Deciding where to stay in New Orleans? These are the best neighborhoods in New Orleans to
experience the city.
New Orleans is much more than the French Quarter. Following the curve of the Mississippi, there are amazing neighborhoods in New Orleans both upriver and downriver. When deciding where to stay in New Orleans, consider any of these other neighborhoods, and you’ll be rewarded with unique, only-in-New-Orleans experiences. The French Quarter is the center of the action, packed with
history, beautiful architecture, iconic restaurants, music venues, and, of course, Bourbon Street. Visiting the Quarter is a must, and it’s a great place to stay to be in the middle of it all. But look beyond the French Quarter, and you’ll find unique neighborhoods with even more amazing restaurants, bars, and things to do alongside more culture and history. In neighborhoods like Uptown and Mid-City, you’ll find family-run restaurants, locally-owned boutiques, neighborhood joints, tree-lined streets, and beautiful parks. Marigny and Bywater, adjacent to the French Quarter,
offer a combo of hip and bohemian vibes, with trendy restaurants and funky shops. Wherever you choose to stay in New Orleans, you’ll have a great time – but these are the very best neighborhoods to stay in and all the things to do and eat when you’re there. Recommended: the best hotels in New Orleans
The French Quarter is the city’s oldest and best-known neighborhood. Most visitors make a beeline to Bourbon Street, and many first-timers think the Quarter is nothing but a party. But there’s a lot more to do here - gorgeous architecture, a ton of history, fabulous antiques, local boutiques, great food, music, and views of the Mississippi. It’s family-friendly, with the Aquarium of the Americas, the Cabildo Museum, carriage rides, street performers, and more fun for kids. Stay here if you want to be in the middle of it all, with easy
access to other neighborhoods. EAT Galatoire’s While the Quarter is home to some newer, award-winning restaurants, dining at one of New Orleans’ historic fine dining institutions is a must. Galatoire’s offers a glimpse into the city’s unique dining culture; most of the waiters, dressed in tuxedos, are local and have worked at the restaurant for decades,
and many high-society locals are longtime regulars. The bright walls, black-and-white tile, and white tablecloths serve a refined but celebratory atmosphere. Dine on shrimp rémoulade, trout almondine, and other New Orleans classics for a memorable experience. DRINK Arnaud’s French 75 Bar Located in the century-old Creole restaurant Arnaud’s, the
French 75 bar offers a step back in time. The dark, intimate space is adorned with monkey lamps and other original vintage decors. Order a classic cocktail like an Old Fashioned or a sidecar, or ask the expert bartenders for an inventive concoction. Either way, you’ll be impressed. Try the soufflé potatoes, an Arnaud’s specialty, then check out the intriguing Mardi Gras museum upstairs. DO Royal Street Running parallel to Bourbon Street, one block over is one of the Quarter’s most elegant routes. From Canal to Esplanade, you’ll find a beautiful stretch of art galleries, antique shops, fine jewelry, street performers, and picturesque buildings adorned with intricate ironwork. For a unique experience, check out M.S. Rau Antiques. The 25,000-square-foot gallery features an incredible collection of high-end antiques, art, and sculpture. Ask to see the “secret room”, and you’ll be amazed at the rare, museum-quality artifacts on display. STAY Hotel Monteleone Family-owned and operated since 1886, the Monteleone is one of the most recognized hotels in the city. Its opulent rooms were favored by writers like Anne Rice, Truman Capote, Tennessee Williams, and William Faulkner. The star of the hotel is the Carousel Bar. Locals and tourists alike frequent this revolving bar for classic cocktails and musical entertainment. It’s a must-do on any
visitor’s list, and as a guest, you can imbibe to your heart’s content and stroll right on up to your room. If you do just one thing… Get beignets and cafe au lait at Cafe du Monde. Enjoy an order on the covered outdoor area and watch the crowds go by on Decatur, or take it to go and sit on the edge of the Mississippi. Your visit to the Quarter isn’t complete unless you’re
covered in powdered sugar at some point.
