by Jay

Kick Off Your Summer With ESSENCE Festival in New Orleans

Photo by Danny Howe on Unsplash

Summer has arrived, and now is the time to embark on exciting adventures with family and friends. There is no better way to kick off your summer than with ESSENCE Festival this July in New Orleans. This massive event features a host of famous musical performers, guest speakers, delectable local cuisine, fashion, beauty, and much more. Between four days, multiple stages, and a multitude of great musical artists, there is an incredible lineup of chart toppers, influencers, celebrity wellness experts, and world-famous personalities.

ESSENCE is typically held over the Independence Day weekend (June 29-July 3, 2023) mostly at the two New Orleans venues: the Caesars Superdome for the evening performances and the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center for the daytime activities. Some of the daytime events including the conferences and the exhibits were also held over the years at the Contemporary Arts Center. New since 2019, the Wellness House experience is held in the Arts District downtown.

You can get your tickets a la carte (for the evening concerts at the Superdome and for the ESSENCE After Dark) or in bundled day and VIP packages, online. The headliners sell out fast, so don’t wait till the last minute! All the events held at the Convention Center during the day are free and open to all (registration is required for everyone over 18).

A Music Lover’s Dream

Music fans from all over simply can’t go wrong with all the incredible names in every year’s lineup. The 2023 lineup is yet to be announced, but in the past, attendees were treated to performances by some of the biggest names in the music business, including Brandy, Missy Elliott, Mary J. Blige, Nas, New Orleans’ own Big Freedia, Pharrell Williams, Timbaland, and many more.

The traditional Sunday Gospel Celebration at the Convention center features the greatest gospel hits, and ESSENCE After Dark, a series of late-night jam sessions, comedy shows, underground performances, live podcast recordings, and more, is also not to be missed.

ESSENCE Is Much More Than Music

Besides the stellar music lineup, the festival is jam-packed with conferences, keynote events, and other experiences. A slew of exciting exhibitions, roundtables, and other events await, including a series of keynotes. The Beauty Carnival and Wellness House experiences features celebrity beauty influencers and wellness experts, and the popular ESSENCE Eats has cooking demos and a food court with vendors from all over the South offering a wide range of classic New Orleans food, world cuisine, vegan and vegetarian fare, desserts, and beyond.

Stay Close to All of the ESSENCE Action

Don’t wait — grab your tickets to ESSENCE Festival and then book your stay nearby at the Prince Conti Hotel. Located in the heart of the French Quarter, it’s minutes away from many popular New Orleans bars, restaurants, landmarks, and destinations — including the Superdome and the Convention Center. This elegant hotel is a nice calming change of scenery from the bustling city that awaits outside, offering the old-world New Orleans charm along with all the modern-day amenities.

by Jay

Where to Eat Breakfast in the French Quarter

Where to Eat Breakfast in the French Quarter

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and it’s also a great opportunity to soak up New Orleans’ culinary traditions. Beignets, eggs Benedict, brandy milk punch— some of the city’s most revered dishes and beverages were made to be consumed before noon. Of course, breakfast is also a time to refuel and give your body the nutrition it needs for a long day (and night) of exploring. Fortunately, thanks to a bevy of breakfast spots near Prince Conti, it won’t be hard for you to find a meal that hits the spot.

Brennan’s

Brennan’s (417 Royal St.) is a bastion of Creole dining that’s been known for indulgent Creole breakfasts since 1946. Seafood gumbo, eggs Benedict, duck confit hash, and buttermilk biscuits are served along with the classic eye-opener cocktails. You’ve never had breakfast this luxurious or service this attentive. There’s also a two-course, prix fixe breakfast option for those who want to indulge just a tiny bit less.

Cafe Conti

Deep-fried everything topped with cream sauce — if that sounds like the stuff you’ve been eating in New Orleans, you aren’t alone. Louisiana cuisine can land heavy, which is why a healthy breakfast can be such a refreshing way to start your day. Cafe Conti (830 Conti St.), located in the Prince Conti Hotel, offers continental breakfast, pastries, and croissants, as well as even lighter fare including fresh fruit.

Cafe du Monde

Here’s the thing about Cafe du Monde (800 Decatur St.): You really can’t pick a bad time to visit the 24-hour beignet destination. It’s great in the afternoon when the French doughnuts and cafe au laits serve as sugary, caffeinated pick-me-ups. The cash-only joint is also great for late-night noshing when a greasy snack to soak up the booze is just what the doctor ordered. But it may be best in the morning when the sun rises over the Mississippi, the streets are freshly washed, and the vendors are just setting up in Jackson Square. Beignets for breakfast at a spot that’s been slinging them since 1862 — there’s nothing more New Orleans than that.

Croissant d’Or

Stepping into this pastel jewel box of a cafe is like stepping into a 19th-century ice cream shop (probably because that was the building’s original use). Grab a cup of coffee and a fresh-baked almond croissant for the best pastry outside of Paris, and enjoy both in Croissant d’Or’s (617 Ursulines Ave.) petite courtyard, populated by fountains, plants, and sparrows swooping in to peck up crumbs. Those with larger appetites may opt for something heartier, like the ham and cheese baguettes or spinach quiche. It’s really hard to go wrong when the ambiance is this charming and everything displayed in the gleaming case so delicious.

