The Perfect Itinerary: New Orleans

With things starting to open back up and the vaccine rolling out, it’s time again for the return of the perfect itinerary! And what better place to celebrate your new freedom than New Orleans?

What to Eat

THE BEST barbeque I’ve ever had was in New Orleans. Shakey’s BBQ, previously known as White Boy BBQ, is located in the back of Verret’s Lounge and is a hidden treasure among the locals. If you truly want the New Orleans vibe away from the tourists, this is your place.

Shakey’s offers smoked tacos, jerky, and juicy dino ribs all with a secret, spicy dry rub sure to make your mouth water. Top off your meal with his jalapeno poppers.

The best part? Not only are you eating local but you’re also supporting small businesses, which is all the more important after this past year.

BOIL Seafood House is located on Magazine Street, so while you finish the last of your boutique shopping, refuel with a crawfish boil that’ll leave nothing left to be desired. This popular eatery has huge portions (trust me, one is big enough to share for two) and neon artwork paired with blacklights. A perfect spot for a date!

Lastly, end your night the perfect way – with ice cream! The Creole Creamery is a ridiculously delicious way to enjoy the treat, located just a few blocks off of Magazine Street in Uptown.

They have a mix of traditional and funky flavors to satisfy everyone’s appetite including creole cream cheese, lavender honey, and my personal favorite, Christmas cookie.

Things to Do

New Orleans is known as a city rich in diverse culture and while most people plan their NOLA trip with plenty of time spent in Bourbon Street bars, spend your days honoring the history that this city has to offer.

A great way to start is by trying out one of the many cultural tours. Oak Alley Plantation has served a variety of purposes over its 200 years of history and has continually kept its doors open for Americans and tourists to learn about what occurred there. With a slavery database, historical timeline and a collection of items on display, Oak Alley Planatation has done its best to teach its visitors that behind its beautiful 28 acres lies the past of many of our citizens.

Find the other half of American history at the enormous National World War II museum. The museum combines multimedia to showcase and reveal the triumphs and tragedies of World War II and how America played a part in it. The staff, hoping to “inspire people, young and old, to embrace the lessons of this monumental global conflict from its stories of heroism, human tragedies, voices of liberation, and the fruits and responsibilities of victory” is continuously expanding what’s offered there, including a “Women of World War II” exhibit.

And to give your feet a break, take a cruise down the harbor before going out for the evening.

Where to Stay

Never let the fun end by staying in the French Quarter itself. The Audubon Cottages provide a luxurious but authentic experience, making you feel like you’re living in New Orleans instead of just visiting. Having been built in the 18th century, the Audubon Cottages are in the heart of the French Quarter with what is believed to be the oldest pool existing in that location.

Have you been to any of theses places? Let me know for a chance to be featured on my Instagram!

Xo,
Gina