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Whether you are celebrating a birthday or simply needing to escape the hustle-and-bustle of everyday life, New Orleans will welcome you with open arms.

With endless options for places to dine, events to enjoy, and entertainment to soak up, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for in the Big Easy…and more.

Here’s a weekend itinerary for the ultimate celebratory getaway on your next trip to New Orleans!

 

Start Your Day

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and what better way to start than with a New Orleans classic?

Beignets, classic French pastries similar to donuts, from Cafe du Monde* at the French Market are sure to start your day with a touch of sweetness. 

Pair your breakfast with coffee with chicory, also available at Cafe du Monde* or other local favorites like French Truck Coffee.

If you’re looking for entertainment with your breakfast, allow the city’s brunch scene to wow you. Drag brunches like those hosted at Barrilleaux’s Restaurant and Wine Bar* and jazz brunches at The Court of Two Sisters, Brennan’s, or Arnaud’s will provide a delicious meal and an experience even more unforgettable than the cuisine!

 

Soak Up the Sun 

Depending on what time of year you visit, you’ll be able to take part in the many festivals and celebrations unique to New Orleans. With the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival in spring, Southern Decadence in summer, Oktoberfest in fall, and Mardi Gras in winter, there is never a shortage of good times to be had in the Big Easy.

And those are just the big names! Ask us for a list of festivals and events during the length of your stay – there’s always a reason we’re letting the good times roll.

Enjoy the sunny weather with a stroll or a bike ride down one of the many famous streets through New Orleans’ colorful neighborhoods. 

Admire the various styles of architecture, shop for local artwork, and listen to the music of the city as you roll down Frenchmen Street, St. Charles Avenue, or Royal Street. 

If the artwork draws you in, take part in an Arts Market, where you’ll find not only photographs and paintings but also live music, crafts, and culinary works. Satisfy all your senses while supporting our local artists.

Looking to imbibe in the afternoon? We’re known for our breweries, so you can’t go wrong with your own bar crawl featuring stops at local bars and breweries like Brieux Carre Brewing Co.* or Crescent City Brewhouse

 

An Evening to Remember

As your day winds down, the sunset brings different opportunities to see the city shine. Nightlife in New Orleans is unlike anywhere else.

After dining at one of our finest restaurants such as Tableau or Muriel’s Jackson Square, the good times will continue rolling with a craft cocktail or a glass of wine from a local bar or wine bar, such as Faubourg Wines or Effervescence

After dinner, catch a show at the theater! The Saenger Theater, the Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts, and the Orpheum Theater regularly host ballet troupes, traveling broadway shows, famous singers, and more that will capture your attention for the entire evening. 

When the theater winds down, become the star of the show yourself at late-night karaoke at The Cat’s Meow, a world famous karaoke bar or enjoy live music at one of the many music clubs on Frenchmen Street just around the corner from the Lanaux Mansion. 

But don’t forget… Your celebration isn’t complete without a sweet treat, so cap off the night with a slice of a freshly baked cake from a local bakery such as Croissant D’Or Pâtisserie*, Cypress Cakes*, or B Sweet Bistro. If cakes aren’t your treat of choice, visit Abbott’s Frozen Custard or Waffle Time for a different take on celebratory desserts. 

 

A Place to Rest

At the end of an exciting day of exploration, nothing will sound better than a comfortable and luxurious suite, and the historic Lanaux Mansion provides you with everything you need to feel rejuvenated to let the fun continue bright and early the next day.

Our Lanaux Two Bedroom Balcony Suite includes a king bed and a daybed in each room so you can bring your close friends or family with you to celebrate. With a multitude of sitting rooms and a private balcony, you will have plenty of space to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the city. You will also have a kitchenette with large paneled windows that will let all of the gorgeous sunshine in each morning, ushering each new day of your retreat.

If you require additional space for your guests, we offer a three-bedroom option that allows  access to the Lanaux Two Bedroom Balcony Suite as well as Ruthie’s Balcony Suite. This balcony suite comes with a luxurious queen bed, full-sized bathroom, kitchenette, and another private balcony. 

 

No matter what the occasion may be, we cannot wait to host you, and we know you will enjoy every aspect of our wonderful city. 

For more information or any additional recommendations, visit our website https://www.thelanauxmansion.com/ or call (504) 948-6119 today!