Stanley

Stanley (547 St. Ann St.) has so much going for it: the sunny, airy space, prime location overlooking Jackson Square, a literary reference in its name, and generously portioned yet affordable all-day breakfast packed with Louisiana favorites like fried oysters and crab cakes Benedict. Try the signature Bananas Foster French toast, or Eggs Stanley: cornmeal-crusted oysters, poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and Creole hollandaise on a toasted English muffin. Eggs Benedict gets a po-boy treatment by being served on toasted French bread. Or, if you can handle it, try the breakfast seafood platter, with soft-shell crab, oysters, and Gulf shrimp. Wash it down with a Mega (double) Bloody Mary or a milkshake punch while you people-watch.

The Ruby Slipper Cafe

With six locations in New Orleans alone, The Ruby Slipper Cafe (204 Decatur St. is the French Quarter location) is a local chain that’s slaying the breakfast and brunch game. Breakfast staples like omelets and buttermilk pancakes meet distinctly Louisiana fare like shrimp and grits and bananas Foster pain perdu. Plus, there’s a lengthy selection of breakfast cocktails at the homey, comfortable cafe. It’s the perfect spot to chow down after a feat of endurance, like running the Crescent City Classic or window-shopping on Royal Street.

We hope to welcome you to Prince Conti!

by Jay

What’s on Conti Street

Conti Street - Bombay Club
Photo courtesy of The Bombay Club on Facebook

Stroll through the French Quarter, and you’ll find yourself immersed in the colorful history of one of the nation’s oldest neighborhoods. The stories of the Vieux Carré are told by its architecture, its people, and even its street names.

Take Conti Street, for example. Connecting the Mississippi River and Rampart Street, it’s named for French royalty, a prince in the Bourbon family. Conti Street is a nod to the city’s multicultural history, and today, it’s home to numerous restaurants, bars, and other attractions. Here are just a few to check out, starting from N. Rampart St. to the Mississippi River.

Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture (1010 Conti St.)

The Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture is located between N. Rampart and Burgundy streets in the French Quarter and features the private collection of its owner, Carl Mack, a costumer and entertainer known as The Xylophone Man. It’s one of the largest personal collections of Mardi Gras costumes in the city. The costumes on display include those worn by the Kings and Queens of various krewes, including Irma Thomas and Al “Carnival Time” Johnson. The museum’s gallery features four exhibits a year and hosts special events. You can also experience Mardi Gras for yourself by playing dress-up in the museum’s vast costume closet. Admission is $15; tours are available.

Irish Cultural Museum of New Orleans (933 Conti St.)

The free Irish Cultural Museum explores the rich history of the city’s Irish residents dating back to the 1700s. The collection includes maps, photographs, genealogy resources, a documentary, and interactive kiosks. The historic building features a balcony and a courtyard. There’s a coffee and whiskey bar on-site, St. Patrick’s Coffee House, which doles out homemade ginger tea and Irish coffee.

Deja Vu Restaurant &Bar (400 Dauphine St.)

You’ll find this burger and breakfast joint at the corner of Conti and Dauphine streets. It’s home to some quintessential New Orleans characters and a long menu of comfort food (including breakfast all day). For those times when hunger strikes, Deja Vu is a quick, easy solution.

Cuñada (833 Conti St.)

This Mexican Grill and Agave Bar is a family-owned, colorful destination with a rotating menu of Agave-based margaritas plus house-made tortillas locally and traditional Mexican dishes made with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Cuñada (that means “sister-in-law” in Spanish) is open till midnight, which makes it a perfect stop for a late-night bite.

Prince Conti Hotel (830 Conti St.)

The namesake of our hotel should be obvious to you now — and it should also make the address easy to remember. High ceilings, antique decor and courtyards contribute to the vintage New Orleans flavor, and the central French Quarter location makes it a great stepping-off point to any destination in the French Quarter and beyond. Don’t forget to stop in the adjoined Bombay Club for a classic martini, a perfectly cooked steak and live jazz (more on that below).

Café Conti (830 Conti St.)

The on-site Cafe Conti at the Prince Conti Hotel has a casual breakfast and lunch menu from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., with a focus on French and Creole cuisines. There you’ll find sweet and savory crepes, eggs Benedict, and local favorites like breakfast po-boy, shrimp and grits, and Croque Madame. Ask about the daily specials, including the Benedict of the day.

The Bombay Club (830 Conti St.)

Tucked away down the carriageway at the back of the Prince Conti Hotel, the Bombay Club & Martini Bistro has more than 50 specialty cocktails on the menu. It specializes in martinis but also has an extensive selection of single malt scotches, ports, reserved bourbons, and premium cigars. You’ll find that its happy hour is popular with visitors and locals alike, with $3 beer, $4 wine and $5 cocktails. The small plates are fresh takes on Cajun and European comfort food, like, for example, the Natchitoches meat pies and Ploughman’s Board. The Bombay Club is also a popular choice for the nightly local live music, including jazz and cabaret performances.

Broussard’s (819 Conti St.)

This grande dame of Creole dining has been delighting New Orleanians with its elevated takes on the classics like oysters, crab cakes, remoulade, Gulf fish, and other local delicacies since 1920. Don’t miss the weekend jazz brunch from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday. It’s a true taste of history.

Erin Rose (811 Conti St.)

A stone’s throw from the Irish Cultural Museum, you’ll find this dim, dog-friendly destination with Guinness on tap and the best frozen Irish coffee this side of Jackson Square. (The second-best Irish coffee is served at Molly’s at the Market, which is Erin Rose’s sister location.) If hunger strikes, be sure to hit up Killer Po-Boys, a po-boy pop-up situated in the rear of the bar.

Oceana Grill (739 Conti St.)

