ORLANDO, Fla.—Hard Rock International is expanding its hotel portfolio into the historic French Quarter and New Orleans Theater District with plans to open Hard Rock Hotel New Orleans and the Residences at the Hard Rock Hotel New Orleans. Working in collaboration with local developer Kailas Companies, the 18-story building is scheduled to open in the spring of 2019.
Located on a landmark corner in the heart of New Orleans, blocks from the sixth largest convention center in the country, the property will sit adjacent to two-street car lines, allowing guests easy access to all parts of the city. The new development melds together New Orleans’ rich history of music and culture.
“As Hard Rock continues to expand globally, our focus will be influential cities with deep musical roots,” says Todd Hricko, senior vice president, head of global hotel development for Hard Rock International. “Home to a unique melting pot of cultures, New Orleans—known for its nightlife and vibrant live-music scene–has been a desirable choice for our next Hard Rock Hotel.”
Accommodating both business and leisure travelers, Hard Rock Hotel New Orleans will offer 350 rooms for hotel guests, in addition to 62 one, two, and three-bedroom units available for purchase beginning in the spring of 2018. Almost every room has balcony or terrace overlooking the city, including Canal-facing parade-route suites. With Hard Rock boasting the world’s largest music memorabilia collection—which now includes more than 80,000 items—walls throughout the property will be adorned with pieces to fit the local music scene while paying homage to the city’s historic background. The property will also have four dynamic meeting spaces along with two ballrooms, totaling approximately 12,000 square feet of event space.
“We feel privileged to partner with Hard Rock International to bring this exciting development to the French Quarter. Our goal is to host New Orleans’ great traditions of music and cuisine through fine dining, entertainment, and rooftop venues,” says Mohan Kailas, founder of Kailas Companies. “We are excited to share the Hard Rock experience, and we’re sure it will soon become a favorite for locals and visitors alike.”
Regionally-inspired food and beverage offerings will be available on-site, such as a three-meal all-day dining option, a grab-and-go option, and a pool bar and grill. The property will also have an upscale restaurant that will offer authentic Louisiana seafood, low-key music, and drinks. The new hotel will include a lobby bar and a rooftop sky bar and lounge.
The hotel will offer music-based experiences available through brand-wide amenities and programs, including access to the Rock Shop, where guests will be able to purchase Hard Rock merchandise, as well as Sound Body wellness experiences, such as a fully-equipped Body Rock workout facility and Rock Om, an in-room yoga experience that energizes the body and soul through the power of music. Also available will be the brand’s signature Sound of Your Stay amenity program, which is an interactive, in-room music experience. Hotel guests will also be able to indulge in VIP services on the eighth floor’s Rock Royalty Level and Lounge.