Curator’s statement
I was born and raised in New Orleans, and this city has shaped so much of who I am. There’s truly nowhere else like it, from the music in the streets to the food that feels like love on a plate. Growing up surrounded by so many cultures has taught me to appreciate the beauty in every little detail that makes NOLA special. I’m so excited to share the city I know and love—the one that exists beyond Bourbon Street.
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Things to do in New Orleans
Ride a street car uptown: There’s something magical about riding the St. Charles streetcar past centuries-old homes and oak trees. It’s simple, but it’s one of those experiences that makes you fall in love with New Orleans all over again.
Spend an afternoon in City Park: Whether I’m grabbing a coffee from Café du Monde, walking the trails, or relaxing by the water, City Park always feels like a breath of fresh air. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and see a different side of the city.
Spend the evening on Frenchmen Street: Skip Bourbon and head to Frenchmen for live jazz, local art markets, and that true NOLA energy. It’s where locals go to dance, unwind, and listen to music that fills the soul.
Check out a local festival: Whether it’s French Quarter Fest, Po-Boy Fest, or Wednesdays at the Square, there’s always something happening. These neighborhood events are where you’ll find the best food, music, and community vibes.
JAMNOLA: An immersive, joy-filled art experience that celebrates New Orleans culture through color, creativity, and music. It’s fun, photo-worthy, and full of local pride.
Take a cooking class: Learn how to make gumbo, jambalaya, or pralines with local chefs. It’s one of the best ways to bring a little piece of New Orleans home with you.
Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture: Get an up-close look at the craftsmanship and creativity behind Mardi Gras. The vibrant costumes and stories make it a fun, colorful stop.
Places to eat & drink in New Orleans
Lorreta’s Pralines: An absolute NOLA classic, Loretta’s serves up the best pralines in the city: sweet, buttery, and full of love. Whether you grab one from their stand at the French Market or their shop in the Marigny, it’s a must-try treat that tastes like home.
Parkway Bakery & Tavern: Parkway has been serving po' boys for over a century, and for good reason. From roast beef dripping with gravy to fried shrimp stacked high, every sandwich feels like a New Orleans rite of passage. A po' boy is best enjoyed with a cold beer and good company.
Jacques-Imo's Cafe: This Uptown gem is as funky and flavorful as the city itself. Known for its Creole-soul menu and vibrant atmosphere, Jacques-Imo’s is where you go for fried green tomatoes, shrimp and alligator cheesecake, and a true taste of local personality. You even get to walk through the kitchen to get to your table!
Mamou: Mamou blends French-inspired dining with New Orleans charm, creating dishes that feel both elevated and familiar. It’s cozy, elegant, and perfect for a date night or a slower-paced dinner that celebrates the city’s culinary roots.
Bayou Hot Wings: Bayou Hot Wings serves some of the best wings in the city, with creative sauces that range from spicy Cajun to sweet and smoky. It’s casual, flavorful, and always hits the spot. I personally recommend the sweet heat or bayou hot boy!
Turkey and The Wolf: Quirky, creative, and just plain fun, Turkey and the Wolf redefines comfort food with its bold, unexpected sandwiches. It’s the kind of spot where every bite surprises you, and you’ll be talking about that collard green melt long after you leave.
Need to know
Bring comfy shoes and an open mind! You’ll do a lot of walking and even more eating. Keep a little cash handy for beignets, snowballs, and tipping the street musicians who make every corner feel alive. And a small but fun tip: If you see the word “geaux” (like “geaux Saints!”) instead of “go,” you’re in the heart of New Orleans. Embrace it, use it, and let yourself be swept up in the spirit of the city.
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Madeline Short
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our New Orleans page.