The only conference I've missed was Va. Beach.  Airline problems left me stuck in D.C. overnight that time.  Right now we are trying to decide if I willl go, or if my brother will go instead.  He has not been to one since Columbus.  I've been to New Orleans, he hasn't, so my guess is he will be going for our company this year.
The hotel is in a great location.  I would skip the car rental.  The cab fair from the airport to the French Quarter is fixed at a pretty low rate.  There is so much within walking distance of the hotel, I can't see any need for a car.