Do drop in to the Dew Drop Inn's Haven Pool Club in Central City
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The renovated historic Dew Drop Inn is open for business, and that includes its swimming pool out back, dubbed the Haven Pool Club.
Why it matters: With heat indexes routinely climbing past the 100-degree marker, there's no better place to be in New Orleans than in a swimming pool.
Catch up quick: Soon after the Dew Drop Inn first opened in 1939, it became an integral part of the Chitlin' Circuit clubs that offered a space for Black musicians to stay and play in New Orleans.
- Through the years, it hosted legendary performers like Little Richard, Ray Charles and Professor Longhair.
- But the building fell into disrepair, and after Hurricane Katrina, it was left dormant until New Orleans developer Curtis Doucette brought it back to life.
The latest: Today, the Central City hotel has 17 rooms for overnight stays, a performance space, restaurant and bar on site, plus a pretty pool in the back that allows drop-in guests.
Dive in: The centerpiece of the Haven Pool Club is fairly small, but it's still a decent size for a quick dip or somewhere to laze as you sip a cocktail and chat with friends on the pool deck.
- The yard itself is fully-bricked over, and lounging pillows and chairs with cute umbrellas complete the picture.
Yes, but: On the day I visited, I wasn't actually able to get in the water as it turned out another party had booked the entire space for Essence Fest. And if that tells you anything, it's that the Dew Drop pool is already a popular spot.
If you go: Pool access costs $20+. Call for availability at 504-948-3002.
Go deeper: 12 hotel pools you can dive into all summer.