Step into September in New Orleans

The end of summer…the beginning of fall…September in New Orleans brings a change in the weather and even more to do and see.

 

We’ve pulled together everything we love about September in the Big Easy for you below!

 

Football

 

The New Orleans Saints are known for bringing the city alive. They’ve even been voted as one of the best teams to see play at home. They return to the Caesar’s Superdome for their first home game of the 2022 season on Sunday, September 18th against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. 

 

With the storied history between these two teams as well as the excitement that football brings to Louisiana, this game will be a can’t miss experience for all fans. Experience the “Who Dat Nation” up-close in the Superdome or nearby at Champions Square. If you’re looking to enjoy other parts of the city during the game, visit Bayou Beer Garden or Mid-City Yacht Club, where you can enjoy local food and drinks.

 

Festivities

 

While New Orleans is known for the French Quarter, its Spanish history is just as evident in the architecture throughout the city. Starting September 15th, New Orleans will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month to honor its Spanish roots. Celebrate by booking a walking tour to see the beauty of the Spanish architecture, or visit a local Spanish restaurant. You won’t be disappointed at Costera, Barú Bistro & Tapas, Barcelona Tapas, or Lola’s. 

 

Looking for a festival during your visit? Attend the Beignet Festival in New Orleans’ City Park on Saturday, September 24th. Find beignets of all types and other sweet treats to try, while listening to live music, enjoying savory foods, and browsing through their artist market. 

 

Beignet Festival is a family-friendly atmosphere that gives its proceeds to programs benefiting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families. For more information about the fest, visit https://beignetfest.com/. 

 

Music and More

 

No matter what your interests are, you’ll enjoy a visit to The Saenger Theater. Music lovers will delight in Earth, Wind, and Fire’s performance on September 20th as well as Diana Krall’s on September 23rd. Comedians are no stranger to the Saenger, and September will bring big names such as Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Chris Rock.

 

New Oleans is also well known for its Burlesque shows. September brings the Burlesque Festival, beginning the 22nd and running through the 25th. House of Blues New Orleans will host this three-night festival featuring singing, dancing, and comedy acts. Time your visit well, and see the Queen of Burlesque crowned! The Burlesque Festival has been a favorite for locals since 2009, and this year’s acts will entertain adults from around the world. 

 

While this is only a short list, there are many other activities going on throughout New Orleans in September. Vue Orleans, The National World War II Museum, the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, the New Orleans Museum of Art, Mardi Gras World, and more are available year-round to offer one-of-a-kind experiences for people of all ages. 

 

Ready to book your trip and take part in these fantastic New Orleans experiences? We’d love to have you at the Lanaux Mansion! Visit https://secure.thinkreservations.com/thelanauxmansion/reservations to book your stay today.

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A Vacation Extension in New Orleans

 

The Mississippi River is a fixture throughout New Orleans, and while the port of trade is bustling, leisure ships are also continually setting sail. 

 

New Orleans is the sixth largest cruise port in the United States, housing six cruise lines that may hold the tickets to your next vacation. 

 

What lines sail out of New Orleans, and where do they visit? 

 

Carnival Cruise Lines – Offering cruises anywhere from 3 to 14 days, sailing to Cozumel, Progreso, Costa Maya, Key West, Freeport, Nassau, Belize, Mahogany Bay, Grand Cayman, Bimini, Ocho Rios, Half Moon Cay, Aruba, Bonaire, Cartagena, and Panama Canal

 

Norwegian Cruise Line – Offering cruises anywhere from 5 to 9 days, sailing to the Western and Eastern Caribbean

 

Disney Cruise Line – Offering cruises anywhere from 4 to 6 days, sailing to Cozumel, Progreso, Grand Cayman, and Costa Maya 

 

American Cruise Line – Offering cruises from 5 to 22 days, starting in New Orleans and traveling the Mississippi River

 

American Queen Voyages – Sailing from New Orleans to Memphis in 9 days along the river

 

Viking River Cruises – Sailing to Memphis and exploring the lower Mississippi area on 8-day cruises

 

With so many options, it makes sense that cruising out of New Orleans is often the top choice. A cruise out of New Orleans is often referred to as “two vacations in one,” as many visitors opt to stay in the city following their cruise. Some even arrive early to enjoy the luxuries of the French Quarter before their cruise departs. 

 

There is so much to see in the French Quarter and throughout the New Orleans area. If you’re making the trip, take advantage of your time and see yet another incredible destination.

 

What to do during your extended vacation?

 

Visit museums like The National World War II Museum, the New Orleans Museum of Art, the New Orleans Jazz Museum, the Louisiana State Museum, the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, or the Louisiana Children’s Museum.

Engage in interactive experiences at the New Orleans School of Cooking, Vue Orleans, or Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience. Or explore the wild side at the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas and the Audubon Zoo.

 

If you’ve decided to get a head start, or even if you want to extend your trip once you disembark your cruise, we’re offering a 2022 cruise package discount.

