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There’s nothing quite like coasting alongside the Mississippi River on a breezy summer day, and the famous streetcars in New Orleans offer the perfect opportunity to feel the wind in your hair on a scenic ride to all our fair city has to offer.

Take a leisurely stroll down Esplanade Avenue from the front steps of the Lanaux Mansion to the French Market Station where the Riverfront Streetcar will take you to various historic parts of the city.

The streetcar runs every 20-30 minutes, so we encourage you to meander through the French Market as you make your way to the station!

 

Mississippi Riverfront

The Riverfront streetcar makes seven stops along the Mississippi River after it leaves the French Market Station.

The Dumaine Station stop is near Cafe du Monde, the beloved home to a traditional New Orleans dessert: the beignet. The Dumaine stop is also where you’ll find historic Jackson Square and the St. Louis Cathedral

Next, you’ll arrive at the Toulouse Station, just near the Steamboat Natchez, a favorite for enjoying live music and viewing the city’s skyline while afloat the mighty Mississippi River. 

 

Audubon Aquarium and Insectarium

Just before the tracks turn down Canal Street, the Riverfront streetcar will stop near the newly renovated Audubon Aquarium and Audubon Insectarium

Rated as one of the top 10 best aquariums in the nation, Audubon Aquarium is home to thousands of live animals, including more than those found underwater. With live penguin encounters, a touchpool with stingrays and sharks, and an entire exhibit with free-flying birds from the Amazon, you’ll find an abundance to learn and explore throughout the aquarium. 

Inside the same building that overlooks the Mississippi River is the Audubon Insectarium. Since reopening in June of 2023, the insectarium provides educational experiences centered around different insects and features a butterfly garden filled with hundreds of live butterflies. 

 

Canal Street

After the stop at the aquarium, hop on the streetcar to continue down Canal Street, a main thoroughfare that borders both the historic French Quarter and the New Orleans Central Business District.

With stops near prized New Orleans restaurants including GW Fins, Mr. B’s Bistro, Bayona, and Palace Cafe, you’ll find classic New Orleans dishes for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Along Canal Street, you can also visit the Saenger Theatre and the Orpheum Theater. Both theaters bring lively music and entertainment to the city, from Broadway Across America shows to well-known musicians and classic ballet performances. 

 

Loyola Avenue

The last leg of the Riverfront streetcar’s route will take you to stops near Champions Square where many parties and festivals are hosted, especially those relating to the sports teams hosted in New Orleans.

If you’re interested in New Orleans sports, take a walk through Champions Square for an up-close view of the Caesars Superdome and the Smoothie King Center, home to the New Orleans Saints and New Orleans Pelicans, respectively.

These famous arenas also host large concerts throughout the year, making the Lanaux Mansion a fantastic place to rest your head after a night of live music.

 

Your Home Away from Home

When you’re ready to head back to home base, the same streetcar will bring you right back to the Lanaux Mansion so you can relax and refresh for whatever is next on your list.

And no matter how many guests are traveling with you, we have plenty of room at the Mansion! 

Families will rest easy in our Lanaux Two-Bedroom Balcony Suite. With a luxurious king bed and a daybed in each room, your friends and family will find rest and comfort.

Every suite is also equipped with air conditioning, wireless internet, and smart TVs, so you can keep the good times rolling when you’re back from a busy day. 

Ready to book one of our suites? Visit https://www.thelanauxmansion.com/ or call us at (504) 948-6119. We’ll ensure your stay is as lovely and leisurely as a ride on our famous streetcars!

Warm breezes off of the Mississippi River, leisurely strolls shaded by magnolia trees, and streams of jazz music pouring out of restaurants: summer in New Orleans brings the meaning of “the Big Easy” to life. 

Whether your definition of vacation centers around enjoying delicious food, sipping on bubbly cocktails, or swing dancing to lively jazz music, summer in the Big Easy is all you need to wind down, enjoy, and relax.

 

New Orleans Jazz Museum

Music lovers everywhere know the importance of jazz to the city of New Orleans, and where better to experience the rhythms of the city than at the New Orleans Jazz Museum*! 

Take a short stroll from the Lanaux Mansion to the museum where you can explore exhibits dedicated to famous musicians and the specific instruments used to make our beloved signature music.  

The museum also hosts live performances from local jazz and funk artists in its courtyard, so you can enjoy the outdoor air while basking in the sounds that define the spirit of the city.

Visit the museum’s website to learn more about the myriad events hosted there throughout the summer. Chances are, you’ll find something great to add to your visit. 

 

Tales of the Cocktail

New Orleans is home to many of the world’s most adored cocktail bars, and many beloved mixed drinks have been invented here. It’s only fitting that the Big Easy should host one of the world’s largest events for cocktail enthusiasts. Tales of the Cocktail, a week-long conference taking place each July, features over 300 workshops, seminars, and tastings centering around the art of crafting cocktails. 

Sip and savor the flavors of various drinks, and learn how they’re made in the city that knows how to raise a glass!

 

Coolinary

Each August, famous local restaurants throughout the city take part in the Coolinary tradition. 

These restaurants offer prix-fixe menus with two- and three-course options set at the same prices across each restaurant, allowing you to indulge in the various cuisines New Orleans is known for while remaining budget-friendly. 

This tradition is known as a way for local chefs to “compete” to see who can put together the best menu for a set price. That spirit of competition creates a setting in which the dishes they prepare never leave you disappointed.

Many of the city’s top and most well-known restaurants participate each year, such Dickie Brennan’s Tableau*, Saint John*, and The Elysian Bar.* For a complete list of restaurants taking part this year, visit the Coolinary website.