Fresh Gulf seafood, Louisiana fare, a charming courtyard, and a kitchen that’s open till 1 a.m. and offers delivery — these are just a few reasons to try Oceana Grill. It’s fine dining-caliber food without the pretension.

Latrobe’s (403 Royal St.)

Formerly the Louisiana State Bank — with the heavy safe, stonework and whisper dome to prove it — Latrobe’s is now a stunning events venue at the corner of Conti and Royal streets. It was built in 1822 by Benjamin Henry Latrobe, who also was the architect for the U.S. Capitol. Don’t pass by without taking a peek inside!

Kingfish (375 Chartres St.)

Located on the corner of Chartres and Conti streets, this popular restaurant and cocktail bar tips its hat to the Huey P. Long era. The menu is a locally sourced embodiment of traditional New Orleans cuisine with some modern twists. The standouts include the blackened “Hook and Line” Gulf fish, boudin balls, and duck and Andouille gumbo. Kingfish is also very serious about its cocktails, so it’s a great place to try both the classics like the Sazerac and the signature concoctions, especially during the very generous happy hour (referred to as “Governor Hours”).

We hope you take some time to explore the beautiful Conti Street and the rest of the French Quarter while you are staying with us!

by Jay

10 Things to Do on a Rainy Day in and Around the French Quarter


“Bourbon Street in the morning. New Orleans.” Photo by Kathy Drasky on Flickr

New Orleans is a rainy city, and the skies can open up at any moment. Not to worry, there’s plenty to do in the air-conditioned indoors while you wait for the downpour to go away. Here are our top 10 suggestions for how you can stay dry and entertained.

1. Head to a Museum

The French Quarter boasts quite a few museums, with many focusing on the city’s past and the history of Louisiana. Some, like the New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint, are free; others you can visit for a small fee. For example, the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum ($10) features a permanent collection of 19th-century surgical instruments, books and patent medicines.

Hermann-Grima House and Gallier House are two historic homes that are considered some of the most well-preserved historic structures in the French Quarter. You can tour both and learn about what life was like in New Orleans in the 19th century.

The Historic New Orleans Collection is spread over 10 historic buildings in the French Quarter. The Royal Street location (533 Royal St.) houses the main museum with a permanent exhibit on state history, plus rotating exhibits on history and art. Admission is free.

Consider heading to Jackson Square for two museums and a historic cathedral. Catch a mass or free concert (or just admire the interior during the quiet hours) at the St. Louis Cathedral. It’s flanked by the Cabildo and the Presbytère, which are run by the Louisiana State Museum and house several excellent exhibits, including one on the history of Mardi Gras at the Presbytère.

2. Ride the streetcar

You can catch the historic St. Charles Avenue line on Canal Street and head Uptown to take in the breathtaking views of the Garden District, or ride the Canal line to Mid-City and Bayou St. John, ending at the cemeteries or the City Park and the Art Museum. If you want to explore the Marigny and the Bywater, take the Rampart line; or stay close to the Quarter by exploring the edge of it, where it meets the CBD, by riding the Riverfront line. You’ll be passing Harrah’s Casino, Woldenberg Park, the Aquarium of the Americas, the Canal Place mall, and the Riverwalk Marketplace, ending up at the Convention Center. It only costs $1.25 one way, or you can get passes for a day or longer.

3. Hit the casino

Have some fun and maybe score some extra cash at the New Orleans Harrah’s Casino. It’s centrally located at the foot of the French Quarter on Canal Street, only a block away from the Mississippi River. It houses over 2,000 slot machines and nine delicious restaurants, including two steakhouses and the Grand Isle Seafood Restaurant.

4. Go shopping

The whole stretch of the historic French Market is covered, from the flea market to the food vendor section, and it’s a treasure trove of souvenirs (edible and otherwise), crafts, and unique Louisiana finds. Nearby, the strips of shops called the Shops at the Colonnade, some with Decatur and some with N. Peters addresses, are also worth a visit if you’re shopping for unique gifts and local specialties like pralines.

Nearby, the revamped multi-story historic landmark Jax Brewery hosts retail stores, cafes, restaurants, and a small museum dedicated to the brewery. Another option is to head down Royal Street, which is lined with local boutiques and antique and vintage stores for every budget.

Heading out of the Quarter and into the CBD, Canal Place and The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk are a short walk away from each other. Both are self-contained, multi-storied indoor malls that could keep you shopping and eating for hours. The Shops at Canal Place is home to Saks Fifth Avenue, Tiffany and Co., Anthropologie, and dozens of other upscale retailers, while The Riverwalk mall is an outlet with more than 75 retailers and restaurants, including Nordstrom Rack and Café du Monde.

5. See a movie

The state-of-the-art IMAX theater, located next to the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas at the Riverfront, usually has two or three nature-themed 3D films on rotation; tickets are included with the Aquarium admission. Or, support New Orleans’ independent theaters and head to the beautifully restored Broad Theater, a short ride away, or to the historic Prytania Theater Uptown. Both have bars!

6. Visit the Aquarium or the Insectarium

Speaking of the Aquarium, the sprawling compound on the riverfront will keep you and your family enthralled with its walk-through tunnel, otters, penguins, sea turtles, a stingray touch pool, and an expansive replica of an offshore oil rig submerged in 400,000 gallons of water.

On the other side of the French Quarter, the Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium, located in the U.S. Custom House on Canal Street, is packed with bug-centric interactive exhibits. Sample a cricket chocolate chip cookie at the cafeteria, or let the butterflies land on your head in the spectacular butterfly garden.

