What To Do In The French Quarter
Lets start by saying what not to do in the French Quarter dont be the traveller that drinks 5 Hurricanes, pukes violently and is in bed by 10pm. The drinks are dangerously strong, and no one wants to be stuck holding your hair back. That said, if youre looking to party, youve come to the right place. Stretching thirteen blocks between Canal Street and Esplanade Avenue, Bourbon is the NOLA youve seen in all the blurry photographs. Dive bars, live music venues and fun seekers clutching lurid looking cocktails are the vibe here, with the pick of the bunch being Tropical Isle, Bourbon Cowboy, Lafittes Blacksmith Shop and Fritzels Jazz Club. Grab a drink to go and try to hit them all.
Speaking of otherworldly business, if youre into all things afterlife and spooky then the Voodoo Museum wont disappoint. Although small , the place is packed with historic voodoo relics, paintings, sculptures and artefacts and offers an interesting insight into a culture that is very much alive and kicking in New Orleans. Plus at $7 entry, its a cheap way to fill an hour while escaping the midday sun.
With A Dash Of Luxury Old
This marvellous five star hotel truly epitomises luxury in New Orleans! Rooms are elegantly decorated to showcase a modern take on traditional New Orleans style. There is an outdoor pool, as well as a four diamond restaurant serving high quality cuisine throughout the day. Free high speed WiFi is available.
We are obsessed with backpacks weve tried them all! And our favourite carry on backpack in the WORLD is the Nomatic Travel Backpack. This backpack has revolutionized the backpack industry and will change the way you travel forever 🙂 Check it out here!
Best Hostels In Marigny
While hostel options arent plentiful in Marigny, you can be sure of an awesome experience when you stay at Madame Isabelles. A classic old New Orleans house with a long family history, Isabelles is a real home from home experience complete with family dining area, ridiculously comfy dorm beds and private rooms that feel like youre staying at a relatives house. Painted pink out front so you cant miss it , the real draw card to this hostel is what youll find out back. Were talking a lush jungle style garden, al fresco dining, wooden decking and the piece de la resistance, an oh so tempting hot tub. Just 4 blocks off Frenchman , Isabelles is within walking distance of all of Marignys delights and is especially popular with couples, given its quiet and laid-back vibe.
Madame Isabelles
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Frequently Asked Questions About New Orleans
How many days should you spend in New Orleans?
You should stay a minimum of 2 days in New Orleans to discover main landmarks, music venues, and museums.
What should I not miss in New Orleans?
You should definitely visit French Quarter and Bourbon Street and check out the museums and restaurants in these areas.
Is New Orleans dangerous for tourists?
If you avoid deserted areas and stick to touristy neighborhoods New Orleans is not a dangerous city for tourists.
What is the best month to visit New Orleans?
The best time to visit New Orleans is between February andMay when the weather is warm.
What is the best area to stay in New Orleans?
If you are visiting New Orleans for the first time, the best area to stay in is French District as youwill be within walking distance to major attractions likeJackson Square and Bourbon Street. Best Western Plus and Omni Royal Orleans are good hotels here.
Weve arrived at the end of our journey in Big Easy streets. I hope that this travel guide helped you to find your ideal place to stay in New Orleans and you are already looking forward to your trip. In this travel guide, I talked about the nicest areas to stay in New Orleans, with the best hotels as well as Airbnbs in each neighborhood.
To wrap up, here are the best 2 hotels to stay in New Orleans where I would definitely recommend you to choose. They both have good locations and great reviews too!
Enjoy your time in New Orleans,
Eylul
What To Do In The Warehouse District
Given it is singularly responsible for the artistic nature of the neighbourhood today, first up on your agenda should be a visit to the Contemporary Arts Centre. Located on Camp Street, the centre claims several floors of creative space including permanent and temporary exhibitions, gallery spaces, theatres and education facilities. Its a place to come and appreciate the creative energy of New Orleans, while the book store is a particular highlight for art lovers.
