Eloping to the Crescent City

Congratulations! You’re engaged! 

 

Now what? If you’re considering an elopement, allow us to recommend beginning married life in New Orleans.

 

After all…the Lanaux Mansion is the perfect place to say “I do” in the Crescent City!

 

Why New Orleans?

 

Elopements allow a couple to focus on their love and commitment to each other, and New Orleans provides the perfect backdrop for what will be a momentous day. The city comes alive every day with a romantic atmosphere of lush greenery, including stately oak and magnolia trees that line the streets, picturesque Spanish- and French-inspired architecture, and smooth, live jazz music that can be heard from nearly every corner of the city (and from our balconies!). 

 

All of these magical aspects provide an unforgettable environment that’s perfect for your fairy-tale ending.

 

At the historic Lanaux Mansion, we have all you need for the most romantic union, whether you’re eloping or doing extensive planning. With our idyllic location, you’ll be wed in the heart of the city with plenty around to enjoy leading up to your wedding and after during your honeymoon!.

 

We even help bring dreams to life with our wedding planning services and elopement packages! 

 

Hear Wedding Bells at the Mansion

 

The term “Big Easy” doesn’t just refer to the leisurely strolls couples take up and down the streets. With a city that knows how to celebrate all of life’s big moments, what can be a stressful and time-consuming process becomes a delightful experience with the help of our professional wedding planning services and ready-to-go elopement packages. 

 

With pre-wedding consultations and day-of coordinations, our brides and grooms have no worries on their shoulders leading into their big day. All the little details are handled by a professional wedding planner, and photography, officiating, flowers, and a romantic celebratory dinner are all arranged for the happy couple. 

 

The Lanaux Mansion offers two elopement packages to help brides and grooms relax and skip the stress of wedding planning. Both packages include at least one hour of pre-wedding consultation and at least three hours of day-of coordination with a professional wedding planner. Included in both packages is a two-night stay in one of our luxurious suites, either Sophie’s Enchanted Cottage or The Wieland Suite. If you choose Sophie’s Enchanted Cottage, you will enjoy our private, one-bedroom cottage featuring a kitchenette and your own garden courtyard. The Wieland Suite, one of our largest suites, includes vaulted ceilings, a kitchenette, and access to the main courtyard. If available, you can also choose to upgrade to one of our balcony suites!

 

Our elopement packages also include access to the Mansion property and common spaces on the day of the wedding for one hour, a bouquet and boutonniere, photography for one hour (or more if requested), an officiant, and dinner at one of our finer partner restaurants. 

 

Brunch, turndown service, upgraded flower options, extended photography and wedding coordination time, and more are offered in our packages as well.

 

And if there is a specific service or customization you feel will take your wedding to the next level, please ask us! We’ll be happy to make your celebration magical.

 

Wedding Guests

 

The Mansion Suites can accommodate up to 16 guests, which is why it often serves as a hosting spot for more than just soon-to-be newlyweds. With six luxurious bedrooms, spacious bathrooms, private balconies, a courtyard, and four kitchenettes, your close family and friends will be nearby for festivities before and after your wedding.

 

Your guests will experience the relaxed atmosphere of the Crescent City from their private balconies or courtyard and rest easily before and after wedding festivities in one of our comfortable queen or king beds in our spacious bedrooms with spacious en-suite bathrooms and kitchenettes. 

 

Newlyweds and their families and friends can continue the celebration with a reception hosted at the Lanaux Mansion. By utilizing the historic parlors on the ground floor as well as our courtyard area, we have ample space for receptions varying in size from 4 to 100 guests. 

 

If you have any questions about our elopement packages or would like more information, please don’t hesitate to let us know! 

 

Here at the Lanaux Mansion, we appreciate every opportunity to make your dream experience into a reality. 

From a private affair to a celebration with the whole family, we cannot wait to show you all that New Orleans has to offer while providing you with comfort and care during your stay! Contact us today to book: call (504) 948-6119 or email lanaux547@gmail.com.

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Curating Memories in the Big Easy

As you begin looking at the many reasons you have to celebrate this year, we invite you to peruse the best of the Crescent City. 

 

New Orleans is known for being joyful and festive year-round which makes it the perfect location for a variety of occasions and celebrations – birthdays, anniversaries, bachelor and bachelorette parties, and even babymoons!

