New Orleans: Jazz Nights, Beignets & a Luxe French Quarter Home Base

Take a bike tour beyond the obvious

A guided bike ride is one of the best ways to see more than the French Quarter without feeling rushed. You cover real ground, catch neighborhood context, and it’s perfect for travelers who want history and a little movement.

Café du Monde at City Park

This is the beignet moment—just in a more relaxed setting than the French Market. It pairs perfectly with a morning in City Park or a stroll near the museums.

Louis Armstrong Park & Congo Square

This is a powerful, meaningful stop that adds depth to everything you’ll hear in the city’s music scene. Congo Square is a cornerstone of New Orleans’ cultural history and absolutely worth experiencing thoughtfully.

Preservation Hall (even if it’s a quick stop)

Small, historic, and iconic—this is one of those places that reminds you why New Orleans matters to American music history. If you can catch a set, do it—if not, even a brief visit makes an impact.

New Orleans Jazz Museum (Old US Mint)

A great “rain plan” or midday culture stop, especially if you want artifacts and context around the artists and eras that shaped jazz.

Stroll Royal Street for galleries, antiques, and architecture

Royal Street is a beautiful counterbalance to Bourbon—more art, less chaos, and a perfect daytime wander when you want the French Quarter vibe without the volume.

Live jazz at the Davenport Lounge

If you want an elevated “New Orleans night” that still feels polished, this is a perfect option—classic cocktails, live jazz, and that old-school glamour feel.

Carousel Bar at The Monteleone

Spin while you sip on classic cocktails while enjoying nightly entertainment.

Build in a spa reset mid-trip

New Orleans can be a lot (in the best way). Scheduling a massage or wellness break makes the whole weekend feel more restorative—and keeps your evenings fun instead of exhausting.

• M Bistro (The Ritz-Carlton): A great choice when you want a high-quality meal without leaving the comfort of the hotel—especially after a full day out exploring.

• The Davenport Lounge (The Ritz-Carlton): Come for the music, stay for the cocktails—this is a perfect “dress up a little” New Orleans evening that still feels easy.

• Brennan’s: Classic New Orleans dining with old-world charm—ideal for a celebratory moment (or just because you want to do something iconic).

• Napoleon House: A must if you want the true “New Orleans bite” experience—especially for a warm muffuletta and classic cocktails in a historic setting.

• Carousel Bar (Hotel Monteleone): It’s iconic for a reason—a rotating bar experience that feels uniquely New Orleans and makes for a fun, memorable stop.

• Café du Monde (City Park location): The beignet-and-café-au-lait tradition is non-negotiable, and City Park is a great setting when you want a calmer version of the classic.