About a month ago I traveled to New Orleans (it was my 2nd time visiting the city) for a friend’s 30th birthday. We were only there for a short weekend trip, but we walked (and walked and walked), ate, drank and listened to great music along the way! Here is my itinerary…

Friday
Arrived and Checked into Canopy by Hilton New Orleans Downtown
Walked to the famous Cafe Du Monde – try the frozen cafe au lait – you will not be disappointed!
Explored the French Quarter – great photo ops, bar hopping
Lunch at Galatoire’s – a must do! The food is phenomenal and the atmosphere is electric

Saturday
Visited the National World War II Museum – I recommend adding the 45 min movie to your ticket as well. Give yourself about 3-4 hours here
We originally tried to eat at Turkey and the Wolf, but it was an hour wait, so we walked to Stein’s Market and Deli – I had a muffaletta and it was so delicious, the bread was perfection.
Explored the Garden District – this was by far my favorite part of the trip, I had never been to this area before and I absolutely loved it. We shopped, stopped in to a few bars (must visit Tracey’s and The Bulldog Bar) for drinks and snacks, and enjoyed the beautiful weather.
Some of the guys smoked cigars as we walked through the beautiful Garden District neighborhood on our way to Hot Tin – I cannot recommend this spot enough, the drinks were amazing, speakeasy vibes, with the absolute best view of New Orleans.
Dinner at Lula Restaurant Distillery – we heard they have some sort of bottomless brunch (not sure of the details) but the dinner was delicious!
Ended the night out on Frenchman Street – going out here for nightlife versus Bourbon Street was a great decision. Awesome music, an art show area and the people watching was plentiful.

Sunday
Coffee at French Truck Coffee to start the day
Jazz Brunch at The Court of Two Sisters – the best brunch buffet (great bang for your buck) I have ever been to. Think all you can eat crawfish, shrimp, seafood omelettes, gumbo, rice and beans, etc. Absolutely delicious!
A drink at the Sazerac Bar – hot take: try the Mayan Mocha. If you like espresso martini’s and tequila, this one is for you!
Lunch/Dinner at Acme Oyster House – we went at an in-between time of 3 PM so the line was not long at all. These were hands down the best oysters I have ever had. Get the chargrilled oysters, you will not regret these.
Explored Bourbon Street – nice to explore once, but really not for me.

Overall, I fell in the love with the city even more so than I did last time, not sure if it was the perfect weather, the alcohol or the food coma I left in, but I can’t wait for my next trip back! Let me know if you check out any of these spots and laissez les bon temps rouler!