by Jay

Nightlife Near the Prince Conti


Photo by Cheryl Gerber

Want to dive into New Orleans’ storied nightlife? You’ve got a head start at the Prince Conti Hotel. The Bombay Club, the hotel’s swank in-house bar and restaurant, is just steps away from your room.

Start your evening at one of the club’s nightly music showcases, where you can sip a perfect martini from the largest martini selection in town while listening to live jazz. The musical menu changes nightly, so The Bombay is always a good launching pad for hitting the streets at other legendary New Orleans venues.

Balcony Music Club (1331 Decatur)

You never know what kind of music you’ll find at BMC, as the locals call it, and that’s all part of the fun. Dozens of bands and performers are featured nightly, with shows at 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. And since there’s never a cover, you can always dip in and dip out, after fortifying yourself with the daily drink and shot specials. Conveniently located on the Esplanade edge of the Quarter, it’s a good pit stop before or after hitting the lively Frenchmen St. scene.

Blue Nile (532 Frenchmen St.)

Hailed as the “premiere live music venue in the city” by Where Y’at magazine, the Blue Nile hosts a stellar roster of New Orleans artists every night on both the main stage and in the club’s upstairs Balcony Room, from Cyril Neville and Big Sam’s Funky Nation to Kermit Ruffins and the BBQ Swingers. It’s also a must-stop venue for national touring acts. Shows start early and go late, so it’s a great place to cap off the night in a high-energy environment where the collective force field can be contagious.

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.

Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop (941 Bourbon St.)

Ready to wind down but don’t want to go to bed? Lafitte’s is just what the doctor ordered. Founded in the early 18th century, and housed in a historic building reputed to have served as the New Orleans headquarters for the infamous pirate and smuggler Jean Lafitte, the candlelit bar exudes exactly the kind of spooky ambiance you’d expect to find in New Orleans. Expect live piano music and a potent menu of nightcaps.

Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro (626 Frenchmen St.)

Jazz mavens make a beeline for Snug, the city’s premier showcase for contemporary jazz. Nightly shows at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. feature New Orleans icons and world-class visiting artists. Check the music calendar to see who is playing this week.

by Jay

24 Hours in the French Quarter

Prince Conti Hotel is ideally located for you to embark on a perfect French Quarter day.

Have Breakfast at Cafe Conti

When you’re ready to rise and shine, pop downstairs to Cafe Conti for delightful sweet and savory crepes, and a range of breakfast specialties from light (house-made Muesli) to hearty (eggs Benedict of the day).

Catch a Passing Parade at Jackson Square

Jackson Square is the bustling epicenter of the Quarter. Local artists and colorfully-clad fortune-tellers ply their trades in front of St. Louis Cathedral, while street entertainers perform all manner of amazing feats on the steps leading up to the banks of the Mississippi River.

Walk Along the Mississippi River

Catch a cool breeze walking along the Mississippi, where vessels from around the globe cruise the waters of one of the world’s busiest ports, and calliopes on local paddlewheelers provide a colorful soundtrack.

Grab a Muffuletta for Lunch at Central Grocery

Founded in 1906 by Silician immigrant Salvatore Lupo, Central Grocery originated the world-famous muffuletta. Made with homemade bread layered with Italian meats and cheeses topped with the store’s famous olive salad, it rivals po-boys as the city’s most iconic sandwich.

Take a Stroll Down Royal Street

Lined with art galleries, charming gift shops and antique stores filled with treasures like 19th-century absinthe glasses, there’s plenty to elicit oohs and aahs on Royal Street, where you’ll also catch street musicians and pass some splendid private homes.

Bar-Hop During Happy Hour

Enjoy a grande-dame ambiance while sipping house cocktails and wine at Hermes Bar at Antoine’s (713 St. Louis St., 4-7 p.m. weekdays), then hop over to Kingfish (337 Chartres St., 2-5 p.m. weekdays) for $7 cocktails and $9 small plates. Top that off with $5 specialty cocktails at Prince Conti’s own The Bombay Club (4-7 p.m. Wed.-Sun.).

Treat Yourself to a Gourmet Dinner

There’s no shortage of top-tier dinner spots in the Quarter. Some of our favorites include Bayona (430 Bienville St.), known for its creative spin on Creole and Cajun classics; and Irene’s (529 Bienville St.), which turns traditional Sicilian dishes into haute cuisine.

Sit Back and Enjoy Live Jazz

Head back to The Bombay Club for jazz by New Orleans artists that goes down as smoothly as the house martinis.

by Jay

The Perfect French Quarter Girls’ Day

Full of the feminine mystique, from the great voodoo queen Marie Laveau to Baroness Micaela Pontalba, the savvy aristocrat who built Jackson Square’s historic Pontalba buildings, the French Quarter is an ideal setting for spending time with women you love. Whether you’re a mother-daughter duo or traveling with a group of friends, the Prince Conti Hotel is a terrific launching pad for spending a delightful day in the company of women.

Start Your Day at Café Conti

You don’t have to leave the hotel to enjoy one of the Quarter’s most delicious breakfasts/brunches. Open every day from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., Cafe Conti offers an extensive menu of crepes, from savory (crab and brie) to sweet (peaches and cream), along with brunch bites like Benedict of the Day and ham and brie baguettes.

Go Shopping

Shopping in the French Quarter runs a long gamut of opportunities: from high-end chain retail at The Shops at Canal Place to magical spell components at a voodoo-for-tourists shop located down a small back alleyway (Voodoo Authentica). You’ll find just about every version of retail therapy in the Quarter. So, hit the streets and check out the boutiques lining up on Chartres Street, or try on wigs at Fifi Mahony’s. Another must-shop destination: Trashy Diva, a motherlode of original vintage-inspired designs that flatter every body size and shape.

Enjoy Happy Hour at Hermes Bar Antoine’s

You’ll feel like a grande dame sipping house cocktails and wine at the Hermes Bar. Adjacent to the legendary Antoine’s restaurant, this elegant enclave is lined with glass cases of Mardi Gras memorabilia dating back to the late 19th century. To complete the experience, order the house specialty: Oysters Rockefeller, originated by Antoine’s in 1889.

Get Your Fortune Told at Jackson Square

Head to Jackson Square, where a whole army of colorfully-clad soothsayers can divine your future with tarot cards, bones, runes, and other divinatory tools. The experience is always entertaining, especially with girlfriends.

Have Dinner at Muriel’s Jackson Square

Nearly destroyed in the Good Friday fire of 1788 and later rebuilt as a grand private home, Muriel’s Jackson Square has been restored to its mid-1800s glory and opened to the public in 2001. Start out with a house Bloody Mary or martini and dig into New Orleans classics like gumbo and pain perdu bread pudding.

Cap Your Day in Style at The Bombay Club

You’ll want to deck yourself out in style for drinks, dinner and jazz at one of the Quarter’s hidden gems. So take plenty of time to primp in your room before heading down to The Bombay Club. Tucked away at the back of the Prince Conti Hotel, this chic restaurant and lounge is stocked with top-shelf spirits and boasts the most extensive martini menu in town.

Cajun meets Brit in a creative menu with dishes like fish and chips, and alligator sausage and duck confit gumbo. Stick around for live jazz performed nightly by some of New Orleans’ top jazz combos and cabaret artists. Then hit the hay or hit the streets, depending on how the spirit moves you.

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!