7. Support an independent bookstore

New Orleans proudly boasts a number of impressively stocked independent bookstores, and some of the best ones are located in the Quarter. A former home of William Faulkner located in the historic and picturesque Pirate Alley, just off Jackson Square and behind the Cabildo, Faulkner House Books mostly offers local-interest books and the classics, including rare editions, and, of course, the works of William Faulkner.

The bi-level Beckham’s Bookshop specializes in used, antiquarian, and rare books, as well as CDs and vinyl. A gem of a place, Beckham’s has been around since 1979 at this location. It’s crammed floor to ceiling, and is beer- and dog-friendly. You’ll find it right across the street from the House of Blues. The charming Dauphine Street Books and Crescent City Books are both great spots if you want to browse an eclectic, well-curated selection of both new and used books, including maps and out-of-print editions.

8. Take in a show

The two of New Orleans’ historic performance venues, the beautifully renovated Saenger and Joy theaters, are both located on Canal Street and feature year-round performances. You can catch a Broadway musical, a comedy show, or a musical act at the Orpheum Theater or the Civic Theatre. Just off Jackson Square, Le Petit Theatre du Vieux Carré has called its St. Peter Street location home since 1922.

9. See some live music

Check out WWOZ’s Livewire Music Calendar to find out who is playing on any given day/night while you’re here. For more à la carte adventures, you can just head to Frenchmen Street, right across from the French Quarter in the Marigny, and wander from venue to venue. There’s a good deal of street music on several corners usually. The Bombay Club, Preservation Hall, and numerous bars, clubs and restaurants around the French Quarter are guaranteed to have some live music, even on weeknights.

10. Eat and drink, of course!

Some of the best restaurants in the country, if not the world, are located steps away from your hotel. So get out there and explore all the delicious possibilities, from the iconic Creole grand dames to the New Orleans staples on the budget. Also, all year round, the French Quarter offers incredible happy hour deals you won’t want to miss, including the hotel’s own, The Bombay Club. And what could be better than holing up with a drink and watching the rain?

Here are more of our quick guides to the French Quarter’s destinations and nightlife near the Prince Conti Hotel. Rain or shine, happy exploring!

Landmarks/Getting around:

What’s on Conti Street — Prince Conti Hotel New Orleans

Best Things to Do/See in Nearby Neighborhoods

The Top 10 Landmarks Near Our French Quarter Hotel

Nightlife/Music:

Guide to Frenchmen Street: The Venues, Music and More

Nightlife Near the Prince Conti

Places to Hear Live Jazz in and Near Prince Conti Hotel

Dining:

Where to Eat Breakfast in the French Quarter

The Best Desserts Near Prince Conti Hotel in the French Quarter

Shopping:

Shop for Unique New Orleans Gifts Near the Prince Conti Hotel

Shopping for Women Near the Prince Conti French Quarter Hotel

Other Things to Do:

Guide to Glam in the French Quarter — Prince Conti Hotel

Getting Fit in the French Quarter

by Jay

New Orleans Fall Highlights

Fall in New Orleans means the end of heat-induced hibernation and switching gears to enjoy the upcoming months of moderate weather, a calendar full of foodie-haven and music festivals, a unique take on Halloween, plus several parades and many other fun activities. With the summer lull over, this is a great time to visit Crescent City. Here are a few highlights, to give you an idea of just how much is going on in New Orleans in the fall.

SEPTEMBER

Southern Decadence

August 31 – September 4, 2023

Held over the Labor Day weekend, this popular festival celebrates LGBTQIA+ culture and attracts participants from all over the world. The festival’s annual hub, Bourbon Pub/Parade, is typically open 24/7. Just like in previous years, it serves as an epicenter of the Bourbon Street Extravaganza, a free show/block party happening on Saturday, and the annual Southern Decadence Grand Marshal Parade on Sunday.

National Fried Chicken Festival

September 30 – October 1, 2023  

This relative newcomer on the foodie-fest scene serves as one of the highlights of September. The two-day free fest usually features three outdoor stages, two for music and one for the cooking demos, at the Lakefront. The stellar food lineup includes over 30 well-known fried chicken vendors coming from all over the region to represent different cooking styles of this classic Southern dish.

New Orleans Burlesque Festival

September 2023 dates TBA  

This annual international event brings together the best of local talent and some big international names. Dancers, emcees, comics, singers, and variety-act performers will be doing nightly shows at the Civic Theatre and House of Blues. The main event, usually held on Saturday at the Civic Theatre, will have performers from all over the world competing for the title of “Queen of Burlesque.”

Beignet Festival

September 2023 date TBA

This annual extravaganza returned in 2022 and is held at the New Orleans City Park Festival Grounds. The free, daylong party gives you an opportunity to sample over 30 renditions of the beloved beignet, from traditional sweet treats swimming in powdered sugar to savory options bursting with seafood and cheese. There are usually vegan and gluten-free beignets to accommodate every diet, and awards are given in four “Best of” categories. Don’t forget to vote for your pick!

OCTOBER

Oktoberfest

October 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 2023

New Orleans throws its version of Oktoberfest over three Fridays and Saturdays in October at Deutsches Haus in Mid-City, to celebrate the city’s rich German history with all the usual trappings, including authentic food and live music.

Art for Art’s Sake

October 7, 2023

The always well-attended Art for Art’s Sake is an opportunity to browse the shops and galleries along the commercial stretch of Magazine Street. Expect extended hours, special deals, live music, and beverage sampling.

