I recently shared my experience flying to New Orleans with Delta where I enjoyed their new free in-flight entertainment. It was a quick weekend getaway to visit my friend Lauren, who lives in the cutest apartment in the Warehouse District. Check out her apartment tour on TheEverygirl. Now it’s time to share my New Orleans French Quarter Guide with some of my favorite places to eat, shop, and hang out when visiting the The French Quarter. My favorite time of day to wander through the Quarter is in the morning while its still pretty quiet and then prefer to spend late afternoons shopping in the Garden District (more on that area in my next post). If you’re with a group of friends and in the mood for some lively fun then definitely spend an afternoon or evening in the quarter with a Pat O’Brien’s Hurricane in hand. The sights and sounds of all-day drinking is quite entertaining. As you’re walking through the neighborhood, stop and notice all of the French inspired items on the buildings and street signs, from Fleur-de-lis and French language names. My first stop in the quarter is a lovely and historical bookshop… {click on the location title to go directly to each location’s website}
This lovely and petit bookshop is a literature lovers paradise. The former home of literary legend William Faulkner, this historic bookshop is home to a collection of the finest fiction, poetry and even some rare editions of the classics. {624 Pirate’s Alley}
The home of the US’s first pharmacy dates back to the early 1800’s. Now an apothecary museum, on display you will find an array of items from pharmacy equipment, Voodoo practices, odd superstitious cures, medicinal herbs and more. Their lovely back courtyard can be rented for small events and weddings. {514 Chartres Street}
When you’re craving a sweet treat, pop into Sucré for a sweetly packaged mint green box of macaroons, cupcake, French pastry and more. Sit and enjoy your dessert or take it to go. Don’t forget a box to bring home! {622 Conti Street}
One of my favorite things to do in New Orleans and something I have done on my last 3 trips is stop into the Bottom of the Cup Tea Room for a tarot card reading or to have my tea leaves read. I know this isn’t for everyone but if it is something that you enjoy doing; whether just for fun or if you believe in it, I highly recommend a reading here. They are the best I have ever experienced and by coincidence, I even met with the same person 3 years apart. {327 Chartres Street}
New Orlean’s oldest candy shop has been open since 1913. Find everything from chocolate truffles, clusters, chocolate dipped cookies, pralines, and even some good ole fashioned chocolate bark. Laura’s signature Cajun Bark and Mississippi Mud Bark are my favorites. Treat yourself or bring some home for friends. Even better, do both!
Whether you’re craving sweet or savory, one thing is for sure — at Sylvain you’ll be very well fed. Try the Brioche French Toast, Chicharron Scramble and an order of ‘Champagne + Fries’ for the table. Yes, you read that correctly. A little bubbly and salty fries are a match made in heaven. Book a reservation in advance as Sylvain is THE place for weekend brunch. {625 Chartres Street}
When you’re craving a quick and healthy snack or lunch, stop in to Petite Amelie for a salad, sandwich or fresh juice. This sister spot to famed Cafe Amelie has a few tables inside or bring it to go and enjoy on a bench in Jackson Square. {900 Royal Street}
Lifestyle and home decor boutique, Nadine Blake is full of treasures. Stop in for trinkets and art by local artists, a well curated selection of candles, cards, pillows and even some vintage one of a kind items. {1036 Royal Street}
On your next trip to New Orleans, wander around street by street and explore all the little boutiques and art galleries, take a stroll through Jackson Square & St Louis Cathedral, and walk along the waterfront. Come back to the site soon as I’ll be sharing my guide to New Orleans Garden + Warehouse Districts.
a few more French Quarter favorites:
TO EAT: Cafe du Monde , Antoine’s, Arnaud’s
TO DRINK: French 75, Cane + Table, Pat O’Brien’s
TO SHOP: Krewe, Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo
TO STAY: Ritz Carlton New Orleans, W French Quarter, Audubon Cottages
Check great deals on Flights to New Orleans HERE + HERE
xx, Angie
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