 

Here are some of our top choices to help you plan:

 

Special Occasion Dining 

 

When it comes to celebrating special occasions such as birthdays or anniversaries, you’ll be pleased with a visit to one (or several) of the city’s top restaurants. 

 

The best of French-Creole cuisine is available any night at Arnaud’s, Brennan’s, Antoine’s, Cafe Sbisa*, GW Fins, and Muriel’s Jackson Square*. 

 

Each of these storied establishments features a different take on some of New Orleans’ most famous dishes and will help celebrate a momentous time with a great meal in the heart of the city. 

 

Bachelor and Bachelorette Trips

Groups traveling to New Orleans for bachelor or bachelorette parties will find an array of options when assembling their itineraries. 

While many options will focus on New Orleans’ famous night-life, you’ll find no shortage of day-time activities that are wonderful choices for larger groups. 

Consider taking a ghost tour like those provided by French Quarter Phantoms. Ghost tours will give you a glimpse of the city’s spooky side while taking you on a walking tour through beautiful neighborhoods filled with the architecture for which New Orleans is known. 

Cooking classes at the New Orleans School of Cooking give visitors a literal taste of the classic dishes prepared by chefs throughout the city. They also provide options for watching a chef prepare a meal or honing your own cooking skills!

When the sun sets, the spirit of the city comes alive with music and dancing. Live jazz can be found at The Maison*, The Spotted Cat*, and Three Muses* as well as throughout the city in large upscale clubs and small neighborhood bars. Wherever you go, enjoying a cocktail as you listen to the sounds of the city will get your evening started on the right foot. 

To experience the height of New Orleans nightlife, consider attending a burlesque show or even taking part in a burlesque class like those hosted by Trixie’s Burlesque Boutique. These glamorous shows filled with singing, dancing, and more have been a New Orleans tradition for centuries, and classes will teach attendees some of the techniques used in burlesque shows. You’ll be an expert when it’s time to go home. 

Finish off your visit with a classic jazz brunch! Menus at New Orleans’ restaurants vary, so there’s something for every palette. Delicious food accompanied by smooth jazz makes for a perfect end to your stay in New Orleans.

 

Babymoons

Celebrating an upcoming addition to your family? New Orleans makes for a great getaway before your little one arrives. In the French Quarter, many historic sites are steps away from the Lanaux Mansion, including the Ursuline Convent Museum*, Beauregard Keyes’ House*, the Cabildo, Jackson Square, and the French Market*. Explore some of the most famous parts of the city without tiring out your feet! 

 

With an abundance of restaurants and delicious food, you’ll find plenty to enjoy while eating for two. After indulging in one of the many well-known restaurants in the French Quarter, head to Cafe Du Monde for beignets, a classic New Orleans dessert. These fluffy, powdered sugar-covered, deep-fried pastries will satisfy every sweet tooth.

 

If you’re looking for an option that requires minimal walking, consider taking a swamp tour in areas surrounding the Big Easy. Your ride on the airboat will also provide a safe thrill when it travels at high speeds while you take in the cypress trees and Spanish moss.Once in the swamps, you’ll learn about the plants and animals native to the swamps surrounding New Orleans while seeing it all up close! 

 

No matter what the occasion, your trip to New Orleans will create memories to last a lifetime. 

 

Here at the Lanaux Mansion, it’s our pleasure to provide you with everything you need to make a great stay perfect. From an intimate getaway for two to a big celebration for 10 or 15, we’ll house you in comfort and charm in the midst of all the city has to offer. 

 

*Walking distance to the Lanaux Mansion

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Festivities Galore During the Holiday Season

The holiday season is a joyful time no matter where you are, but there is something extra special about celebrating the holidays in New Orleans. When it comes to food and fun, New Orleans flourishes, and our Réveillon dinners and New Years traditions truly set the city apart from the rest. 

 

All About Réveillon

 

Réveillon dinners are a Creole Christmas tradition dating back to the 1800s. Traditionally, the celebration included a large family meal that would take place after midnight mass concluded on the night of Christmas Eve. Dinner would be served around 2:00 in the morning and would include dishes such as gumbo, meat pies, soups, desserts, and brandy or coffee. Though this tradition nearly died out completely, it was revived in the 1990s with a few twists. 

