New Orleans isn’t just a city; it’s an experience. From legendary flavors and an iconic music scene to its endlessly festive spirit, New Orleans sets the standard for unforgettable adventures. Here, parades aren’t occasional—they’re essential. Cocktails are art, and the energy? Simply electric. Few places in the world boast a culinary heritage and musical legacy as uniquely their own as New Orleans.
This one-of-a-kind city shines thanks to a rich tapestry of influences—from African, Caribbean, and Native American to French, German, Irish, Vietnamese, and Latin American. My ultimate guide to New Orleans reveals the best of it all: luxury stays, captivating activities, and must-try dining spots. When you’re ready to experience NOLA in style, reach out, and let’s start planning your perfect getaway to the Big Easy.
Need to know
Airport: Fly into Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY), just 25 minutes from downtown.
Transportation: Downtown is walkable, though sometimes tricky due to uneven streets. Uber and streetcars (use the Le Pass app) make exploring a breeze.
Best time to visit: October and November offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Spring is also beautiful, while late February or March bring the Mardi Gras excitement if you’re up for a vibrant, bustling city.
Ideal length of stay: A two to four day trip is ideal to cover a lot of the must visit spots.
Must try dishes: There are so many great dishes that capture the city's soul. Some signature dishes you must indulge in include fresh oysters, gumbo, jambalaya, bananas foster, beignets, po’ boys, muffuletta, snoballs, cocktails.
What to wear: In New Orleans, anything goes, clothes wise. Just remember the city is hot. Pack breezy, airy outfits, plenty of sun protection and good sturdy walking shoes.
Where to stay
New Orleans’ hotels capture the city’s charisma with bespoke designs, playfulness, and old-world elegance. Here, you’ll find the perfect place to stay—whether it’s a lavish French Quarter gem, a classic Southern mansion, or a bohemian boutique spot in the artsy Warehouse District. The city’s broad range of price points means you can stay somewhere unique without stretching your budget.
If you want energy and nightlife, the French Quarter is where to be—Bourbon Street is always close, and the lively vibe is unmatched. For refined charm, try the Garden District, where Victorian mansions meet sophisticated Southern hospitality. Or, explore the Warehouse District, a walkable area known for its art galleries, trendy dining, and museums. Tremé, the oldest African American neighborhood in the country, offers an authentic Creole vibe with its colorful cottages, and historic spots like St. Augustine Church and Armstrong Park. And for a cool, creative atmosphere, Marigny is the spot for live music, art, and a unique, local feel.
Top Picks for an Unforgettable Stay
Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans: An icon on the Mississippi River, this hotel has it all for families, couples, and luxury travelers alike. The Chandelier Bar is a must for cocktails and caviar. When you book with me, enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits for an elevated experience.
Maison Métier: Formerly Maison de la Luz, this local favorite radiates Parisian flair and charm. Situated near Magazine Street’s hotspots, it’s an eclectic retreat with perks like a $100 food & beverage credit, daily breakfast, and extended check-out whenever available when you book with VBS Travel.
Virgin Hotels New Orleans: Vibrant, playful, and bold, Virgin’s décor and rooftop pool bring a fresh energy to the city. Think drag brunches, DJ parties, and style. Perks include $25 food credit, a welcome amenity, and late check-out when possible.
Kimpton Hotel Fontenot: A lively, pet-friendly spot with the renowned Peacock Room and its signature cocktails. Our partner perks include hotel credit, welcome amenities, and late check-out whenever possible.
The Eliza Jane: Set in restored 19th-century warehouses, this boutique hotel offers a refined yet colorful vibe. With Hyatt Privé partner perks like daily breakfast, hotel credit, and early check-in options, it’s a stylish base for exploring the city..
Hotel Saint Vincent: Located on Magazine Street, this chic 75-room hotel stands out with its bold, handsome design. Check out ByGeorge in the lobby for luxury shopping from brands like LOEWE and vintage Rolex.
