Going Back to New Orleans
đź“Ť Warehouse District, New Orleans
Dress || Similar Sandals || Handbag || Earrings
It was July 2012. I had just recently turned 21 years old and was off on a celebratory weekend with my mom. After going back and forth on the destination, I convinced my mom to book a trip to a certain city in Louisiana. It was everything I could have hoped for. The music, the food, the history, the people, every aspect of this place touched a piece of my soul in ways a city never had before. What resulted was a decade-long affair with the city of New Orleans that continues today. Regardless of the season, occasion, or company, I fall even deeper in love with the Crescent City. Trips and life, in general, had to be rescheduled during the Spring of 2020, and our trips to New Orleans were no exception. After a few years of replanning, I was just now finally able to return to the city I love so much. After nearly three years away, I’m so thankful for last week’s trip to this incredible city. Here’s a quick roundup of going back to New Orleans.
Revisiting Old Favorites
The list of classic restaurants in New Orleans is seemingly endless. Brennan’s, Antoine’s, Arnaud’s… I’ve had the pleasure of dining at many of them. Each time I revisit the city, I always try to prioritize a few of these classics to revel in the city’s culinary history. While some travelers to the Crescent City focus on parties and late nights, I would prefer a reservation for a five-course meal and exciting company. No matter how you decide to plan your time in New Orleans, come hungry!
Exploring New Neighborhoods
For many who visit, the French Quarter is the main focus while on a visit to New Orleans. Even after ten years, I’m guilty of that from time to time. I was so happy to spend an afternoon in the Faubourg Marigny on this trip. Just one neighborhood over from the FQ, it’s full of great music, incredible restaurants, and so much character. A true highlight of the day was visiting the Hotel Peter and Paul for lunch at their Elysian Bar. If you still have room after lunch, either scoot next door to Sundae Best for homemade ice cream or take a quick stroll to Baldwin & Co. for an afternoon coffee.
Trying New Restaurants
It seems like each month, a brand new restaurant in New Orleans pops up on my radar. The cuisines vary as much as the city itself, and it’s so incredible to learn more about the chefs that call NOLA home. Last week, I had reservations at what I lovingly believe to be ‘neo-classics.’ They may not be as old as some of the favorites in the French Quarter, but I’m very confident some of these newer restaurants will be equally cherished in 100 plus years. Compere Lapin, Cane, and Table, Maypop, are just a quick list of the new-to-me spots that have been on my radar.
Traveling Via Streetcar
We had the pleasure of staying at the Ace Hotel in the Warehouse District during this trip. While there were so many things to love about this hotel, the nearby streetcar was such a perk. Whether you’re coming to or from the Garden District, the streetcar stop is right at your front door. On my last day in New Orleans, I took the streetcar along Saint Charles Avenue to explore the Garden District. It was such a lovely day and may now be my preferred mode of transportation.
Feeling Inspired for Long Weekend Guides
I’ve recently launched Long Weekend Guides. It’s a culmination of three passions: travel, writing, and photography. I’ll be selling travel guides and exclusive digital prints to some of my favorite destinations. Gasparilla Inn and Newport are already live, but be on the lookout for our latest New Orleans edition, coming soon! There’s also a boutique where you can find links to my travel and beach essentials. Your continued support into this new venture means the world to me!
Finally Reconnecting With the City
After three years of being away from a city that means so much to me, it just felt good to be back. Although I’ve lived in New Orleans (yet- you never know where life will take you), it truly felt like a long overdue homecoming. When I write about NOLA here, I always hope that I can inspire at least one like-minded reader to see this city through my eyes.
So, I’ve written nearly 800 words on the city of New Orleans and that’s no where near enough to share my love and passion for this town. Visiting the Crescent City is truly what you make of it. If you decide to just party it up on Bourbon Street, I promise you’ll have a great time, but will sadly miss out on the soul of this city. For just over 300 years, New Orleans has been a city to be yourself and enjoy life’s pleasures. Here’s to 300 more!
Love from New Orleans,
Katie
As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.