For those looking for a one stop shop haunted experience in New Orleans, a stay at the Drury Plaza Hotel should be at the top of your list. Once the home of the Cumberland Telephone Company, a lot of incredible history awaits you at this hotel.
Did you know?
- Former home of the Cumberland Telephone Company
- Built in 1917
- The interior of the building preserves its historic charm
- Allegedly haunted by nearby specters
Set in the Central Business District, a short walk from the French Quarter and New Orleans' most haunted attractions, this is a go-to for paranormal enthusiasts that want to experience the paranormal while still getting some shut eye.
Why Stay at the Drury Plaza Hotel?
It's no secret that the Drury Plaza Hotel isn't the most haunted hotel in New Orleans. However, it's the perfect location for guests who enjoy history and want quick access to other haunted attractions in the city.
Nearby Haunted Locations
Le Pavillon Hotel
Only a short, two minute walk from the Drury Plaza stands one of the most haunted hotels in the Big Easy, Le Pavillon.
Reportedly haunted by over one hundred entities, a stop by Le Pavillon guarantees a hauntingly-good time. According to many, the very grounds the hotel sits on are a portal to the other side.
But you don't have to stay at Le Pavillon to experience its paranormal activity, even the hotel's bar is haunted. Imported from Chicago, it's said that the bar witnessed the infamous Valentine's Day Massacre.
Lafayette Cemetery #1
The St. Charles streetcar - located right by the hotel - connects passengers to one of the most haunted cemeteries in New Orleans, the Lafayette Cemetery.
This burial ground has been a filming location for movies such as Dracula (2000), as well as music videos, and t.v. shows.
Many visitors claim they've witnessed eerie apparitions and heard strange noises on the premises. There's no doubt that a ghost-lover will enjoy a stroll through the notoriously-haunted Lafayette Cemetery.
Commander's Palace
A ride on the St. Charles streetcar not only takes you to a haunted cemetery, it also takes you to a haunted restaurant!
Conveniently located right across the street from Lafayette Cemetery #1, Commander's Palace is home to a good number of specters, including its original owner, Emile Commander. His ghost often manifests as a middle-aged, well-dressed man with a moustache.
History of the Drury Plaza Hotel
The building that houses the Drury Plaza Hotel was built in 1917 by the Cumberland Telephone Company. At the time, the Times-Picayune declared it "the most attractive building in the city."
The accolades were due to the building's elaborate gardens and stunning architecture. Its structure boasted reinforced concrete, brick, stone and terracotta. But its exterior wasn't the best part. Inside the building, you'd find expertly-crafted bronze doors and marble window sills.
Employees of the Cumberland Telephone Company could also enjoy a private recreation area with lush landscaping and seating. The building remained a property of the telephone company until the 1980s.
The building remained vacant until the late-1990s, when it was saved from being demolished by the Preservation Resource Center, the Lafayette Square Association, and the Louisiana Landmarks Society.
It was soon acquired by Drury Hotels who restored the unique design elements that make the Cumberland Building such an important piece of history. During its renovation, its original staircase and chandeliers were all preserved.
Perks of Staying at the Drury Plaza Hotel in New Orleans
The Drury Plaza Hotel is conveniently located smack dab in New Orleans' Business District. Nearby attractions, great dining and buzzing nightlife await with the French Quarter only a short walk away.
The Drury Plaza combines old world charm with modern amenities. When you stay at the Drury in New Orleans, you can enjoy free breakfast and an amazing dining experience. The hotel also boasts a large pool area, a bar, and a gym.
Next to the hotel, the St. Charles Streetcar takes passengers to both the Garden District and Uptown. A stay at the Drury not only guarantees a hauntingly-good time, it also puts you in the middle of the jazz-filled, voodoo infused, city of New Orleans.
Visitor Tips
- Ask staff about recent paranormal activity
- Bring a camera for potential ghost photos
- Visit common areas after midnight
