I've traveled many different countries in the last 10 years but unfortunately have not traveled within my own. While living abroad I realized it is assumed that we as Americans have seen most of the US, which in my case, is certainly not true. So I decided at the beginning of 2019 that I would explore my own native state, California, and travel to other cities and states within the US more than ever. My first domestic flight this year was to one of the top 3 nightlife cities in the US-- New Orleans, Louisiana aka NOLA.
I flew with Spirit Airlines for $130 Roundtrip (extremely affordable), booked a beautiful Creole Cottage at $270 for 3 nights (and when split with friends it’s way cheap), and all else, food, entertainment, and tours is up to each individual's taste and preferences. As much as I wanted to do a Swamp Tour and a Plantation Tour, I decided to stay back and just focus on this fabulous city's vibe and local scene. Here are my top 5 favorite spots I discovered while there:
1. The French Quarter - Cafe Du Monde
The French Quarter is where all the wild fun happens. Bourbon Street, where the famous Mardi Gras festival and parades go down, is filled with Voodoo shops, music, bars, and clubs. The French style facades and jazz bands playing in every corner felt like such a magical place, I can see why the mouse decided to dedicate and recreate an area of Disneyland called New Orleans Square. My absolute most favorite treat in the French Quarter were the beignets. Cafe Du Monde has THE BEST beignets I’ve ever had in my life (although I’ve only ever had them in New Orleans Square, Disneyland). They’re warm, deep fried pastries covered in powdered sugar. Definitely MUST try when in NOLA.
2. Garden District - Lafeyette Cemetery #1
The Garden District of NOLA is where all of the breathtaking mansions are. Picture blocks and blocks of homes like Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion. Right in the middle of the Garden District is NOLA’s most famous cemetery, Lafayette No. 1. Many movies and shows have been filmed in this graveyard. The reason why cemetaries are so fascinating in NOLA is because they are not allowed to bury bodies below ground due to the water being so high. Digging a few feet underground will cause a casket and grave to fill with water and float. As a result, there are only above ground tombs (pictured above). There are many tour guides on site who can walk you through the cemetery and fill you in with history, facts, and answer any questions you may have.
This restaurant, which at one point was a bar, has THE BEST FRIED CHICKEN EVER. It was a recommendation from a legit friend in California so we decided to give it a shot. Its about a 20 minute walk from the edge of the French Quarter but I’d recommend taking an Uber. We of course walked there without realizing that we may go through an unknown, quiet, and somewhat sketchy neighborhood. We arrived safely however, and stood in line outside until seated inside. I ordered fried chicken with a side of macaroni & cheese and indulged in the best soul food plate of my life.
4. Frenchmen Street
Authentic jazz bands, dive bars, and a less packed version of Bourbon Street is Frenchmen Street.
Filled with a bit more soul rather than party, this street was wonderful to hang out in and enjoy a couple of drinks with some live music. The vibe is mellow and funky. There’s delicious food here too! I tried the alligator hot dog at Dat Dog and I didn’t regret it one bit.
5. Bywater - Bacchanal Wine
I rented a Creole Cottage like the ones pictured above in the Bywater District. Close enough to the fun scene but far enough for a good nights rest. This Bywater area is where boho meets hipster. Its a residential neighborhood with quirky coffee shops, delicious bakeries, and colorful homes. The last night I went to a spot called Bacchanal Wine within the ByWater District. It’s a wine and cheese spot. You go purchase your wine, cheese, and order some tapas while sitting in the courtyard of this building/house listening to live music. The best most chill vibes are happening here daily.
And just like that, 3 days there and 5 pounds heavier, I flew back to LAX and will forever reminisce on this fascinating and diverse city of New Orleans.
xx,
Frenchee