New Orleans Travel Guide (2023)

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Even though I’ve only lived in New Orleans for a little over a month, I’ve had time to scope out some of the best local restaurants, bars, fun things to do, and places to stay in NOLA. Having grown up just two hours away from New Orleans, I can tell you that 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/Brunch – Revelator Coffee Company, Rue De La Course, Café Du Monde

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 – Superior Grill (the BEST frozen margaritas)

Sushi/Asian – Sake Café (Uptown), Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ

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

American/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 – Port Orleans Brewing Co. (my fav), Urban South, Zony Mash

Things to Do

Take the streetcar down St. Charles to see beautiful New Orleans Homes

Visit the WWII museum

Take a stroll/bike around Audubon Park

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

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

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

Shop on Magazine

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

Where to Get Souvenirs

 Dirty Coast

Home Malone

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

The Cambria Hotel

Book a historic shotgun home through 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 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 for 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!

Safe travels and enjoy New Orleans!

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