We went to New Orleans last year for Easter and it ended up being an unexpectedly colorful trip. I didn’t know much about NOLA beforehand but I came away loving the laid back vibe and wanting to make a tradition of it and go back every Easter. The weather in April was amazing and there was enough going on with celebrations and parades to feel like we were getting a true NOLA experience without the crazy crowds of Mardi Gras. We decided to stay in an Airbnb in Bywater (the green garden house below) and I'm so glad we chose that spot! It was just a short bike ride through the riverfront park to the French Quarter or any of the other NOLA sights, and couldn’t be any cuter with its bright bungalows and corner cafes. I’d definitely recommend it if you’re looking for a quieter place to sleep but still stay close to the action. You just can’t beat the charming character in Bywater. Stay in a shotgun house, or a modern victorian. Or this one that was featured on HGTV.
We stayed in a private two story guest cottage with a balcony and free bikes -direct link here. It's safe, clean and comfortable (not to mention adorable), and it has a full kitchen with plenty of room to spread out and make yourself at home. If you've never used Airbnb before, its a great way to get a feel for the neighborhood instead of feeling like a total tourist. Click here for my full New Orleans wishlist.
Top row is from Elizabeth's in the Bywater- really is a must for brunch. The praline candied bacon and bloody mary were amazing, and I loved my shrimp and grits too!
Bottom row images are from Frenchmen Art Market and I'd definitely recommend it for a nighttime activity. Frenchmen is such a fun area to explore by bike or foot, with tons of restaurants and local music, it's like a hip version of the French Quarter and it can easily keep you busy for hours.
Some of our favorites and my first attempt at a travel video below:
The Joint BBQ
Elizabeth's (praline bacon)
Satsuma (pancakes!)
Pizza Delicious (white pie)
Magazine Street
Frenchmen Street at nighttime/ Frenchmen Art Market
Take the 12th St streetcar and hop off explore the whole way
The Zoo has a fun NOLA swamp exhibit
The French Quarter, obviously! Catch a parade. Explore the shops. Admire the architecture.
Killer Poboys in the French Quarter
Cafe Du Monde for beignets and coffee
Lafayette Cemetary
One night you have to Uber to the French Quarter and get a Hand Grenade. Or a Hurricane. Or both.. ;)
Biking and taking the street car are the best ways to see it all
Shout out to all of the 12 year olds on youtube that make how to videos for us middle aged girls just trying to put together a little travel vlog. They make it seem so easy (but it's so not).