An Insider's look at New Orleans: 15 Things to do near the French Quarter
From Historic Hotels to classic Creole Dishes, let's delve into what New Orleans truly has to offer!
New Orleans
The decision to found New Orleans, or Nouvelle-Orléans, was made in Paris in 1717. Historically, the town was greatly influenced by its French foundation, its Spanish control, as well as its acquisition by the United States in 1803. Being no stranger to New Orleans, I was excited to make a seventh trip back to the city. Aside from revisiting favorite spots, I made plans to discover new and exciting things. One thing I can guarantee about New Orleans is that there is always more to do and see.
[Available Translations Of This Article: Traducción Española - Русский перевод - Traduction en français ]
Hôtel
The Bourbon Orleans Hotel
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The Bourbon Orleans Hotel -
offers guests an authentic piece of New Orleans history and is affectionately referred to by Conde Nast Traveller as the "Grand Dame" of French Quarter hotels. With a wealth of period décor, such as chandeliers aplenty, gilded details, French windows, and Veranda balconies, this hotel offers an abundance of character. The Bourbon Orleans is in a great location on the north side of the famous St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square.
Our Story Begins
In 1815, entrepreneur John Davis built the Théâtre d’Orléans which burned to the ground just two years later, but Davis was determined and his idea for a premiere theater took off after he rebuilt in 1817. The grand ballroom, called the Salle d’Orléans was eventually added and began hosting elite New Orleans affairs, including masquerade and carnival balls. It also hosted infamous balls and Davis introduced French opera to America at the theater, and through the years, dining and gambling rooms were added. Louisiana’s state and house legislators began meeting in the ballroom in 1827. And although it isn’t verified, some claim Andrew Jackson announced his candidacy for president there.
The Civil War put an end to New Orleans’ exciting nightlife, and by 1881 Davis had moved on and both the Orleans Theatre and ballroom had been closed and acquired by the Sisters of the Holy Family for use as a school and convent. The Sisters used the property for 83 years, through yellow fever epidemics, race problems, and other travails, before outgrowing the complex in the 1960s. In 1964, construction began on the Bourbon Orleans Hotel. While the crumbling walls of the nuns’ school came down, the original ballroom was preserved and refurbished. Updated and restored, it remains in use.
Key Features Of The Bourbon Orleans Hotel:
- Guests of The Bourbon Orleans can enjoy swimming in this lagoon-style saltwater pool. There is nothing better than hanging by calm blue water in comfy lounge chairs after a morning of exploration! There are also tables with umbrellas waiting for you to sit down and relax if you need a break from the sun.
-If you are looking to experience Bourbon Street's excitement up close, they offer Balcony rooms!
-The Bourbon Orleans ballroom is the oldest ballroom in New Orleans.
-The hotel also has a spirited history including many stories of ghosts and hauntings, the most famous of which is room 644.
The Sounds Of New Orleans 🎶
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Activités
Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a long-term stay, we’ve compiled a list with 15 of our favorite things to do in New Orleans. A list that will occupy you with the best of culture, fun, good food, and enough historical intrigue to keep you coming back again and again!
The French Quarter
1. Take an Early Morning Stroll around Jackson Square & have Beignet at Cafe du Monde
The early bird gets the beignet! Guests arrive promptly at 7:30 a.m. for this famous eatery. If you can accommodate a 7 AM morning outing into your itinerary, you’ll be able to experience all the charm and beauty surrounding Jackson Square without crowds.
2. Self-Guided Architecture Tour
Creole architecture, though often perceived as French Colonial, is actually a New Orleans-developed style. Many architectural influences are from France, Spain, and the Caribbean. You can find some remarkable architecture beginning at Jackson Square and moving through the French Quarter toward the Supreme Court of Louisiana. If you prefer a tour guide, click here to book a local guide with an extensive knowledge of the area!
3. Ride a Streetcar to the Warehouse District
A fun piece of New Orleans culture is the ability to enjoy a streetcar ride for only $1.25 per ride. You can also get a one day unlimited “Jazzy Pass” for $3.
If you’re interested in taking the Streetcar, here’s some useful info on the routes and how to ride!
Other nearby Downtown/Warehouse District stops include The National WWII Museum and the Ogden Museum.
4. Grab a Drink at Bar Marilou
Found in the Warehouse District is this vibrant and unique Speakeasy! I came across Bar Marilou on Pinterest, and it immediately caught my eye. The jewel tones, theatre curtains, and animal print carpets of Bar Marilou all add to its charm! Those of you who love Japanese Whiskey (as I do) should definitely try the Tokyo Record! A beverage composed of Japanese whiskey, Amontillado sherry, elderflower, lemon, and vanilla. Easily my favorite drink this trip!
