Not sure if it's within budget or not, but the
Hotel Provincial on Chartres St is about the only place my parents will stay when they go. 2 blocks Northeast of Jackson Square Park, and several of the buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Your room may not have a fantastic view of the city, but the assorted courtyards and outdoor sitting areas more than make up for it.
I've stayed there a couple of times myself. If she can swing the budget, it's totally worth it.