Crescent City Blues and BBQ Festival

October 13-15, 2023

This free fest happens every year in the CBD, in Lafayette Square. Join the fun for two stages of music, a dozen of the best barbecue vendors in the region, and a large art market.

Krewe of Boo

October 21, 2023

This lively affair has become the “official Halloween Parade” in New Orleans in 2007, and has been going strong since, only growing in popularity. The parade is brought to you by Kern Studios, so expect the usual 3-D fiberglass and papier-mâché extravaganza, plus all of your favorite spooky characters. All the monsters on the floats are PG-13 and not too scary even for the youngest kids. Parade-goers are encouraged to come in costume. Expect plush toys, candy and unique, eco-conscious throws.

Halloween

The second half of October; October 31, 2023

New Orleans puts its own spin on the Halloween fun with a slew of balls, costume parties, a parade, haunted tours, and a huge block party on Frenchmen Street. The city knows how to do Halloween in a family-friendly style too. We are thankful for the variety, and hope you’ll find plenty of entertainment in the two weeks leading up to the holiday as well as on the day of Halloween itself.

Tremé Fall Festival

October 2023 date TBA

This local fave throws a serious party in the blocks connecting Henriette Delille, Tremé, and Gov. Nicholls Streets in one the nation’s first African American neighborhoods during the first weekend of October, just as the weather is getting nice. Most of the action is centered in front of the historic St. Augustine Church on the 1100 block of Henriette Delille Street. Expect entertainment from New Orleans musical royalty and food trucks and vendors from some of New Orleans’ best eateries. The festival is donation-based.

NOLA Mac n’ Cheese Fest

October 2023 date TBA

This free annual fest is held at Louis Armstrong Park and keeps expanding to accommodate its growing popularity. The fest features a judged competition among the dozens of mac ‘n’ cheese dishes from Louisiana restaurants, pop-ups and food catering businesses, an artist market, and an eating competition. The festival was canceled in 2019-2021, but is slated to make its fourth appearance in 2023.

NOVEMBER

New Orleans Film Festival

November 2-7, 2023

The New Orleans Film Festival is one of the largest film festivals in the South and is the longest-running festival of its kind in the state. The festival has grown to the point of attracting thousands of attendees and industry insiders, plus more than 400 filmmakers and over 200 films annually. It’s one of the few film festivals in the nation that showcases Oscar-qualifying films drawn from all three Academy-accredited categories: Narrative Short, Documentary Short, and Animated Short. Venues include Broad, Orpheum and Prytania theaters, and the festival’s hub, the Contemporary Arts Center.

Tremé Creole Gumbo Festival

November 16-17

The annual Tremé Creole Gumbo festival serves up the perfect trifecta of gumbo, brass bands and cooler temps, returning to celebrate over a decade of existence at Louis Armstrong Park. A few years ago this festival was merged with another popular local event, the Congo Square Rhythms Festival, adding more music, and featuring two art markets and two food courts.

Thanksgiving at the Fair Grounds Race Course

November 23, 2023

Per a long-standing New Orleans tradition, it’s customary to turn out at the track on Thanksgiving Day to watch the opening-day races while sporting cocktails and some seriously fabulous hats. The first race starts at 11 a.m., and the racetrack also serves a sumptuous holiday buffet, plus a fancy dinner with all the holiday trimmings at the Clubhouse.

Bayou Classic

November 24-25, 2023

Each November the Bayou Classic draws the fans and alumni of Southern University and Grambling State University to New Orleans over the Thanksgiving weekend to partake in one of the country’s greatest college sports rivalries. Over the years, this has become much more than a football game, drawing more than 200,000 visitors to New Orleans. The event stretches for two days and includes a fan fest, a parade, the battle of the bands, and, of course, the big game at the Superdome.

Celebration in the Oaks

November 24, 2023 – January 1, 2024

This beloved New Orleans tradition is celebrating over three decades of existence, selling out quickly for the past few years. Celebration in the Oaks is a dazzling holiday lights festival scattered throughout the 25 acres of the City Park, including the Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park. Stroll through the magical grounds swathed in hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights, take a train ride or a holiday picture by the iconic Mr. Bingle, listen to the caroling, do some holiday shopping, or ride the historic carousel.

Oak Street Po-Boy Festival

November 2023 date TBA

There’s a po-boy for every budget and palate in New Orleans, and at this festival dedicated to the beloved New Orleans staple you can sample over 50 varieties. Dozens of vendors also compete in several “Best of” categories.

by Jay

French Quarter on a Budget

Known for its iconic high-end restaurants like Galatoire’s, and swank bars like French 75, the French Quarter is a magnet for high rollers, but you can also drink deep of its delights on a limited budget, like many of the locals do, while enjoying a wealth of free attractions.

Rise and Shine at Cafe du Monde (800 Decatur St.)

If you hit Cafe du Monde in the morning, you’ll probably have to cool your heels in line. But it’s definitely worth the wait for a breakfast treat New Orleanians have been savoring since 1862. Order a plate of three fresh-from-the-fryer beignets dusted with powdered sugar, and dip them into a steaming hot cup of cafe au lait. Heaven! Though light as air, beignets are surprisingly filling, and taste even better when you’re listening to live jazz while breezes waft off the nearby Mississippi. Cost: about $6, plus an extra buck or two for a tip.

