Your Ultimate New Orleans Guide
Ready to dive into the soul of New Orleans? We've got the inside scoop on where to stay, eat, and experience the magic of the Big Easy – from splurge-worthy spots to hidden gems that'll keep your wallet happy.
What will you find in this guide?
Where to Stay
Best Places to Explore
Must Eats
Coffee & Beignets Highlights
Bars for Every Side of New Orleans
At Every Budget!
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Where to Rest Your Head 😴
Bougie on a Larger Budget
- The Chloe - Magazine Street's crown jewel with that perfect 'gram-worthy pool scene
- Hotel Saint Vincent - Lower Garden District's coolest conversion, giving you those vintage-meets-luxury vibes
- Maison Métiere - Luxury boutique hotel in a prime location with a top-notch bar
Mid-Range Magic
- Virgin Hotels New Orleans - Modern digs with rooftop views that'll make your followers jealous
- The Pontchartrain Hotel - Historic charm meets modern comfort (plus the iconic Hot Tin rooftop bar!)
- Hotel Henrietta - Boutique hotel along the Mardi Gras parade route on St. Charles Avenue
Smart Saver Spots
- Hotel Theo - Chic without the shock (to your wallet)
- Q&C Hotel - Perfect for those who want character without the crazy prices
- Kimpton The Fontenot - Modern, art-filled hotel with beautiful spaces throughout
Must-Do Experiences 🎭
Culture Fixes
- Sightseeing City Tour - Get a history lesson as you go through the many unique neighborhoods!
- The National WWII Museum - Worth.Every.Penny. Plan for at least half a day!
- Frenchmen Street - The local's Bourbon Street, where real NOLA music magic happens
- Preservation Hall - Jazz in its purest form (pro tip: last show of the night usually has shorter lines)
- Whitney Plantation - A powerful, essential perspective on history
Unique Only-in-NOLA Experiences
- Haus of Hoodoo - Dive into New Orleans' spiritual side
- New Orleans Pharmacy Museum - Weird, wonderful, and totally worth it
- Seance at Muriel's - Because where else can you dine with a ghost?
- French Quarter Food Tour - Local insights, hotspots & more!
Free & Fabulous
- City Park - 1,300 acres of oak trees and Instagram gold
- Jackson Square - Street performers, artists, and prime people-watching
- Freret Street - Local boutiques and killer happy hours
Foodie Finds 🍽️
Worth the Splurge
- Commander's Palace - Legendary jazz brunch that's worth skipping avocado toast for a month
- Brennan's - Because sometimes you need to treat yourself to the OG banana foster
Middle Ground Munchies
- Turkey and the Wolf - Epic sandwiches that went viral for a reason
- Cochon - Where pork dreams come true without breaking the bank
- Shaya - Modern Israeli food that'll have you planning your next visit before the hummus arrives
Budget Bites
- Barracuda Taco Stand - Taco Tuesday every day
- Molly's Rise and Shine - Breakfast that won't hurt your wallet but will heal your soul
The Great Beignet Quest
- Cafe du Monde - The OG 24/7 beignet spot (pro tip: the City Park location has shorter lines!)
- Cafe Beignet - Three locations, each with their own charm (Royal Street is our fave)
Where to Drink 🍸
Cocktail Queens
- Cure - Craft cocktails worth the Uber ride
- Hot Tin - Rooftop views that'll make your Instagram pop
- Bar Métier - When you're feeling fancy
Local Vibes
- Bacchanal - Wine garden meets jazz party in the Bywater
- The Tchoup Yard - Outdoor drinking done right
- Port Orleans Brewing Co. - Local brews and good times
Historic Haunts
- Columns - Garden District glamour
- Lafitte's - The oldest bar in America (allegedly)
Coffee Culture ☕
Must-Visit Coffee Spots
- French Truck Coffee - Local roaster serving serious coffee without the attitude
- District Donuts & Coffee Bar - Because coffee tastes better with donuts
- Mojo Coffee House - Where locals get their caffeine fix
Hidden Gems 💎
- The Country Club - Pool passes available for non-guests (hello, budget-friendly pool day!)
- Birdy's Behind The Bower - The secret bar that'll make you feel like a local
- Second Line Brewing - Where beer budget meets champagne taste
- The Bead Shop - Take home some Mardi Gras magic
- Backstreet Cultural Museum - Explore the culture that made New Orleans what it is today
Pro Tips 💡
- Most hotels offer better rates Sunday-Thursday
- Get a streetcar day pass to explore like a local
- The best photos at City Park are during "golden hour"
- Preservation Hall's 10PM show often has the shortest lines
- Hit Cafe du Monde at 3AM for the shortest wait (plus best people-watching)
- Frenchmen Street > Bourbon Street for authentic music
- Many museums have free days - check their websites!
Remember, New Orleans isn't just a place to visit – it's a vibe to experience. Whether you're rolling high or keeping it thrifty, this city serves up magic at every price point. Let the good times roll, y'all! ⚜️
Ready to plan your trip to the Crescent City?
