Benson Takes Full Local Ownership of Windsor Court Hotel

Gayle Benson, owner of the New Orleans Saints, is acquiring The Windsor Court hotel, a transaction announced Oct. 30 that would place the property under 100% local ownership for the first time in its history. The hotel has operated for more than four decades.

The Berger Company, run by Darryl and Ryan Berger, will hold a minority interest and stay involved in operations. Benson's team said the deal reflects her commitment to New Orleans and her confidence in the city as a destination for travelers.

"The Windsor Court is an iconic piece of New Orleans history, and it is a tremendous privilege to help shape its future," Benson said. "My vision is to build on that excellence and take it to even greater heights."

The Windsor Court opened in 1984, ahead of the World's Fair. Benson's team said improvements to the property are planned, and General Manager Ralph Mahana said an upcoming renovation is in the works. He said local ownership provides a foundation for the hotel's next chapter and that the focus of the work will be on the guest experience.

Benson thanked the Berger family for the process. "I am deeply grateful to Darryl and the Berger family for making this acquisition such a smooth and collaborative process," she said. "They have cared for this hotel with great pride, and their involvement has made it possible to begin this next chapter with a shared commitment to its continued success."

Terms of the acquisition, including the size of the Berger stake and the sale price, were not disclosed in the announcement. Benson said hotels like The Windsor Court introduce visitors to New Orleans, and that she wants every guest to leave with a sense of what makes the city distinctive.