Things To Do
Preservation Hall
One of our all-time favorite spots in New Orleans! We went here on an early date and have been coming back ever since. You can catch traditional jazz shows daily at 5:00, 6:15, 7:30, and 8:45 PM. Be sure to grab your tickets online ahead of time!
Frenchmen Street
We usually send people here instead of Bourbon Street. It’s one short stretch with several live music spots for jazz, brass bands, and funk. Most places don’t charge a cover, so you can bounce around. Be sure to check out the Art Bazaar, open nightly from 6:00 p.m. to midnight, where local artisans showcase and sell their work.
Caesars New Orleans
For those who want to try their luck, Caesars is the go-to casino in the city. It is open 24/7 and is just steps from the French Quarter and both hotels.
The National WWII Museum
This museum is massive and incredibly well done. You can choose to focus on either the European or Pacific theaters, or do both if you have time. The exhibits are very immersive, and we recommend setting aside a few hours. The short film narrated by Tom Hanks is worth seeing, too, and requires an additional ticket.
Audubon Park
Right across the street from Tulane’s campus, where we went to college! You can stroll or jog along the 1.8-mile path that circles the golf course and nature reserve. Enjoy the sweeping oak trees, local birds, the Audubon Zoo, and beautiful views of the Mississippi River. It’s easy to hop on the St. Charles streetcar from downtown to get here.
Saenger Theatre
Arriving in town early? The Saenger Theatre hosts Broadway in NOLA and is showing the touring company of Phantom of the Opera starting March 4th. It’s just a few minutes’ ride from both of our hotel blocks. Grab your tickets below and enjoy a night out!
New Orleans Museum of Art
We love spending a quiet afternoon here. It’s in the middle of City Park and has a great mix of classic and contemporary art. The sculpture garden is free and really beautiful when the weather is nice. The café inside is also great for lunch or a snack.
La Boulangerie
Our go-to spot for French-style pastries, croissants, and strong coffee. It’s perfect for a light breakfast or midday pick-me-up while exploring Magazine Street. We love sitting on the sidewalk patio and sharing an almond croissant.
Molly's Rise and Shine
One of our favorite breakfast spots! The decor is playful and nostalgic, decked with classic childhood toys and movie posters. We love the Grand Slam McMuffin and the Fried Chicken Biscuit, and the rotating homemade Pop-Tart flavors are always delicious!
French Truck Coffee
One of our favorite spots to grab coffee! We like the iced NOLA, half-sweet. There are several locations throughout the city!
Stein's Market and Deli
Stein is a true Jewish-Italian deli with a New Orleans twist. They have rotating daily specials, but The Rachel (hot pastrami, swiss, sauerkraut on rye bread with Russian dressing) is our favorite. The breakfast sandwiches are all great, too! It’s a perfect place to grab a casual breakfast or lunch before exploring Magazine Street.
Ayu Bakehouse
Pronounced “Ayu” like “Bayou”! At this charming bakery near the Quarter, you can watch the bakers in the open kitchen craft croissants, biscuits, and seasonal pastries. Lines can get long on weekends, so plan to arrive early!
Parkway Bakery & Tavern
Our favorite po’boys in the city!!! We love the fried oyster or roast beef po'boy, which is a classic New Orleans sandwich first made in 1929 during a streetcar workers’ strike. Afterwards, you can enjoy an easy stroll around the Bayou St. John in the Mid City neighborhood. We recommend going for an early lunch - around 11:00 am.
Saba
We love sitting at the bar or on the patio when the weather’s nice. It’s honestly the best Israeli and Mediterranean food in New Orleans! You must get the hummus (or two) with fluffy pita bread. It’s perfect to go with a group and share plates so you can try a little bit of everything! You can easily make a reservation ahead of time on Resy.
La Petite Grocery
LPG is a neighborhood favorite with a cozy, slightly upscale vibe. They serve one of our favorite burgers in the city, and the specials are always amazing! The menu highlights fresh, local ingredients with a French twist. It’s perfect when you want something a bit special without feeling stuffy. We have enjoyed many lunches and dinners here! You can easily make a reservation ahead of time on OpenTable.
N7
This spot feels like a secret garden and is our go-to date night spot. It’s tucked away in the Bywater and combines French and Japanese flavors. The natural wine list and daily specials are always a hit! You can easily make a reservation ahead of time on Resy.
Jacques-Imo's
One of Will's favorite Nola restaurants! He loves the Godzilla special and the alligator cheesecake. Definitely come here if you're looking for authentic Cajun, New Orleans food. Reservations can easily be made in advance by calling (504) 861-0886.
Commander's Palace
Commander's is a New Orleans institution for an unforgettable dining experience, especially their weekend Jazz Brunch. We love the martinis and the bread pudding soufflé! You can easily make a reservation ahead of time on Resy and be sure to check the dress code.
Creole Creamery
Our favorite sweet treat!!! They serve handmade artisan ice cream made in small batches with rotating seasonal flavors. Katherine loves the black & gold crunch, and Will likes the pasta water.
