Gayle Benson Acquires Historic Windsor Court Hotel

The New Orleans business leader plans multi-year renovations to update the luxury hotel.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Hotels

Screen-print poster illustration of a historic luxury hotel in New Orleans, featuring wrought-iron balconies and warm, layered colors. — New Orleans business leader Gayle Benson acquired a majority stake in the historic Windsor Court Hotel on October 24, 2026. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Gayle Benson finalized her acquisition of a majority share in the Windsor Court Hotel on October 24, 2026. The move aims to increase occupancy rates at the luxury property, which first opened in 1984.

Why it matters

Benson noted the purchase underscores her long-term confidence in New Orleans as a premier destination for both business and leisure travel. The acquisition adds another significant local asset to her extensive real estate portfolio.

The Windsor Court Hotel spans a presidential suite of 2,800 square feet, which received a $2 million update in 2023. Previous capital improvements include a $22 million renovation in 2011 and $15 million in updates in 2018.

The players

Gayle Benson

A prominent New Orleans business leader and owner of multiple commercial properties including the BankPlus Tower and Hyatt Regency.

Windsor Court Hotel

A luxury hotel in New Orleans that has served as a landmark destination since it opened in 1984.

Crow Holdings

A real estate investment firm that served as the majority owner of the Windsor Court Hotel starting in 2009.

The Berger company

A real estate entity that maintains a minority interest and ongoing operational role at the Windsor Court Hotel.

The details

The Berger company will maintain a minority interest and continue overseeing day-to-day operations at the property. The new ownership group intends to refresh the hotel in phases throughout the summer months over the next two years.

The Windsor Court Hotel first opened in 1984.
Crow Holdings became the majority owner in 2009.
Gayle Benson finalized the acquisition on October 24, 2026.
Renovations are scheduled to occur during the summer of 2027 and 2028.
Renovations are expected to reach completion by the fall of 2028.

Travel Outlook

The acquisition reflects a strategic effort to bolster luxury hospitality assets within the city's tourism market. By scheduling renovations during the slower summer months, the ownership aims to balance long-term facility upgrades with seasonal peak demand patterns.

Guests should anticipate phased construction activity during the summer months of 2027 and 2028 when planning future stays. These ongoing updates are intended to modernize the property and enhance the overall luxury guest experience.

The takeaway

The acquisition signals a shift toward local, long-term ownership of one of the city's most prominent luxury hotels. Prospective travelers should monitor the renovation schedule to ensure that planned amenity access remains consistent with their expectations.