New Orleans’ The Drifter Hotel

We’ve all heard stories and songs written about Route 66, but what about Route 61? Infused with enough history to rival its more popular brethren, “The Blues Highway” not only used to be the gateway to New Orleans, but musical greats such as Muddy Waters and B. B. King took the famed route north to fame and notoriety. If that weren’t enough, the highway even ends not too far from Bob Dylan’s hometown of Duluth, MN and served as the inspiration for one of his albums.

Motels peppered stretches of Route 61 during its heyday, each one offering drivers respite from the road’s dusty bends and turns. Sadly, few of these historical motels remain. One recently renovated spot in particular still stands, though, and serves as a fabulous reminder of a bygone era when lazily making your way served to inspire.

Aptly named , the oasis offers the modern-day wanderer everything they need to both unwind and create in a space that’s welcoming and beautiful. A coffee bar, tropical artwork and playful design accents wave a welcoming “Hello!” to travelers in the lobby, and the guest room’s nostalgic bunk beds beg to be cozied into after a long day. Overall, it’s an inclusive getaway that I can’t wait to check into on my next trip to New Orleans, LA. Scroll down to take a peek, and enjoy! —

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Image above: In the 1970s, a couple bought the mid-century lounge and turned it into a four-bedroom apartment. When the hotel bought the property a few years ago, the family’s lackluster renovation had to be reversed in order to accommodate The Drifter’s crowning jewel: its lobby. The breezy space opens up to the pool and features a tropical mural, both of which immediately set the mood for a rela vacation come check-in.