lucky. We are on high ground. 3 Feet above sea level! We housed FEMA evacuees, who were all our friends anyway.
Where can we volunteer?
Click here for volunteer resources.
Are there cooking facilities/common area?
We have outdoor cooking facilities only. The cabana has coffee, micro, toaster oven, sink, paper and plastic supplies, sugar, Try-me coffee: fresh-roasted local coffee, tea, creamers. There’s a commercial gas grille with single stove burner, pots or pans available by request. Each suite has private living rooms where guests can congregate. Otherwise, shared areas are patio and cabanas.
Must we rent the whole place?
Nope. Feel free to rent one, two, three or four suites!
Is this a full-service hotel or a vacation rental?
Something in between—we offer privacy for our guests. There is always someone available, but there is no full-time attendant. We are not up in anyone's business, unless you bother the neighbors with noise late at night, you are free to do as you like.
Is there an extra charge for cleaning?
No, to keep our rates low for our customers, we provide cleaning at least twice a week — but usually every other day. Please let us know if you require daily cleaning, additional charges may apply. We provide sheets, towels, beach towels, shampoo, conditioner, soap, cups, toilet tissue and paper products. We also offer cleanup after a party or celebration for an additional charge.
Will you sign confidentiality agreements for VIPs?
Yes. We understand the need for privacy for certain guests. We will never reveal information about our guests. The neighborhood is also very respectful of privacy.
Do you allow bachelor/bachelorette parties?
Absolutely! We have become a favorite with bachelor/bachelorette parties from all over the country. We also offer use of a CO2 kegerator and stereo system and outdoor tv with movie channels and NFL Sunday Ticket!!! at no extra charge.
Will other guests disturb us?
No. We advise bachelor/bachelorette parties to rent the whole house. The rooms are insulated and carpeted and very quiet. With only 4 rooms you may not run into others, and feel you have the place to yourselves. We attract the same laid-back type of people and have had nothing but good experiences between guests. Many make friends and hang out together.
Are the rooms quiet?
Yes. Many buildings in New Orleans are not insulated. John insulated the guest rooms the way he would in New England so they are very quiet. The train does come by a few times a day. Of course it goes through much of the city. You get used to its charm quickly.
Do you allow children and elderly?
We advise families traveling with children or elderly to stay at the all-inclusive Hilton on Canal Place. We do not have handicapped access, or a full-time attendant so it may not be comfortable for elderly folks. Since we only have 4 rooms we are not required to be handicapped accessible and the historical committee would not let us have a ramp. There are no attractions for children in walking distance, mostly just bars and restaurants.
Is there a common area or kitchen indoors?
Cooking facilities and common areas are outdoors, of course each suite has a living room where guests can congregate.
Is the pool area clothing optional?
No indeed. That’s the “Dive Inn” I don’t know if they are still open. Not that we care what you do alone with your own peeps, but clothing is not optional around other guests. (Thanks!)
Are the rooms non-smoking?
Yes the rooms are strictly non-smoking. Smoking of all kinds is permitted outside.
How late is the pool open?
Technically, 11pm, but if you are quiet and don’t bother anyone . . .
How, when and where do we check in/check out?
Our check-in/out policy is very casual. You can check in any time after 2pm. Inquire about earlier check in. For odd hours we leave the key with a sign and instructions. Checking out, simply leave your keys in the room. We will charge the credit card on your reservation.
How many people does the property sleep?
15 with shared beds, 4 queen beds, 3 queen sleeper sofas, and one single.
Should we rent a car or take a taxi?
We recommend renting a car, only since the airport is a half hour from the city. Taxi’s are $30 each way for up to two people. We strongly suggest you call UNITED CAB. They will not charge the additional mileage from Elysian Fields if they know you are going to a B&B. If a cab driver is unaware of that, just tell them to ask the dispatcher. Call them from the airport after you get your bags and they will meet you outside.
United Cabs Inc
www.unitedcabs.com1634 Euterpe Street
New Orleans, LA 70130-4434
(504) 522-9771Is there public transportation?
YES, the #5 bus will drop you off on our block. It goes to through the Quarter to Canal Street by the Convention Center
Can we rent bikes?
YES, click here for bike rentals. They will deliver to the Lookout Inn.
How difficult is it to find a parking space?
In our area there’s ample street parking. The French Quarter can be difficult. We can advise you where you are most likely to find spaces just outside the FQ and walk in.
How far is the French Quarter?
1.6 mi, 5 min (long walk, perfect bike ride, short cab ride)
If you are driving, it's a good direction to be coming from, as there is
ample parking on our side (east) of the Quarter.How far is the convention center?
3.4 mi, 12 min (#5 bus goes there)
How far are the nearest bars?
0.1 mi, < 1 min
Where can we get alcohol, wine, groceries etc.?
Bacchanal Fine Wines is in short walking distance. The Mardi Gras Zone has expanded since the hurricane to offer a large variety of groceries and hot food. There are also convenience stores nearby. For parties, we recommend stopping on the way from the airport since there are no grocery stores downtown anymore. Stop at Rouses on Veteran’s highway: From airport, take Clearview North Exit, right on Veteran’s (first interchange), Rouses in on right. They have everything you need. Contact Eilio’s Wine and Spirits, uptown for keg prices. We charge to pick up and deliver kegs.
Where can we get breakfast?
Feel free to contact Kerry for more information:
888-947-8188 • 504-947-8188
the Lookout Inn of New Orleans
833 Poland Avenue, NO, LA 70117
