Trip Report April 2025

Question

This was our first time traveling to NOLA and we are a married couple in our 60s. We had a fabulous time!! Just a few of my favorites to mention. Mollys for a frozen Irish coffee drink. Shaya for Mediterranean food. Frenchman street for live music. Wharehouse street and garden district during the day. We also enjoyed a meal at Felix’s seafood and fabulous live music next door.

Answer

It sounds like you had a fantastic first visit to New Orleans! You picked some great spots to explore, and I'm sure your trip was full of memorable experiences. Here’s a little recap and some additional recommendations based on your favorites:

Molly's for Frozen Irish Coffee: A classic New Orleans treat! Molly's has one of the best frozen Irish coffees in the city, and it's a must-try for first-time visitors. It’s perfect for a quick pick-me-up while wandering the French Quarter. You can also enjoy the lively atmosphere of the bar while savoring the iconic drink. Another popular spot for this is Café du Monde, though it’s usually busy with tourists, so Molly’s might be a bit more relaxed.

Shaya for Mediterranean Food: Great choice! Shaya is known for its modern twist on Mediterranean flavors, and it’s an excellent dining experience in New Orleans. The food is unique, flavorful, and beautifully presented. If you love Shaya, you may want to check out other top restaurants in the city, such as Palace Café for classic Creole dishes, or Coquette in the Garden District for a chic dining experience.

Frenchmen Street for Live Music: Frenchmen Street is one of the best places to enjoy authentic live jazz and music in New Orleans. The street comes alive in the evening, with a variety of bars and clubs offering a range of musical styles, from jazz to funk to brass bands. If you haven’t already, check out The Spotted Cat Music Club and Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro for more great live music experiences.

Warehouse District and Garden District: Both of these neighborhoods offer a great glimpse into the history and architecture of New Orleans. The Warehouse District is home to museums, galleries, and stylish hotels, while the Garden District is perfect for strolling down tree-lined streets with stunning antebellum homes. Don’t miss a visit to Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 in the Garden District for a look at New Orleans’ famous above-ground tombs. The area is also home to the beautiful Commander's Palace restaurant, which is an iconic spot for a traditional New Orleans dining experience.

Felix’s Seafood and Live Music: Felix’s is a great place to experience classic New Orleans seafood. Whether it’s fresh oysters, crawfish, or shrimp, you can’t go wrong. The live music next door really adds to the ambiance, giving you a complete New Orleans experience. For seafood lovers, I’d also recommend trying Acme Oyster House (nearby in the French Quarter) or GW Fins for an upscale seafood meal with a contemporary twist.

Other Recommendations:

Visit the National WWII Museum: One of the most highly-rated museums in the country, it’s an immersive experience and a must-see while in New Orleans.
Take a Steamboat Ride on the Mississippi: For a relaxing, scenic ride, consider taking a steamboat cruise along the river. You can learn about New Orleans' history and enjoy beautiful views of the city.
Explore City Park: City Park is one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. It’s home to beautiful walking paths, art museums, and even a golf course. Perfect for a relaxing day out in nature.
Stroll Through the French Market: A great place to pick up local crafts, food, and souvenirs. It’s a fun spot to explore, especially on a Saturday when the market is full of vendors.

It sounds like you hit some of the best highlights, but there’s always more to discover in New Orleans! I hope these additional tips help you get even more out of your next visit. Enjoy your time in the Crescent City!

Trip Report April 2025

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