 

Now, Réveillon menus are exclusive menus that restaurants will offer during the holiday season, and, to the relief of many, these meals are now typically served during the day instead of the early hours of the morning, rather than solely offered the night of Christmas Eve. Réveillon menus can be found across the city throughout the month of December!

 

While Réveillon meals are often enjoyed by large groups of family and friends, smaller parties are welcome to take part in this Creole tradition at some of the top restaurants in New Orleans. Historically, restaurants such as The Court of Two Sisters, Crescent City Brewhouse, Tableau*, and Muriel’s Jackson Square* have hosted these multi-course meals – each with their own signature takes on the traditional menu. To view this year’s participating establishments, visit https://holiday.neworleans.com/food-and-drink/. 

 

Once you’ve delighted in a Réveillon dinner, we encourage you to continue the festivities among the various light displays throughout the city. Celebration in the Oaks, an annual light show in New Orleans City Park, includes miles of holiday lights featuring local favorites including Mr. Bingle and New Orleans Saints-themed lights and decorations. 

 

Luna Fete is another local favorite that is free to the public, transforming buildings in downtown New Orleans into art by way of projections onto buildings. Other areas at Luna Fete include illuminated sculptures and various winter wonderlands.

 

Ringing In a Bright and Shiny New Year

 

Everyone knows New Orleans boasts the best parties, and of course New Year’s Eve is no different. During the day, the Caesar’s Superdome hosts the Allstate Sugar Bowl, preceded by the Allstate Sugar Bowl New Year’s Parade, taking place prior to the game. Both events offer a taste of New Orleans Mardi Gras with floats, bands, and revelry. 

 

And once midnight arrives, the city comes alive with fireworks on the Mississippi River that can be seen from a variety of locales throughout the city – including Jackson Square where many will gather for an informal party.

 

Vue Orleans, the 360-degree observatory, includes indoor and outdoor observatory decks to see the city light up from 34 floors above the ground. 

 

Another beloved tradition? Take a late-night riverboat tour! These tours typically include food and drink, music, and stellar views of the city as the clock strikes midnight. One of the biggest New Year’s Eve river tours can be found on board the Steamboat Natchez. Their New Year’s Eve celebration includes an open bar, hors d’oeuvres, a buffet, live entertainment, and views of the fireworks at midnight. 

Whatever your plans are this holiday season, let the Lanaux Mansion be your home away from home! To book your reservation, please visit https://secure.thinkreservations.com/thelanauxmansion/reservations.

 

*Walking distance to the Lanaux Mansion

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The Quintessential New Orleans Wedding

With her affinity for good food and lively music, it comes as no surprise that New Orleans is a popular choice for celebrations large and small. When it comes to venues, your options may be endless, but we have a few recommendations for you that are not only located in the heart of the city….but they’re also the crème de la crème. 

 

Churches

The city is well-known for her beautiful churches, and many are steps away from each other. Those looking for a traditional Catholic wedding need to look no further than St. Louis Cathedral* or Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in North America, is a timelessly gorgeous setting for a wedding in the heart of the French Quarter, and your bridal party and guests can easily second line from the ceremony to your reception venue! 

 

Immaculate Conception Catholic Church is located just over the border of the French Quarter in the central business district. It is known for the stunning architecture that provides a stunning backdrop for your love…and your wedding photos.

 

If you’re looking for a location less grand but no less historical, consider St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in the Marigny, a local favorite for its quaint setting and rich background. 

 

Follow any of these locations with a reception or stay at The Lanaux Mansion, and your guests will never forget the splendor of a New Orleans wedding.

 

Reception Venues

Whether you are second lining to your reception or hosting your ceremony and reception at the same venue, there are many beautiful options in the heart of the city… Yet there are several that stand above the rest.

 

Next door to St. Louis Cathedral is The Cabildo*, a New Orleans landmark and museum, featuring Spanish architecture from the 18th century. The outside facade of the building is stunning, and once inside, the details will take your breath away and ensure your celebration will never be forgotten.

 

Envisioning views of the Mississippi instead? A short stroll down St. Peters Street will bring you to The Jaxson, a riverside venue with views of the French Quarter as well. If you’re considering a larger wedding, The Jaxson should be on your list, since their capacity runs all the way up to 425 guests.

 

If picturesque windows, views of the Mississippi, and a combination of indoor and outdoor spaces are on your must-have list, Marché* lies steps away from Jackson Square. Its location on the river and outdoor courtyard area will make your guests stop and enjoy the ambiance of the city. Ceremonies big and small are welcome here with a maximum guest count of 300 people. 