Another must visit is the National WWII Museum. Even if youre not big into history, this museum deserves a visit for its world class storytelling alone. First person narratives from surviving veterans and an ever-growing roster of incredible exhibits will keep you enthralled for hours as you explore the museum that spans several blocks. This is one of the most popular museums in North America and for good reason it brings to life one of the most horrific events of the 20th century in vivid, human form, and we have no doubt it will evoke all the feels.
Finally, finish up your Warehouse District experience in true New Orleans style with live music and fun. Howlin Wolf is a down and dirty favourite where local legends Hot 8 Brass Band provide the tunes every Sunday Night, whilst Barcadia is part bar, part retro games arcade where you can sip cocktails whilst thrashing it out on Street Fighter II.
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Hotel Indigo New Orleans Garden District
- Welcome to our Garden District hotel in New Orleans
- Outdoor Seating and Dining at the Hotel Indigo Garden District
- Tulane University only 3 miles away
- Outdoor Seating facing St. Charles Avenue
- Bring your dog to our Pet-friendly hotel.
- Hotel Lobby Seating
- Babin’s Bar and Lounge New Orleans Garden District
- Guest Room with Two Queen Beds
- Executive King Room
- Parlor Area Two Queen Bed Suite
- Guest Bathroom Deluxe Hotel Room
- Executive King Room
- Mayflower Suite at the Hotel Indigo New Orleans Garden District
- Mayflower Suite Living Room Hotel Indigo New Orleans
- Mayflower Suite Bathroom with Clawfoot Tub & Shower
- Private Balcony of Mardi Gras Suite overlooking St. Charles Avenue
- Historic Fireplace in Mayflower Suite
- Front Desk Hotel Indigo New Orleans Garden District
- Trendy Cajun & Creole Restaurant
- Babin’s Bar and Lounge New Orleans Garden District
- Hotel-Business Center
- On-Site 24 hour Fitness Center
- Stay with us for Mardi Gras
- Plan Your Dream Wedding with Us
- Livaudais Meeting Room
- Our Banquet Room can accommodate 60 guests
- ADA Accessible Roll In Shower
How To Get Around Safely In New Orleans
To steer clear of New Orleans crime, the usual travel safety advice applies: Stay in well-lit areas where there are plenty of people, take someone you know along with you, walk alertly and with confidence, and do all you can not to look like a touristin New Orleans, this includes refraining from wearing Mardi Gras beads unless its actually Mardi Gras. Also, when youre walking, beware of the citys uneven sidewalks.
Taking public transit is somewhat safe in New Orleansa global assessment of major cities public transportation systems ranks it fair to middling. New Orleans tends to have better traffic than some other major cities, though road fatalities have risen in recent years, so drive with caution.
Streetcars are plentiful and safe within the French Quarterand between the French Quarter and the Garden Districtat least until midnight. After that, stick with companions and taxis or ridesharing options. If youre headed above Bourbon Street, toward Rampart, take a cab or travel in a groupwhatever it takes to avoid walking alone after dark.
If youve driven here or rented a car with which to tour New Orleans, be aware that vehicle break-ins are a widespread crime within city limits. If youre planning on storing belongings in your car, make sure theyre completely out of sight, preferably in the trunk, to save yourself from becoming a victim of this common New Orleans crime.
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Comfort Inn & Suites Metarie
The Comfort Inn & Suites is conveniently located near Lakeside Mall, and the hotel itself boasts with great, comfortable rooms with enough space to give the kids some time on their own.
Basic ameneties like free wi-fi is available at the resort, and each room has a kitchen, TV, air-conditioning and the option of extra laundry and cleaning services if you plan for a longer stay.
Younger kids should love the huge outdoor pool, where there are occasional planned family-friendly activities and events.
