Where to stay in New Orleans

The French Quarter is the city’s oldest and best-known neighborhood. Most visitors make a beeline to Bourbon Street, and many first-timers think the Quarter is nothing but a party. But there’s a lot more to do here—gorgeous architecture, a ton of history, fabulous antiques, local boutiques, great food, music and views of the Mississippi. It’s also family-friendly, with the Audubon Aquarium, the Cabildo Museum, street performers and more fun for kids. Stay here if you want to be in the middle of it all, with easy access to other neighborhoods.

EAT

Galatoire’s

While the Quarter is home to newer, award-winning restaurants, a meal at one of New Orleans’ historic fine dining institutions is a must. Galatoire’s offers a glimpse into the city’s unique dining culture; most of the waiters, dressed in tuxedos, are local and have worked at the restaurant for decades, and many high-society locals are longtime regulars. The bright walls, black-and-white tile and white tablecloths serve a refined but celebratory atmosphere. Dine on shrimp rémoulade, duck and andouille gumbo, and other New Orleans classics for a memorable experience.

DRINK 

Jewel of the South

Opened by Chris Hannah, one of the city’s most esteemed bartenders, this modern cocktail destination is tucked into a Creole cottage that dates back to the 1830s. The bar has earned a slew of accolades, including an esteemed James Beard Award, and the inventive cocktails live up to the hype.

DO 

Royal Street

Running parallel to Bourbon Street, one block over is one of the Quarter’s most elegant routes. From Canal to Esplanade, you’ll find a beautiful stretch of art galleries, antique shops, fine jewelry, street performers and picturesque buildings adorned with intricate ironwork. For a unique experience, check out M.S. Rau Antiques. The 25,000-square-foot gallery features an incredible collection of high-end antiques, art and sculpture. Ask to see the “secret room”, and you’ll be amazed at the rare, museum-quality artifacts on display. 

STAY 

Hotel Monteleone

Family-owned and operated since 1886, the Monteleone is one of the most recognized hotels in the city. Its opulent rooms were favored by writers such as Ernest Hemingway, Anne Rice, Truman Capote, Tennessee Williams and William Faulkner. The star of the hotel is the Carousel Bar and Lounge. Locals and tourists frequent this revolving bar for classic cocktails and musical entertainment. It’s a must-do on any visitor’s list, and as a guest, you can imbibe to your heart’s content and stroll right onto your room. You can also enjoy a meal at Criollo, with its ingredient-driven menu presenting the fusion of flavors that make up Louisiana cuisine. 

If you do just one thing… 

Get beignets and cafe au lait at Cafe du Monde. Enjoy an order on the covered outdoor area and watch the crowds go by on Decatur, or take it to go and sit on the edge of the Mississippi. Your visit to the Quarter isn’t complete unless you’re covered in powdered sugar at some point. 

Downriver from the French Quarter, across Esplanade Avenue, are two of the trendiest neighborhoods in the city, frequently referred to as one continuous neighborhood. The young and the hip are drawn to this area, attracting an ever-increasing in-the-know crowd. Hotel chains have yet to invade, but there are several bed and breakfasts and a couple of smaller inns to consider. The furthest reaches of Bywater are best accessed with a cab or rideshare, but the energetic can safely walk through the area during daylight. You’ll find colorful Creole cottages and historic homes containing small cafes and shops, a few art galleries, hip record stores and the riverfront Crescent Park. Restaurants are local and casual, with a smattering of vegan-friendly spots along St. Claude Avenue. Bars run the gamut from the classy Three Muses to the divey Vaughn's Lounge. The epicenter is Frenchmen Street; you’ll find live music venues where you can hear anything from jazz or blues to reggae and rock or even a brass band performing on a corner. It’s still crowded but a more unique alternative to the Quarter.

EAT

Adolfo’s

Perched above the bustling Frenchmen Street, up a narrow flight of stairs from the Apple Barrel bar, is this quaint, cash-only restaurant serving Creole Italian—a local specialty combining Italian and local French influences. Enjoy huge portions of seafood and pasta as you check out the quirky, colorful decor. Be prepared for a wait, and bring cash.

DRINK

Bacchanal Wine

While it’s no longer a locals’ secret, Bacchanal retains its unique local charm and funky hideaway feel. At the far end of the Bywater, you’ll find this wine shop/hangout with a cozy “treehouse” bar and lush back patio. Pick a bottle and a cheese plate or one of several gourmet small plate offerings and listen to a live band. It’s like a party at your friend’s house every night of the week.

