THE BIG EASY
the lyfe choyces
New orleans travel guide
So you're heading to NOLA...
The first thing most people think about when they hear "New Orleans" is probably Mardi Gras . Next, Bourbon Street, and then, partying. It's not a totally off-base line of thinking, but there is truly so much more to this little city than the boozy holiday that puts it on most people's mental maps.
Here's our little guide to worthwhile stops and spots to hit in this special city, but as always, keep your eyes up and plans flexible, because the best part of travel is often unplanned.
New Orleans is a city deeply rich in history: it's home to the oldest functioning cathedral in the U.S.. Walk outside, and sights like the Roman Candy Man, colonial architecture, and incredible street side jazz performers can all be caught in one glance. The scent of cajun and creole food is constant, and art and music culture is as intertwined with the city as the roots of the old oak trees that bust, crack, and lift the sidewalks in the Garden District.
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What to see + Where to go
The French Quarter
New orleans is separated into wards, like new york city's burroughs. each ward offers distinct sights and activities. in The french quarter, you'll find some of the most charming and historic features of the city.
- Walk along the Mississippi River and check out the Steamboats. look back at the city for some of the coolest views of the historic factory buildings
- head down to jackson square to see tons of live artists and musicians
- cafe du mond is a must-stop for coffee and beignets
- when the sun starts heading down, bourbon street starts lighting up. grab a to-go cocktail and watch the city night-life come alive. (we experienced: teenagers playing bucket drums with more skill than some pop stars; huge boa constrictors you could hold and pose with for $$; beads, booze, and more beads)
The Garden District
The garden district is a very walkable area filled with intricate and beautiful historic buildings and houses. you can find small boutiques, mom and pop restaurants, and quaint glimpses of just "life in new orleans" in this area.
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What to eat + drink
Red Ruby Slipper
Shrimp and grits; unbelievable eggs benedicts; king cake french toast... they have it all. Both locations are delicious and it's hard to pick something on the menu that won't have you craving it every time you hear "brunch."
Cafe Du Monde
this little cafe is a classic spot for beignets (which is, yes, just delicious fried dough covered in powdered sugar) and cafe au lait (which is, yes, coffee with milk). but the coffee is chicory and beignets taste better in nola, trust us.
Slice Pizzeria
this hole in the wall pizza spot off st. charles ave serves up delicious single slices and whole pies. Plus, daily drink specials because.. well, nola.
felix's - a new orleans institution, serving fresh oysters for generations, right in the french quarter
liuzza's - relaxed neighborhood dinner spot offering po' boys, seafood, and creole-italian fare
mandina's - mid-city dinner spot serving up big portions of homestyle creole cuisine
central grocery- order a MUFFULETTA and take a quick walk to enjoy it in jackson square or overlooking the river
mother's- cafeteria style restaurant with down-home southern food
PLUM ST. SNO BALLS - ANOTHER NOLA STAPLE, SERVING UP AUTHENTIC SNOWCONES IN HUNDREDS OF FLAVORS
More Delicious Stops
The NOLA Highlight Video
The Bird Man's Cut
check out the big easy through bradley's lens
Traveling, it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller
