New Orleans is a city where you never have to grow up, where your childhood dreams can bleed into your grown-up life, where there’s a little bit of magic waiting for you at every turn. This city is enchanting, intoxicating, and consuming. When you fall for New Orleans, you fall hard; and once you’re hooked, you keep wanting to come back for more.

I don’t think there is anywhere more magical in this city than the Hotel Monteleone’s Carousel Bar. It fills me with awe every time I see it—a rush of youthful playfulness wrapped in elegant grandeur. There are so many wonderful bars in this city, but this one is just so special. It spins slowly while bartenders craft classic cocktails, and hotel guests and tourists bustle about.

It’s not easy to snag a seat here. Naturally, a place this unique and mesmerizing stays very busy. You can’t make a reservation for the bar; it’s first come, first served. However, now you can guarantee yourself a seat (and more!) when you book the Carousel Bar Experience tour, available exclusively to guests of the hotel. In my opinion, this is reason enough to stay at this already can’t-miss property.

This unique New Orleans experience costs $100 per person and includes a beverage of your choice, as well as an in-depth historical tour of the Carousel Bar led by the fabulous beverage director Marvin Allen (who’s been working here for over two decades). You’ll be let into the bar an hour early, and get to watch the bartenders set up their stations while Marvin shares stories of the hotel and Carousel Bar’s history.

The best part? When the tour ends, the bar opens—and you’re already in your seat at the revolving bar. You’re free to sit as long as you want, and if you’re like me, you may be there for hours. I’m alcohol-free, but the bartenders here are more than willing and able to make you a mocktail, so you can enjoy the vibe with your own beautiful beverage.

Not staying at the Hotel Monteleone and still hoping to secure a spot at the Carousel Bar? It won’t be easy, but it’s definitely possible. I’ve walked in mid-week, mid-day and found a couple of empty seats at the bar. This is much more likely to happen in the slower, summer months. You can also arrive early and get in line before they open the doors. I’d recommend getting there at least a half hour early (they open daily at 11 a.m.) if that’s the route you’re going with.

I’ve walked by this hotel so many times, and I always check to see how busy it is—even if I’m not going in. Sometimes there’s a long line before they open; sometimes only a couple of people are waiting. Your odds are definitely better on a Tuesday or Wednesday than on a weekend, so plan accordingly.

Another option? Grab a seat in the bar area and keep an eye out for an opening. While only 25 seats make up the rotating carousel itself, the full bar and lounge area is quite spacious. You can settle into one of the cozy chairs or couches nearby, sip your drink, and keep watch. Just know that people can be ruthless when it comes to snagging one of these coveted seats. Folks will post up for hours and wait, and there isn’t a system to get on a list—you just need to be the first to appear the very second another guest gets up. It is not for the faint of heart, but it can be done. Just be prepared: everyone else in the room is also eyeing the carousel and waiting for any indication that someone might be leaving.

That’s why the Carousel Bar Experience is your best bet, even if you’re only staying one night. A link to book the tour will be available in your hotel reservation confirmation, so make sure to check your email after booking. It’s worth every penny—not just for the guaranteed seat, but for the experience, the stories, and some of the most iconic photos you’ll take in New Orleans.

Hungry for more? Check out a few of my latest New Orleans food adventures:

• The Brunch You Didn’t Know You Needed at Mister Mao
• Luvi – I Love You! A Review of One of Uptown’s Most Unique Dining Spots
• Vincent’s Italian Cuisine: A Review and a Return to Food Writing

Follow me on Instagram @StephForrer and Twitter @StephForrer for more food, travel, and New Orleans moments.