Things To Do
Commander's Palace
Commander's Palace, located in New Orleans' Garden District, is famous for its fun jazz brunch, complete with delicious food and live jazz quartet.
The Carousel Bar & Lounge
The Carousel Bar is located in the Hotel Montelone in the French Quarter. Just as the name says, this bar is an old timey carousel that actually moves! Jane Ashley recommends you order the famous Fleur-de-Lis cocktail.
Jackson Square
Located right across the street from St. Louis Cathedral and steps away from the Mississippi River, Jackson Square is one of the most popular places to take a selfie in New Orleans.
Pat O'Brien's
Pat O's is a must-visit in the French Quarter. Order an original Hurricane or two... (but never three). Snap a group photo in front of the blazing courtyard fountain and grab a seat at the piano bar - which we HIGHLY RECOMMEND! Have some cash on hand to request your favorite tunes or fight song. Piano lounge hours: Thursday & Sunday 4pm to Midnight, Friday & Saturday 3pm to 1 am.
New Orleans Streetcar
A ride on the St. Charles streetcar to the end of the route and back downtown is only $1.25 exact change each way. This route takes you past some of the most beautiful mansions and oak-lined streets of New Orleans. You can also get a day pass for the streetcar that works on the buses as well (which run on Magazine St.). We recommend a streetcar cocktail crawl - the Raborns are partial to the Superior Grill margaritas that, yes, you can get to GEAUX!
Pascal's Manale Restaurant & Bar
Barbecue shrimp. Barbecue shrimp. Barbecue shrimp. That's all.
Mandina's Restaurant
Mandina's is a Toups and Raborn family favorite! Everything here is delicious. Jane Ashley's grandfather grew up going here and his absolute favorite was the roast beef po-boy. If you order one, be sure to ask for extra napkins!
Magazine Street
Magazine Street is Main Street USA in true NOLA style, offering 6 miles of intermittent shopping and dining. While you will find a few national brands, locally owned storefronts are the norm. Unique boutiques, top chefs, art studios, and markets have been popping up along this exceptional thoroughfare since the early days of New Orleans.
Clancy's Restaurant
Clancy's is a popular uptown New Orleans classic restaurant. Reservations are taken one month out, so plan ahead!
Café Du Monde
Don't be afraid of the long lines! They move fast and it's absolutely worth it! And don’t forget to bring cash!
Cajun Pride Swamp Tours
Don't knock it until you try it!
GW Fins
A great, stylish and updated restaurant for seafood! The menu changes daily depending on what's in season!
Tommy's Cuisine
Tommy's Cuisine is located in the Warehouse District and is a must-visit if you want excellent Italian food.
Mr. B's Bistro
Mr. B's is a great spot for a leisurely lunch during a day of sightseeing in NOLA.
Roosevelt Hotel
No trip to New Orleans at Christmastime is complete without taking a walk through some of the most beautifully decorated hotel lobbies in the city. The iconic Roosevelt Hotel is by far the most popular.