Planning a trip to the New Orleans area but want a quieter, more affordable base? The Wyndham Garden Hotel in Metairie, Louisiana, is a solid choice. Located just minutes from the French Quarter, this hotel offers convenience without the Bourbon Street chaos. But is it right for you? In this guide, we’ll cover everything from room types and amenities to local dining and common pitfalls. Whether you’re visiting for business, a family vacation, or a romantic getaway, these practical tips will help you make the most of your stay.
Room Options and What to Expect
The Wyndham Garden Metairie offers standard guest rooms and suites. Standard rooms come with one king or two queen beds, a work desk, flat-screen TV, mini-fridge, microwave, and coffee maker. Suites add a separate living area with a sofa bed—great for families. All rooms feature free Wi-Fi (speed is decent for streaming). Pro tip: Request a room facing the courtyard for quieter nights; street-facing rooms can pick up traffic noise. Check the room photos carefully on booking sites—some older rooms have dated decor, while renovated ones are modern. Avoid: booking the cheapest rate without reading recent reviews about cleanliness. Some guests reported maintenance issues like broken AC units. Always check the hotel’s direct website for package deals that include breakfast or parking.
Amenities That Matter (and Some That Don’t)
This hotel features an outdoor pool (seasonal, unheated), a fitness center with basic cardio machines, and a business center. Complimentary breakfast is available but varies: pre-packaged items like granola bars, yogurt, and coffee during COVID times, but may return to full hot breakfast. What’s useful: The on-site restaurant, TGI Fridays, is convenient for a quick meal or drink. What’s not: The pool is small and often crowded on weekends. Parking is free—rare for New Orleans area hotels. Practical step: Call ahead to confirm breakfast status and pool hours before booking. If you need laundry facilities, there’s a guest laundry room (coins required). Ask for extra towels at check-in; housekeeping can be inconsistent.
Location and Transportation Tips
Wyndham Garden Metairie sits on Veterans Memorial Boulevard, a main artery. It’s a 10-minute drive to the French Quarter (without traffic) and 15 minutes to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. Getting around: Renting a car is easiest since parking at the hotel is free. Uber/Lyft to the Quarter costs about $15-20. The Jefferson Transit bus stops nearby but is not tourist-friendly. Walkability: There are several restaurants and a Walmart within walking distance, but the area is car-centric. Avoid: walking alone late at night on side streets; stick to well-lit main roads. For day trips, consider visiting the nearby Lafreniere Park or the Mardi Gras World in New Orleans.
Dining Options: On-Site and Nearby
The hotel’s TGI Fridays serves American classics like burgers, wings, and salads. It’s open for lunch and dinner. Alternatives: Within a 5-minute drive, you’ll find local favorites like Drago’s Seafood Restaurant (famous for charbroiled oysters) and Zea’s Rotisserie (great for Asian-inspired dishes). For budget eats, try the Popeyes just down the street. Pro tip: Skip the hotel breakfast if it’s not included—head to Café Du Monde in the Quarter for beignets, or grab a coffee at the nearby PJ’s Coffee. Avoid: eating at the hotel restaurant for every meal; it’s convenient but overpriced compared to local spots.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Mistake 1: Not checking for resort fees. Some booking sites don’t include the $5-10 daily fee. Confirm total cost before booking. Mistake 2: Assuming the pool is open year-round. It’s seasonal (usually April-October). Mistake 3: Booking a room with a “city view” expecting skyline—it’s mostly parking lots. Mistake 4: Forgetting to ask about noise. The hotel hosts events and can be loud. Request a high floor away from the ballroom. Mistake 5: Not using the hotel’s direct booking perks. Sometimes they offer free breakfast or late checkout. Real advice: Join Wyndham Rewards for free nights and member discounts. Read reviews from the last month on TripAdvisor or Google to catch recent issues.
FAQ
Q: Is Wyndham Garden Metairie pet-friendly? A: Yes, but with a non-refundable fee (typically $50 per stay). Call ahead to confirm weight limits and availability.
Q: Does the hotel have a shuttle to the airport? A: No, but you can schedule a taxi or rideshare. The airport is a quick 15-minute drive.
Q: What’s the cancellation policy? A: Usually free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before arrival, but some prepaid rates are non-refundable. Check your booking details.
Q: Is breakfast included? A: It depends on the rate. Some packages include a continental breakfast; others do not. Verify when booking.
Q: How far is it from the French Quarter? A: About 6 miles. Without traffic, a 10-minute drive; with traffic, up to 30 minutes.
In summary, the Wyndham Garden Hotel Metairie offers a budget-friendly, convenient option for exploring New Orleans without the noise and high prices. By choosing the right room, planning your meals, and avoiding common booking mistakes, you can enjoy a comfortable stay. Always book directly or through reputable sites, read recent reviews, and call ahead to confirm amenities. Happy travels!