Hotel Peter and Paul: Housed in a former church and school, this artsy haven is filled with local art and handcrafted furniture. Try the Mediterranean plates at the Elysian Bar and browse Sunday Best in the convent’s old space for unique finds.
The Windsor Court: For refined sophistication with a rooftop bar and a regal feel, the Windsor Court offers luxury and indulgence. Our perks here include hotel credit, daily breakfast, and extended check-in/out for a memorable stay.
History & culture
New Orleans is a city steeped in a vibrant multicultural history. Founded by the French in 1718, the area was originally home to various Native American tribes who named it “Bulbancha,” meaning “land of many tongues.” This rich tapestry of cultures is woven into the very fabric of the city, beginning in the historic French Quarter, which served as both the birthplace of New Orleans and a significant gathering spot for Native Americans.
The story of New Orleans is a fascinating one, marked by twists and turns. Initially, the French struggled to profit from their new port city, leading to its cession to the Spanish after the French and Indian War in the 1760s. In a remarkable series of transactions, the Spanish returned Louisiana to the French in 1800, only for it to be sold to the United States by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1803. This pivotal moment solidified New Orleans as an American city, but it also became a key center for the domestic slave trade, flourishing as steamboats navigated the mighty Mississippi River—most notably the first steamboat, aptly named "New Orleans."
Today, the city’s multicultural heritage is vibrantly alive, most notably in its celebrated culinary scene. Creole cuisine, born in the 18th century, is a delectable fusion of Native American, West African, French, and Spanish influences, crafted by the city’s free and enslaved Black populations. Signature dishes, rich with flavor and history, often use accessible ingredients like rice and greens. Meanwhile, Cajun cuisine emerged from the Acadians, who adapted their hearty recipes from their native Canada to suit the lush, diverse landscapes of Louisiana, integrating African and Native American culinary traditions along the way.
Music is just as integral to the New Orleans experience as food. The city is the birthplace of jazz, America’s only indigenous music genre—a vibrant blend of African rhythms, Caribbean beats, European influences, and marching-band instruments rooted in the Civil War. The lively sounds of jazz, along with blues and traditional call-and-response songs, tell the story of the city’s history and its multicultural spirit.
When you visit New Orleans, you don’t just experience a destination; you immerse yourself in a dynamic cultural mosaic. Each dish you savor and each note you hear brings you closer to understanding the heart and soul of this enchanting city
Activities
In New Orleans, the spirit of celebration is alive and well, offering a delightful playground for friend groups and families alike. No matter what you’re in the mood for, this city has something exciting to offer. Here are some of my favorite must-do activities that capture the essence of New Orleans:
Stroll Along Magazine Street: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as you explore charming boutiques, unique art galleries, and trendy restaurants and bars lining this iconic street.
Cruise the Mighty Mississippi: Hop on a boat and set sail on the historic Mississippi River. Feel the breeze in your hair as you soak in the views of this beautiful city from the water.
Take a Scenic Cable Car Ride: Glide through the serene and picturesque Garden District, where you can admire the stunning architecture and lush landscapes.
Indulge in Sweet Beignets: No visit to New Orleans is complete without tasting the famous beignets from Café Du Monde. For a quieter experience, visit their City Park location, where you can stroll through scenic lakes and majestic oak trees afterward.
Experience Live Jazz at Preservation Hall: A trip to New Orleans wouldn't be complete without a stop at the legendary Preservation Hall. Secure your tickets in advance for an unforgettable evening of live jazz in an iconic setting.
Cook Up Cajun Classics: Unleash your culinary skills at the New Orleans School of Cooking, where you can learn to master Cajun classics like gumbo and jambalaya. Then, enjoy a well-deserved feast of your own delicious creations!
Join a Unique Small-Group Tour: Dive deeper into the city’s rich history and culture with a small-group tour from New Orleans Secrets. Whether it’s a food and cocktail tour, a haunted history exploration, or a look into the city's queer heritage, there’s an adventure for everyone.
