If you want to stay in the epicenter of Decadence, Bourbon Orleans Hotel is the place to be. There are 25 suites with balconies, an opulent, marble-clad lobby, and a courtyard pool—but rooms sell out fast. “We are currently at 90 percent capacity and we do expect to fully sell out for Southern Decadence this year,” said Wilson. Book via the Southern Decadence website for the best rates.

There’s no pool at this hotel, but it’s slightly more affordable than others in the French Quarter, and it’s close to all the events. Don’t forget to stop by The Bombay Club, a swanky, wood-paneled jazz lounge, for a martini.

The Omni Royal Orleans is a six-minute walk from the center of the festivities—but if you don’t feel like going to Decadence, let Decadence come to you when its parade passes by the hotel. The 345-room hotel includes a gym and rooftop pool.

In addition to a prime location less than a block from Bourbon Street, this boutique hotel boasts heavy-hitting amenities: a free cocktail upon arrival, free wi-fi, and free in-room coffee.

Located in the CBD, Ace Hotel is far from the beaten path—but that could be a good thing, depending on your perspective. Its trendy Three Keys venue offers a slate of Decadence-related programming, including Grrlspot (a pop-up lesbian bar) and an LGBTQ pool party.