A Perfect Weekend in New Orleans
You can’t go wrong with a po’boy and an evening on Bourbon Street when visiting New Orleans. The city’s charm, laid-back culture and incredible street fare sets it apart as a must-see destination. Here is our favorite way to spend a weekend in the Big Easy.
Stay
Hotels may be plenty in and around Bourbon Street, but the Garden District has a stunning elegance that you’ll want to see. This area offers historically gorgeous homes, stunning gardens and unique shops. Home-share sites like VRBO offer the opportunity to stay in such abodes – where you can have the perfect balance of New Orleans flair by day and charm by night. Just keep in mind that New Orleans “charm” doesn’t discriminate against those plastic Mardi Gras beads. Oh, you’ll see ‘em. In trees, on fences, and hanging from power lines. But you’ll likely come to love ‘em.
Getting Around
Street cars are our favorite and easiest way to explore the city. For just a few dollars a day you can hop from the French Market attractions to the Riverwalk shopping district, to historic monuments and just about everywhere in between. They’re fun, they’re classic, occasionally a little rowdy, but always convenient!
Eat
Well, hello to fun words and deliciousness! There’s just so much to try - jambalaya, crawfish etouffee, fluffernutters, you name it. The popular District Donuts offers all kinds of creations from 7-layer donuts to spicy sliders. The French Quarter’s Café du Monde is also a perfect spot for great coffee and beignets. And there’s no shortage of excellent southern food just about anywhere you go. Be sure to try gumbo and chargrilled oysters (Acme Oyster House is a great option).
Music & Drinks
New Orleans is a town that loves a good party! Music is embedded into the culture with live jazz, brass bands, and creole beats taking center stage in many of the bars and restaurants. Our favorite spot for soulful tunes is on Frenchmen Street, where there’s a 2-block stretch that pulses with great music clubs. From The Spotted Cat to Snug Harbor to Blue Nile venues, your options are plenty for excellent live music.
In the French Quarter of New Orleans, you’ll find the distinct and revolving Carousel Bar. It’s a local favorite with a regular schedule of entertainment and craft cocktails. Vogue Living recently named this whimsical yet classy spot a Top 20 Bar in the World. It also overlooks the popular Royal Street making it a fun stop and for great people-watching. Take a spin on this Merry-Go-Round with drink in hand – you’ll be glad you did!
The Mardi Gras City, The Big Easy, N’awlins - whatever you want to call it, there’s something for everyone. Next time you’re there, make sure to go Big!