DESTINATION
"THE CITY THAT CARE FORGOT"
New Orleans isn't just a place you visit—it's a place you experience. For more than 300 years, the city has blended French, Spanish, African, Caribbean, and American influences into a culture unlike anywhere else in the world. History lives around every corner, but New Orleans has never been content to simply preserve its past. Instead, it celebrates it with a vibrant spirit that's warm, welcoming, and wonderfully authentic.
Of course, New Orleans is also the birthplace of jazz, and music is woven into the fabric of everyday life. It drifts from historic clubs, neighborhood restaurants, and even the sidewalks of the French Quarter. Pair that soundtrack with legendary cuisine—from gumbo and jambalaya to po' boys and beignets—and you've got a city that knows how to savor life. Just be prepared for the unexpected. You might find yourself following a brass band down the street, discovering an unforgettable neighborhood restaurant, or stumbling upon a celebration that wasn't on anyone's itinerary. In New Orleans, some of the best experiences are the ones you never planned.
That spirit is one of the reasons we chose New Orleans for the 2026 Rumpus. It's a place with a personality all its own—where individuality is celebrated, and people come together to create something special. We hope you'll take advantage of everything this remarkable city has to offer while reconnecting with old friends, making new ones, and helping strengthen the unique culture that continues to define the Ausdal family.
THE ROYAL SONESTA
The Royal Sonesta New Orleans is one of the French Quarter's true landmark hotels, offering a rare blend of elegance, history, and unmistakable New Orleans charm. Perfectly situated on the liveliest stretch of Bourbon Street, the hotel places you at the center of the city's energy while providing a sophisticated retreat when it's time to relax. Rich architectural details, lush tropical courtyards, wrought-iron balconies, and gracious Southern hospitality create an atmosphere that feels authentically New Orleans without sacrificing comfort or refinement.
Perhaps the hotel's greatest feature is its remarkable ability to offer two completely different experiences. Step outside the front doors and you're immersed in the colorful sights, sounds, and excitement that have made Bourbon Street famous around the world. Yet just moments later, you can find yourself enjoying the quiet serenity of the hotel's beautiful courtyard, relaxing with a cocktail beneath swaying palms, or listening to world-class jazz in the intimate Jazz Playhouse. It's a reminder that New Orleans is far more than its lively reputation—it's a city of hidden courtyards, timeless architecture, exceptional music, and unexpected moments of tranquility.
Throughout the week, the Royal Sonesta will serve as much more than our conference hotel—it will be the heart of the 2026 Rumpus. Whether you're beginning your morning with coffee in the courtyard, reconnecting with friends between sessions, or simply unwinding after an evening of music and celebration, you'll quickly discover why this iconic property has welcomed discerning travelers to the French Quarter for generations. It's the perfect home base for experiencing everything New Orleans has to offer.