Walk Along the Mississippi River, and Take a Trip on the Algiers Ferry

Strolling the banks of the Mississippi is both delightful and free. And you don’t have to spring for a pricey ticket on a paddlewheel boat to cruise the river. It costs just $2 to board the Algiers ferry to the West Bank, which leaves from the foot of Canal Street, near the Aquarium of the Americas. You’ll enjoy sweeping views of the city’s skyline, and the towering spires of St. Louis Cathedral. About five minutes later, you’ll dock at Algiers Point, a historic neighborhood with expansive views of the Crescent City along the Mississippi River levee. Reboard the ferry for another $2 when you’re ready to leave, and get back off where you started. Cost: $4 round trip.

Grab a Muffuletta at Central Grocery (923 Decatur St.)

Central Grocery invented the muffuletta. It rivals the po-boy as the city’s most iconic sandwich. Layered with sliced Italian deli meats, rich provolone cheese, and hot and spicy olive salad, muffulettas are served on locally baked seeded buns and are big enough to feed two people. Pro tip: Opt for the half-sandwich (they’re pretty big) and bring it to the Moonwalk for a riverside picnic that will more than fill you up for the day. Cost: $15.25 for a half.

Window Shop on Royal Street

M.S. Rau Antiques (630 Royal St.) houses a trove of priceless antiques worth a fortune, but it doesn’t cost a dime to drool over exquisite Victorian music boxes, dazzling diamond-encrusted brooches and elaborate player pianos. And Rau is just one of the many shops brimming with oddities and treasures on Royal Street. Cap off an afternoon of aspirational window shopping by trying on one of the phantasmagorical wigs at Fifi Mahony’s (934 Royal St.) Cost: Free.

Eat, Drink and Be Merry at Happy Hour

New Orleans is a drinking town and boasts some of the best happy hours in the country. Lagniappe: many offer budget-priced small bites that can easily serve as an early dinner.

The Bombay Club (830 Conti St.)

If you’re staying at Prince Conti, one of the best and most leisurely happy hours in the Quarter is right downstairs at The Bombay Club, where it runs from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Wash down shareables and bites like Natchitoches meat pies and Ploughman’s Board with a couple of beers ($3), glasses of wine ($4), or specialty cocktails ($5). Cost: Depends on how heartily you imbibe, but about $20 plus tip for two drinks and two apps buys a nice buzz and something in your belly to offset it.

Kingfish (337 Chartres St.)

Live like a king Monday through Friday from 2 to 5 p.m., when you can drink draft beer ($4), wine ($6), or specialty cocktails ($7) while noshing on $9 small plates like duck and andouille gumbo and Louisiana crawfish bread. Cost: Like with The Bombay Club, depends on what you eat and drink.

by Jay

Romantic Fun in the French Quarter

The French Quarter has cast its spell on lovers for centuries. And if you’re staying at Prince Conti, you don’t have to venture far to find romance. The Bombay Club, one of the city’s most charmingly intimate lounges, is just down the carriageway at the back of the hotel. It’s a perfect spot to start and end a romantic night. There’s also a wealth of other options in and around the Quarter guaranteed to get sparks flying.

Jumpstart Happy Hour at The Bombay Club (830 Conti St.)

Sip romantic wines like sparkling rosé or signature cocktails like French 76 during the Bombay Club’s leisurely happy hour. Whet your appetite for the night ahead on spicy regional small bites, including Natchitoches meat pies and Ploughman’s Board.

Cruise the Mississippi on the Creole Queen

The mighty Mississippi isn’t just one of the world’s busiest ports. It’s the perfect backdrop for romance when you cruise its waters at night. Teleport back in time to the glamorous riverboat days of yore on The Paddlewheeler Creole Queen, where you can dance to live jazz on the dance floor, or stroll outside on the deck and enjoy the twinkling skyline view under a canopy of stars.

(Departs from Poydras Dock at Spanish Plaza; book in advance online)

Take a Mule-Drawn Royal Carriage Through the Quarter

Clip-clop, clip-clop. There’s no better place to whisper sweet nothings into your honey’s ear than in the back of a mule-drawn carriage winding its way through the Quarter on cobblestoned streets. Steered by savvy guides, Royal Carriages offers several tour options for small groups. But for max romance, book a private tour with your own personal driver, who can point you to some of the Quarter’s swoon-worthy spots.

(700 Decatur St.; book in advance online)

Enjoy a Romantic Dinner for Two

For old-school French Creole elegance, book a table for two at Galatoire’s (209 Bourbon St.), one of the grande dames of New Orleans dining (jackets required for men.) Or dine al fresco in the lovely courtyard of Cafe Amelie (912 Royal St.), named for the first American Princess of Monaco, who lived on the grounds in the mid-1800s. More in the mood for steak? Head for Doris Metropolitan (620 Chartres St.), where the dry-aged beef and other fine meats are a gourmand’s delight.

Catch Live Jazz at The Bombay Club

Curtained private booths enhance romance at The Bombay Club, where you can sip the bistro’s signature martinis or other classic cocktails while listening to the cool jazz stylings of some of the city’s top artists. Cap off your night before turning in, or just take a break in your hotel room before heading out for more fun.

Get Your Fortunes Read in Jackson Square

What will the rest of the night hold? Should you dive into the wild and noisy end of Bourbon Street or stroll down to Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop (941 Bourbon St.) for a quieter nightcap? Ask one of the colorfully-garbed soothsayers in Jackson Square, where a variety of diviners will look into your future.

