A Weekend in New Orleans- My Favorite Things To Do

The Columns

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I've been a little quiet lately as I've been taking this month to travel a bit. I recently hopped on a plane for a short weekend in New Orleans, one of my favorite cities. Being our neighbor to the East, I've been to Louisiana many times, and I keep wanting to return. The food, the people, the buildings. When you visit New Orleans, you feel like you're no longer in the US.

Every time I go, I make it a point to try a few new spots, but also visit some of my favorites.

If you find yourself in New Orleans, here's my list of my top must-visit places.

Where to Stay

On this past trip, I stayed at the Ace Hotel—modern, hip, and beautiful. You could spend the entire weekend not ever leaving this hotel. They have a beautiful lobby bar, a swanky restaurant, a coffee shop serving beignets, and a DJ at night. Also points for the rooftop pool!

I loved staying here because it's a few blocks from the Quarter. Close enough to walk, but also not in the thick of the craziness.

I truly recommend booking your stay at the Ace!

My Top Recommendations:

Pastries at Ayu Bakehouse

Website | 801 Frenchmen St.

I am bread and pastry obsessed, so Ayu Bakehouse is heaven on Earth for me. If you're looking for an easy, and delicious breakfast, start your morning here. Located on Frenchman St., across from the peaceful Washington Square Park, this modern bakery feels clean, light, and dreamlike.

When you've finished drooling at the counter, grab a seat outside with your bread and coffee and take in the city. We enjoyed the cinnamon rolls and savory biscuits.

Drinks and Bites at the Columns:

Website | 3811 St Charles Ave.

Located on beautiful St. Charles Ave., the Columns is iconic. I could stay on their patio overlooking the tall columns and old oak trees for hours. Inside you'll find a low-lit bar that's glamorous and moody.

The Columns is the kind of place you imagine when you think of New Orleans.

It's a dream of mine to actually stay at the Columns Hotel. If you're feeling fancy, and wanting something pretty historic, then book a room at the Columns. I've heard great things!

Sazerac

A Pimm's Cup at Napoleon House

Website | 500 Chartres Street

A classic and a must. Napoleon House is located in the heart of the Quarter and captures the soul of New Orleans. While you sip a Pimm's Cup in the courtyard or enjoy a cup of gumbo inside the historic building, you'll feel nostalgia for a time you never knew.

Come here for a Pimm's, but also try some bites from their food menu. They're famous for their Muffuletta, and I also really enjoy their gumbo and Charcuterie Board.

Dinner at Paladar 511

Website | 511 Marigny Street

Located in the Bywater off the beaten path, Paladar 511 is an Italian triumph. The interior of the restaurant is industrial with a hip city vibe, yet the atmosphere is actually comforting and airy.

I recommend the Smoked Duck Toast (omg), Compressed Melon Salad, Tuna Crudo, Pappardelle, and Squid Ink Spaghetti. Their pizza also looked amazing.

Pappardelle

Frenchulettas at Liuzza's

Website | 3636 Bienville Street

If you're really hungry, go grab a Frenchuletta, a Muffaletta sandwich served on an entire French bread roll. Wash it down with a cold, cold beer served in a frosty mug. Liuzza's, established in the '40s, is a Mid-City must if you're craving a Muffaletta.

Dinner at Compère Lapin

Website | 535 Tchoupitoulas St

You'll spend some money, but the dishes here boast a perfect marriage of flavors. The menu is inventive and absolutely incredible. Precision seems to be the theme—every bite was just right. From the perfectly flavored dishes to the simple touches in the decor to the impeccable service, Compère Lepin shines.

I recommend the Blackened Pig Ears, Tuna Ceviche, Steak, and Curried Goat.

Day Trip: Swamp Boat Tour

This may seem like a big to-do. You may say, "Eh, maybe next time." But no. Go do this. Bring your friends. Bring your mom. Bring your boss. You will all have a blast.

There are multiple Swamp Tours scattered outside New Orleans. Two of my favorites include Airboat Tours by Arthur or Louisiana Tour Company

Less than an hour outside of the city, most tour companies partner with bus services to shuttle large groups. This is an excellent chance to experience the natural beauty of the swamps of southern Louisiana.

Live Music on Frenchman Street

Frenchman Street is no longer a hidden gem, but still a mecca for live music and dancing. I enjoy coming here before dinner to grab a drink with some live music, or of course, stopping here for a rowdy dance party with friends.

Popular spots include The Spotted Cat, Blue Nile, and Snug Harbor.

It may no longer be hidden, but I still have the best time here.

A Ramos Gin Fizz at the Roosevelt Hotel Sazerac Bar

Website | 130 Roosevelt Way

A bar full of elegance and history (see Storming of the Sazerac Bar). If you're looking for a special-occasion kind of night, be sure to put this on your list. Order a sazerac (obviously) or the legendary Ramos Gin Fizz (takes about 10 minutes to make, so tip the bartender well).

Oysters at Casamento's

Website | 4330 Magazine St.

*Currently closed for the Summer *

One of the best oyster bars in New Orleans. No frills here. Just oysters shucked a stone's throw away from your table. I like oysters served raw on the half-shell, but Casamento's also has me drooling over their charbroiled and fried oysters.

And if oysters aren't your thing, they also have a full seafood menu here. Everything is delicious.

Be prepared to wait a bit here-- there are only about 10-12 tables here.

A Night Cap at Bar Marilou

Website | 544 Carondelet St.

Sultry, moody and intimate, this bar is definitely all about the ambiance. Stop by here for that last drink to close out the night or before dinner for some light bites and beautifully-crafted cocktails. This speakeasy-esque bar is a great place to relax with some fancy drinks.

Try the Triple Double Cocktail. Pro-tip: If there's a drink with pisco, order it.

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