Which to choose?

Question

We are a married fun couple in their 40s. Heading down for a long weekend in early October.

We are thinking Bourbon street one night and then a speakeasy lounge type of night the next.

Probably won't have car

Love lively areas

Walkable

Center of everything

Where should we stay?

French Quarter? Downtown? Arts/Warehouse district?

I'm totally lost and would love suggestions

Answer

For a fun long weekend in New Orleans, especially if you plan to enjoy Bourbon Street one night and a speakeasy lounge the next, your accommodation choice will depend on your preferences for nightlife, walkability, and overall atmosphere. Let’s break down the main neighborhoods where you could stay, each with its own vibe:

French Quarter: The heart of New Orleans’ nightlife and a classic choice for visitors. The French Quarter offers easy access to Bourbon Street, jazz bars, vibrant restaurants, and iconic landmarks like Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral. It's also very walkable, so you won’t need a car. If you stay here, you’ll be in the thick of it all – lively and full of energy, especially at night. If you're into nightlife and want to experience the high energy of Bourbon Street, this is a great option.
Downtown New Orleans: Just a short walk from the French Quarter, Downtown has a more modern and urban vibe compared to the French Quarter. You’ll find upscale hotels, more refined dining options, and some cool speakeasy-style bars. It’s quieter than the French Quarter, but still close enough to everything. It’s great if you want to be near the action without the 24/7 chaos of Bourbon Street.
Arts/Warehouse District: This neighborhood is a great mix of modern art galleries, trendy restaurants, and quieter spots to relax. It’s a little removed from the frenetic pace of the French Quarter, but it’s still walkable to both the Quarter and the riverfront. If you love the idea of a more relaxed vibe with access to some cool, low-key speakeasies and trendy lounges, this area would be perfect. It’s ideal for couples who want to explore the artsy side of New Orleans while still being close to lively spots like the French Quarter and Frenchmen Street.

If you’re looking for an all-around lively and walkable area, with easy access to both the craziness of Bourbon Street and the more intimate speakeasy lounges, the French Quarter is hard to beat. However, if you prefer a slightly quieter stay with easy access to the nightlife and artsy bars, the Arts/Warehouse District would be a great choice. Downtown offers a nice balance of modern amenities and proximity to both, though it’s a bit quieter than the other two options.

Ultimately, it comes down to whether you want to stay right in the action or if you prefer a slightly more relaxed atmosphere while still being close to the fun. Any of these areas would make for a memorable weekend, but if you’re looking to be right in the heart of everything, the French Quarter will definitely give you the classic New Orleans experience.

Which to choose?

More New Orleans Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions