My family, minus the mom, traveled a full three miles from home to stay so that Mom's college buddies could take over our house.

We had a great stay, but I can see how some of the issues identified in other reviews could be an issue. We were on the 7th floor of the main tower at the end of the hallway in a double. I was vaguely aware of some hallway noises, but nothing that kept any of us awake. The lobby is intimate and charming, but as others have noted, not continually staffed. Sweets and a pitcher of lemonade made the short wait for check-in pleasant, especially for the 5 year old.

The room was spare and simple, in the manner of better Scandinavian hotels. Bedding was fresh and decent, if not as plush as some of the more recently renovated HIlton and Marriott properties (who seem to be in an escalating bed-thickness and pillow-count war).

The rooms on Lee Circle have a sweeping view of the circle and statue and sunset over the Garden District (not as scenic as it sounds; basically roof and tree tops). Don't look too closely at the homeless residents at the base of the monument, especially if a young child is viewing with you. You may end up needing to explain why that dark stain suddenly appeared on the marble monument next to where that man is standing.

One morning when I awoke, I noticed a stern-looking man glaring into our window--quite a feat, considering our windows were 7 floors up. After a few seconds, I realized that was General Robert E. Lee, who forever faces the north from his perch atop the stone column at the center of the circle.

Other than the better than average breakfast service (crossaints, cereals, coffee and juice), we did not eat here.

Service at breakfast, check-in, and check-out was enthusiastic, but don't expect the sense of experience found at the more conventional hotels downtown. Expect the occasional blank stare when you ask for something out of the ordinary, like a rate confirmation. The hotel is putting forward a young, hip, and (as it name implies) modern experience, which includes some small degree of aloofness. I could see how noise-sensitive travelers could find an issue on lower floors.That aside, we had a great time, felt welcome, and the modern theme was a refreshing change from the typical premium urban center hotel.

We arrived at Hotel Modern on our way to take a cruise. The minute we walked in the door we new we were in for something good. I loved the interior - the beautiful red bird - and the delicious coffee waiting for us. The staff were extremely helpful in arranging cabs, and they even held our bags - after we returned from the cruise - so we could take a walk around New Orleans before catching our plane. I would definitely stay here again.

Despite all attempts at a chic, trendy hotel, the Hotel Modern is no better, and in many ways less impressive, than a common chain hotel. Upon arrival, we waited in the "lobby" area for some time before venturing down a hall to look for a hotel employee. Two employees were in an office, talking to one another. Assuming they were busy and would check us in as soon as they were free, we returned to the main area. After several more minutes, we returned to the employees only area to ask if we could check in. No apologies, just another wait as they finished their personal conversation. Promised drinks on check-in were two glasses of room temperature tap water (out of a fancy decanter). The room itself was small but well-laid-out and was clean with a few minor exceptions. Sleeping was the real issue over the four nights we were there. New Orleans was in the 70's and lower 80's (gorgeous!), and despite frigid temperatures in the hallways, our air conditioner didn't work at all. In addition to trying to sleep in a too warm room, the walls and ceilings are paper thin, and the door literally had a gap around it that let in a large amount of light, and sound, from the hallway. Flushing toilets, running showers, televisions, coughing, or any noise from adjacent rooms was loud enough to wake us.
Additionally, the price quoted online at the hotel's website, where the reservations were made, was not the rate charged, but as the confirmation had no price given, there was nothing we could do.
It was a great trip, and we'll be back in New Orleans soon, but the Hotel Modern will not be our choice again, and we would not recommend it to anyone.

Perfectly trendy while homey place to stay in New Orleans. I'm in love with the floor-to-ceiling bookcases in the lobby, the hand-painted windowpane maps on the walls, and the loquacious parrot at check-in. Our rooms had painted accent walls and trendy, fresh furnishings. Close enough to walk to the French Quarter or take a bus/street-car, but far enough away from the crazy hustle. We were charged exactly what was expected; no deposits or credit card holds. I highly recommend for anyone wanting a fresh room for an affordable price in New Orleans.

Stayed over MLK weekend. 2 rooms at $115/night through Priceline.