This area of the city - encompassing several smaller, residential neighborhoods upriver from the French Quarter - includes the St. Charles Avenue streetcar, grand historic mansions, Tulane and Loyola Universities, the beautiful Audubon Park and
Zoo, and many beloved local institutions. It’s away from the hubbub of the French Quarter, offering the culture without the craziness, but easily accessible by various modes of transportation. During Mardi Gras, it’s a great place to be, as the parades roll down St. Charles in an exceptionally family-friendly environment. You’ll find neighborhood cafes, po-boy shops, long-running family restaurants, and several popular spots for sno-balls, New
Orleans’ favorite summertime treat. You can enjoy pleasant walks, grand oak trees, and unique shopping. As you move further to Uptown, passing scores of grand Garden District mansions (which you can learn about by taking a guided walking tour), you’ll find a mix of high-end restaurants (Commander’s Palace) and
colorful neighborhood dives (Parasol’s). EAT Brigtsen’s This century-plus Victorian cottage tucked away in the Riverbend houses some of the best modern Creole fare in the
city. Chef Frank Brigtsen straightforwardly updates classic dishes with delicious results. Perfect after enjoying a stroll through the surrounding neighborhood, it’s a smart option for sampling New Orleans cooking in an intimate, friendly setting. DRINK NOLA Brewing Head to the outskirts of the Irish Channel on Tchoupitoulas Street to sample a wide selection of innovative,
locally-influenced craft beers. Take a tour, then hang out in the convivial taproom for pints of standards like Hopitoulas and Irish Channel Stout or seasonal tap room-only flavors like hibiscus ginger. DO Tipitina’s Tip’s is a destination for music lovers, but even the disinterested will get swept up in the vibe. This funky space has been a landmark since 1977 for live
music and weekly Cajun dancing sessions. The standing-room-only space is perfect for seeing a local band while soaking up some musical history. The associated Tipitina’s Foundation supports local musicians and maintains an interesting Walk of Fame on the sidewalk. STAY The Chloe This Victorian-era mansion on St. Charles Avenue was lovingly renovated by the team
behind popular spots Sylvain and Barrel Proof. With only 14 guest rooms, you’ll feel right at home in rooms featuring soaking tubs and local art. Relax on the front porch and watch the streetcars go by, or dine at the on-site restaurant, which features a contemporary take on New Orleans classics. If you do just one thing… Head to Magazine Street - six miles of unique
local shops, art galleries, neighborhood bars, popular restaurants, and colorful architecture.
The CBD, just across Canal Street from the French Quarter, contains the bulk of New Orleans office buildings and includes the Warehouse District and the so-called South Market District. Typically the go-to area for travelers conducting business in the city, it has blossomed into a hip hub for food, drink, and culture. The Warehouse District, which began its transformation in the late '80s, is now a full-on arts district with renowned
art galleries and museums. The CBD also includes the Orpheum and Saenger Theaters and the Superdome - home of the New Orleans Saints. You’ll find a wealth of places geared towards office workers for a quick, inexpensive bite, along with some of the city’s most talked-about restaurants, including Cochon, Peche, and Emeril’s. Younger travelers will be drawn to cool hotels with rooftop bars like the Ace, Moxy, and Troubadour, as well as renowned landmark hotels like The Roosevelt, Windsor Court, and Le Pavillon. For a more modern vibe and trendier offerings, the CBD is a good choice for its walkability and proximity to the
French Quarter. EAT Cochon Butcher A smaller spinoff of chefs Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski’s famed Cochon, Butcher has now come into its own as a top destination for a Cajun-influenced, meat-centric meal. Grab a deli sandwich at the counter or take home house-made meats, sausages, terrines, pickles, sauces, and jams. (Don't miss out on taking some
Andouille and tasso home with you.) DRINK Sazerac Bar This elegant bar within the landmark Roosevelt Hotel was a favorite of Huey Long’s. Sidle up to the long wood bar, order a sazerac or a Ramos gin fizz, and admire the famous Paul Ninas murals. A New Orleans icon, the Sazerac Bar has long been one of the city’s most
