Destination of the Week: The Windsor Court
Photo credit: The Windsor Court.
This week, Daily Travel Source is featuring the classic and heartfelt New Orleans hotel, The Windsor Court. We caught up with Ralph Mahana, General Manager, The Windsor Court, to learn about the hotel’s elegant touches, mouth-watering dishes, and strong connection to the city’s vibrant culture.
The Windsor Court has long been a symbol of refined luxury in New Orleans. How does the hotel maintain its classic elegance while evolving with the modern traveler?
At The Windsor Court, we’ve built lasting relationships with generations of guests, many of whom return year after year. They come for that sense of timelessness; a place that feels like it’s always been here, and we honor that by staying true to who we are. While we make thoughtful updates to ensure modern comfort, we don’t chase every trend. New Orleans is a city with deep roots, and we reflect that spirit: classic, storied, and always welcoming, yet with all the conveniences today’s traveler expects.
New Orleans is rich with culture, food, and music. How does The Windsor Court integrate local flavor into the guest experience—whether through cuisine, design, or partnerships?
Being independently owned gives us the freedom to embrace New Orleans authentically. Our design, cuisine, and partnerships reflect the city’s history and character rather than a corporate template. Guests find themselves surrounded by local art, seasonal Louisiana ingredients on their plates, and experiences curated to connect them to the city we love. It’s not manufactured, it’s the real New Orleans, elevated.
Many guests say staying at The Windsor Court feels like stepping into another world. What do you think creates that timeless atmosphere?
The moment you turn into our courtyard, the city’s energy softens. Our art collection and interiors tell a story of grace, but it’s our service - personal, warm, and genuinely attentive; that transports guests. We hold onto an old-school approach to hospitality, where people are welcomed like old friends and cared for in ways that never go out of style. It’s that blend of beauty, quiet, and heartfelt service that makes it feel like stepping into another world.
With New Orleans being a city of celebrations, how does The Windsor Court stand out as a destination for special occasions, from weddings to festivals?
In a city famous for celebration, we offer something rare: a luxurious setting that’s still full of life. From weddings to festival weekends, guests know to deliver an experience that feels both special and effortless. Word travels quickly in New Orleans - those who want to celebrate in style, where nothing feels forced, find their way to us.
If a guest only had 24 hours at the hotel, what curated Windsor Court experiences would you recommend to capture the essence of both the property and the city?
Start the day with breakfast in bed, enjoying views of the Mississippi River. Spend the afternoon indulging in a spa treatment, then linger over our signature Afternoon Tea in Le Salon. As evening falls, enjoy live jazz and craft cocktails in The Polo Club. It’s a day that captures the heart of both The Windsor Court and New Orleans, refined, soulful, and unforgettable.
