Weekend Guide to New Orleans
If you haven’t been to New Orleans yet, you definitely need to plan a visit! While most people just associate NOLA with Mardi Gras, it has so much more to offer. The area and architecture are so unique, and the food is to die for. I’ve been to NOLA 3 times, and these are some of my favorite spots worth checking out. It’s worth noting, NOLA is quite the party city. So if you want the chance to take your photos without crowds, aim to do your exploring in the morning while majority of the city is still sleeping from their night out.
*I will mention, the night life can definitely be crazy. I personally felt a little uncomfortable and think some of the places were a bit out of hand. However, I love exploring New Orleans during the day time.
WHAT TO SEE
-The French Quarter. Probably the most famous area of New Orleans, the French Quarter is a must-see. The old Spanish and French architecture makes you feel like you stepped into a different time and place. The area was originally made up of wooden buildings, however after a fire burnt down most of the city in the late 1700’s they rebuilt with bricks and wrought iron that are still present today.
-Jackson Square. A beautiful park in the heart of the French Quarter. It’s a great spot for photos, near some of the best food (& the famous Cafe Du Monde beignets), and usually surrounded by local artists selling artwork. This is a historical landmark due to the Louisiana purchase taking place here.
-The Garden District. Take a tour or walk around to see some of the old southern mansions in the Garden District. You can actually find the house that was featured on American Horror Story here as well.
-Ace Hotel Rooftop. Located closer to the Financial District, this rooftop bar has stunning views of the downtown area.
-Muriel’s Jackson Square Balcony. This is actually one of the restaurants I recommended further down, but make sure you check out the second floor balcony. It offers the best view of Jackson Square.
-New Orleans Streetcars. You can ride the streetcars from the French Quarter down to the Garden District.
-Carousel Bar. I unfortunately still haven’t visited this unique bar, but the photos and reviews are amazing.
-Enjoy the Local Jazz. While there are plenty of jazz bars in NOLA, you can actually just hear jazz played throughout the French Quarter. Every time I’ve gone we’ve had the pleasure of hearing local musicians playing on the streets. If you happen to come across a wedding or funeral you’ll also likely see a jazz band dancing down the street playing while the group follows behind.
WHAT TO EAT
If you visit New Orleans, be prepared to eat a lot of amazing food. New Orleans is a cultural melting pot, and you’ll find a lot of different foods that include aspects of French, African, and Spanish recipes included in them. Some of my favorite foods in NOLA are King Cake, étouffée, gumbo, jambalaya, charbroiled oysters, grilled shrimp Po Boys, and beignets.
-Muriel’s Jackson Square. This is an upscale, yet casual, restaurant located directly next to Jackson Square. They have all of the traditional New Orleans staples on their menu, including an amazing creole inspired brunch. I didn’t know this during our visit, but the building is also thought to be haunted. There have been numerous reports of objects moving by themselves in the dining room, glasses shattering against the wall in the courtyard, and a female voice being heard when no one is around. They believe one of the ghosts is a previous owner who committed suicide in the building and leave a table reserved for him at all times.
-Cafe Du Monde. This famous cafe serves beignets and coffee and almost always has a line down the street. They’re cash only, and you’ll want to try them out in the morning when the oil is fresh so they’re fluffier like donuts. Towards the afternoon and evening, they start to just taste like funnel cake in my opinion.
-Oceana Grill. I have to admit, when we walked in I did not have high hopes for this place. It looks like a random fried food chain restaurant inside, however the food is amazing! It’s thought to have the best gumbo in New Orleans, according to the locals we spoke with.
-Auction House Market. A super aesthetic food hall located in the financial district. We tried some wine and oysters and they did not disappoint.
-French Toast. A highly rated brunch spot, we attempted to eat here on our last visit but the wait was 2 hours. The food looked amazing though!
-Cafe Beignet. Another beignet shop in the French Quarter, this one is much more aesthetic. Definitely worth stopping by and taste testing to compare which shop has the best beignets.
-Cafe Amelie. Another highly rated restaurant close to the French Quarter.
WHERE TO STAY
-Rent an Airbnb. There are so many unique Airbnb experiences you can choose from in New Orleans. From renting out a large Garden District home, to renting a small but aesthetic condo in the French Quarter, there’s a ton of awesome options.
-The Ritz-Carlton. If you want to splurge on a boujie hotel, the Ritz is a solid choice. From luxurious rooms, stunning chandeliers & marble common areas, and the largest spa in NOLA, this will definitely make your trip one to remember.
-Best Western French Quarter. If you’re looking for a more budget friendly option that still’s in the French Quarter, this is a great option. We stayed here on our most recent visit and the rooms were really nice, they had private gated parking, and it was only a few blocks from Jackson Square.
