New Orleans stands completely alone compared to any other city I have ever visited. Being from the south, I’ve visited a couple dozen times and it never gets old to me. If you are looking for any kind of weekend getaway, they’ve got you covered and it’s fantastic for a girls’ weekend! My last trip was a Bachelorette in April 2017 (one of the best months to go before it gets too hot). So, grab the girls and check out some of these spots while visiting The Big Easy. (look for my other post in this series to check out NOLA nightlife)
Daytime Dining:
Café Du Monde. Beignets anyone? Obviously, there is no choice here. You must go and order a café au lait too. This is non negotiable. You will probably do it more than once. Just go ahead and schedule it in. Early or really late, I go both. They have been around since 1862 serving people 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It can be really crowded so I suggest going in the off times. It’s not unusual to wait over an hour. Bring cash for the walk up window or you can order table service if you don’t mind the wait and want to stay awhile.
District Donuts. This is.. oh so much more than a donut shop. Located on Magazine Street, you can get the MOST delicious donut, of course but stay around for lunch and grab a slider. Oh my!
Brennan’s. Yes, I know… cliché right? Well, there is a reason why they are on everyone’s list. Go ahead and get your Eggs Benedict, Bananas Foster or Turtle Soup (which I don’t do). They have an award winning wine list but their mixed drinks suit me just fine. Brunch, Lunch or Dinner. If I’m only allowing myself one five star restaurant, this is it. Their rickrack decor makes me swoon, literally. Reservations required unless you are hanging out at the Roost Bar. They have a bubbly happy hour, that on some days starts at yes, 9AM… only in New Orleans.
Ritz Carlton Afternoon Tea. This was my first time having their tea and it was delightful. If budget isn’t a problem and you are looking for something girly to do, this is a great choice. You will have the choice of a 11:00AM or 2:30PM reservation. Make sure you carve out enough time that you fully soak in all the ambiance and mimosas you can handle. On a budget? Get the experience of hanging at the Ritz by stopping at the bar and grabbing a drink on your way to dinner.
Muriel’s. Located in Jackson Square, it sits right in the heart of all the action. It seems that I make my way there on every trip and I’m just going to say it… I have no idea why. Their food is ok but this is snobbery at its best. I have the same experience every time I go. There are about a dozen expensive restaurants I would recommend before this one. Especially for brunch. Too harsh? Save your money and go buy your gumbo in a hole in the wall restaurant in the Quarter.
Ruby Slipper Cafe. The mantra of “there’s no place like home” took special meaning after people were trying to return to their home after Katrina and The Ruby Slipper was born. They have a casual diner atmosphere that serve locals and tourists alike. You won’t be disappointed but make sure to get there before about 2PM. They are a breakfast/lunch spot only. They have several locations now but I’ve only been to the one in the French Quarter.
Things To Do:
Take a walk around the Garden District. It feels a bit like stepping back while looking at historic mansions, antebellum homes, a landmark or two and those live oaks trees… my goodness. It’s definitely worth a peek, especially in good weather, and it’s free!
Voodoo Museum – I can really take this or leave it but they do offer cemetery tours, which if you have the time are worth the visit. You catch a glimpse of just how old and historically rich New Orleans really is when you walk thru the gravesites of some of New Orleans most notorious characters. If you just want to browse one on your own, try Lafayette Cemetery #1. It’s free but remember, probably only one of the gates (I believe there are 4-ask around ahead of time) will be open and they close mid afternoon. The more famous St.Louis Cemetery #1 requires a tour guide and will cost you at least $20 to get in.
Jackson Square/St. Louis Cathedral. I could easily include Jackson Square in the shopping category as well. Street vendors and performers are everywhere, so grab a bench and stay awhile. St. Louis Cathedral sits right in the Square and according to NewOrleansOnline, “it is the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic Cathedral in the United States, originally built in 1727 and dedicated to King Louis IX of France. The original St. Louis Cathedral burned during the great fire of 1794 and was rebuilt. The present structure was completed in the 1850s.” This makes the Cathedral one of the most recognized structures throughout New Orleans.
Carriage Rides & Tour. Even though you can take bus tours, I prefer the horse and buggy. Choose a quick spin of 30 minutes or less or up to 1-1/2+ hours. Your guide will probably point out some of the more interesting architecture, stories, etc. in the Quarter. Expect to pay between $75 to $200 for a party of 4. There are larger carriages as well. You will find them lined up along Jackson Square. Some tours do take credit cards but take enough cash for the ride + tip just in case.
Shopping Around:
If you are with the girls, don’t miss the French Market. There are eateries, shops, outdoor farmer’s market and more. This is a favorite spot to grab a cup of coffee and do a little people watching too!
I just love Magazine Street. Interested in art galleries, vintage goods or a unique boutique? Do not miss Magazine Street with it’s eclectic vibe that attracts young people and professionals alike. Although the street is about 6 miles long, it’s not too bad of a walk from the Garden District but I like to Uber back to my originating spot!
Recommendation on where to stay? Well, obviously there are tons of great hotels but if you are going with a group, it’s a great time to try an AirBNB so there’s plenty of room to enjoy. We stayed at one on our last trip and had enough room for a makeshift bachelorette party and was so close we could walk to everything. Click here for $40.00 off your first stay.
Recommendation of how to get around? Even if you drive to New Orleans, I really don’t recommend running around by car unless you are venturing outside the main area because parking is a pain. Streets are narrow, parking spots are few and there are so many turns and twists, I guarantee you will miss something if your NAV is leading the way. We walked almost everywhere but there is an abundance of Uber drivers, taxis, streetcars (which are their own tourist spot) and even a ferry. Click here for their schedules.
Look for Part 2 to this series where I talk about NOLA’s nightlife and things to do after dark. *wink*
Until Next Time!
