We enjoyed a long-weekend family trip down to New Orleans last summer. “Family Trip” is not typically the first thing that pops into peoples' mind when they think of visiting New Orleans, but this city can be done MANY ways. We enjoyed Bourbon Street (some less than others), soaked in all the history of the city from tours, drank A LOT and enjoyed some delicious food on this trip (Char grilled oysters- to die for!!!)

WHERE TO STAY:

Hotel Monteleone : Come here for the adult carousel bar, stay for the tasty Pimms Cup and just end up sleeping over. Great location to everything the city has to offer. Avg. Nightly Stay: $200-$350

Ace Hotel : Any ACE Hotel is a trendy experience with a rooftop pool and moody décor, this is an easy no brainer for a girlfriend retreat Avg. Nightly Stay: $175-$400

Catahoula Hotel : This 35 room Boutique Hotel is just a short distance from the French Quarter. With a stunning courtyard café and rooftop terrace there are plenty of places to lounge after adventuring around the city. Avg. Nightly Stay: $150-$200
Henry Howard Hotel : If you want more of an oasis, this 18 room boutique hotel in the garden district is for you. Decorated in true southern fashion, each room is unique, and only a block from the parade route. Avg. Nightly Stay: $160-$200

EAT & DRINK:

Laffite’s Black Smith Bar : pop in here to enjoy a cold beverage and soak up the history of New Orlean’s oldest bar!
Palladar 511 : Offering up pizzas, pastas, and seasonal sides, this is a great spot to soak up all the alcohol consumed on this trip and enjoy the ambiance inspired by Restoration Hardware.
St. Roch Market : Off the beaten path and away from all the tourist, this local market is EVERYTHING. Sparkling white from floor floor to ceiling, with abundant vendors, we all got something different and shared- GO TO ELEYSIAN SEAFOD AND GET THE OYSTERS!
Bachannal Wine : “Mediterranean living/ New Orleans style”; a must stop for all the wine enthusiast who enjoy trying new things from small producers! Offering up delicious food to pair with, this is a great spot to unwind and enjoy some musical entertainment as well.
Shaya : If you are searching for a more elegant meal, look no further. Beautifully decorated with mouthwatering meals- this Lebanese inspired restaurant is raved about, and has a quaint patio!
Felix restaurant & oyster bar : Our first meal in the French quarter, we sat out on the patio and enjoyed our first char boiled oysters of the weekend, with some tasty beer of beer of course. Great spot for people watching the streets from above!
Café Fleur De Lis : Extremely tiny restaurant serving breakfast and lunch, perfect for an on the go breakfast! Literally, get the “breakfast to go cup”!

WHAT TO DO:

Ghost Tour : If you grew up being fascinated with the Ouija Board, look no further than New Orleans to have a haunted experience. Though we are not big tourist girls, we highly recommend these historic tours. Bring your alcohol in a to-go cup and walk around the town at night to hear the history of New Orleans and how vampires came to be.

NOMA Museum : Offering up a historical museum, New Orleans continues to showcase their history! Check out their website to preview exhibitions happening while there.
Horse Drawn Carriage : Hop on one of the many carriages around the city to enjoy another guided tour filled with history.

Relax at the pool : Our #1 favorite thing to do on any trip- Hotel Monteleone’s Pool was on the roof and was a great escape from the city for a day!