 

Book your stay today at https://secure.thinkreservations.com/thelanauxmansion/reservations, and use promo code CRUISE for 20% off your booking, now through December 10, 2022. All stays must include a minimum of two nights, based on availability. 

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Labor Day in New Orleans

On any given day, you’ll find some unique revelry in NOLA — especially in the French Quarter. Each and every holiday brings a series of activities in the Crescent City. 

The city loves any excuse to celebrate life, and Labor Day is no exception. This year, expect a myriad of things to do all across the city, from sporting events to festivals.

The Lanaux Mansion team has curated a list of some memorable things to get you started on planning your holiday weekend stay. 

Mark Your Calendar

Allstate Louisiana Kickoff

The 2022 college football season kicks off on Sunday, September 4, when the LSU Tigers take on the Florida State Seminoles in the Caesars Superdome. This will be the first time the Tigers and the Seminoles face off in the Crescent City.

Both teams will bring fans from home to see a game in the legendary Superdome. You can enjoy the weekend revelry as you move from the French Quarter to the CBD for what’s sure to be a wild contest. For more information, visit https://allstatesugarbowl.org/allstate-louisiana-kickoff/.

Southern Decadence Festival

Decadence Fest is back!  From Thursday, September 1 through Monday, September 5, we’ll see an array of parades, parties, brunches, and other events throughout the French Quarter.

The revelry will last all weekend, but the big parade takes place on Sunday. The festival celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community in NOLA and beyond. For more information, visit http://www.southerndecadence.net/. 

Tulane Football Kickoff

Tulane University football begins its season on Saturday, September 3, when Tulane faces off against the University of Massachusetts at Yulman Stadium.

With a long history and an avid fan base, Tulane football is a can’t-miss experience. Given the team’s spring-game showing, we’re looking forward to seeing the Green Wave back in action. For more information, visit https://tulanegreenwave.com/sports/football. 

River Cruise Drag Brunch

On Saturday, September 3, the Creole Queen Paddlewheeler will host a brunch accompanied by  fabulous New Orleans drag queens, live jazz, and unique views of the Mississippi River.

A New Orleans’ drag brunch is an experience you’ll remember for a lifetime. Cruise along the river on your Saturday morning while enjoying a traditional New Orleans brunch and enjoying the show. For more information, visit https://www.neworleans.com/event/drag-brunch-river-cruise/76537/. 

Experience the Victory at The National World War II Museum

The National World War II Museum will host an exclusive, limited-time exhibit from Thursday, September 1 to Sunday, September 5. The subject is the American experience in World War II.

The museum is offering private early access and guided touring. They are also featuring special experiences including an “Out of the Vault” tour and a USS Tang Submarine experience. For more information, visit https://www.nationalww2museum.org/events-programs/events/128608-experience-victory-september-1-4-2022. 

With Labor Day weekend still a ways away, expect even more to come! There will be no shortage of things to do in New Orleans over the holiday weekend.

Haven’t booked your stay yet? We’re always glad to welcome you at the Lanaux Mansion! To make your reservation, visit https://secure.thinkreservations.com/thelanauxmansion/reservations

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A Weekend In New Orleans

Planning your visit to the Big Easy soon? Or maybe your trip is already booked, but you’re looking for ideas on how to spend your time in NOLA. As locals, we’re experts on the top things to do in New Orleans during your stay.

We hope you booked a long weekend…or an even longer stay! But if not, you’ll just have to start planning your next visit now. 

Here are our recommendations for you to make the most out of your trip to New Orleans.

 

Places

For a smaller city, New Orleans has so much to offer. We can’t list all of the places you should see while you’re here, but we’ll list a few of our favorites, including some family friendly stops.

Stroll through the Garden District – Victorian-style mansions abound in this New Orleans neighborhood, and they’re just a streetcar fare away. Take the streetcar just one and a half blocks from the Lanaux Mansion down the Riverfront to St. Charles. Ride down St. Charles to view the columns and estates, or wander on foot past regal homes and preserved buildings. This neighborhood is known for its homes and gardens, not to mention the unique shopping opportunities and fantastic restaurants. 

Explore French Quarter Architecture – The French Quarter was New Orleans’ first neighborhood and as such is home to some of the city’s most historic homes. The architecture throughout is a mix of French and Spanish with influences from Europe and the Caribbean. Keep an eye out for our street tiles on the corners. Take note of ornate ironwork and the colorful array of facades. If you prefer to learn about historic homes rather than just view them, walking tours and home tours are available daily.

Swing down Frenchmen Street – Live music is the soul of New Orleans, and one of our favorite places to soak it in is on Frenchmen Street, just steps from the Lanaux Mansion. Find live shows, pop-up musicians, dancing, and jazz all evening. Let the music guide your feet onto the dance floor at The Spotted Cat or The Maison. When you’re ready to rest your dancing feet, finish the night with a late bite at Willie’s Chicken Shack or another one of Frenchmen’s local eateries. 

