Curator’s statement
New Orleans is famous for Mardi Gras day and the lively five days leading up to it, but the Carnival season spans about three months. In this guide, I’ll highlight the best eats, drinks and activities you can enjoy.This is whether you're in town for the weekend before Fat Tuesday or just looking to soak up the festivities at any time during the season.
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Where to stay in New Orleans
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Things to do in New Orleans
Parades
Experience the excitement of marching bands, festive throws and beads flying from elaborately decorated floats. It's one giant street party! For parade schedules and routes, visit www.mardigrasneworleans.com.
Mardi Gras balls
The grandest Krewes host their lavish balls in the weeks before their parades. If you're lucky enough to score a ticket, prepare for an unforgettable night of feasting, dancing and partying with Carnival royalty.
King Cake Fest
Local breweries and bars host king cake tastings, where you can sample a variety of these delicious treats by the slice. If you're craving something savory, many venues offer local favorites like charbroiled oysters, poboys and boiled seafood from nearby vendors.
Mardi Gras World
Get a behind-the-scenes look at Mardi Gras traditions with a tour of the float den, where talented artisans craft the stunning floats and props that take months to perfect. Tours are available year-round, except on major holidays like Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter and Mardi Gras Day.
Mardi Gras parade tickets
If you’re not close to the parade route or prefer a more comfortable view, purchasing a ticket to one of the parade viewing stands is a great option. You'll get access to food, drinks and private restrooms for a more relaxed experience.
French Market
A bustling marketplace filled with food, souvenirs and unique finds. During Carnival, you’ll also discover colorful masks perfect for wearing to the parades.
Bourbon Street
Mardi Gras evening reaches its peak on Bourbon Street, where the real party happens. Grab a spot on one of the many bars' balconies to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and bid farewell to the Carnival season.
St. Patrick’s Day
If you're craving more festival vibes after Carnival, New Orleans revives the excitement with a lively St. Patrick's Day parade. Throw on some green and head back to the Big Easy for another round of celebrations!
Places to eat & drink in New Orleans
Pascal’s Manale
Home of the iconic BBQ shrimp! Located near the main parade route, it’s the perfect stop for a delicious bite before heading back to catch the bands and floats.
Superior Seafood & Oyster Bar
Oysters, oysters, oysters! Whether raw, charbroiled or fried, these are a must-try during your stay. Pair your meal with the original Frozen French 75, and grab one to-go to sip while you head back to the parades. Tickets available for parade season.
Superior Grill
A Tex-Mex gem on St. Charles Avenue serving up mouthwatering Mexican dishes and the best margaritas in town! Reservations are required only during the week leading up to Mardi Gras. Tickets available for parade season.
Jack Rose
Enjoy elegant Cajun-Creole cuisine in an eclectic hotel setting on St. Charles. Highly recommend the Disco Punch, Cracked Potatoes, Fried Chicken Parmesan and the Mardi Gras Mile High Pie. This is the perfect stop for a festive dinner or Sunday brunch.
Cafe Reconcile
Indulge in classic New Orleans dishes while supporting a non-profit that helps local youth develop valuable personal and professional skills for their futures.
Bearcat CBD
This brunch spot caters to all dietary preferences! With its "Good Cat" and "Bad Cat" options, you'll find everything from light vegan dishes to indulgent choices like the fried chicken biscuit with creamy crawfish sauce.
Willie Mae’s
Family-owned since 1957, Willie Mae’s serves up classic New Orleans Southern comfort food. It’s also been crowned America’s Best Fried Chicken — enough said!
Emeril’s
Creole-inspired fine dining at its finest. Chef Emeril Lagasse’s legendary restaurant features a rotating tasting menu showcasing his classic dishes. A true New Orleans staple since 1990.
Ms. Mae’s
Located at the start of most parade routes on Magazine Street, Ms. Mae’s is a lively bar with great music and classic bar games, like pool — perfect for a pre-parade stop.
Carousel Bar
Head downtown to the historic lounge with the Quarter’s only revolving carousel bar. Don’t miss my go-to drink, the Monteleone Manhattan, while you enjoy the rotating view!
Need to know
For this guide, I’ve handpicked restaurants and bars located near major parade routes! Stay tuned for three more travel guides, where I’ll be showcasing the best activities, drinks and bites across the different seasons in New Orleans.
Travel Advisor
DeAnna Riley
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our New Orleans page.