New Orleans' sensual culture for indulging in world-class cuisines and cocktails, along with gas-lit streets lined with cobblestones and horse-drawn carriages, are only a few reasons why it consistently is visited by lovers young and old. Below, we've put together a sample itinerary for a romantic three-day weekend for your clients (or you) to enjoy.
DAY 1
Start the evening off with a stroll at sunset along Woldenberg Park through the Moonwalk and watch the sun dance across the Mighty Mississippi.
Toast your relationship over pre-dinner cocktails at Napoleon House. You'll feel like you've stepped back in time when you take a seat in the dimly lit, rustically romantic barroom. Order up the bar's signature Pimm's Cup, and take in the scenes from the street outside.
Once the sun has gone down, dive into some good-ole New Orleans cuisine. Bayona is a top pick for romantic fine dining in the French Quarter, helmed by beloved (and critically acclaimed) New Orleans Chef Susan Spicer. Linger over artistically crafted cocktails in the lush courtyard before taking a seat in the main dining room.
After dinner, swing by Jackson Square (on the Decatur Street side), and sweep your loved one off of their feet with a late-night carriage ride around the Quarter. Tales of the city and picturesque views envelop you on this journey through one of America's most historic areas.
DAY 2
Start your morning off right with a delicious brunch at Broussard's. The restaurant itself is enchanting; it's nestled in a beautiful courtyard along a quieter stretch of Conti Street.
After brunch, it will be time to hit the streets for a leisurely stroll around the French Quarter. Wander in and out of the galleries that line Royal Street, enjoying the lush "hanging gardens" that fill the wrought iron balconies of the homes as you explore side streets along the way.
Slowly make your way up to Killer Po-Boys, where you'll grab a couple of sandwiches to go for a picnic in City Park. Don't think you'll be hungry enough for a full lunch? You can also swing by Rouses Market on the corner of Royal and St. Peter streets and grab some cheese and wine to bring with you.
Head up to catch the Canal Street Streetcar (City Park/Museum line), which will bring you to the front of City Park and settle down under a canopy of oak trees to enjoy your picnic. Prefer waterfront dining? Check out the beautifully ornate Peristyle that overlooks Bayou Metairie. Once you've finished your meal, wander over to the dock at Big Lake, where you can rent a pedal boat from City Park Boat & Bike Rentals or relax with a gondola ride.
If you're in the mood for French, head right across the street to Cafe Degas, a quaint little bistro tucked away on Esplanade Avenue. This charming caf provides the perfect intimate setting that makes you feel like you are in a world of your own.
On the other hand, if you're craving Spanish food, walk across Esplanade to Lola's. Locals flock to the cherished neighborhood eatery for what many swear is the best paella in the city. With only a few tables, this restaurant packs a ton of charm.
After dinner, head to Frenchmen Street in the Marigny neighborhood. This part of town is unlike any other in New Orleans, hosting artists, philosophers, musicians and anyone looking to live the chill, bohemian lifestyle. The jazz clubs along this strip are some of the best in the city. Snug Harbor, d.b.a. and The Three Muses are just some of the popular venues to catch live, local New Orleans musicians.
DAY 3
You can't come to New Orleans without experiencing a Jazz Brunch! If you're ready to jump-start your Uptown adventure, go ahead and hop on the St. Charles Streetcar to Commander's Palace. This iconic Garden District restaurant serves up a three-course Jazz Brunch that's absolutely to die for.
Take some time to explore the Garden District after your meal, then hop back on the Uptown-bound streetcar, and take in the scenery as you glide down St. Charles Avenue to Audubon Park. When you get to the park, take a stroll under the canopies of oak trees along the track until you hit Magazine Street.
Cross Magazine Street until you come to the entrance of Audubon Zoo, and get ready to experience one of the nation's top-ranked zoos. After you've seen your fill of wildlife, head back through Audubon Park until you hit St. Charles Avenue, and hop on the streetcar back towards downtown. If you're ready for a bite to eat, get off at Robert Street (about five blocks past Jefferson Avenue), and head towards Upperline Restaurant. The menu is decadent and delicious-Creole contemporary at it's best.
If you'd instead prefer to stop for a pre-dinner cocktail before settling into a meal, forgo the Robert Street stop, and continue riding down St. Charles until you reach The Columns Hotel. This iconic New Orleans hotel and the bar that spills from its lobby onto its expansive front porch is a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
As your weekend winds down, you may want to return to the Quarter for one last late-night stroll or grab a nightcap at one of our picks for the city's most romantic bars.
No matter how your clients choose to wrap up their romantic tryst in the Big Easy, one thing is certain: the memories they make in a weekend will last a lifetime. Now that's amore.
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