The Local’s Guide to Visiting New Orleans (Updated for 2024)

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I figured it was time to update my New Orleans travel guide since I’ve had over a year to scope out some of the best local restaurants, bars, fun things to do, and places to stay since my last guide was posted. Honestly, I was unsure how I’d like living in New Orleans when I first moved here for school. However, as I said in my last guide, living in this city really is an experience unlike any other in South Louisiana. I’ll add to this list as I experience more of the things that make New Orleans one of the most unique and culturally rich cities in America, so be sure to check back periodically! In the meantime, here are my recommendations (so far!):

Where to Eat

Coffee/Cafés – Revelator Coffee Company, Rue De La Course

Brunch – Copper Vine

Casual – Guy’s Poboys

Italian/Pizza – Venezia Restaurant (my girlfriend’s family is Italian and they love this place), Reginelli’s

Barbecue – Blue Oak BBQ

Mexican/Tex Mex – Tacos & Beer, Superior Grill (the BEST frozen margaritas)

Sushi/Asian – Royal Sushi, Rock n’ Sake, DAIWA, Mikimoto (hole in the wall but the sushi is really good. I usually order online for pickup)

Outdoor/Watch the Game – Wrong Iron, Mid City Beer Garden

Cajun/Creole – Katie’s (get the crawfish beignets and mile high burger)

Fine Dining - Tujague's

Dessert – Angelo Brocato (authentic gelato and Italian pastries), Creole Creamery

Where to Drink

Bars – Lucy’s, Avenue Pub (get the tater tot poutine, trust me)

Breweries – Miel (my fav), Port Orleans Brewing Co., Urban South, Parleaux, Second Line Brewing, Zony Mash

Things to Do

Take the streetcar down St. Charles to see beautiful New Orleans Homes (download the Le Pass app for routes and times)

Take a free self-guided tour of New Orleans’ cocktail culture at The Sazerac House

Visit the WWII museum

Take a stroll/bike around Audubon Park

Go kayaking and fishing at City Park

Explore City Park on bikes or on foot

Play a round of golf at Bayou Oaks and the Audubon Golf Course

Visit NOMA

Go bowling and listen to live music at Rock ‘N Bowl

Bar hop on Bourbon

Visit the Audubon Zoo and Aquarium

Go to a Saints or Pelicans game

Catch beads at a Mardi Gras parade

Walk down Oak St. (Blue Cypress Books, Glue Clothing Exchange)

Shop on Magazine (Dirty Coast and Home Malone have the best souvenirs)

Visit the French Market, art galleries on Royal St., and watch street performers around the St. Louis Cathedral in the French Quarter

Where to Work Out

Ochsner Fitness Center

The practice track at City Park

Harrell Stadium (has a track, football field, and soccer goals)

Where to Stay

Cambria Hotel

Stay in a traditional shotgun home through Airbnb or VRBO

Parking Tips

Free: Look for street parking off popular roads like Magazine

Cheap: You can pay for street parking on busier roads in 2-3 hour increments for about $6

Most expensive: If all else fails, park in a paid lot close to your destination. If you’re planning on parking for more than a few hours or the entire day, try valet parking at a hotel

Street parking rules: As long as you’re not blocking a driveway, fire hydrant, or parked in a fire lane, you’re good!

Leave a comment or contact me if you have any of your own recommendations that I should add to this list! Safe travels and enjoy New Orleans!

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