DO

Studio Be

This huge warehouse in Bywater welcomes visitors with a massive, colorful mural on its front. Studio Be houses the work of BMike—local artist Brandon Odums. He is known for his large-scale murals depicting Black culture in the city, and his studio showcases his floor-to-ceiling portraits of Black leaders and icons.

STAY

Hotel Peter & Paul

Hotel Peter & Paul sits in a building that used to be a Catholic church and school but has since been reimagined into one of NOLA’s most stunning places to stay. If the gingham-clad rooms don’t win you over, with their antique furniture and snazzily-tiled bathrooms, perhaps The Elysian Bar will: this is one of the hottest places to drink in the city.

If you do just one thing…

Support live, local music on Frenchmen. Whether it’s a brass band at d.b.a, reggae at Cafe Negril or trad jazz at Snug Harbor (to name just a few), experience the music up close. You can also stop in Louisiana Music Factory to take home some tunes from your favorite local artists.

The CBD, just across Canal Street from the French Quarter, contains the bulk of New Orleans office buildings and includes the Warehouse Arts District and the so-called South Market District. Typically the go-to area for travelers conducting business in the city, it has blossomed into a hip hub for food, drink and culture. The Warehouse District, which began its transformation in the late '80s, is now a full-on arts district with renowned art galleries and museums, including the Ogden Museum of Southern Art. The CBD also includes the Orpheum and Saenger Theaters and the Superdome—home of the New Orleans Saints. You’ll find a wealth of places geared towards office workers for a quick, inexpensive bite, along with some of the city’s most talked-about restaurants, including Cochon, Peche and Emeril’s. Younger travelers will be drawn to cool hotels with rooftop bars like The Barnett, Moxy and Troubadour, as well as renowned landmark hotels like The Roosevelt, Windsor Court and Le Pavillon. For a more modern vibe and trendier offerings, the CBD is a good choice for its walkability and proximity to the French Quarter.

EAT

Compere Lapin

Mixing the flavors of her Caribbean homeland of Saint Lucia with classic New Orleans cuisine, Chef Nina Compton’s menu has received consistent raves. Enjoy excellent cocktails followed by must-try starters like spiced pig ears and buttermilk biscuits. The goat curry, set atop sweet potato gnocchi, is a star entrée, and seasonal updates bring exciting new flavors to palates.

DRINK

Sazerac Bar

This elegant bar within the landmark Roosevelt Hotel was a favorite of Huey Long’s. Sidle up to the long wood bar, order a sazerac or a Ramos gin fizz, and admire the famous Paul Ninas murals. A New Orleans icon, the Sazerac Bar has long been one of the city’s most popular pre- or post-meal gathering spots for friends, families and business dealings.

DO 

Julia Street

“Gallery Row” on Julia Street in the Warehouse District is a series of more than a dozen art galleries occupying former storefronts. The architecture creates a unique setting for browsing classic and cutting-edge art. On the first Saturday of every month, galleries host coordinated openings with a festive atmosphere. White Linen Night—held on the first Saturday in August—is the premier event, when hundreds of people come out in white linen to enjoy art, food and music.

STAY 

Virgin Hotel

The Virgin Hotel brings even more hip cred to the CBD, offering relaxing digs within walking distance of the Quarter. Rooms are chic and comfortable, and there is plenty to explore around the hotel. Hang at the rooftop Pool Club and enjoy a cocktail and views of the city, grab a coffee in the Funny Library, or have dinner at Commons Club. The Virgin is pet friendly too.

If you do just one thing… 

Visit the National WWII Museum, a world-class complex with award-winning exhibits showcasing the stories of those who served in WWII and on the homefront. Highlights include a theater with WWII-era musical performances, a restaurant, and a fantastic gift shop with 1940s-inspired gifts and clothing. 

This area of the city—encompassing several smaller, residential neighborhoods upriver from the French Quarter —includes the St. Charles Avenue streetcar, grand historic mansions, Tulane and Loyola Universities, the beautiful Audubon Park and Zoo and many beloved local institutions. It’s away from the hubbub of the French Quarter, offering the culture without the craziness but easily accessible by various modes of transportation. During Mardi Gras, it is a great place to be, as the parades roll down St. Charles in an exceptionally family-friendly environment. You’ll find neighborhood cafes, po-boy shops, long-running family restaurants and several popular spots for sno-balls, New Orleans’ favorite summertime treat. You can enjoy pleasant walks, grand oak trees and unique shopping. As you move further to Uptown, passing scores of grand Garden District mansions (which you can learn about by taking a guided walking tour), you’ll find a mix of high-end restaurants (Commander’s Palace) and colorful neighborhood dives (Parasol’s). 