Related:Best Things to Do in New Orleans
French Quarter Where To Stay In New Orleans For The First Time
The French Quarter is the historic area and the most famous part of New Orleans. Here you will discover an amazing food scene, vibrant nightlife, all the main landmarks as well as great museums and art galleries. Thats why my pick for first-timers is definitely the French Quarter!
Bourbon Street is the home of Mardi Gras and where you will find strips of bars and clubs with crazy parties all year long. Whilst New Orleans is known for its great jazz music scene, in Bourbon Street, you will find places pumping out all genres.
FUN FACT: Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Tennessee Williams lived in French Quarter for more than 40 years and wrote 2 of his major plays A Streetcar Named Desire and Vieux Carré here. There is also the Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival dedicated to him.
Besides music, there is a tonne of things to see on Royal Street, enjoy Spanish Creole architecture, and countless amazing galleries and shops. Dont forget to make a stop to have a great meal in one of the old creole restaurants!
In French Quarter there are many accommodation options for all budgets. Since it is the most popular area in New Orleans, I highly recommend you to make a booking in advance. If youre already as excited as I am, lets check out the best hotels in French Quarter.
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Youre Off To Louisiana On The Banks Of The Mississippi Here Is Our Guide To The Best Neighborhoods To Stay In New Orleans
New Orleans, the largest city in the southern United States state of Louisiana, has 343,829 inhabitants and 1,167,764 in the entire metropolitan area and covers an area of 907 square kilometers. Located on the southern shores of Lake Pontchartrain near the Mississippi Delta, the city known as Big Easy has an infinitely rich historical and cultural heritage. Founded in 1718 by French settlers, it remained French until 1803 and was a place of great artistic and musical activity in the 20th century, which can be witnessed through the New Orleans Carnival.
When looking for a place to stay in New Orleans, you will find that housing prices are high. You will also notice that many districts have a French-sounding name: Fontainebleau, Faubourg Lafayette, Audubon, Vieux-Carré, Leonidas, Freret, Tulane-Gravier, Faubourg Marigny, Saint-Jean, Metairie or Saint-Claude. Here is our selection of neighborhoods to stay in New Orleans.
Transportation In New Orleans
Getting around the during your New Orleans stay couldnt be easier. While the city center isnt huge and many of the places you might visit in New Orleans is walking distance apart, some places do require a ride or use of public transportation.
When picking for places to stay in New Orleans keep in mind what you plan on doing. We did our best to provide where to stay in New Orleans by neighborhood with the given attractions so you can be walking distance to most of your activities you might enjoy.
However, if you need to use public transportation during your stay here are the most common methods.
Taxis or rideshare apps like Uber & Lyft are common throughout the city and the easiest way to get around. You can enjoy the unique streetcars in the city especially if you find yourself wanting to get from the French Quarter to the Garden District or vice versa.
Streetcar fares are $1.25 per person and must be paid in exact change when you board the car. Be sure to come prepared. You can also get Jazzy Passes for multiple-day transportation passes during your stay.
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Things To See And Do In French Quarter
- Enjoy the sights and sounds of New Orleans in central Jackson Square.
- Wander along Chartres Street, a street famous for its historic sites, bustling bars, and its many souvenir shops.
- Browse the shops, stalls, and cafes at the Old French Market.
- Visit the stunning St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in North America.
- See the historic Preservation Hall, a renowned jazz venue.
- Take a stroll through the lush and luxurious Jean Lafitte National Historical Park.
- Eat, drink and enjoy a fantastic night out at Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar and Restaurant.
- Walk Pirates Alley, a 182-meter long street packed with unique businesses and historic buildings.
Quick Tips Where To Stay In New Orleans
- Where to stay in New Orleans for your first time? French Quarter
- Where to stay in New Orleans close to everything? Central Business District
- Where to stay in New Orleans for nightlife? Bourbon Street
- Best neighborhood in New Orleans for families? Lakeview
- Where to stay in New Orleans on a budget? Mid-City
- Where to stay in New Orleans for couples?
