New Orleans, Louisiana is a city that I never get tired of visiting, and it's definitely in my top 3 US cities. A vibrant city full of all things good vibes: the delicious food, the absolutely LIT bounce music, and the sweet Southern drawl that is the New Orlean's accent all have a special place in my heart. The deep history and culture of the city is something that is so unique, and being a first-time visitor, it can be pretty overwhelming when trying to figure out what you should do and eat while there. Of course, I'll have the obvious suggestions like Bourbon Street and Cafe du Monde, but I'm also here to put you up on some different options and experiences that I really enjoyed while in the city. Enjoy!
What To Do
NOLA is a city with so much to experience, and they have a little something for everyone's tastes; foodies, art & history lovers, and those of us...looking for a good buzz. For me, on top of trying to get a feel for the culture of the city through food and art, a good turn up is still on my list of to dos in a new city. Here's what I recommend you experience:
Rent a bike and ride around the city! It's a fun way to explore New Orleans, but watch out when riding within the more central, populated areas like off of Canal Street since you'll have to navigate around more people than you'd probably like to. If you're looking for a good place to book from, try out Nola Cycles. They also have have the option for electric scooter rentals and a Bikes With Lights social ride (guide included).
For all the art lovers, take a visit to the New Orleans Museum of Art! They have beautiful collections and exhibitions, host many events, and it's also home to an awe-inspiring 6.5 acre sculpture garden. Another great place to experience NOLA's art scene is New Orlean's Art District, which hosts First Saturday Gallery Openings (for free!), and is also the home to many museums, bars, restaurants and performance spaces.
Attend a festival! There are countless options to choose from, and with over 130 thrown throughout the year, there's no worry in finding something you'd enjoy. From crawfish and crab festivals, LGBTQ+ parades, multicultural fests, and film festivals you'll definitely find a good time. Want to find out what interests you and when its happening? Check out NOLA Festivals to get all of the information you need. They even have their festivals categorized by type & season!
Into live music? Visit Frenchman Street! This is without a doubt one of my favorite areas in NOLA. The vibe is so great and there is live music (jazz, reggae and the like) alongside other performances galore.
To get a glimpse into New Orlean's rich black history, visit the New Orlean's African American Museum.
Turn up, Turn up, and more Turn up: Bourbon Street! Ride the mechanical bull at The Swamp, catch an upbeat parade, drink a Fish Bowl and a Hand Grenade (at the same time? Okay, maybe don't do that) and bar/club hop to your heart's content. There's always SO much going on on this street, and I promise you'll never be bored be it day or night.
Where To Eat/Drink:
Where to Brunch? Cafe Navarre (local & pet-friendly) and the famous Ruby Slipper have amazing brunches! Sadly, no unlimited mimosa specials.
Theres no shortage of soul food in this city, but Willie Mae's Scotch House fried chicken is some of the best I've tasted. No joke.
Melba's. Famous Po Boys. 'Nuff said.
Ugly Dog Saloon is an unsuspecting banger. Located in New Orleans' warehouse district, this BBQ joint's smoked wings and Ugly Nachos are top tier.
Willie's Chicken Shack; it gives me Popeye's or KFC vibes, but even better! There are locations (like the one on Bourbon Street) that are open till about 4AM, and they are well known for not only their fried chicken, but for their array of delicious daiquiris and their honey butter biscuits (which I will argue are the best biscuits I've ever tasted lol).
Neyow's, a black-owned, creole cuisine restaurant that many a celebrity have visited (you'll know this upon entering and seeing the photo-covered walls). Their seafood pasta is always a winner, but their chargrilled oysters are the star of the show. I was never one to enjoy oysters but those...I could eat again and again! Also, try the restaurants special (and very large) Bow Wow cocktail...trust me, you only need one.
Boswell's Jamaican Grill; Being of Jamaican-descent, I had to go on the lookout for some good caribbean food, and Boswell's didn't disappoint!
Beignets, Beignets, Beignets! Of course, you cannot visit New Orleans and not try the beignets and hot chocolate (or frozen coffee, if thats your thing) at Cafe Du Monde, but the main location is known for its long lines. I personally think its worth the wait, but if you can't, try one of their 8 other locations or go for a totally different cafe like Cafe Beignet.
Of course, Bourbon Street. This street has a never-ending supply of alcoholic concoctions. Go to one of the many Tropical Isle bars to grab a Hand Grenade (or three), stop at a Fish Bowl stall (yes, I said fish bowl. Just drink it, you won't regret it. Maybe.), take $1 Jell-O shots (these are made with Everclear, so tread lightly please), get frozen daiquiris at Fat-Tuesday's, and experience Pat O' Brien's for the OG Hurricane cocktail. A tip: I suggest you wear closed-toe shoes when exploring through here, as things can get pretty...messy on the streets. Better to be safe than sorry!
All in all, New Orleans is a city full of rich history that is displayed throughout its cuisine, art, and people. It's a must-go for black travelers, and anyone else who needs a lil' creole spice in their life.
If you've visited before, drop a comment below on your favorite food spots and things to do!
Happy Wandering!