Curator’s statement
The magic of New Orleans reveals itself when you surrender to it: people-watching in Jackson Square, following the sound of a brass band down a side street, or stumbling into a courtyard where strangers become friends over beignets or cocktails. Skip Bourbon Street—unless you really want that scene—and explore neighborhoods like Marigny, Bywater, and Algiers, where the city’s soul feels most alive. Rooted in French Creole tradition yet always reinventing itself, New Orleans rewards curiosity at every turn. This isn’t a city you rush—it’s one you savor—from the first sip of café au lait to the final notes of jazz spilling into the night air. In New Orleans, every meal tells a story and every neighborhood hums with its own rhythm.
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Things to do in New Orleans
Where to wander
French Quarter
The heart of the city and endlessly alive, with historic architecture, lively streets, tucked-away courtyards, and the occasional second line. Skip Bourbon Street and instead explore Royal Street’s art galleries, watch performance artists on Jackson Square, and grab beignets at Café du Monde—just sneak around to the back window for takeaway instead of waiting for a table (cash only!). Don’t leave without visiting The Bottom of the Cup Tearoom, where fortunes have been read (sometimes in secret) since 1929.
Garden District & Magazine Street
Stately mansions and oak-lined streets set the tone, but don’t miss Magazine Street’s boutiques, cafes, and restaurants for an unexpected glimpse of the city. For something different, try the Witches Coven Garden District Walking Tour by DuPont & Company—a mix of history, storytelling, and a little New Orleans magic.
Marigny & Bywater
Colorful, artsy, and full of energy. Wander past vibrant murals, duck into neighborhood bars, and end the evening at Bacchanal, where wine, cheese, and live music flow late into the night.
Algiers Point
Just a quick, picturesque ferry ride from Canal Street, this quiet, residential neighborhood offers a peaceful contrast to the city’s bustle. Wander its leafy streets, admire the historic Victorian homes, and take in skyline views along the Jazz Walk of Fame. Stop into local gems like Rosetree Blown Glass Studio or the quirky Old Gulf Oil Sign before heading back across the river.
Worth a visit (touristy but fun)
Mardi Gras World
A behind-the-scenes look at Mardi Gras, where you can see the floats from years past, watch artists building for the next parade, and feel the sparkle of Carnival year-round.
Cemetery tours
Explore above-ground tombs and centuries of history at St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 and beyond. Visit Marie Laveau’s resting place and even spot Nicolas Cage’s future pyramid—a guided tour brings the legends (and the lore) to life—a guided tour brings the legends (and the lore) to life.
Ghost tours
Sip on a hurricane as you follow your guide past haunted mansions and hear tales of voodoo queens and restless spirits. A stop at the infamous LaLaurie Mansion and sightings at the Bourbon Orleans Hotel make this a spooky New Orleans tradition.
Jazz on Frenchmen Street
Skip the clichés of Bourbon Street and head here for the city’s true musical soul—intimate clubs where the brass bands play late into the night.
Places to eat & drink in New Orleans
Brunch icons
Brennan’s (French Quarter): Brunch here is a New Orleans ritual—from the pastel-pink dining room to decadent Eggs Sardou, it’s the kind of meal you’ll dream about long after you leave. Every meal at Brennan’s is not complete without trying their signature bananas foster—they invented it, after all!
Muriel’s Jackson Square (French Quarter): Come for the Creole jazz brunch, stay for the atmosphere—live music spills through the historic dining rooms while you linger over gumbo and grits.
Creole & Cajun with a twist
Tableau (French Quarter): A prime spot right off Jackson Square, Tableau serves classic Creole dishes in a space that feels elegant yet approachable—grab a balcony seat if you can and watch the crowds stroll by.
Curio Bistro (French Quarter): Playful yet rooted in tradition, Curio puts a modern spin on Creole flavors in a lively corner space that feels like equal parts bistro and bar.
Modern dining & seafood
Kingfish Kitchen & Cocktails (French Quarter): Named after Huey Long, this spot leans into bold southern flavors and stiff cocktails—lively, approachable, and great for people-watching in the Quarter.
Briquette Restaurant (Warehouse District): Seafood is the star here, from Gulf fish to fresh oysters, all paired with an impressive wine list in a sleek, contemporary space.
Coquette (Garden District/Magazine Street): On Magazine Street in the Garden District, Coquette blends Southern roots with modern technique—a seasonal, chef-driven menu served in an intimate, neighborhood space that feels both polished and relaxed.
Drinks & nightlife
Bacchanal Fine Wine & Spirits (Bywater): Equal parts wine shop, backyard party, and live-music haven, Bacchanal is where you’ll spend hours without realizing it—grab a bottle, order cheese, and let the band set the mood.
Carousel Bar (French Quarter): The iconic revolving bar inside Hotel Monteleone is pure New Orleans magic—sip a French 75 as the carousel slowly spins and history swirls around you.
Bar Métier (Warehouse District): A stylish speakeasy-inspired cocktail bar with beautifully crafted drinks and an intimate vibe.
Honorable mentions
Other favorites include:
Café Fleur de Lis for a casual, affordable brunch in the Quarter.
Shaya for modern Israeli flavors and wood-fired pita on Magazine Street (book well in advance).
Evangeline for cozy courtyard dining with approachable Creole fare in the Quarter.
Need to know
The best way to experience New Orleans is to wander—don’t be afraid to get lost in the streets and step off the main drag. Skip Bourbon Street unless you really want that scene—the soul of the city lives elsewhere, in neighborhoods full of local color, hidden courtyards, and unexpected gems. Book tables at popular restaurants like Brennan’s and Coquette in advance, wear comfortable shoes for all the walking, and pace yourself—the city rewards lingering over meals, cocktails, and conversations as much as it does sightseeing.
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Stephanie Adika
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