- Best neighborhood in New Orleans for laid back culture? Uptown
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Recommended Area: Vieux Carr
The French Quarter occupies part of the area near the Mississippi River in downtown New Orleans, from Canal Street to Esplanade Avenue and Norman Rampart Street.
It is the oldest and best-preserved district of New Orleans, it houses monuments such as St. Louis Cathedral, the City Hall, and the French Market, among others.
NOLAs French Quarter is par excellence the nightlife area in New Orleans. Its epicenter is Bourbon Street, where you can find the best pubs, jazz bars, and nightclubs.
Vieux Carré is very popular for being the home of the Mardi Grass celebration and the epicenter of the LGBT community in the city.
Staying within the limits of the French Quarter, among other advantages, allows you to walk to the attractions and interesting sights.
The tram system has stations on the major avenues, such as Rampart Street, Canal Street, Dumaine Street, Ursulines Avenue and right next to attractions such as the French Market, St. Louis Cathedral, Woldenberg Park and the Aquarium.
If youre looking to stay in New Orleans during Mardi Gras, you should know that accommodation in the French Quarter sells out soon, and room rates in this area during NOLAs big celebration will only get higher as the event approaches. If you are looking for accommodation in the French Quarter during Mardi Gras, it is advisable to book well in advance.
The French Quarter is definitely the best area to stay in New Orleans due to its central location, lively nightlife and variety of boutique hotels.
Best Airbnb In Faubourg Marigny: Cozy Nest On Frenchmen Street
This private and cozy private room is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or digital nomads visiting New Orleans. Its modern throughout, and offers wifi, a workspace, and free on-site parking. Staying here puts you 15 minutes from the French Quarter and right in the middle of the neighborhoods coolest cafes and eateries.
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Best Places To Stay In The Central Business District
Here are a few of the best choices for accommodation in the Big Easys Central Business District:
1. Hyatt Regency
- Rating on Booking.com: 8.9/10
- See the latest price here
Its hard to beat this location if youre headed to a sporting event in New Orleans. This 4-star hotel is just a stones throw from both the Superdome and the Smoothie King Center.
They have a wide variety of rooms here to suit all budgets, all the way up to some super fancy executive suites.
There are quite a few restaurants and bars on-site, as well as a well-stocked fitness center if you need to work off all those calories! to see the latest price from Booking.com.
2. Drury Plaza
- See the latest price here
Theres a lot to love about this hotel, starting with the location.
Youre close to landmarks like Lafayette Square and the World War II Museum and right up the street from the scenic Riverwalk. Its also just a few steps from the streetcar thatll bring you to the Quarter.
The Drury Plaza has a nice outdoor pool with a jacuzzi and 24-hour fitness and business centers. You also get breakfast as well as free snacks and drinks in the evening when you stay here.
This place has thousands of positive reviews! to see the latest price from Booking.com.
3. Ace Hotel
- Rating on Booking.com: 8.6/10
- See the latest price here
Speaking of music, theres a venue right on-site here. Three Keys is open late and has live music most nights as well as a full bar and snacks.
Visitors Can Choose From An Abundance Of Delightful Options When Deciding Where To Stay In New Orleans
Trying to select where youll stay when you come to New Orleans is like trying to decide what youll eat when you get here. The menu is awesome. You just want everything.
Book a cute little shotgun B& B in the Marigny with a sweet little porch, a claw foot tub, a sleek cappuccino machine and lovely artwork on the walls.
Or stay in an opulent French Quarter hotel with floor-to-ceiling marble in the lobby, Sazeracs in the lounge and a bell boy just like the one who carried up Elvis luggage oh so many years ago.
Or maybe pick one the newer artsier hotels in the Garden District. Tasteful. Understated. Just lovely. The kind of place where the clutter of your everyday life will just disappear.
The places you can stay in New Orleans are as diverse as the city itself. Heres a start to finding your home away from home in the Crescent City.
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