EAT 

Brigtsen’s

This century-plus Victorian cottage tucked away in the Riverbend houses some of the best modern Creole fare in the city. Chef Frank Brigtsen straightforwardly updates classic dishes with delicious results. Perfect after enjoying a stroll through the surrounding neighborhood, Brigtsen's is a smart option for sampling New Orleans cooking in an intimate, friendly setting. 

DRINK

Cure

Cure is considered a pioneer of the modern cocktail scene in the city. The former firehouse was converted into a stylish lounge in 2009, revitalizing the now-buzzy Freret Street. The dimly lit interior is a perfect spot for cocktails and conversation bathed in the glow of the towering bottle collection behind the bar. You’ll find creative drinks and modern twists on the classics, plus an eclectic menu of bar bites. Check out the breezy patio on good weather days.

DO 

Tipitina’s

Tip’s is a destination for music lovers, but even the disinterested will get swept up in the vibe. This funky space has been a landmark since 1977 for live music and weekly Cajun dancing sessions. The standing-room-only space is perfect for seeing a local band while soaking up some musical history. The associated Tipitina’s Foundation supports local musicians and maintains an excellent Walk of Fame on the sidewalk. 

STAY

The Chloe

This Victorian-era mansion on St. Charles Avenue was lovingly renovated by the team behind popular spots Sylvain and Barrel Proof. With only 14 guest rooms, you will feel right at home in rooms featuring soaking tubs and local art. Relax on the front porch and watch the streetcars go by or dine at the on-site restaurant, which features a contemporary take on New Orleans classics.

If you do just one thing…

Head to Magazine Street—six miles of unique local shops, art galleries, neighborhood bars, popular restaurants and colorful architecture.

For a real neighborhood adventure away from—but accessible to—the French Quarter, consider Mid-City. Midway between the Mississippi River and Lake Pontchartrain, it offers easy access to both destinations via streetcar or taxi/rideshare. For the overachievers, the Lafitte Greenway, a 2.6-mile paved trail, is a bikeable option to the Quarter. Mid-City is a strong, diverse, local community home to the famed annual Jazz and Heritage Festival. You’ll find an artsy crowd and colorful houses in the Bayou St. John area and historic landmarks along Bayou Road. There is a thriving commercial corridor along Carrollton Avenue, and several classic bars, restaurants, breweries and sno-ball stands everywhere. Many Mid-City families have been based in the area for generations. If you’re a repeat visitor and want a more local experience, Mid-City is a good choice.

EAT 

Parkway Bakery and Tavern

This family-owned, casual neighborhood joint is a top choice for classic, overstuffed po-boys. It has grown in popularity, but the friendly staff still takes care of the locals while welcoming tourists. Shrimp are fried to perfection, roast beef is sufficiently messy, and the Barq's (and beer) is served icy cold. For a non-traditional po-boy option, try the smoked alligator sausage.

DRINK

Finn McCool’s

This Irish pub with local flavor is one of the top neighborhood bars in the city. Lively and totally unpretentious, you’ll feel like a regular as soon as you order your first beer. It is a lively gathering spot for Saints and soccer games, and their weekly pub quiz night is particularly raucous. The pop-up kitchen in the back serves decent pub grub, too. 

DO 

City Park

City Park is a beautifully-landscaped, 1,300-acre green space filled with moss-drenched oaks, peaceful walking paths and native birds. Within the park are the New Orleans Museum of Art, the Botanical Gardens and golf, both mini- and regular. The Big Lake offers boating and other activities, while Storyland and the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park offer fun for kids. 

STAY

Canal Street Inn

This charming B&B on Canal Street offers easy access to the streetcar. The elegant decor is original to the home, and the homemade breakfasts are filling. With comfortable parlors and a garden terrace, it is a quiet, homey place to unwind after exploring the city.

If you do just one thing… 

Head to Chickie Wah Wah for live music from an intimate stage. You can see jazz, funk, roots rock and select touring acts at this small club. There's always a great vibe whoever takes to the stage.