5. Visit the Botanical Garden
From the 1930s to today, the New Orleans Botanical Garden offers carefully cultivated gardens. Open year round, ten acres of beauty and art await you. Designed by William Wiedorn in cooperation with architect Richard Koch and Art Deco artist Enrique Alferez, the garden contains a conservatory, the Pavilion of the Two Sisters, a reflecting pool, a rose garden, and four large garden rooms. If you've read my previous articles, you know I'm always hunting an Art Deco moment on every trip. From the benches, light posts, statues and fountains - this park is a fantastic flood of Art Deco charm! The New Orleans Botanical Garden and City Park are adjacent, offering something for everyone. You can enjoy art, culture, and parks. Take a paddle boat or kayak out on Big Lake, visit the theme park, enjoy mini golf and more! It is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon.
6. Enjoy $1 Oysters at Luke
Happy hour and discounted oysters are offered every day of the week at Luke. Need I say more? On one of my first trips to New Orleans, I discovered this place. It continues to be a favorite. Luke happy hour is from 3 pm -6 pm daily offering $1 raw P&J oysters, $8 half a dozen fried oysters, ½ priced specialty cocktails, wines by the glass, draft beer, and well cocktails!
7. Visit the Bourbon “O” Bar
Bourbon Orleans' very own bar, The Bourbon “O” offers live music and craft cocktails! They're known for their six-minute Ramos Gin Fizz - one of the most famous and well-documented cocktails from the1880s. This will become your new favorite place to listen to live music featuring local New Orleans artists.
8. Shop the many Bookstores, Galleries, and Boutiques New Orleans has to offer
If you’re a book lover, you must check out Arcadian Books & Prints. Here you will find a wealth of literary works! A unique experience where books are stacked to the ceiling giving you a sense of being in an attic full of hidden treasures. The store's owner is fluent in French and has an incredible insight into the organization of the store. It's a must-visit place in the French Quarter.
M.S. Rau Fine Art, Antiques, and Jewels - Specializing in excellence and one of a kind pieces, M.S Rau has assembled and maintains an extraordinary collection of antiques. The team is generous in sharing their knowledge about each piece, creating a unique museum-like experience. You'll find a tranquil moment at this truly distinct gallery!
9. Brunch at Stanley
For a front-row experience to Jackson Square’s many performers, ask for a table on the patio of Stanley! During your meal, you can watch the many street performers, magicians, fire breathers, and more. They also have a great Crab Cakes Benedict that I recommend if you love seafood!
10. Discover Pirates Alley
Local artist Kristian Pedersen was nice enough to give us the inside scoop on Pirates Alley. Located behind the St. Louis Cathedral on Jackson Square (to the left of The Bourbon Orleans Hotel). While the area in front of Jackson Square requires all artists and talents to have a vendors license, the Cathedral allows artists a ‘first come first serve’ opportunity to showcase their works!
11. Enjoy a Carriage Ride
Nothing says ‘Ole New Orleans quite like a carriage ride.
Book a private ride or hop on the party carriages! While many New Orleans based companies offer this service, I have included a link to one popular option here.
12. Relax and Dine at Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar & Bistro
Directly across from the Bourbon Orleans, you’ll find this quaint courtyard Bistro.
Built by Antoine Angue in 1808, it was home to the first Creole restaurant in New Orleans. At the rear of the building were stables where the carriage horses were kept while patrons dined. The restaurant has taken special care to maintain the original character and ambience.
Their wine selection boasts a balanced mix of prices, young red and whites as well as some mature wine and older vintages.
13. Ghosts of New Orleans Tour
Visit haunted sites in the French Quarter on a ghost tour of New Orleans. Hear ghostly legends and lore from your entertaining guide, who shares eerie tales featured on the History Channel. With its colorful past and unique traditions, it’s no wonder that so many New Orleans’ homes and taverns have been investigated by paranormal investigators! I have included links to some popular booking options below.
French Quarter Walking Tours - Family Friendly Booking Options - Haunted Pub Crawls - True Crime Walking Tour
14. Go for a spin at The Carousel Bar
The Carousel Bar is truly a one-of-a-kind attraction. The carousel has seen seven decades, served countless cocktails, and is the only one in which you must be 21 to ride.
This world-renowned landmark is still spinning after 70 years.
15. Perch yourself at Peacock Room
The design-lovers' dream lounge. Peacock Room, meticulously planned and executed, transports you to another place and time. Offering a menu of classic cocktails and tapas style plates, as well as delicious entrees. You will not be disappointed by this gilded experience that New Orleans has to offer!
Below are some favorite images from our trip. The photos in this article were taken by Victoria-Potter Lands & Ashley M Lands
Enjoy!
Book Early at the Bourbon Orleans Hotel & Save 15% off your next room when reserving 14 days in advance. Details can be found here!
The Bourbon Orleans
717 Orleans St, New Orleans, LA 70116
(504) 523-2222
Fashion Looks listed by order of appearance: Marchesa Blue And Gold Embroidered Gown (Nova Octo Dress Rentals) - Sunglasses (Polaroid) - Tan Pleated Pants & Plaid Blazer (Vintage) - Brock Collection floral Quarrie Dress (Nova Octo Dress Rentals) - Accessories (Elizabeth Frangos Jewelry) - Linen Pant and Vest (Banana Republic) - Swimwear (Zimmermann)
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