Curator’s statement
New Orleans is special for its unique fusion of cultures, vibrant music scene and mouthwatering cuisine. From the lively streets of the French Quarter to the serene beauty of the Mississippi River, the city offers a tapestry of experiences that captivate the senses and leave an indelible mark on all who visit. Halloween in New Orleans offers a plethora of unique ways to spend a spooky holiday.
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Where to stay in New Orleans
The Eliza Jane - The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
Elegant property in New Orleans in a converted newspaper office from the 19th-century with art deco-inspired rooms.
Fora Perks
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Hotel / resort credit.
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Welcome amenity.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out, whenever possible.
Hotel Monteleone
Experience a timeless gem in the heart of New Orleans, where Southern charm, literary history and elegant hospitality come together in perfect harmony.
Fora Perks
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$100 hotel credit.
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Welcome amenity.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Kimpton Hotel Fontenot
An elegant property located in the Central Business District with sleek rooms and suites.
Fora Perks
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$50 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & late check-out whenever possible.
The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel
Grand hotel in a building from 1863 within walking distance from Bourbon Street with posh rooms and suites.
Fora Perks
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans
Grand hotel with refined rooms overlooking the Mississippi River in New Orleans.
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When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.
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Things to do in New Orleans
Haunted History Tours: Explore the city's spooky past with guided tours that delve into its haunted landmarks and eerie stories.
Voodoo Experience: Join in the festivities of the Voodoo Music + Arts Experience, a multi-day music festival featuring performances by renowned artists.
Ghost Hunting: Embark on a ghost hunting adventure in reputedly haunted locations like the LaLaurie Mansion or the St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
Voodoo Fest: Immerse yourself in the mystique of Voodoo Fest, a Halloween-themed music festival offering a lineup of live performances, art installations, and food vendors.
Costume Parties: Attend one of the many costume parties happening throughout the city, from extravagant balls to themed club events.
Boo at the Zoo: Bring the family to Audubon Zoo for Boo at the Zoo, a kid-friendly Halloween event featuring trick-or-treating, games, and animal encounters.
Haunted Houses: Experience the thrills and chills of New Orleans' haunted houses, such as the Mortuary Haunted House or the House of Shock.
French Quarter Frights: Take a stroll through the French Quarter and admire the elaborate Halloween decorations adorning the historic buildings.
Cemetery Tours: Explore the city's historic cemeteries on guided tours, where you can learn about the unique burial practices and folklore surrounding New Orleans' graveyards.
Halloween Parades: Join in the festive atmosphere of Halloween parades like the Krewe of Boo, featuring elaborate floats, costumed marchers, and plenty of candy for spectators.
Bilbao: Industrial Chic and Culinary Gems in New Orleans
Just an hour's drive from San Sebastian lies Bilbao, a city that has transformed from an industrial hub into a vibrant cultural center. The crown jewel is undoubtedly the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, a stunning architectural masterpiece designed by Frank Gehry. Even if modern art isn't your thing, the museum's exterior is a sight to behold.
But let's talk about the real reason I fell in love with Bilbao: the food scene. The city's Casco Viejo (Old Town) is a foodie's paradise, with countless pintxo bars and traditional restaurants. One standout was El Globo Taberna, serving superb crab pintxos. La Viña del Ensanche stunned with its vintage atmosphere and incredible acorn-fed jamon. For a casual lunch, Erribera Merkatua, an Art Deco indoor food hall, can't be missed.
Gure Toki and Café Bar Bilbao are two other excellent pintxo spots in Plaza Nueva. And for modern Basque cuisine, make reservations at the acclaimed La Cuchara de San Telmo.
Other gems included Goiz-Argi for its local vibe, Bar Tomas-Enea, and the famous cheesecake at La Viña.
For a more casual lunch, head to the Mercado de la Ribera, an Art Deco indoor food hall brimming with local vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to artisanal cheeses. It's a sensory overload in the best possible way.
Need to know
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to New Orleans. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Lily Zenner's guide, The Higgins Hotel, New Orleans: Historical Charm with a Modern Twist.
Travel Advisor
Justin Woodrow Wellar
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