New Orleans has long been a romantic escape for couples. From intimate dining to cozy beds and breakfasts, the Crescent City offers something for anyone looking to celebrate their love. 

 

Here are just a few of our recommendations for a romantic stay in New Orleans.

 

Pamper Yourselves

 

The best way to start your romantic getaway? Book a trip to the spa to help you fully unwind from the hustle and bustle of travel. With the help of aromatherapy and massages, you will feel refreshed and ready to enjoy your escape from reality. 

 

Book a couple’s massage at a luxury day spa like Spa Atlantis or Woodhouse Spa, and allow yourselves to de-stress and be pampered together.

 

Once you’re relaxed, you’ll be ready to step out into the city and begin taking in all the wonder that is New Orleans.

 

Take a Tour

 

The beauty of New Orleans is all around. If you’d like to learn more about the city and her history, we recommend allowing an expert to show you the way. 

 

Tours are available on land, in the air, and on the water all to give you the best sights of the city. 

 

Take a walking tour for a leisurely stroll down the picturesque streets of the French Quarter. Whether you’d like to experience art, architecture, cuisine, or even ghost stories, you’ll find no shortage of tour options. The French Quarter is hailed as one of the most walkable areas in the city.

 

When you’re ready to venture out of the French Quarter, consider a bicycle tour. Guides are available, but you may also map out your own course. Either way, you’ll pass through beautiful neighborhoods, hearing music pouring into the streets from local jazz clubs as you coast down the streets of the city together.

 

Thinking bigger? Aerial tours and helicopter tours will show you the beauty of New Orleans from up in the clouds. Take in the famous locales and skyline from a unique perspective. The views will provide photos and memories you’ll never forget.

 

If you prefer to stay a little more grounded, visit Vue Orleans for a 360-degree panoramic view of the city combined with a look at our history, music, and culture included.

 

And last, but certainly not least, consider taking a riverboat tour along the Mississippi River. Take a ride on the Steamboat Natchez as you enjoy the view from the river, listening to live jazz music and sipping on classic New Orleans cocktails. 

 

Learn to Feast the New Orleans Way

 

New Orleans is home to a mixture of classic creole and cajun cuisine, and what better way to take a taste of it home with you than to learn how to make one of the city’s signature dishes such as gumbo or jambalaya? 

 

In classes taught by New Orleans School of Cooking, you can spend quality time together learning all the skills necessary to make these dishes (and enjoying them!) so you can relive your romantic getaway once you’re back home. 

 

New Orleans is also well-known for her signature cocktails, and at New Orleans Drink Lab, you’ll master the ways to make the best Hurricane or Sazerac, a perfect cure all for anytime you’re missing the tastes of New Orleans. 

 

Be Wined and Dined

 

After a day of touring and learning, a romantic dinner should be next on your list. While you’ll never find a lack of flavorful cuisine no matter where you dine, some of the city’s best cuisine can be found in her most romantic atmospheres.

 

Enjoy an intimate table for two at one of the many romantic restaurants that are steps away from the Lanaux Mansion, such as Cafe Sbisa*, Cane and Table*, and Doris Metropolitan*. 

 

Have a specific type of cuisine in mind? Please ask us for our recommendations!

 

And after your meal, venture to a local wine bar, such as Saint Germain or Patrick’s Bar Vin, and relax with a glass of wine in lush outdoor patios as the city comes alive.

 

Book a Romantic Stay

 

The most important part of your romantic getaway? Choosing the perfect place to rest after your explorations! 

 

When you’re exhausted after a day of music, fun, and food, let the Lanaux Mansion welcome you with a good night’s rest.

 

Take in the beautiful sunsets from your private balcony in Ruthie’s Balcony Suite. With a spacious living area, sunny kitchenette, and luxurious king bed, you will finish each day of your getaway in the height of comfort. 

 

If you are looking for a more secluded space, try Sophie’s Enchanted Cottage and private courtyard. After a day of venturing around the city, you can enter your hideaway through a private gate and kick your feet up. 

 

Everything you need is right here at the Lanaux Mansion, though we imagine you won’t be spending too much time inside. After all, you’re mere steps away from the city’s best entertainment, restaurants, and bars.

We love hosting couples at the Lanaux Mansion and cannot wait to welcome you to New Orleans. Contact us today to book: call (504) 948-6119 or email lanaux547@gmail.com.

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

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

 

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.