Curator’s statement
New Orleans is a place near and dear to my heart. When I need a change of scenery filled with delicious food and a second line, New Orleans is my favorite escape. I have many memories of visiting New Orleans as child with my family during the hot and humid summers and continue to frequent this city many times throughout each year (for any celebratory excuse, really.) On the surface, this city may not scream art, culture, and everything that makes life better…but it is filled with all of those things. This guide may not feature your typically places and eateries for first time visitors, New Orleans has so much more to offer beyond that. So while there grab some beignets, but try some of these spots to visit, stroll, eat and enjoy life a little more. There is something for each type of getaway — family, romantic, group trips and more.
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Things to do in New Orleans
Stroll
Garden District - Love historic southern homes? Here you’ll see architectural styles ranging from British, Italianate, Second Empire, Greek Revival and many other styles to appreciate.
Magazine Street - Grab a coffee, stop by a bar, casual eatery or antique shop, while admiring the lower Garden District.
Frenchmen Street - Searching for live jazz? Odds are you’ll find it here with a cocktail in hand. A favorite among locals, you never know which outdoor patio you’ll end up at.
Audubon Park - Lots happening here, from the Audubon Park Golf Course and Audubon Zoo. However, the Audubon Park Trail is worth a visit. Come here with your family or friends, on a pretty day and have a picnic in the park.
Places to eat and drink in New Orleans
Toast
Hotel Monteleone - Famed for its Carousel Bar, spinning since 1949. A former spot for prominent southern authors and playwrights, Faulkner penned his novel The Sound and Fury while honeymooning here.
Bacchanal - Live music on a back patio in an understated setting (read: sophisticated dive bar). A wine bar with great food, wine and, if you’re lucky, great company too.
Hot Tin (Pontchartrain Hotel Rooftop) - Take in city views while enjoying craft cocktails on St Charles Avenue.
The Columns - Sit outside overlooking St. Charles Avenue while watching the streetcars go by with sprawling live oaks in the backdrop.
Poboys and more
Parkway Bakery & Tavern - Neighborhood hangout since 1911, serving classic poboys.
Mahony's Po-Boy Shop - Counter-service sandwich shop and bar.
Domilise’s - Counter-service shop known for its massive poboys, paired with beer.
St. James Cheese Company - Serving soups, salads and sandwiches alongside a variety of cheeses to sample and purchase.
Cochon Butcher - Inspired by old world butchers and meat markets. Menu includes house made meats, terrines and sausages.
Classics
Commander's Palace - Classic New Orleans establishment with elevated creole fare and jazz. Located in a turquoise victorian mansion. While here, try and get a tour of each dining section.
GW Fins - Upscale, seafood focused menu. Delicious every time.
Palace Cafe - Grand cafe, serving traditional creole dishes. Great happy hour.
Brennan’s - Original dishes include Bananas Foster and Eggs Hussarde. Come here dressed in your Sunday best, watch a dish flambeed tableside and enjoy this nouvelle-Creole cuisine.
Early morning
Elizabeth’s - Southern style brunch, with an emphasis on making each dish from scratch. Try: Praline bacon.
Boulangerie - French bakery with pastries and bread galore. My favorite spot to grab a French Galette des Rois (the original king cake.)
Molly’s Rise & Shine - All-day breakfast menu, with a unique take on breakfast classics.
Birdy's Behind The Bower - Relaxed vibes, serving southern-inspired dishes for breakfast, brunch and lunch.
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to New Orleans.