Downtown New Orleans Hotel Celebrates Mardi Gras in Style

NEW ORLEANS, LA--(Marketwired - Dec 12, 2014) -  Cinderella may have had to rely on a fairy godmother to arrive at the ball, but today's Mardi Gras revelers have only to stay at the right hotel. Not only does the New Orleans Downtown Marriott at the Convention Center afford a convenient location near the parades, but its complimentary shuttle service to several balls makes it a top choice among hotels in downtown New Orleans.

Mardi Gras is officially on February 17, 2015, but the festivities kick off well before then with parades starting as early as January 31. Most celebrants, however, will arrive for an extended weekend right before Mardi Gras, which is just in time to attend the Krewe of Bacchus Ball on February 15 and/or the Krewe of Orpheus Ball (also known as the Orpheuscapade) on February 16.

Travelers exploring hotels near New Orleans' French Quarter will appreciate this property's historic building, riverfront location and luxuriously appointed rooms. But for those planning to attend the Bacchus and Orpheus Balls, the hotel is downright ideal, thanks to its complimentary shuttle service to and from both black-tie events.

The Krewe of Bacchus Ball recently appointed John C. Reilly as this year's king, while the Orpheuscapade will entertain celebrants with Dierks Bentley and Casey James at the Morial Convention Center. Each event attracts thousands of locals and visitors with entertainment, food and, of course, plenty of drinks. And with a themed parade preceding each ball, the fun begins in the early evening and continues until the early hours of the next morning.

When guests book a room at this downtown New Orleans hotel, they experience the highlights of the festivities. Not only does the shuttle service save them the trouble of schlepping back and forth in heels and tuxes, but the hotel's address puts them close by the parade routes. And with a range of hotel rooms available, many with views of downtown New Orleans and all with luxurious bedding to sleep off the good times, guests will look forward to going home as much as going out.

Rates during Mardi Gras range from $379 to $599 per night, and travelers are encouraged to book now for the best availability.

About the New Orleans Downtown Marriott at the Convention Center
History and modernity unite in the New Orleans Downtown Marriott at the Convention Center. What was once a 19^th-century cotton mill now serves as this stunning, 331-guest room hotel where visitors enjoy exceptional Creole cuisine at Wolfe's, coffee at Starbucks and an outdoor pool and fitness center. More than 25,000 square feet of flexible event space complements the services of the nearby Convention Center, as does the hotel's business center. And the more than 300 guest rooms and suites pamper visitors with flat-screen televisions, high-speed Internet access, safes and plush bathrobes. (A Concierge Level with additional indulgences is also available.) While the amenities are numerous, the hotel positions guests to enjoy the best of The Big Easy. Its riverfront location puts the French Quarter and Bourbon Street within walking distance as well as countless other attractions.