Curator’s statement
There's no other place like New Orleans within the U.S. The city feels like a getaway, but is a domestic and welcome escape. There’s such an amazing personality to NOLA – the colorfulness, the energy and the vibe make it such a special destination.
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Where to stay in New Orleans
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Things to do in New Orleans
Take a walk
New Orleans is full of beautiful areas to take a stroll. Get up in the morning and head out for a long walk in the Garden District to see the beautiful houses and mansions there. If you want a more in-depth experience you can go on a guided tour.
If you prefer to walk in nature, head to the Botanical Gardens in City Park away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It's a nice walk through trees and flowers – a lovely and quiet morning activity to unwind.
Lounge in leisure
If you booked a hotel with a pool, allow yourself to take the afternoon to lounge at the pool--New Orleans is often too hot to be walking around. If your hotel doesn’t have a pool, you can always buy a day pass to a hotel: the Chloe and the Ace Hotel both usually offer day passes. Enjoy the weather, have some cocktails and a snack--just enjoy vegging out.
Another great self-care activity is getting a pedicure. One of my favorite local spots is Southern Swings where you sit in a porch swing while you're getting your pedicure. It's a charming lovely little place to get your nails done.
Go shopping
Go shopping on Magazine Street, a stretch that’s home to a charming collection of local shops. One of my personal favorite shops is Elysian by Emily Morrison, a lovely boutique for kaftans.
Places to eat & drink in New Orleans
Lunch & dinner
Turkey & the Wolf: Very popular lunch spot but worth the wait, especially if you need good hangover food.
Mosquito Supper Club: Super authentic New Orleans pre-fixe dining that stays true to Bayou traditions. Sit at the bar!
N7: Bywater area spot with an amazing outdoor seating area. Go for small plates and a fun vibe.
San Lorenzo: Located in Hotel St. Vincent, this new Italian restaurant has incredible design and delicious dishes. Some of my favorites are the Caesar salad (a classic, but so well done) and the chilled crudo plate.
Shaya: Israeli cuisine for when you need a dose of fresh vegetables.
Cavan: A beautiful restaurant with thoughtful design and superb food.
Drinks
The Chloe: Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, grab a drink at the front porch bar and enjoy it as you sway in a rocking chair or hammock. It’s very quintessentially southern.
Tipitinas: A classic New Orleans spot to see live music of all genres. Grab a beer and enjoy the show!
Bacchanal: Upscale jazz bar with an excellent wine list.
Bar Marilou: Incredible decor and buzzy scene.
Carousel Bar: A classic NOLA institution – the bar is literally a carousel.
Ms. Mae’s: If you want a little dose of the iconic New Orleans nightlife, head to Ms. Mae’s for buckets of beer and play tunes on the jukebox as you dance the night away.
A note from Claudia
The majority of these bars are based in or around the Garden District, an area that I prefer over the more touristy French Quarter. You may also enjoy the scene in the Garden District more than the French Quarter; it’s a more upscale (and admittedly slightly tamer) experience.
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Travel Advisor
Claudia Riegelhaupt
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