The year is 1893. The Mardi Gras parade is in full swing, marching in its third decade. And a local boy, Ferdinand “Jelly Roll” Morton, celebrates his third birthday en route to becoming the world’s first great jazz composer and pianist. The setting is ripe for a legendary hotel to open in the heart of downtown, and that hotel was—and still is—The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel.

“We strongly believe in preserving our 125-year history,” says Tod Chambers, general manager. “We also believe that by our continued pursuit of offering our guests the best possible visit, we have solidified our name’s connection with luxury for years to come.”

The best possible visit now includes $20 million worth of renovations to meeting rooms, guest rooms and the rooftop pool. In fact, all 504 guest rooms were refurbished at the end of 2019.

During your stay, allow the concierge to recommend the best jazz clubs and art galleries in the French Quarter, which lies right at your doorstep. Or perhaps you’d like to book a cruise down the Mississippi or simply stroll the shops at nearby Canal Place. The Roosevelt nestles in the heart of downtown New Orleans, with easy access to all the action.

And let’s not forget its legendary Sazerac Bar, named for one of the world’s first mixed drinks. Today, the bar is celebrating the hotel’s 125th anniversary by serving a commemorative cocktail, the Sazerac 125. This $125 tipple is made of rare Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey and comes in an embossed keepsake glass. Fittingly, only 125 will be sold.

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To raise a glass and help The Roosevelt celebrate its new look, book your stay at The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel.

For more on the history of this iconic property, check out The Roosevelt’s Mystery Lady Timepiece.