We have been to New Orleans a few times now and when I tell you it is a city like no other, believe me - it is a city like no other.
Most of the year New Orleans is a fun city full of life, cocktails, and music. At Mardi Gras - all of that is amplified by one million. I would recommend going to New Orleans at least twice - once to see the city and everything is has to offer - the second time to see Mardi Gras. These are two very different trips! The best restaurants in the city can be hard to get into at Mardi Gras - and if you can get a reservation, getting to the restaurant can be a challenge.
Where to eat
There are a million places to eat in New Orleans. But not all of them are awesome. There are a lot of places - especially in the French Quarter - that are catering to tourists and serving reheated frozen food. Do not be fooled! I recommend places that are not advertising a happy hour or a special. There are also places that everyone eats - Cafe du Monde being one. The beignets are awesome there, but don’t wait in line. Just go later. Below are my favorites in the city that I wouldn’t miss!
Antoine’s
Dinner here is amazing. Go later if possible because if you are lucky, your server may give you a tour of the restaurant once the dining room has emptied. The space is a museum of Mardi Gras past and the history of New Orleans.
Arnaud’s
Bananas foster here is epic! It’s made table side and it’s so good. This classic spot is the perfect spot for a champagne cocktail.
Central Grocery - Muffuletta
A muffuletta sandwich is a classic New Orleans lunch. Originally made for workers to have a quick lunch that was still hearty, this is basically an antipasto platter in a bun. The original location is often closed - if it is, go to the newsstand next door and ask. They keep them in the fridge.
King Cake at Sucré
You must have a piece of king cake while in New Orleans. We bought six when I was there last time. The best king cake is the one that has either a traditional or almond filling, and limited frosting. There are very sweet ones that aren’t great. Sucré is a fabulous little sweet shop with a delicious king cake by the slice.
Commander’s Palace
You’ve seen the awning in every classic photo of New Orleans. The blue and white strip is iconic. Inside, it is a party every day with balloons, music and crowns! It’s usually a prix fixe menu so be prepared to eat a lot. And then probably skip eating the rest of the day.
Cocktails to try
A Voodoo Daiquiri at Lafitte’s Blacksmith
The blacksmith shop is the oldest building in the French Quarter. It’s totally worth stepping in and checking it out. While you’re there, you might as well order a frozen daiquiri to walk the streets with.
A Hurricane at Pat O’Brien
The hurricane cocktail is a signature of the city. I find the ones on the street way too sweet for me - which is why I make my own. But you still have to try one - and since they were invented at Pat O’Brien’s this is the one to try!
A Sazerac
The Sazerac was invented in New Orleans - so when you’re here, try one! I found them on the menu everywhere we went, but the Roosevelt Bar is most known for their Sazerac.
Books to read
Dinner at Antoine’s
This hard to find book is set in 1920’s New Orleans around the time of Mardi Gras. It’s such a fun read for anyone who wants to see a little glimpse of the past. If you have dinner reservations at Antoine’s, the stories of the past come to life when you walk in the door. Buy it here
Wildsam New Orleans
Travel guides have become a little out of date as the internet is so much faster than printing. But these guide books are a fun guide to the cities they feature for the stories and histories of the places you know already. Buy it here
Haunted New Orleans
What is a trip to New Orleans without the ghost stories?! Almost any book you find has great stories. I loved this one because the stories are short and give you very specific locations to check out! Buy it here
Things to see
WWII Museum
I’m not a WWII buff, but this museum is epic. You can literally see everything and because it was created by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg, the displays are all very captivating.
Mardi Gras World
The warehouse where all of the Mardi Gras floats are made and stored all year long is available for tours. And it’s worth the tour! You’ll never see these as up close as you can here. Then when you go back for Mardi Gras, you will really appreciate those floats!
LSU Game
Yes it’s in Baton Rouge and not New Orleans. But the games are SO FUN! The stadium and arenas are huge, the crowds are so fun, and you get to sing Calling Baton Rouge midway through!
Tips for Mardi Gras
Wear whatever sparkles and sequins you want. More is more. But stick to the colors of Mardi Gras: purple, gold, green.
Do not wear nice shoes. Wear comfortable shoes. No one really sees them anyway and comfort is key. There is a lot of walking at Mardi Gras.
Do not plan to use the St Charles street car. The parade route is on St Charles for most floats, which means the street car does not run during Mardi Gras. Don’t be fooled that the app still lets you buy a ticket.
Every float throws a lot of stuff. Like a lot. More than you are picturing now. Be prepared to either bring home a lot of things you may not actually want, or get picky. One man near us had a sign asking for the socks. He exclusively collected socks. We ended up with anything Hawaiian themed and playing cards.