popular pre- or post-meal gathering spots for friends, families, and business dealings. DO Julia Street “Gallery Row” on Julia Street in the Warehouse District is a series of more than a dozen art galleries occupying former storefronts. The architecture creates a unique setting for browsing classic and cutting-edge art. On the first Saturday of
every month, galleries host coordinated openings with a festive atmosphere. White Linen Night - held on the first Saturday in August - is the premier event, when hundreds of people come out in white linen to enjoy art, food, and music. STAY Virgin Hotel The Virgin Hotel brings even more hip cred to the CBD, offering relaxing digs within walking distance to
the Quarter. Rooms are chic and comfortable, and there’s plenty to explore around the hotel. Hang at the rooftop Pool Club and enjoy a cocktail and views of the city, grab a coffee in the Funny Library, or have dinner at Commons Club. The Virgin is pet friendly too. If you do just one thing… Visit the National WWII Museum, a world-class complex with award-winning
exhibits showcasing the stories of those who served in WWII and on the homefront. Highlights include a theater with WWII-era musical performances, a restaurant, and a fantastic gift shop with 1940s-inspired gifts and clothing.
Downriver from the French Quarter, across Esplanade Avenue, are two of the trendiest neighborhoods in the city, frequently referred to as one continuous neighborhood. The young and the hip are drawn to this area, attracting an ever-increasing in-the-know crowd. Hotel chains have yet to invade, but there are several bed and breakfasts and a couple smaller inns to consider. The furthest reaches of Bywater are best accessed with a cab or
rideshare, but the energetic can safely walk through the area during daylight. You’ll find colorful Creole cottages and historic homes containing small cafes and shops, a few art galleries and hip record stores, and the riverfront Crescent Park. Restaurants are local and casual, with a smattering of vegan-friendly spots along St. Claude Avenue. Bars run the gamut from the classy Three Muses to the divey Hi-Ho Lounge. The epicenter is Frenchmen Street; here you’ll find live music venues where you can hear anything
from jazz or blues to reggae and rock, or even a brass band performing on a corner. It’s still crowded, but a more unique alternative to the Quarter. EAT Adolfo’s Perched above the bustling Frenchmen Street, up a narrow flight of stairs from the Apple Barrel bar, is this quaint, cash-only restaurant serving Creole Italian - a local specialty combining Italian and local French influences. Enjoy huge portions of seafood and pasta as you check out the quirky, colorful decor. Be prepared for a wait, and bring cash. DRINK Bacchanal Wine While it’s no longer a locals’ secret, Bacchanal retains its unique local charm and funky hideaway feel. At the far end of the Bywater, you’ll find this wine shop/hangout with a cozy “treehouse” bar and lush back patio. Pick a bottle and a cheese plate or one of several gourmet small plate offerings and listen to a live band. It’s like a party at your friend’s house every night of the week. DO JAMNOLA Experience joy, art, and music at this interactive installation in the Marigny. The 5,500 square-foot warehouse space has been converted into a selfie-haven with bright, colorful rooms designed by local artists, celebrating local art, music, and culture. Jump into a pot with a giant crawfish, snap a pic with an oversized bust of local musicians, and become part of the art in virtual reality booths. It’s sensory-overload, New Orleans style. STAY Hotel Peter & Paul Hotel Peter & Paul sits in a building that used to be a Catholic church and school but has since been reimagined into one of NOLA’s most stunning places to stay. If the gingham-clad rooms don’t win you over, with their antique furniture and snazzily-tiled bathrooms, perhaps The Elysian Bar will: this is one of the hottest places to drink in the city right now. If you do just one thing… Support live, local music on Frenchmen. Whether it’s a brass band at d.b.a, reggae at Cafe Negril, or trad jazz at Snug Harbor (to name just a few), experience the music up close. You can also stop in Louisiana Music Factory to take home some tunes from your favorite local artists. 5. Mid-City