 

Satchmo Summerfest

On August 5th and 6th in historic Jackson Square,* the spirit of jazz comes alive to celebrate the life and legacy of one of our most beloved musicians: Louis Armstrong. This weekend-long festival has hosted some of the most well-known New Orleans musicians, such as Kermit Ruffins and the Preservation Hall Brass Band. 

In addition to live music, Satchmo Summerfest boasts educational lectures about Armstrong and his contributions to jazz music and the city’s history. 

From the Mansion, take a leisurely walk down Decatur Street, Chartres Street, or North Peters Street to this lively celebration honoring a pioneer in the genre that continues to inspire New Orleans traditions.

 

A Place to Relax

Before a day of fun and exploring, you’ll want to wake up feeling refreshed and ready, and the Lanaux Mansion has all that you need. 

With deluxe rooms and suites fitted with every amenity for your comfort and convenience, you’ll have all the energy you need for attending festivals and events that are steps away from our front door.

Whether you’re traveling alone or with a group, we have plenty of space for you in the Mansion! Couples will rest easy in our courtyard suites: Sophie’s Enchanted Cottage and the Wieland Suite. Both contain kitchenettes, renovated private bathrooms, and quaint sitting areas in addition to sharing a courtyard where you can gather to unwind together. Sophie’s Cottage even has a private fountain courtyard for your exclusive enjoyment!

 

Looking for more information about our various suites? Visit www.thelanauxmansion.com, or call us at (504) 948-6119 today. 

It will be our pleasure to make your stay in the Big Easy as warm and welcoming as the summer breezes!

 

 

*Walking distance to the Lanaux Mansion

The month of May might technically fall in the springtime, but you’ll feel the call of summer from our balconies as a warm breeze floats by, and suddenly – you’re ready for summer festivities!

Lucky for you, New Orleans was built to help you unwind and enjoy her culture, and May is only the beginning of the fun… Because once May is underway, it’s officially festival season! 

Whether you envision sitting back and listening to local jazz or enjoying the local cuisine that the city is known for, you’ll find a myriad of reasons to start your summer in the Big Easy.

 

Bayou Boogaloo

Kicking off May 19th and running through the weekend, Bayou Boogaloo brings a weekend-long experience for all ages and interests along Bayou St. John. With local musicians and food from local vendors, there is plenty to experience throughout the weekend at Bayou Boogaloo. 

This is a family-friendly experience with a child-friendly stage as well as an arts and crafts tent with adult-led activities for children of all ages, making it a perfect outing for a family trip.

Each year, locals and tourists alike take advantage of the waterfront festivities, bringing their own  kayaks, rafts, canoes, and creative floatation devices to enjoy the sights and sounds while floating down the bayou. Nothing embodies “the Big Easy” quite like relaxing on the water while accompanied by the rhythms of live music. 

 

New Orleans Wine and Food Experience

With delectable cuisine and carefully crafted beverages, the first weekend of June brings the annual New Orleans Wine and Food Experience to life.

Beginning June 7th, local chefs, winemakers, and performers curate menus, events, and shows to showcase the best of what New Orleans has to offer. 

With a variety of events throughout the city, every palate and passion will be delighted. The experience boasts wine tastings, drink-making classes, pool parties, specialty brunches, pizza- and pasta-making lessons, and educational classes focusing on cuisine-related topics. 

Even more impressive? These classes and events take place at some of the most historic and well-known venues in the city, such as Generations Hall and the Orpheum Theater, allowing you to indulge in not just the flavors of the city but in the history and architecture as well. 

 

New Orleans Pride Weekend

While Pride is celebrated through the entire month of June, the weekend of June 10th is especially jubilant as the beloved PrideFest at Phoenix Bar* and the Pride Parade* each take place this weekend, just steps away from the Lanaux Mansion. 

This particular weekend will also include the games, dancing, parties, and a crawfish boil hosted at various establishments throughout the city. 

In addition to all of the fun, Pride events also aim to give back to the community through blood drives and building houses through Habitat for Humanity. New Orleans is a city that embodies celebrating who you are and the people who make the city what it is, and Pride only amplifies that feeling by honoring a special community within the city.

 

French Market Creole Tomato Festival

The celebrations and fun continue the weekend of June 10th at the Creole Tomato Festival, dedicated to the delicious taste of locally-grown tomatoes. 

Take a short stroll down Esplanade Avenue from the doors of the Lanaux Mansion to the foot of the French Market to enjoy live music and mouth-watering dishes featuring the creole tomato. 

You’ll walk away with memories sweeter than the creole tomatoes you feast on!

 

Restaurant Week New Orleans

Cap off the month of June with a local favorite: Restaurant Week

During the week of June 19th, restaurants throughout the city will feature special menus and discounts so that you can taste all the flavors of the city. 

Many of New Orleans’ most notable restaurants take part, including Muriel’s Jackson Square*, Tujague’s, and Felix’s Oyster Bar. For the most up-to-date list of this year’s participating restaurants and their special menus, visit the Restaurant Week website.

 

After the Festivals

Of course, following your exciting days of festing, you’ll need a place to rest your dancing feet.  And at the Lanaux Mansion, you’ll be in the height of comfort – with easy accessibility to all New Orleans has to offer.

For one to two guests, we recommend the Wieland Suite, our largest one-bedroom suite fit with everything you will need after a busy day. With vaulted ceilings, a large kitchenette, and access to our main courtyard, you will feel relaxed with every modern comfort you could want including wifi, a smart TV, and air conditioning. 

 

Need more information about all of our deluxe rooms and suites? Looking to host additional guests during festival season?

Visit https://www.thelanauxmansion.com/ or call us at (504) 948-6119 today. 

We will be happy to help bring you one step closer to a magnificent stay in the Big Easy!

 

 

*Walking distance to the Lanaux Mansion

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!