Spring and summertime in New Orleans mean a lot of things: walks through City Park with a sno-ball in hand, weekly crawfish boils, bike rides along the river, and, most importantly, cooling off in the nearest pool. True to the city’s welcoming spirit, countless local swim spots invite diverse patrons to spend an afternoon basking in the summer enchantment while taking a dip with friends. Here are some of our favorite LGBTQ+ friendly pools to visit when it’s time for a break from the heat (and an ice-cold drink).
Tropical decor, specialty cocktails, and pop-up events make this blissful poolside hangout an ideal spot for watching the sunrise or sunset (or both, if you’re a hotel guest). The saltwater heated pool is open from April 1 - October 31. Open daily to hotel guests and the public, with Day Passes available: $45 (Mon-Thu) or $55 (Fri-Sun & holidays). For a more exclusive experience, explore their cabana rentals and annual pool passes with added perks.
Located in the Central Business District and just minutes from the French Quarter, this rooftop pool is open to both hotel guests and day-pass visitors. While you relax in the water or in a luxury cabana, you can enjoy poolside food and drink service from the adjacent rooftop bar, Above the Grid.
The Virgin puts their money where their mouth is and comes out with a list of Pride programming during the summer. Vibe at the Pool Club, their rooftop pool complete with a bar. Non-hotel guest pool passes are $25 Monday – Thursday and $35 Friday – Sunday. Louisiana residents can enjoy $10 day passes every Monday, a little love for the locals.
Hotel Monteleone is proud to be LGBTQ+ friendly and they're a proud member of The International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association. Steeped in history, this hotel is known for its grandeur in the heart of the French Quarter. Purchase a pool day pass for $40 so that if you can't spend the night, you can spend the day in style.
This local favorite is famous for its extravagant weekend drag brunches, but it also offers poolside indulgence every day of the week. Both day passes and annual memberships grant access to the temperature-controlled saltwater pool, abundant outdoor seating, and poolside drinking and dining. There’s also a hot tub and sauna to make sure you leave feeling refreshed and revitalized.
On the rooftop of the Barnett Hotel is a poolside hangout with stunning panoramic views of downtown New Orleans and a rustic outdoor bar and grill. The menu features a selection of draught beers, cocktails, and delicious bites. Available on ResortPass, High Five offers a $10 locals day pass, $35 weekday pass and $45 weekend day pass for travelers, with options for deluxe, premium, and luxury cabanas.
The Blackbird Hotel offers a quiet retreat on Prytania Street in the Lower Garden District. This 13-room property offers luxury and intimacy. Day Passes are first come first served - $45 Monday - Friday, $55 Saturday & Sunday.