Explore the Great Outdoors: If you’re up for a little drive, embark on a swamp or bayou tour just outside the city. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Louisiana’s natural landscapes and spot local wildlife.
Discover the New Orleans Botanical Garden: Spend a peaceful day wandering the 10-acre New Orleans Botanical Garden, featuring over 2,000 plant varieties, a stunning sculpture garden, a whimsical train garden, a tranquil Japanese garden, and a fascinating fossil exhibit.
Dive into the City’s Museum Scene: New Orleans boasts an impressive array of museums. Don’t miss the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) for its stunning collection of American, French, African, and Japanese art, and the National World War II Museum for a profound exploration of history and heroism.
Restaurants & bars
Food is the heart and soul of New Orleans, a vibrant city known for its rich culinary traditions and flavors that reflect its diverse cultural heritage. Here are some must-visit eateries where you can indulge your taste buds:
Dakar NOLA: A culinary gem and 2024 James Beard Award winner for Best New Restaurant, this tasting-menu-only Senegalese spot is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Shaya: For a taste of upscale Israeli cuisine in an elegant setting, Shaya delivers a memorable dining experience that celebrates bold flavors and fresh ingredients.
Saba: Located on Magazine Street, Saba offers some of the finest Mediterranean and Israeli dishes. Be sure to try the blue crab hummus—it’s a local favorite!
Pêche: Committed to local and sustainable sourcing, Pêche is renowned for its whole-grilled fish. Enjoy the fresh catch in a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere.
Sun Chong: This Asian fusion restaurant is known for its innovative cocktails and a vibe that’s effortlessly cool, enhanced by a classic hip-hop playlist.
N7: For a cozy neighborhood spot, N7 is a natural-wine bar with inviting warmth and charm. Enjoy their French dishes with a Japanese twist, especially in the lovely outdoor courtyard.
Seaworthy: A must-visit for oyster lovers, Seaworthy offers a trendy setting to enjoy fresh oysters and delightful cocktails.
Commander’s Palace: This iconic restaurant has been serving “haute Creole” cuisine since 1893. Come for the food, stay for the legendary atmosphere that embodies the spirit of New Orleans.
Galatoire’s: Experience classic French bistro vibes with a New Orleans twist at Galatoire’s, where shrimp remoulade and other French-inflected dishes await.
Superior Seafood and Oyster Bar: Casual and fun, this spot serves comforting fare and a lively atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Mahony’s: No visit to New Orleans is complete without a po’ boy! Head to Mahony’s for some of the best in town.
Turkey and the Wolf: For a laid-back experience with fantastic sandwiches, this no-frills eatery is a local favorite.
Pat O’Brien’s: Cap off your evening with a Hurricane cocktail at Pat O’Brien’s, a classic bar known for its lively piano lounge.
Festivals and events
New Orleans truly lives up to its title as the “City of Festivals,” and there’s always something exciting happening. Here are some of the highlights you won’t want to miss:
February: The excitement builds as New Orleans prepares to host Super Bowl LIX at the Caesars Superdome in 2025—don’t miss the festivities!
March: Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday, is a grand celebration of life before the season of Lent. Join the parades, indulge in delicious food, and revel in the vibrant atmosphere!
April/May: The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is a must for music lovers. Enjoy electrifying performances, parades, and mouthwatering Louisiana cuisine.
October: Halloween brings a unique flair to the city with spooky events and the legendary Krewe of BOO! parade, perfect for those who love the haunted side of New Orleans.
November/December: The holiday season transforms New Orleans into a winter wonderland, complete with dazzling lights, festive parades, ice skating, and enchanting holiday shows.
From savoring exquisite dishes to participating in unforgettable celebrations, New Orleans offers an abundance of experiences that cater to all tastes and interests. Ready to indulge in the culinary delights and vibrant festivals of this amazing city? Let’s plan your unforgettable getaway!.
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