New Orleans is one of the most romantic cities in the States, and this is exactly the way I experienced it on my first visit. I recently was back for a second visit on a girls weekend, which proved another great way to take in this exciting town.  With winding streets, eclectic shops, iron fences and oysters gallore, this place makes for a wonderful getaway. The mysterious undertone of the city invites exploration and discovery in eachshop and restaurant. In my second visit (2014) I had an amazing girls weekend, such a perfect destination for one. In August of 2016 I returned for a bachelorette party and have updated the restaurant and bar accommodations accordingly to keep this post as relevant as possible.

EXPERIENCE

I’d encourage people to arrive in this city having done some research, but with no strict agenda in mind. This city is best experienced by being wandered and explored. So much of its charm lies in the unexpected spots, coffee shops, and street performers.  

That being said, there are some things one should be sure not to miss! Obviously Jackson Square is a good starting point. This is the heart of the city and home to lots of street artists, musicians, palm readers and general bustle. From here you get a great view of both the Mississippi River and the St. Louis Cathedral. From here venture to Bourbon Street for an evening of taking in the excitement and wild side of the city. 

Spend your days shopping antiques and roaming the French Quarter. Visit the Voodoo Museum for a great history of this enticing culture. ‎Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 houses some famous graves and is fascinating to walk. Skip the Insect Museum, unless rain takes you indoors and in search of an activity. For the best jazz experience, don’t miss Preservation Hall, it’s worth the wait, and fairly intimate, but come already intoxicated (as there are no drinks sold on site) and ready to stand. The Spotted Cat is another awesome jazz venue, don’t miss it! While here check out the Frenchman Street Art Market. 

If you have time to sneak away for the day, do a Bayou Airboat Tour. This is really fun and a great way to see the swamps and natural landscape of this part of the country. We saw many alligators! I have heard the plantation tours are another interesting day trip, but have not had a chance to check one of these out myself. 

Jen Seiser NOLA

STAY

On my first visit to New Orleans, I stayed in a bed and breakfast. This is truly the way to go for a romantic weekend. We stayed at the Place D’Armes on my second visit which was lovely. This place had a pool and a beautiful courtyard area. Regardless of where you pick, stay in the French Quarter and away from hotel chains. I think B&B is the way to go in this city! I made a third visit to New Orleans (August 2016) and we rented a wonderful Airbnb house in the recently regentrified Faubourg Marigny District, I loved staying here more than expected because it was quiet and felt up and coming. We could walk to the French Quarter and were easy Uber rides away from the more happening parts of town. 

EAT

Oysters, Po Boys, Beignets! Come hungry to New Orleans. This is an incredible town for indulgence, eating being top of the list. One notable meal was at Jacques-Imo’s Cafe; this place is wonderful and even boasts a decedant alligator cheesecake. Obviously do not miss beignets and cafe au lait at the world famous Cafe Du Monde. For brunch be sure to check out the Commander’s Palace and try the table side bananas foster. If you like oysters, eat them often and everywhere, but be sure to try the Acme Oyster House. The Gumbo Shop is a great place to try both gumbo and jambalaya, two New Orleans staples. Stop in Pat O’Briens for an original Hurricane drink, this is a fun stop at night in particular when the fountains are lit and the atmosphere feels a bit throw back. A fun brunch spot is the Court of the Two Sisters, the food here was mediocre, but the patio atmosphere made it worth it.

On my most recent trip, (August 2016) the heat helped us focus our trip on good eating. We began the trip, which was a bachelorette party, with a stop at Bachanal for wine and charcuterie on a hot summer’s night. The next day we explored the city by foot and stopped at Mother’s for some great po boys and Creole cuisine. That evening we had an amazing dinner at Cane and Table in the French Quarter. This place was dark, moody and delicious, I will be back to this place on my next trip without a doubt. Be sure to try their cocktails and share a few large plates among friends. The following day we had planned to brunch at The Country Club poolside but could not get in, guess this hipster paradise gets popular in the heat. Since we stayed in the Faubourg Marigny District (better known as the Marigny, located between the Bywater and the French Quarter) we chose to stick close to our Airbnb for breakfast all weekend. The St. Roch Market was pretty spectacular with a wide assortment of premium breakfast and lunch offerings including oysters, sandwiches, coffee and Vietnamese. This is a great choice for a large group. A few other new spots I learned of this trip included Delachaise, Cochon, Paladar, Parkway, Avenue Pub and Tonique. I’ll be sure to keep them on the list for my next trip next spring.

If you have time, make an effort to venture in the Bywater District to explore. This hip neighborhood is home to a few great eating spots. A place called The Joint is a little off the beaten track but home to some incredible BBQ. Make an evening out of a trip to Bacchanal Fine Wines and Spirits. Here you can buy wine by the bottle and sit out on the back patio enjoying some shade, live music and fantastic charcuterie.