Welcome to New Orleans The Mississippi river first defined her, 17th century explorers and early settlers laid her foundation, and the artists, musicians, chefs, and others who followed built her into the Queen of the Mississippi. Unlike any other American city, from its unique architecture to its famous celebrations, New Orleans inspires and intrigues residents and visitors alike. New Orleans is a walking city with the hotel situated just steps from the best shopping, museums and attractions. The French Quarter, Aquarium of the Americas, Mississippi Riverfront and the St. Charles Avenue Streetcar Line are all within a four block radius of the hotel. The USS Constellation Association reunion program will give you the opportunity to experience some of the area’s top attractions during a city tour, lunch cruise aboard the Natchez Steamboat on the Mississippi river, take a cajun bayou tour by swamp boat, and a visit to the National WWII Museum among other things. Hotel Information We will be staying at the superb Astor Crowne Plaza New Orleans Hotel, located at 739 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA 70130. The hotel is located near the French Quarter and close to many of the area’s top attractions including the fabulous Harrah’s Casino within easy walking distance. We have rooms held at the group rate from September 5-10, 2017. For those who choose to extend their stay the group rate is available up to 2 days before and after, based on availability. If you have any trouble getting a room at the group rate call Eileen of MRP @ 817-251-3551 for assistance. The room rate is $119.00 plus tax per night, based on single or double occupancy. On-line hotel reservations will be available on October 18, 2016 or call Astor Crowne Plaza New Orleans reservations at 1-504-962-0500. Mention that you are with the USS Constellation Association Reunion to assure you are associated with your group. Ask the agent who answers if they are at the hotel. It is always best to make your reservation directly with the hotel and not a central hotel-chain call center. MRP has negotiated numerous amenities for you that the call centers may not be aware of. (Note: only those booking under the reunion group code are eligible for amenities that may include free breakfast, reduced parking, internet, etc. Booking through another channel like reunionhotels.com disqualifies you and your party from group amenities). Make your reservations today as rooms may sell out! You may cancel up to 72 hours prior to arrival without penalty. The hotel is holding rooms until they sell out or August 6, 2017, whichever comes first. Don’t miss out on getting a room! Transportation & Directions For those of you flying to the reunion, the closest airport is New Orleans International (MSY). Transportation to and from the airport is available through Airport Shuttle Co. (504-522-3500); current per person pricing is $20 one way or $38 roundtrip. Taxi service also available; current rates are $33 for 1 or 2 people and $14 additional per person each way (non-stop). For those of you driving to the reunion, the hotel only offers Valet parking which is available at the Canal Street entrance. The Valet Parking fee is 42.00 USD plus tax per night. Note there are open air parking lots nearby that are less. Car rental arrangements may be made through the hotel Concierge.