For a real neighborhood adventure away from - but accessible to - the French Quarter, consider Mid-City. Midway between the Mississippi River and Lake Pontchartrain, it offers easy access to both destinations via streetcar or taxi/rideshare. For the overachievers, the Lafitte Greenway, a 2.6-mile paved trail, is a bikeable option to the Quarter. Mid-City is a strong, diverse, local community home to the famous annual Jazz and Heritage Festival. You’ll find an artsy crowd and colorful houses in the Bayou St. John area and historic landmarks along Bayou Road. There is a thriving commercial corridor along Carrollton Avenue and several classic bars, restaurants, breweries, and sno-ball stands everywhere. Many Mid-City families have been based in the area for generations. If you’re a repeat visitor and want to have a more local experience, Mid-City is a good choice. EAT Parkway Bakery and Tavern This family-owned, casual neighborhood joint is a top choice for classic, overstuffed po-boys. It has grown in popularity, but the friendly staff still takes care of the locals while welcoming tourists. Shrimp are fried to perfection, roast beef is sufficiently messy, and the Barq's (and beer) is served icy cold. For a non-traditional po-boy option, try the smoked alligator sausage. DRINK Finn McCool’s This Irish pub with local flavor is one of the top neighborhood bars in the city. Lively and totally unpretentious, you’ll feel like a regular as soon as you order your first beer. It’s a lively gathering spot for Saints and soccer games, and their weekly pub quiz night is particularly raucous. The pop-up kitchen in the back serves worthy pub grub too. DO City Park City Park is a beautifully-landscaped, 1,300-acre green space filled with moss-drenched oaks, peaceful walking paths, and native birds. Within the park is the New Orleans Museum of Art, the Botanical Gardens, and golf, both mini- and regular. The Big Lake offers boating and other activities, while Storyland and the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park offer fun for kids. STAY Canal Street Inn This charming B&B on Canal Street offers easy access to the streetcar. The elegant decor is original to the home, and the homemade breakfasts are filling. With comfortable parlors and a garden terrace, it’s a quiet, homey place to unwind after exploring the city. If you do just one thing… Head to Rock ‘n Bowl to dance while you knock down a few pins. Even if you’re not into bowling, Rock ‘n Bowl is one of the liveliest spots to see live music, from blues to zydeco, and the dance floor is always hopping. An email you’ll actually love Get into a relationship with our newsletter. Discover the best of the city, first. By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. 🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed! Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon! What is the best location to stay in New Orleans?Best neighborhoods in New Orleans. French Quarter. The French Quarter is the city's oldest and best-known neighborhood. ... . Uptown/Garden District. ... . Central Business District. ... . Marigny/Bywater. ... . Mid-City.. What street do you want to stay on in New Orleans?Bourbon Street – Where to Stay in New Orleans for Nightlife. Home to Mardi Gras, big brass bands, and plenty of colourful buildings, Bourbon Street is without a doubt the liveliest and craziest part of the city. Bourbon street is lined with amazing hotels, so you can stay right in the centre of the action.
Is it better to stay in the French Quarter or downtown New Orleans?The French Quarter is the best place to stay in New Orlean for first-timers due to its proximity to the city's famous attractions and many choices in accommodations. Booking hotel in this area, you will be located within walking distance to bars, restaurants, and shops.
What is the main street to visit in New Orleans?For many New Orleans visitors, Bourbon Street embodies the life of a party town. The street is lit by neon lights, throbbing with music and decorated by beads and balconies. Named for a royal family in France and not the amber-colored alcohol, Bourbon Street has become a place for revelry of all sorts.
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What street is the best to stay on in New Orleans?
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