The Top Things Not to Miss in the Big Easy

Non-stop night life, live music venues, kicking cuisine, New Orleans has it all. With so much to offer, you could spend a week there and not do the same thing twice but there are few things you’ll want make sure are on your Crescent City bucket list. Join us as we break down the top things not to miss in the Big Easy.

First up…Where to Stay

The Virgin Hotel

From its roof top pool to the amazing people at the reception desk, the Virgin Hotel offers an elevated experience for a reasonable price. They are ideally located in the Central Business District (CBD) – close enough to walk everywhere but far enough out that you can leave the party behind when you’re finally ready for your comfy bed.

Where to Eat

The Original Pierre Maspero’s

Interior of a restaurant with a large, brick beam in the center — Inside Pierre Masperos

White platter with 4 small bowls and 2 pieces of bread — Inside Pierre Masperos

Although it’s not fancy, the interior is quite charming and the food is AH-MAZING! (And after all…it IS about the food!) Try the Crescent City Sampler for some creole staples and alligator bites as an appetizer while you read about the pirates who helped Andrew Jackson save the city from a fate worse than death. That’s right…the British. Equal parts, food, beer and history. Yes, please!

Where to Drink

The Carousel Bar

An indoor carousel with bar stools around it — The Carousel Bar

Small glass containing pink liquid on a paper napkin that reads "Hotel Monteleone" — The Carousel Bar

This iconic bar has been serving boozy cocktails since 1949. Try New Orleans favorites, the Sazerac or the Vieux Carré. (But be sure to order a little food too or you might slide out of your seat!)

How about Dessert?

Cafe DuMonde

Man holding a plate of beignets, covered in powdered sugar — The Beignets of Destiny

It’s messy
It’s hot
It’s greasy
It’s cash only
But you HAVE to do beignets at Cafe DuMonde at least once

After experiencing powdered sugar avalanche that rests on your eye lashes and was sucked up your nose, you’ll never forget this sweet treat!

What to Do

Listen to live music on Frenchmen Street

Jazz band performing on a small stage and lit with a red light. There is a standup bass, drummer, guitarist, and violin player — The Spotted Cat

Large band performing on stage. There is theatrical lighting and a sign that reads "Blue Nile" behind them. — The Spotted Cat

Don’t worry if jazz isn’t your thing. There are clubs up and down Frenchman street and we heard everything from washboards to rap battles. Most places have only a one drink minimum or a low cover charge to get in so this is also a great tip for any cheapskates out there.

What to Bring

Man holding an umbrella with a Union Jack pattern inside. It's a sunny day and he's on the street — Parasol

Woman facing away from the camera, wearing a straw hat — Parasol

It’s NOLA. Expect it to be hot and sunny, with very little tree cover. We took these two items with us EVERYWHERE we went and did just fine. After all, if there isn’t any shade…it helps to bring your own!

That’s a Wrap

Thanks for consulting the Oracle for the things not to miss in the Big Easy. When you go, have a Sazerac and shoot us a message so we know how it goes!