Contrary to popular belief New Orleans is more than beads, hurricanes, and po-boys. The “Crescent City” is rich in culture, big on fun, and amazing food. Attracting nearly 10 million visitors per year and averaging 70 degrees with more than 200 days of sunshine, the time is always right for a trip to the “Big Easy.” The city is the true embodiment of the Cajun French phrase “Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler” or “Let The Good Times Roll.”
While staying at a New Orleans day hotel room, we encourage you to explore the city. To make your trip easier, below are the top five things to do, eat, and see while in New Orleans.
EAT: Turkey and The Wolf and Willa Jean
The gang over at Turkey and The Wolf are taking everything you know about sandwiches and turning it upside down. Boasting a spin on traditional classics, like a collard green melt, fried pot pie, and meatloaf sandwich, this small outpost in the Irish Channel was recently named one of Food and Wine’s 2017 Restaurants of The Year.
Willa Jean, Chef John Besh’s restaurant located in the Central Business District, is a nod to beloved New Orleans culinary staples. Less than a mile from New Orleans day stay partner, Blake Hotel New Orleans, Willa Jean is perfect for grabbing coffee and pastries in the morning. Or grabbing lunch or dinner with delectable dishes such as BBQ shrimp toast, crawfish roll and fried chicken. James Beard nominated pastry chef Kelly Fields creates tasty sweet treats such as the front counter banana pudding and cookies and milk.
Things to do during a Big Easy day stay
The Garden District is old New Orleans at it’s best. The six-mile area is famous for its opulent mansions and pristine gardens beaming with Southern charm. Nestled within the district is the very popular destination, Magazine Street, known for it’s upscale restaurants and shopping. Magazine Street is in close proximity to the Contemporary Arts Center, Ogden Museum of Southern Art, and the National World War II Museum. The area will also guide you to both the Audubon Park and Zoo.
If you’re looking for where the locals hang, meet Frenchmen Street. Located ten minutes away from the quick nap hotel, Hotel St. Pierre, in the Marigny neighborhood and within walking distance to the French Quarter, Frenchmen Street is home to vibrant nightlife and live music from bluegrass to funk, jazz to rock and everything in between. The three-block neighborhood boasts eateries and shopping, featuring the best in local arts and crafts.
The St. Charles Streetcar is history in motion. Originally constructed in 1835, the streetcar travels on a 13-mile loop from Canal Street to Carondelet Avenue, passing through the Garden District and its antebellum homes like the popular “Wedding Cake House.” The fare is $1.25 one way or $3 day pass.
Things to see during your NOLA daycation
Located on Jackson Street, near relax hotel partner La Galerie Hotel, Jackson Square is home to an open-air artist colony and live music. Overlooking the square is the oldest cathedral in North America, St. Louis Cathedral, one of the city’s most popular landmarks. Cafe Du Monde is a beloved tourist staple open 24 hours, seven days a week known for their famous beignets and cafe au lait.
Ready to plan your trip to New Orleans? Learn more about how to book your New Orleans day stay hotel room via HotelsByDay.
