Over the new year I had the pleasure of getting to visit New Orleans out of the excuse that we went to the Sugar Bowl for the College Football Playoff. I haven’t been to Nola since I was about 8 or 9 years old so as an adult I knew I had to make the most of this short trip since I don’t know when I’ll be back! These are my best stops in my 24 hours I had to soak in there!
Delectable donuts at District Donuts
Breakfast at District Donuts:
You have to start off your morning at this amazing place on your way to our second stop. This donut shop is unique compared to a lot of the other places because they have your traditional sweet donuts but they also have some delicious traditional breakfast food as well. They even have my favorite French dish a Croque Madame.
Magazine Street:
Southern homes lining Magazine Street
After finishing your delicious breakfast, you are already on the beautiful street you are going to continue your journey on. I honestly hadn’t heard about this area until my friend recommended it to me. Magazine Street is about a 2 mile stretch that really embodies the heart of New Orleans. There are tons of shops and boutiques to pop your head in, and it is surrounded by traditional New Orleans style houses. You could spend an hour to two hours just wandering this magnificent street.
Lunch Spots:
The best part of New Orleans honestly is the food. We could have spend the whole day just eating at different spots. This places were both so yummy.
Scrumptious Shrimp and Grits at Red Dog Tavern
This delicious southern restaurant had me wanting to order everything off it’s menu. When you first walk in it seems like you won’t get a table but in the back there is a sort of hidden bar and table space that makes it that much more intriguing!
Ironically right next door to the one I just mentioned, this authentic spot is a mix of Mexican food with a Caribbean flavor. From tacos, to jerk flavored items and a full list of Rum this will definitely get your taste buds going.
French Quarter:
Jackson Square in the French Quarter
Obviously the most famous part of the city is the French Quarter it is a must visit. Like many other parts of the city it is great to walk around and take in the sites and sounds. Jackson Square is a popular location to hear local musicians, see local art and take in all the beautiful architecture the city has to offer. If you want to get more history I highly suggest the Two Chicks Walking Tour because it is only $20 for 2-3 hours of your time.
Walk Through Woldenberg Park:
River views at Wolderberg Park
Situated right next to the French Quarter is this beautiful park that lets your stroll down the Mississippi River. I think this is one of the places that is super overlooked and getting to see the Mississippi in person is something that not even many United State natives have done. It has beautiful views of the big city and you can see how much of a port city New Orleans is as well. If you are more of a water adventurer I recommend jumping on a Harbor Jazz Cruise for $34 by Steamboat Natchez.
Dinner at Mother’s:
Delicious shrimp po boy at Mother’s
If you are in NOLA then you have to hit up some quality seafood and nothing screams sea food more than a Shrimp Po Boy. This local spot is well known and is worth the line out the door. It’s cafeteria style so the line usually moves quick, and you get so much food. Make sure you look on the walls and see all cool people who have also visited this historical place.
Bourbon Street:
Entertaining live music on Bourbon Street
One of the most iconic parts of the city for many reasons and a must do during your quick visit to NOLA. The crazy part is that the bars and restaurants are open pretty early on in the afternoon. As someone who isn’t really into going crazy during a scene like this, I still wanted to get the experience but on my own terms. I recommend heading to Tickler’s Piano Bar or Cafe Biegnet (dont’ get the pastry’s) but enjoy the outdoor seating with live music!
Beignets at Cafe du Monde:
Pastry heaven at Cafe du Monde
The classic pastry of this city is of course a must stop at when you are in NOLA. But I have some tips to make it as smooth as possible. They are actually open 24/7 so you can go whenever works best for your schedule whether it’s right when you arrive or right before you leave. Also another thing that many don’t know is that they don’t actually have a hostess to seat you. You actually seat yourself and they come to you! If you are in a time crunch they have a to-go place as well!
Classy Nighttime Spots:
If you are at the tail end or your day and you are not wanting to go crazy on Bourbon Street, but not wanting to leave the downtown scene, there are a few upscale bars that I recommend.
The beautiful live music at The Jazz Playhouse
With live Jazz music every night in a classy establishment, this really gets you into the southern feels in New Orleans. You do have to order a drink as their “cost” to come in, but they are delicious and worth the music!
Another classy establishment in the city and actually located inside the beautiful Roosevelt Hotel. The cocktails are a little bit on the pricer side but the details and views inside the historic hotel make them all worth it.