Things

Things to do, things to see, and even more to remember. New Orleans culture floods the French Quarter and there are some things you can’t miss during your visit. 

Peruse Art in Jackson Square – There’s an incredible amount of history in Jackson Square but we’ll let you in on those secrets another time. The Square itself boasts a beautiful garden, water feature, and statues. It’s  overlooked by the mighty St. Louis Cathedral. On any given day, you can take a stroll under the oaks and enjoy the art hung on the iron gates. You’ll also find tarot readers, street musicians and other performers to entertain you. Take a stroll to view the art or purchase a piece of the Crescent City to take home with you. When you’ve had your fill, Cafe du Monde is just across Decatur for a spot of breakfast or an afternoon treat. 

Relax on the River – The mighty Mississippi carries much in her stream, yet her waters are perfect for cruising. Hop on the ferry to visit historic Old Algiers or the Chalmette Battlefield. You can even book a riverboat cruise with live music, dancing, food, and drinks on the Creole Queen. For less sea-worthy legs, tour the Riverboat Louis Armstrong for a piece of jazz history.

 

Looking for more recommendations? Please feel free to reach out to us! There’s always something popping up in the Big Easy. 

Still looking for a unique place to stay in New Orleans? Join us at the Lanaux Mansion! We are perfectly located to access each of these places and things to do. To book your stay, visit https://secure.thinkreservations.com/thelanauxmansion/reservations. 

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Swing Into Spring in New Orleans

 

Spring has arrived in New Orleans, and you can feel it in the air. Mardi Gras has come and gone, but the festivities are far from over. 

We’re just getting started. 

Everywhere you turn, you can feel the buzz. Everyone you talk to is bursting with energy. The weather is delightful, and the soul of the city is on full display. 

New Orleans is a city of resilience, and this spring feels to many like the end of an exceptionally long winter.

And the city is celebrating even more than usual as a result. 

Need a few reasons to plan your next visit? We’ve got so many. Pack a bag, or maybe two…because once you’re here, you won’t want to leave.

 

Festivals and Events

Springtime in New Orleans is all about the outdoors. This year, we’re seeing the return of many festivals and events that have not taken place since the early months of 2020.

YLC’s Wednesday at the Square – This free, weekly music fest brings local music to the heart of New Orleans’ Central Business District, with live music, food, and local art. This concert series runs through May. For the music lineup and more information, visit: https://ylcnola.org/ylc-wednesday-at-the-square/. 

Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival – Louisiana strawberries are unlike any others! This year, the free 50th Annual Strawberry Festival will host food, music, and more from April 8 to 10. For more information, including music lineups, visit http://lastrawberryfestival.com/.  

Crescent City Classic – Looking for some exercise? One of the oldest 10K races in the United States will take place on April 16. Join over 20,000 athletes in a race across the city on a beautiful spring morning. For more information or to register, visit https://ccc10k.com/. 

New Orleans Poetry Festival – The 7th annual Poetry Festival takes place this year from April 16 to 24, featuring poetry readings both live and virtual, the Small Press Fair, and a myriad of events featuring all things poetry. For more information, visit https://nolapoetry.com/. 

French Quarter Festival – The French Quarter’s biggest free festival returns this year from April 21 to 24 along the riverfront featuring hundreds of musicians, food vendors, and artists. For the music schedule and more information, visit https://frenchquarterfest.org/. 

New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival – Two weekends of jazz and good times are right around the corner. This year’s Jazz Fest takes place from April 29 to May 1 and from May 5 to 8. Headliners include The Who, Stevie Nicks, Lionel Richie, Ludacris, and many, many more. You’ll also find a plethora of New Orleans best food and art at the fest. To purchase tickets, visit https://www.nojazzfest.com/.

 

As you can see, there’s never a shortage of festive fun in the Big Easy…and the season is just getting started.

 

Limited Time Only

History and Art – This spring, the Queen Nefertari Exhibit makes its final stop on tour at the New Orleans Museum of Art. For tickets or more information, visit: https://noma.org/exhibitions/queen-nefertaris-egypt/. 

Crawfish Season – That’s right; they’re here! The best time to enjoy a crawfish boil is spring. It’s also the easiest time to find them. If you’re looking for crawfish in the French Quarter, try the Original French Market Restaurant or Deanie’s Seafood for crawfish by the pound. If you’re looking for a boil, the Three Legged Dog usually hosts crawfish boils three times a week!

 

New Orleans is a city that’s always buzzing, and she truly comes alive in the springtime. There is much more to come in April, including French Quarter Fest and the famous Jazz Festival. Come see for yourself why New Orleans is a destination you’ll never forget, and stay tuned for next month’s blog with more information!

 

Stay with us! Step outside the Lanaux Mansion and cross the street to explore the fascinating walkways of the French Quarter, or simply turn the corner for the lively music scene on Frenchmen Street. You’re less than a block from either. To book your stay, visit: https://secure.thinkreservations.com/thelanauxmansion/reservations.

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