In case you missed it, last week I posted my New Orleans French Quarter Guide. It’s time to share my favorites in the Garden and Warehouse districts. These areas are definitely worth spending time in and an quick drive (or trolley ride) from the French Quarter.
THE GARDEN DISTRICT
One of my favorite things to do in the Garden District is drive around to see all of the incredible historic homes. Take some time to either drive or walk through the area and explore a bit of history. There are several websites with self guided tours with a list of the must-see homes. One of my favorites, the above Morris-Israel House was the inspiration for the Haunted Mansion ride at Disneyland in California. {1331 First Street} Don’t forget to shop along Magazine Street where you will also find many great cafes for lunch or a late afternoon glass of wine.
Pop into the historic ‘RINK,’ a former roller skating rink opened in 1884 that is now a cute mini-mall. Grab a coffee at Still Perkin’ and do a bit of shopping. My favorite stop is LOOMED, a home collection making the most beautiful and handwoven, organic cotton Turkish towels, textiles, and wraps. Pick something up for yourself and a gift. The organic towels are a great gift for new moms. {2727 Prytania Street}
One of the BEST ice cream shops in the country, you might go in with the idea to get a 1-scoop cone but once you see the options, you’ll quickly change your mind. On your first visit, I recommend a mini-scoop sundae so you can try a variety of flavors. If you’re with a group of friends who love to share, order the Tchoupitoulas, an 8-scoop sundae with 8 toppings. {4924 Prytania Street}
A few more of my Garden District favorites:
TO EAT: Jacque-Imo’s, Coquette, La Petite Grocery
TO SHOP: Garden District Bookshop, Magazine Antique Mall, Belladonna Day Spa + Gifts (for shopping + spa treatments)
TO STAY: The Pontchartrain Hotel
WAREHOUSE DISTRICT
What used to be a somewhat empty neighborhood that you would drive through to get to the Garden District, this area has quickly become one of my favorites. In just a few years it has grown to include some of the best restaurants and shops in New Orleans.
An oyster bar and restaurant in a historic townhouse next to the Ace Hotel. Pop by for oyster + cocktail happy hour or head upstairs for a fun dinner with friends (you’ll need a reservation). In addition to ordering a selection of sustainably harvested oysters, I also love their soft shell crab and lobster roll with seasalt fries. Wash those down with a classic cocktail and you’re in for a perfect New Orleans night. {630 Carondelet Street}
Veteran barista Jonathan Riethmaier escaped the cold winters in Washington DC to open this fantastic coffee shop in the Warehouse District. Stop by for an espresso, filtered coffee, or tea and don’t forget one of the tasty treats. (gluten free Compost cookie is an A+) It’s the perfect way to start your day {821 Baronne Street}
When traveling, I love visiting local art galleries and Martine Chaisson is always a must see when visiting the Big Easy. Her curated contemporary art exhibitions are thought provoking and nothing short of inspiring. On my most recent trip I fell in love with her exhibit by artist Patty Carroll. If you are visiting before the end of November, you’ll be lucky enough to view her latest exhibit by artist Hunt Slonem. The below is her parlor room where she hosts the best opening events and soirees for the local art scene. {727 Camp Street}
One of my favorite eras of world history to study and learn more about is WWII. When I found out the National WWII Museum was a few blocks away from my friend’s apartment, I knew I needed to make time to visit. I’m so happy that we did as it was one of the most extraordinary and interactive museums that I have ever been to. Upon entering, you will be given a plastic card coded with details about a person (i.e: soldier, pilot, or doctor) who was stationed in Europe or Tokyo. As you walk through the museum, you will use the card at different stations to view videos and commentary about that person and learn about their experience and role in the war. At the end you will find out whether your assigned person survived the war. It was a really special way to learn more about the war and get to know the people who risked their own lives to save the lives of millions of people. In case you work up an appetite, there is a restaurant and soda shop with great milk shakes. I didn’t have time to stay and view the 4-d film, narrated by Tom Hanks, but I hear that is amazing as well. I will definitely go back to see it during my next trip to New Orleans. {945 Magazine Street}
PS – The above building is for sale if you’d like to buy it for me!! 😉
More must-see places in the Warehouse District:
TO EAT: Compère Lapin, The Company Burger + Sucré 2nd Location
DRINK: Coffee at Revelator + Cocktails at Cure
SHOP: Hattie Sparks, Grove Street Press
TO STAY: The Old No 77 Hotel + Chandlery, Ace Hotel
Hope you’ve enjoyed my guides to New Orleans. Feel free to ask questions in the below comments.
xx, Angie
If you live in NYC, hope you join me at the Caudalie boutique in the West Village on November 15th. I’m hosting a fun holiday shopping event and wine tasting and will signing copies of BRIGHT LIGHTS PARIS.
RSVP: HERE (not mandatory but helps get head count for wine tasting)
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