Mardi Gras or not, New Orleans, LA is a fun-filled scene. Full of culture, good food, and character, discover our roundup of iconic institutions and current hotspots for an unforgettable trip down south.
New Orleans Bucket List
Ride on the street car
Take the street car to The Garden District to see beautiful New Orleans homes.
Visit Cafe Du Monde & Jackson Square
We recommend to get beignets at Cafe Du Monde.
Visit the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA)
The NOMA is one of the city’s oldest fine arts institutions
Experience live jazz music
Go to Preservation Hall, just steps away from Bourbon St, or Snug Harbor (one of many) on Frenchman Street.
Where to Stay
Hotel Peter & Paul
This is an amazing spot that was an old church, school house, and convent converted into a very chic boutique hotel. Be sure to stop at their bar, Elysian Bar, if you’re not staying here.
The Windsor Court
An elegant escape, The Windsor Court offers classic yet contemporary comfort. All suites offer private balconies or bay windows, and the property offers many amenities, from afternoon tea and live jazz to a salt water pool, a cabana-style bar, and a luxury spa.
The Eliza Jane Hotel
While located in the Central Business District, the atmosphere feels very European with flair. The courtyard is a great spot for an evening cocktail.
The Henry Howard Hotel
This quintessential uptown boutique hotel has more of a southern feel than say the French Quarter. Also, their instagram account is a fun follow.
Nopsi Hotel
Constructed during the Roaring Twenties, the historic property has evolved with plenty of Jazz Age style. It was the former headquarters of the New Orleans Public Service Inc. and is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places and a member of Historic
Maison de la Luz
This luxury guest house feels like a private sanctuary, with only 67 suites and full of southern hospitality.
The Roosevelt
This Waldorf Astoria hotel has been open since 1893 and was once home to Louisiana’s legendary governor, Huey P. Long. Explore the French Quarter just one block from the doors, or take in city views from the rooftop pool.
The Henry Howard Hotel
This quintessential uptown boutique hotel has more of a southern feel than say the French Quarter. Also, their instagram account is a fun follow.
Where to Eat
Bywater American Bistro
This is a nicer spot without being super fancy, making it perfect for a date night or birthday. Head chef Nina Compton was a runner up on Top Chef New Orleans.
Peche
This is a great date spot in the central business district warehouse area. Come here for oyster, fresh fish, and good cocktails.
Brennan’s
A Nola icon, Brennan’s invented the bananas foster dish, which they will set on fire at your table. Plus, the dining room and private rooms with balconies are gorgeous with hints of glam. Dinner and lunch here are also incredible, so it is a win win!
La Petite Grocery
This local favorite serves an amazing burger, regulars frequently sit at the bar. It’s in a good part of town, right by Ms. Mae’s, the popular 24-hour bar.
Coquette
Run by the same owners as Thalia, Coquette is a little more expensive and upscale, making it a great date night spot. The menu changes a lot, so you can always try something new.
St James Cheese Shop
This fast casual spot has a few locations, and makes amazing sandwiches and salads.
Turkey and the Wolf
Don’t let the super casual vibe throw you off. Turkey and the Wold was voted best new restaurant in 2017 by Bon Appetit. It’s got an eclectic and quirky feel to it, using plates from garage sales, but there’s always a line around the corner at lunch time. Order the fried bologna sandwich.
Jack Rose
This special occasion spot is your go-to for a fun group meal, like a boozy brunch. Located in the Ponchartrain Hotel, it has a super fun vibe and decor, plus the food and cocktails are great.
Elizabeth's Restaurants
This low-key spot full of local art serves down-home country classics and has a full bar. Weekend brunch is popular and first come, first serves at this bustling space.
Clancy’s–A
New Orleans classic, this homey space serves elegant Creole cuisine, plus has a long wine list and good martinis.
Bearcat Cafe
Bearcat has two locations and a humorously named “good cat” menu, for those who want healthier items (vegan, gluten free) and ‘bad cat’ menu (what you would normally expect from NOLA).
Antoine’s
This is the oldest New Orleans restaurant (circa 1840), still opearted by fifth generation relatives of the original founder, Antoine Alciatore. It’s the birthplace of oysters Rockefeller, and serves grand French-Creole cuisine.
Galitores
This is up there in terms of being the oldest eatery in New Orleans. Come here for fine dining and an upscale space (jackets required).
Cafe du Monde
You can’t miss this, even just for a quick beignet!
Arnauds
Located steps off Bourbon Street, this classic and elevated restaurant and lounge has been offering Creole cuisine, cocktails, and jazz since 1918.
Commander’s Palace
The jazz brunch is so fun here! Also, lunch is tempting when you can get 25-cent martinis (they’ll cap you at 3 though).
Where to Do
Visit the New Orleans Historic Collection
This museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of New Orleans, so be sure to check out the latest exhibition!
Explore the New Orleans Museum of Art
These are the city’s oldest fine arts institutions. Here you’ll see over 90 sculptures situated on the landscaped site amongst footpaths, reflecting lagoons, Spanish-moss laden live oaks, magnolias and camellias.
Visit the National WWII Museum
This is one of the top tourist destinations and an unforgettable way to learn about WWII.
Eat crawfish
When is season, these are a must, but a year-round classic are beignets!
Where to Shop
Century Girl Vintage
This is such a cool and unique store on Magazine Street, selling fun earrings, fringe blue top head pieces, and just generally amazing finds that you’re sure to love.
Sunday Shop
This home goods store sells local clothing brands and unique textiles. It’s a great place to pick up a little something for your home or a hostess gift.
Krewe
Originally started in New Orleans, Krewe offers unique, hand-crafted sunglasses. Fun fact: You can shop a selection of their frames on our site.
Peony
Peony is one of the prettiest boutiques with a girly feel and a feminine collection of clothing. Plus, they sell the cutest kids’ clothing and toys.
Porter Lyons Jewelry
This high-end jewelry store is a good spot to treat yourself to a gem you’ve been eyeing or buy a milestone gift for someone.
Canal place
This 3-floor shopping complex has both higher-end department stores and stand alone shops.
UAL
This very cool consignment shop sells designer clothing, shoes, and accessories at up to 90% off retail.
Pilot and Powell
This luxury boutique has carefully curates, higher-end clothing, accessories, and beauty.
Where to Go for Nightlife
The Carousel Bar in the Hotel
This classic haunt at the Hotel Monteleone has a circular bar that revolves like a carousel.
Bacchanal Wine Bar
Bike ride here! Located in NOLA’s 9th Ward, there’s always plenty of food, wine, culture, and live music. On a nicer day go for outdoor seating and extensive charcuterie boards.
Bar Marilou
Come for fancy cocktails. Fun fact: this spot won “most gorgeous interior” with Eater.com in 2019.
Elysian Bar in Marigny
Located in Hotel Peter and Paul, The Elysian Bar is an experience. Guests can enjoy bites and drinks in multiple rooms, like the iconic “jewel box” bar, the parlors, or little glass atrium.
Frenchmen Street
For more of a “going out” scene, almost 100% of the bars here have live music.
Kajun’s Pub
Go for karaoke!
F&M Patio Bar
These humble digs are known for late-night festivities plus a pool table, pub grub & a patio. Get the grits!
Hot Tin Rooftop Bar
Located in The Pontchartrain, this rooftop bar is amazing for sweeping city views.