 

For a more intimate gathering, Muriel’s Jackson Square* offers a lush balcony for small, intimate ceremonies and stunning views over Jackson Square. Their various customized party packages will make your wedding celebrations come to life in the heart of the city.

 

More beautiful views can be found at Tableau in the French Quarter where their balcony overlooks a quaint courtyard with a fountain. They also offer various interior options available for parties of different sizes. 

 

If historic spaces are of interest, consider the Beauregard Keyes House or the Ursuline Convent Museum. Beauregard Keyes House*, a historic building erected in 1826, has a majestic private courtyard and garden for stunning photography. It, too, is steps away from Jackson Square and is a perfect distance for a second line.

 

And one of the oldest buildings near the Mississippi, The Ursuline Convent Museum*, has endless options for wedding receptions of various sizes. The property boasts a garden with tenting options and a formal parterre.

 

For a vintage feel, Latrobe’s on Royal, an antique building over 100 years old, hosts upwards of 300 guests and is known for beautiful architecture and enchanting backdrops. 

 

And lastly, our list of the top reception venues would not be complete without Pat O’Brien’s! With their private balcony overlooking Bourbon Street and a two-room parlor with a full bar, you and your guests will experience the quintessential Big Easy experience.

 

No matter where you choose to host your celebration, New Orleans will surprise and delight. If you have questions about events at Lanaux Mansion or booking your stay with us, we are just a call or email away! Please let us know how we can be of assistance.

 

*Walking distance to the Lanaux Mansion

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New Orleans Like a Local

If there is anything New Orleans is known for, it’s the food and music you’ll experience throughout the city. And one of the best ways to experience all that New Orleans has to offer is to stay in the French Quarter, Marigny, and Bywater neighborhoods where the best of the city is just a leisurely stroll away!

 

Frenchmen Street

It’s a little-known secret that one street in New Orleans can provide you with a glimpse of the best of the city, and it may surprise visitors that it’s not Bourbon Street. Frenchmen Street in Marigny has gained popularity with tourists over time; however, its charm is what keeps locals coming back night after night. 

 

Cafe Negril* offers lively reggae music and dancing to accompany delicious tacos from their taqueria. Apple Barrel Bar* has live jazz or blues music every night, and upstairs you’ll find an intimate Italian restaurant called Adolfo’s* that is perfect for date night. Looking for something more casual? Head to Dat Dog* where you can eat specialty hot dogs and sit on the balcony while listening to the bands that gather and play outside. 

 

Of course, New Orleans also is known for her many talented artists, and Frenchmen Street doesn’t disappoint when it comes to providing visitors with local art to purchase and explore. At the Palace Market,* guests can purchase artwork including paintings, jewelry, photographs, and more as well as observe live art shows. 

 

Music

Nothing captures the New Orleans experience like listening to the live music that brings the city alive, and the Marigny neighborhood offers a variety of live music experiences. 

 

Kermit Ruffins, a beloved New Orleans jazz musician, plays weekly at Vaughan’s Lounge for locals and visitors to experience music inspired by Louis Armstrong and other New Orleans’ greats. 

 

Want to experience the historical side of music in the Big Easy? The Jazz Museum offers a unique experience to learn about the history of jazz music and its beginnings in New Orleans while watching live performances. With its location being where the French Quarter and Frenchmen Street meet, guests will be fully-immersed in New Orleans culture for their entire visit – and don’t forget that the Lanaux Mansion is just steps away from it all on Esplanade Avenue.

 

Visitors looking to enjoy local music while also enjoying a late-night meal can head to Buffa’s where the food may be the main event, but the live music rounds out the experience. 

 

Bakeries and Cafes

While New Orleans may be known for its savory flavors, it is a well-kept secret that it is also home to delicious sweet treats and bakeries. Enjoy breakfast or a light lunch at Bywater Bakery where local musicians will occasionally come play. 

 

Thanks to the French history of New Orleans, French pastries are a local favorite and can be enjoyed at Croissant D’Or Patisserie* or Petite Clouet Cafe. More sweet treats can be found at Who Dat Coffee Cafe* and Loretta’s Authentic Pralines.*

 

New to the Area

Since New Orleans is known for its cuisine, you’ll never want for options when it comes to your next meal. While there are many long-time favorites in the French Quarter and Marigny areas, new dining options open each year, and they are not to be missed. 