(Decatur St. in front of St. Louis Cathedral)

We hope you have a fun, romantic day in the French Quarter!

by Jay

Getting Fit in the French Quarter

get-fit-french-quarter

New Orleans may be the city that care forgot but that doesn’t mean it has to be the city where your fitness regime is forgotten, too. Admittedly, it’s not always easy to stay disciplined, especially on vacation. Between beignets, jambalaya, eggs Benedict and bourbon milk punch, the Crescent City offers many delicious ways to fall off the wagon, diet-wise.

But what most people don’t know is that the French Quarter also is host to several fantastic gyms, running paths and group exercise classes. If all else fails, just walking the Vieux Carré’s slate-paved sidewalks is a great way to plow through calories — strap on a pedometer and watch the steps add up alongside your sightseeing.

Craving a more intense burn? Here are some fantastic workouts that’ll take you into the vibrant, bustling heart of the French Quarter itself.

Running the Riverwalk

More than 16 million gallons of water roll down the mighty Mississippi River every minute — and with this sunny riverside run you’ll be getting in the flow right alongside them. The paved route is just blocks from the hotel’s front door.

Looking for an energizing two-mile route? Make a right when you hit the river, jog through scenic Woldenberg Park until you approach the Aquarium of the Americas, then double back and run to the opposite end of the Moonwalk (a paved path named for former mayor Moon Landrieu).

For a more challenging, 5.5-mile route, tack on a jaunt down Crescent Park. You’ll exit the Moonwalk, make a right on Decatur Street, follow it to Esplanade Avenue, turn right on Esplanade, and follow the signs to a beautiful 1.4-mile linear park connecting the Bywater, Marigny and French Quarter. Run to the end and back, and by the time you return to your room, you’ll have racked up almost a 10K.

P.S. Forget to pack your sneakers? The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk, where you can snag a pair of discount designer running shoes, is just steps away from this path.

New Orleans Athletic Club

A local staple since 1872, frequented by stars ranging from Tennessee Williams to Clark Gable, this opulent gym is worth a visit even if all you do is splash in the pool. (Where else will you find chandeliers, ballrooms, a library, and a full bar alongside top-of-the-line fitness equipment and weights?) The daily drop-in rate is $20 and includes admission to yoga and group exercise classes. Just bring your driver’s license and hotel room key to register.

Pole Perfect Fitness

Sure, you can schedule a group pole class or a bachelorette party with this fitness studio located at The Shops at Canal Place, but Pole Perfect Fitness also offers a more serious fare — though still with a fun vibe — such as pole classes, hooping, and Pilates.

The Sweat Social

For many, high-energy group exercise classes are a great motivator. (You’re not going to phone in your workout when an instructor is right there demanding more reps, right?) The Sweat Social is a group exercise class geared toward travelers, offering yoga, high-intensity interval training, mat Pilates, bodyweight strength exercises, kickboxing, and many other workouts for people of all fitness levels.

Best of all, instructors encourage participants to mingle with team-building exercises, icebreakers, and raffles — so who knows, you might find a new drinking buddy to grab cocktails with after class. Scheduled on demand, classes are held in central locations in the French Quarter. Pricing varies depending on the type of class and group size.

Yoga at the Cabildo

This elegant building housed the Spanish colonial building in the 1700s, and now it’s a venue for yoga classes (also, a museum). For a double dose of history and fitness all under one French mansard roof, check out Yoga at the Cabildo. Appropriate for all practice levels, classes take place in a sunny, high-ceilinged room overlooking Jackson Square on Saturday mornings. They are $20 ($10 for Friends of the Cabildo members).

by Jay

Guide to Frenchmen Street: The Venues, Music, and More

Frenchmen Street

Frenchmen Art Market photo by Connie Ma

Check out the city’s robust music culture — there’s no better place for live music than the Marigny Triangle. Situated between Esplanade Avenue and Elysian Fields, this wedge-shaped neighborhood is bisected by Frenchmen Street, a pedestrian-friendly strip of music clubs, bars, restaurants, and an art market, some of which don’t get going until after 10 p.m. At that point, brass bands, pedestrians and food trucks combine to create a giant block party. Dance on the street corner or venture into one of these excellent music venues and restaurants.

Blue Nile (532 Frenchmen St.)

You may have spotted a neon crescent moon sign of this stalwart music club hanging above the sidewalk. Blue Nile hosts a wide range of musical genres ranging from funk to brass bands. Cover price varies depending on the act, and a word to the wise: the club’s second-floor balcony is the best place to overlook the wild street party that is Frenchmen Street.

Bamboula’s (514 Frenchmen St.)

Here, you’ll find casual New Orleans fare like po-boys and jambalaya. The no-cover eclectic live music seven days a week is another draw.

Dat Dog (601 Frenchmen St.)

Dat Dog is a colorful, affordable option if you end up partying on Frenchmen. It’s open late (till 3 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and till midnight the rest of the week), and has a kid menu and vegetarian options. But, basically, it’s tots, fries and dogs made with many different kinds of meat and loaded with sauces, condiments, veggies, and other goodness. Create your own or choose from a large menu of creatively named specials. There are more than 30 toppings to choose from. Though Dat Dog has two more locations, both Uptown, this one has an undisputed perk, a big balcony for all your viewing and partying pleasure.

d.b.a. (618 Frenchmen St.)

Since this live music venue opened its doors in 2000, d.b.a. has hosted hundreds of live acts. The bar features a broad selection of beer and spirits, and the music plays nightly. Tin Men and John Boutte perform there regularly.

Downtown Tattoos (501 Frenchmen St.)

