New Orleans, Louisiana City Guide

New Orleans, LA is one of my absolute favorite cities in the U.S. and by the most cultural.

The people of Nola have a love for their city that runs deep. These people are up at the crack of dawn frying up beignets for the masses, shucking truck loads of fresh oysters, and all while the sweet of sound jazz music echos through the cobblestone streets. 

New Orleans is a must visit city. 

Where To Stay

India House Hostel

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If hostels are your thing, then check out India House Hostel. Their common space is great for meeting like-minded travelers, and it sits right on the trolley line, making for easy access to Canal St, Bourbon St, and the French Quarter

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The Royal Sonesta New Orleans

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The Royal Sonesta sits right smack dab in the middle of it all, with its old European architecture and southern charm.

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Place d'Armes Hotel

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Place D'Armes is another Eruopean-style hotel right in the French Quarter with spectacular views of Jackson Square.

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Tours/History to Explore

Saint Charles Streetcar (NORTA Route 12)

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You have to ride the trolleys. New Orleans has several lines that can take you all over the city. Fun fact - The St. Charles trolley is the oldest operating trolley in the country

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Oak Alley Plantation

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Oak Alley Plantation sits on the west bank of the Mississippi River and was a sugar cane plantation owned by Valcour Aime, one of the wealthiest men in the South in the early 1800s. The plantation is beautiful, with a double row of southern oak lined over the plantation.

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Whitney Plantation

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The Whitney Plantation, while stunning, educates the public about the history and legacies of slavery in the United States,

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Cajun Encounters Tours

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Hop on a swamp tour and learn about the Louisiana Bayou and its wildlife!

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Jackson Square

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Jackson Square is an iconic spot in the quarter, named a historic landmark in 1803 for its role in the city's history.

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Marie Laveau's House Of Voodoo

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If you're into voodoo (or not) checking out Marie Laveau's Voodoo shop is pretty neat. She was a voodoo practitioner and herbalist in the early 1800s, and her store is still present in the quarter today. You can even get a reading!

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Where to Eat

I've only scratched the surface with these few food spots. There are countless restaurants, pubs, and bars serving amazing Creole cuisine that you'll come across. For more recommendations, take a look at my New Orleans Foodie Guide!

Pere Antoine Restaurant

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I'm a big fan of Pere Antoine's, especially for brunch when you can enjoy the open-air dining. The Bloody Mary and the shrimp and crawfish omelet were absolutely fantastic. Did you know that Antoine's is actually the oldest restaurant in New Orleans?

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Café Du Monde Mail Order

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If you're considering a trip to New Orleans, Cafe Du Monde is a must-visit. Their beignets are absolutely delicious, and the coffee house is open 24/7. Whether you're craving a sweet treat at 2 in the afternoon or 2 in the morning, you can always satisfy your craving. Be prepared for a line, but the best time to go might just be 2 in the morning after a night of Hurricanes.

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Felix's Restaurant & Oyster Bar

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If you're hunting for oysters, check out Felix's Oyster Bar—the oldest oyster bar in the city.

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Where to Grab a Drink/Nightlife

The World Famous Cats Meow | Karaoke New Orleans

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If you're looking for a good time, check out the world-famous Cats Meow karaoke bar!

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Old Absinthe House

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The Old Absinthe House has a fascinating history dating back to the prohibition era when it operated as a speakeasy. The bar's legacy and its connection to bootleg booze add an intriguing allure to the experience. Don't miss the chance to savor their absinthe!

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Molly's at the Market

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I stumbled upon Molly's at the Market, an Irish-inspired bar, one day, and I'm so glad I did! Their frozen Baileys coffee drink is an absolute must every time I find myself in New Orleans.

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Commander's Palace

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It's not lunch if you're not having a martini. If you're in town on a Thursday or Friday, check out Commanders Palace for 25-cent martinis!

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Pat O'Brien's

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Are you even visiting New Orleans if you haven't tried a hurricane? The hurricane originated at Pat O'Briens piano bar back in the 1940s

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The Carousel Bar & Lounge

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Relax and have a cocktail at the spinning Carousel Bar. Super Neat!

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There's so much more to New Orleans than could ever fit in a guide. I highly recommend spending at least three days here, although a week would truly allow you to fully experience the city. With Mardi Gras, crawfish boils, cajun music, and so much more, this guide will give you a great start!