 

Those that are quickly becoming local favorites include Bisutoro on Magazine, Le Chat Noir, Margot’s, Peach Cobbler Factory, Dian Xin 2, Ayu Bakehouse*, and Breakaway’s R&R. Each of these offers a different cuisine type as well as varied dining experiences sure to please you on your next visit. 

 

 

Experience all of this and more when you stay at the Lanaux Mansion. We can’t wait to host you soon. Please feel free to reach out for further recommendations – it’s our pleasure!

 

 

*Walking distance to the Lanaux Mansion

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Fall in Love with New Orleans This Autumn

Autumn is a beautiful time to visit New Orleans. The cooler temperatures and beautiful scenery won’t disappoint, and you’ll be in the Crescent City during one of the most festive times of the year. Peruse our list below to add to your itinerary…or inspire you to plan your next visit!

 

Festivals Galore

 

Louisiana is known for its festivals, and autumn sparks a myriad of fests across the city. The Deutsches Haus will host Oktoberfest from September 24 to 25 and October 1 to 2, offering a large selection of German food, drinks, and music. 

 

From October 8 to 9, Gentilly Fest will offer all things “Gentilly”, a celebration of the historic neighborhood and culture. Both festivals are free to enter and will include great food, music, and games for a family-friendly atmosphere.

 

At the top of the month, enjoy every type of fried chicken the Big Easy has to offer on the lakefront from October 1 to 2 at Fried Chicken Fest. This fest guarantees great food and drinks, live music, and beautiful views of Lake Pontchartrain. 

 

As we enter mid-October, the fun continues at the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival from the 14th to the 16th. 

 

Both Fried Chicken Fest and the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival will ensure visitors enjoy much of what “The Big Easy” is known for. 

 

Even more of New Orleans culture will be in full swing at Treme Fall Fest on October 22. This festival presents all who attend with a fantastic opportunity to take part in a well-known tradition: the second line, which kicks off the festival as it winds through the Treme. 

 

Enjoying the Weather

 

Cooler temperatures make everyone wish to be outdoors more, and New Orleans boasts a variety of outdoor activities. Audubon Park provides visitors with a perfect picnic spot, a scenic walk along the Mississippi River, or a golfer’s paradise. 

 

Take in the beautiful sights and sounds of the city while enjoying the sunshine on a bike ride through historic neighborhoods across New Orleans. With 100 miles of bike paths, visitors can see all the city can offer at their own pace. Looking for a bike rental? Check out Blue Bikes for easy rentals at your fingertips. 

 

Looking for a water activity? Kayaking and paddle boarding on Bayou St. John are a local favorite for sunny days with a nice breeze. Kayaks and boards can be rented at one of the shops near the Bayou, and guided tours are also available. If sailing is more to your speed, Lake Pontchartrain connects to the bayou as well.

 

Those looking for a more relaxed option for enjoying the cooler temperatures should visit one of the city’s many outdoor beer gardens and breweries. A few we love to recommend are Urban South Brewery, Bayou Beer Garden, Bayou Wine Garden, Second Line Brewing, and Wrong Iron On The Greenway. 

 

Courtyard Dining 

 

What better way to enjoy a relaxing New Orleans evening than with fine cuisine at one of the city’s top-of-the-line restaurants? For a classic New Orleans dining experience, visit Bayona, The Elysian Bar*, Sylvain*, or Brennan’s. 

 

If you’re looking for a new twist on classic cuisine, visit Blue Oak BBQ, Cane and Table*, or Jewel of the South. These outdoor experiences fit any occasion from a casual meal to a celebratory upscale dinner. 

 

Fall weather also brings the beginning of oyster season, and we are famous for the variety of ways oysters can be eaten! From raw to chargrilled, dine on oysters at Drago’s Seafood Restaurant, Acme Oyster House, or The Blue Crab. Each of these local favorites boasts something unique, from oyster variety to seafood specials and live music.

 

This is only the beginning of the many wonderful things to do in New Orleans during this season. Don’t miss out on a beautiful time to visit! Give us a call when you’re ready to book, or visit https://secure.thinkreservations.com/thelanauxmansion/reservations. We can’t wait to host you! 

 

*Walking distance to the Lanaux Mansion

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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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