Experiencing the Neighborhoods of New Orleans

The French Quarter

First of all, I love staying in the French Quarter, which is truly the heart of New Orleans. It is a historic district with gorgeous architecture, carriage rides, street performers, and culture. Shop Royal Street, visit Jackson Square and the St. Louis Cathedral, or visit the Audubon Aquarium. Listen to street jazz while indulging in beignets at the world-famous Cafe du Monde, find Pirates Alley and the William Faulkner House and bookstore, take a jazz brunch cruise on Steamboat Natchez, or people-watch on the infamous Bourbon Street. The French Quarter is also the perfect place to take a ghost tour and visit a voodoo shop. When in the French Quarter, you must also see a concert at Preservation Hall, an original jazz house in the heart of the city.

Step outside of the French Quarter, and you will find even more amazing New Orleans experiences. Here is a quick rundown of the various neighborhoods, with my favorite things to do and see in each.

Marigny/Bywater

Home to the famous Frenchmen Street known for its jazz clubs (the Spotted Cat is my favorite!) and dive bars, it is also a great place for art and culture. The Frenchmen Art Bazaar is a gallery and local art market open late into the night. For art lovers, St. Claude Street is a must. Stop at Bacchanal Wine for a treehouse bar, wine, and dining experience.

Treme

Treme is the oldest African American neighborhood where you’ll find the Backstreet Cultural Museum and Congo Square, where slaves once gathered to make music. Its residential area is lined with colorful creole cottages and shotgun homes. You’ll also find authentic Creole food, so a food tour in Treme is always a good idea! Kermit’s Mother-in-Law Lounge is a must for live music!

Midcity

In Midcity, you’ll find City Park, a 1300 acre park with beautiful botanical gardens, golf, tennis, museums, and even an amusement park. You can rent bikes or boats or stroll through the park. The streetcar will take you to Midcity’s many above-ground cemeteries that are worth the visit. For a romantic dinner, make a reservation at Toups’ Meatery—the boudin balls and Lamb Neck are delicious!

Downtown/Central Business District

Here, you’ll find the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, Caesar’s casino, upscale hotels, and cocktail lounges. You can take a tour and learn about the cocktail history at the Sazerac House, or take the ferry to Algiers Point, where you can stroll the Jazz Walk Hall of Fame along the levee. Stop by the Four Seasons Hotel’s Chandelier Bar for a cocktail—it’s stunning!

Arts/Warehouse District

The number one tourist attraction is located here. The World War II Museum is a six building immersive experience of the Americans journey through the war. This is one of the best museums I have ever visited! You will also find the city’s convention center and Mardi Gras World (see where the floats are made, costumes stored in this behind-the-scenes of Mardi Gras venue—great for families!). Stop at Seaworthy to dine in a Creole-styled cottage, a great spot for oyster lovers!

Uptown/Garden District

Take a tour or stroll past the mansions of the Garden District, including those that belong to famous actors and authors or were home to the filming of videos and movies. Head to Magazine Street for boutique shopping and dining options. Commander’s Palace is an elegant option with creole-cuisine in a beautifully decorated courtyard or indoor space that has been open since 1880, but note that there is a dress code! I highly recommend the jazz brunch!

Off-the-beaten path

Head to Slidell for a swamp tour! Cajun Encounters Tours will take you through the backwaters of Honey Island Swamp. You’ll get to feed gators and wild hogs! It is an amazing adventure!

My favorite places to eat and drink in the French Quarter:

• Bourbon House: If oysters are on your dining list, this is one of my favorite oyster bars. You’ll get to meet Perry, who has been shucking here for 27 years! Order the charbroiled oysters or the raw oysters with champagne mignonette and Cajun caviar!

• MaMou: MaMou captures the essence of the French Quarter and is an upscale yet approachable French dining experience.

• Johnny’s Po Boys: Although not as advertised as others, this is my favorite spot for a po’ boy!

• Carousel Bar: Located in Hotel Monteleone, this iconic, rotating bar opened in 1949 and is still serving delicious craft cocktails. Listen to live jazz Wednesdays through Saturdays.

• Napoleon House: Home to the original Pimm’s Cup, this is a historic bar with a dark and moody feel. The courtyard is a cozy option for dining, too. Insider tip: Order the Pimm’s Cup flight!

• Sylvain: This off-the-beaten path former carriage house is a great stop. You’ll enter a long alleyway that opens up to a romantic courtyard or sit at the small bar that offers great cocktails and service. Perfect gastropub menu.

• Erin Rose: Enter an Irish pub dive bar that closes for only three hours a day! The frozen Irish coffee is a must!

• Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar: Enter the oldest bar in the United States (open since the 1700s). Lafitte’s is a historic landmark and a dark and moody piano bar. It is known for its voodoo drink, but I think they have the best hurricanes in town!

• The Chart Room: For a real dive bar, stop in the Chart Room. Friendly service, fun atmosphere, and a local hangout.