A 48-Hour New Orleans Bachelorette Party

Arrive in New Orleans and have the concierge at Maison de la Luz arrange for a car, which means that you are 15 minutes closer to a cocktail (the ideal way to kick off any New Orleans bachelorette party) and a light dinner at their bar. The Maison de la Luz is incredibly chic and beautifully designed. It is also away from the French Quarter madness, while only being a 12-minute walk to the aforementioned madness.

The service is friendly and the concierge knows New Orleans well, but what makes the hotel special is how tucked away it is. Each of its 67 rooms is unique and very comfortable. Their sister property is the Ace Hotel, located across the street, which has a pool and a gym.

Drop off your luggage in your room, freshen up and head downstairs for your reservation at the hotel bar, Bar Marilou. Because you are an overnight guest, access the bar through a secret entrance in the lobby. Enjoy their small plates inspired by French, Creole and West Indian cuisine. And don’t miss the caviar and the deviled eggs. 

Wake up early and head to the river walk. It is a nice stroll along the Mississippi River, about a mile long. Get out there early to enjoy the walk without the crowds. On your way back to the hotel stop off at Café du Monde. It is open 24 hours and there is always a long line, but if you go early you won’t have to wait more than 10 minutes!

Back at the hotel, get dressed, wear some comfy (and stylish) shoes and meet your guide for a tour of the Highlights of New Orleans. Visit the iconic St. Louis Cathedral, Jackson Square and the historic LaLaurie Mansion. Post-tour, head to the Gumbo Shop for lunch. The options there are all delicious, but get a cup of gumbo so you can sample a few different types. 

If shopping is on your mind, you are in the right place. There are some great boutiques and stores in the French Quarter. Some of my favorites are:

M.S. Rau - An American institution. Their service is friendly and you can walk through and admire all the art and antiques they have. Their jewelry section is stunning.

Trashy Diva - This boutique for new but vintage-style clothes was totally cute. 

Papier and Plume - For some very great pens and unique stationary.

Mask Gallery - To purchase your mask for your next Carnival-themed party!

On your walk back to the hotel stop by the Meyer the Hatter, which I highly recommend. Run by the same family for over 100 years, and they have an insane selection of hats for various budgets. 

Head back to the hotel to rest and get ready for your evening. Request the concierge to make you a dinner reservation at Restaurant R'evolution, with great food and an excellent selection of wines by the glass.

If you are in the mood for some music, see what the lineup is at The Rabbit Hole for this evening. 

Sunday is a great day to enjoy breakfast at Maison de la Luz. Their restaurant is bright and the à la carte breakfast is tasty.

When you are fully awake, pack up and check out of your room. Head to the nearest tram stop and take a tram to the Garden District (St. Charles + Third Street stop). Take a tour of the Garden District, home to stunning mansions and the Lafayette Cemetery.

Before you head back to get your luggage and catch your flight, have lunch at La Petite Grocery or Atchafalaya.