-The Marigny and Bywater-
Marigny and Bywater offer a unique blend of historical charm and contemporary bohemian spirit, attracting visitors from all over the world. The Music Box Village, an event venue and art installation located in Bywater, is a prime example of the thriving counterculture in the area. Meanwhile, Crescent Park offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River at sunset. For the ultimate experience, make your way to Bud Rip’s, a modern hangout that has revitalized a classic neighborhood dive.
-The French Quarter-
The French Quarter, the original city of New Orleans built by French colonists, is a must-visit location. It began as an outpost at Jackson Square, which still stands today as a hub of activity for artists, musicians, street performers and anyone who loves the lively atmosphere of New Orleans. The Cabildo and Presbytère museums nearby provide a glimpse into the city’s rich history, while The Historic New Orleans Collection, just a short stroll away, offers a fascinating window into the past of a city that recently marked its tricentennial.
Next take a stroll through Chartres or Royal Street, where you’ll see rows of stunning Caribbean-style townhouses adorned with classic wrought iron balconies that have long captivated visitors. Even in the midst of the bustling tourist district, the magic is palpable. For an authentic New Orleans experience, visit the city’s legendary establishments like Galatoire’s, where you can enjoy traditional Creole cuisine, or Cafe du Monde, famous for its delectable beignets topped with powdered sugar.
-Esplanade Ridge and Faubourg St John-
Looking for a peaceful place to visit in New Orleans? Look no further than the areas surrounding Fortier Park, which boasts an assortment of restaurants and bars. One of the most popular spots in this area is Canseco’s, a nearby grocery store, and Cafe Degas, an elegant French restaurant with romantic string lights. Take a stroll down Esplanade Avenue to find the vibrant, rainbow-colored houses and the renowned eatery, Liuzza’s by the Track. Both Cafe Degas and Liuzza’s are favorites among locals, offering a range of classic dishes, such as yellowfin tuna, salad nicoise, and barbeque shrimp smothered in garlic butter.
-The Garden District and Lower Garden District-
The Garden District is a sophisticated neighborhood, exuding elegance without being ostentatious. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll while admiring the stunning architecture. Despite the name, which might suggest a green landscape, it actually refers to the fact that the area was developed from the gardens of grand plantation mansions from the 1800s.
Dining at Commander’s Palace is a quintessential New Orleans experience. This iconic Creole restaurant is renowned for its classic dishes, refined atmosphere, and 25-cent martinis. It’s a perfect representation of the city’s love affair with glamour and good food. Meanwhile, the Lower Garden District – which is further downriver – is home to Magazine Street, a shopper’s paradise. With a vast array of independent shops, it’s the ultimate destination for retail therapy.
For a taste of the district’s trendy side, head to Hotel St. Vincent. This historic building is now a hip hotel that hosts an array of art nights and shows. The art deco-meets-Mardi Gras decor adds to the overall charm of the venue. If you’re looking for a place to stay, it’s a definite option worth considering.
-Uptown and Riverbend-
A Neighborhood with Many Faces
Uptown New Orleans is a direction, as well as a neighborhood, encompassing a range of places. This diverse area features some key landmarks such as Tulane and Loyola universities. Expect to encounter student-friendly businesses and residential blocks that blend academia and families.
While Audubon Park is a natural starting point for exploration, with its beautiful mansions and lovely biking and walking trail, Uptown is more about strolling around and shopping, particularly on Magazine Street. The St Charles Streetcar offers a leisurely option to take in the area.
The Riverbend neighborhood, though geographically part of Uptown, has its own unique character. It has a distinctive Southern charm blended seamlessly with the feel of a well-preserved European city. The area has a diverse mix of teachers, professionals, families, and students. Maple and Oak Streets are lined with restaurants, shops, including the charming Blue Cypress Books, and coffee houses.
-Central Business District and Warehouse District-
Adjacent to each other, the Warehouse District and Central Business District (CBD) are brimming with flashy new condos, office high rises and a plethora of restaurants. At first glance, the area may feel less authentically “New Orleans” than other parts of town due to the steel and glass structures, but its cultural resources are undeniably unique to this location.
The Warehouse District and CBD boast a number of outstanding museums, including the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, which is a well-curated regional arts institution, and the Contemporary Arts Center, which showcases some of the most exciting new art in the city. Restaurants like Cochon offer traditional New Orleans and Cajun cuisine with contemporary twists, while Compere Lapin and Carmo serve up dishes rooted in the diverse tropical culinary scene that characterizes the city.