This corner tattoo shop is the premier place to get inked in New Orleans. Its roster of talent includes heavy hitters, and the shop takes walk-ins for the ultimate souvenir — but if you’re not ready to commit to the artwork on your skin, you can hang the tattoo artists’ work on your walls when you visit the adjacent art gallery. There, tattooers who also paint on canvas sell their work.

Frenchmen All Day (630 Frenchmen St.)

Small and quaint, Frenchmen All Day is a cafe with indoor seating, as well as sidewalk cafe seating, a full bar, coffee, and brunch fare. The menu has breakfast quiches, Cuban sandwiches, NOLA staples like crawfish etouffee and red beans and rice, and salads. Open till midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

Marigny Brasserie (640 Frenchmen St.)

The casual, live music venue at the end of Frenchmen offers an elevated Cajun/Creole menu, hand-crafted cocktails, a good wine list, and local draft beer plus, of course, live music.

Palace Market Frenchmen (619 Frenchmen St.)

This nightly art market is held in a quirky, light-strung lot, lined with vendors selling everything from handmade soap and incense to original art and clothing. It’s a good place to shop, chat and hang out when the hustle and bustle of Frenchmen get too overwhelming. Bring your drink and settle into a cozy nook, where you can chat and people-watch until you catch your breath.

Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro (626 Frenchmen St.)

Snug Harbor is a sit-down ticketed music venue that is home to local and touring heavyweights of traditional and modern jazz (such as a weekly show by the Jason Marsalis Quartet). For over 30 years, Snug Harbor has provided the best in live jazz and great regional cuisine. Snug Harbor is located in three rooms of a renovated 1800s storefront — a dining room, a bar, and a music room.

The Maison (508 Frenchmen St.)

A music club that triples as a restaurant and bar. It’s three-level, with multiple stages where you can find drag, burlesque, and live music of many genres. The menu is primarily New Orleans classics, a house burger, and sandwich platters.

The Spotted Cat (623 Frenchmen St.)

Petite, sweaty, noisy, and fun, this music club features up to three bands nightly. It draws an eclectic crowd — you’ll see everyone from college students to septuagenarian tourists out there dancing. The venue can get crowded, so if you need to get some air, step out and take a breather at a nearby art market.

Three Muses (536 Frenchmen St.)

Three Muses is one of the best dinner-and-a-show venues in the city, and there’s live music every night. It can get crowded, so you want to make a table reservation (good for 90 minutes, after which you can go to the bar). Some of the best musicians have played there, and the excellent food menu has a lot of vegetarian options.

by Jay

The Best Desserts Near Prince Conti Hotel in the French Quarter

Photo courtesy of The Bombay Club on Facebook

New Orleans is the city of over-indulgence, known for its cocktails and rich Creole cuisine. It’s also a great place for desserts. Doberge cake, Bananas Foster, pralines, and snoballs are just a few confections invented or perfected in the Big Easy. Looking for a place to satisfy your sweet tooth? Here are a few essential spots in the French Quarter — start with dessert-caliber breakfast and end with hot buttered rum. Life is sweet.

Arnaud’s (813 Bienville St.)

Crème Brûlée is a classic you’ll find in many local French and Creole restaurants.  Not that it needs an introduction, but, in a nutshell, it is rich custard topped with a brown sugar crust. It’s also offered as part of Arnaud’s excellent jazz brunch menu. Then, of course, there’s a whole slew of classic New Orleans desserts on the menu, like bread pudding, Bananas Foster, and café brûlot (hot spiced coffee flamed with brandy tableside).

Bombay Club (830 Conti St.)

Nightcap or dessert? A sweet cocktail such as Irish coffee, brandy milk punch, or a grasshopper solves the age-old dilemma. There are also beignets and a satsuma pound cake at this swanky live jazz club.

Brennan’s (417 Royal St.)

To this day, the original recipe Bananas Foster is Brennan’s most-ordered item. The restaurant reportedly flames 35,000 pounds of bananas for the famous dessert. The dramatic, tableside-flambéed original remains a standalone draw for the post-dinner crowd, visitors and locals alike, who flock to enjoy just the dessert, maybe with a cocktail, at the restaurant’s lush, iconic courtyard.

Café Conti (830 Conti St.)

Sweeten up breakfast with a Nutella and banana, mixed berries and creme Anglaise, or chocolate and strawberry crepe, among other flavors. Sometimes there’s also a sweet French toast of the day at this elegant little café.

Café du Monde (800 Decatur St.)

It wouldn’t be a trip to New Orleans without a beignet (or three). Deep-fried and dusted with powdered sugar, they’re a little bit of heaven served with a cup of café au lait.

Court of Two Sisters (613 Royal St.)

The historic courtyard at this restaurant is so great they named the restaurant after it, and its Creole menu and the jazz brunch are staples of the local culinary scene. The brunch buffet’s selections change seasonally, but Court of Two Sisters made the traditional version of Bananas Foster part of its dinner and jazz brunch menus (it’s served with brandy and banana liquor over French vanilla ice cream). Other luscious selections are New Orleans classics like pecan pie plus New York-style cheesecake.

Croissant D’Or Patisserie (617 Ursulines Ave.)

This pretty, pastel coffee shop and traditional French bakery serves up house-made pastries, including almond croissants, fruit tarts, eclairs, crème brûlée, tiramisu, and specialty cakes. 

Southern Candymakers (334 Decatur St.) 

Do you like fresh pralines? This classic southern confection makes for a great edible souvenir to take home, and Southern Candymakers makes small batches daily (you can also check out Loretta’s at the French Market).