Gayle Benson Acquires Iconic Windsor Court Hotel in New Orleans
According to reporting from Lodging Magazine, JLL Hotels and Hospitality Group has facilitated the sale of The Windsor Court in New Orleans. The 314-key luxury asset was sold by The Berger Company and Crow Family Holdings to GMB Properties, an entity led by New Orleans Saints and Pelicans owner Gayle Benson.
Context from Industry Pulse
The sale of The Windsor Court represents a significant shift toward local stewardship for one of the most prominent hospitality assets in Louisiana. By transitioning from a joint venture between The Berger Company and Crow Family Holdings to GMB Properties, the hotel aligns with the broader sports and entertainment portfolio of Gayle Benson. This acquisition occurs as the New Orleans market continues to leverage major demand drivers like the Caesars Superdome and the National WWII Museum. The high suite mix of the property suggests a continued focus on the luxury segment, which remains resilient in high-traffic urban corridors near convention centers and cruise terminals.
The Windsor Court serves as a cornerstone of the New Orleans central business district hospitality market. As Lodging Magazine reports, the 23-story building first opened its doors in 1984 and has since established itself as a premier luxury destination. The hotel features a high concentration of premium inventory, with suites making up more than 86 percent of the total guestroom count.
The transaction follows a 17-year period of ownership by The Berger Company and Crow Family Holdings. During this tenure, the sellers implemented several significant renovation programs to maintain the property competitive edge. These upgrades targeted various areas of the hotel including the public spaces, meeting facilities, wellness centers, and guestrooms. The property also features a high-end presidential suite located on the penthouse level.
Operational management for the property has been handled by Avion Hospitality since earlier in 2024. The hotel infrastructure includes five distinct food and beverage outlets, featuring a coffee bar, a pool bar, and the well-known Grill Room and Polo Club. For business and social events, the building offers eight separate venues totaling more than 11,000 square feet of flexible meeting space.
Location remains a primary driver for the asset value. Lodging Magazine notes that the hotel is positioned within walking distance of major tourist and business hubs such as the French Quarter, the Warehouse District, and the Mississippi River waterfront. It also sits near critical infrastructure including the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, the Caesars Superdome, and the Port NOLA cruise terminals, ensuring steady demand from both leisure and corporate travelers.
The Industry Pulse Bottom Line
This transaction highlights the enduring value of iconic luxury assets in major tourism hubs. Local ownership by GMB Properties ensures the hotel remains deeply integrated into the New Orleans economic and cultural landscape.