Curator’s statement
When you think of New Orleans, you often think of the French Quarter or partying the night away on Bourbon Street. But there is so much more to New Orleans that you may not have explored yet. In this guide, I will share a little about the other side of New Orleans - speakeasies, boutique hotels, gourmet restaurants, museums and shops - sort of a guide for grown-ups, if you will.
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Things to do in New Orleans
Take a trolley to the Garden District and spend some time strolling amongst the gorgeous homes. Stop by the Chicory House and grab a coffee or mixed drink (it is New Orleans, after all) on your way in. You can also book a guided tour.
Visit a Cemetery. Lafayette Cemetery #1 is close by and a sight to see! Since New Orleans is below sea-level, they have tombs instead of ground burials. Some of these tombs date back to the early 1800's.
Stroll down Magazine Street. Take the trolley down to Whole Foods and just start walking back toward downtown. Browse through the many funky shops, art galleries and dine at one of the restaurants along the way.
Visit the WWII museum. Filled with immersive exhibits, this humbling experience will give you a first-hand look at the many sacrifices men and women made for our country.
Perfect your roux-making skills at a cooking class. Learn the art of cajun cuisine at one of the many cooking classes available through our preferred providers.
Day Trips
Embark on a fishing trip with Chef Shaya of Miss River in the Four Seasons hotel. After a day out on the water, Chef will bring your catch back and prepare it for your dinner.
Places to eat & drink in New Orleans
Sunday Jazz Brunch: Mr. B's Bistro. The BBQ shrimp is popular for a reason.
Dinner: Seaworthy - Best chargrilled oysters in the city. Also a great menu featuring fish n chips and other seafood dishes.
Meril - Emeril's newest concept, named after his daughter. The menu features Emeril's favorite dishes, and the banana cream pie is incredible. Miss River in the Four Seasons hotel features a whole fried chicken that will make you wish you could eat there every day.
Lunch: Chemin La Mer offers several varieties of oysters and an impressive wine list.
Bars: Chandelier Bar in the Four Seasons. Also, Bar Marilou - this dark, swanky speakeasy with a secret entrance from Maison De La Luz serves up French-inspired small bites and craft cocktails.
Hint: if you stay at Maison De La Luz, you can use your Virtuoso perks here.
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Travel Advisor
Melissa Elliott
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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, 4-Day Itinerary Through the Vineyards of Napa.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to New Orleans.