by Jay

What to Do in the French Quarter in April

What to Do in the French Quarter in April

Don’t spread this around too much, but April might just be the best time to visit New Orleans. The city has recovered from its massive Mardi Gras hangover, crawfish season is in full, spicy swing, and the weather is just about as perfect as it gets, with average highs hovering in the mid-70s.

If that’s not incentive enough, April is a month jam-packed with music, food, parades, festivals… You know, all the stuff that makes New Orleans so New Orleans. Best of all? You don’t have to venture outside the French Quarter to enjoy the best the city has to offer, and many of these events don’t cost a dime.

Just bring a sense of joie de vivre and let the good times roll!

Hogs for the Cause – March 31 – April 1, 2023

Still going strong after 15 years, Hogs for the Cause is an annual fundraiser with plenty of BBQ, live music, and family-friendly fun. Held at the UNO Lakefront Arena, with plenty of room to accommodate the crowds.

Crescent City Classic – April 8, 2023

Yes, the Crescent City Classic is a 10k that attracts top athletes from around the world, but it’s so much more than a road race. Even if your idea of a workout is walking from Cafe du Monde to Pat O’Brien’s, you owe it to yourself to check out the race, festival, music and people who have made the Crescent City Classic a New Orleans institution for close to 40 years.

You can run, walk, dance, or push a stroller down all or part of its scenic route, which loops from the Superdome, through the Quarter and up Esplanade Avenue before ending in a party in City Park. Or you can sit on the sidelines, cheer on the participants and ask yourself how it’s possible for so many people to run while drinking and wearing a full bunny costume. Either way, traditionally held the day before Easter Sunday, the Crescent City Classic is a spectacle not to be missed.

Easter Sunday Parades – April 9, 2023

Easter is a time for celebration, chocolate bunnies and church services, but in New Orleans, it’s decidedly over the top. Wear your finest pastels, florals, seersucker, and hats (the bigger the better) and you’ll fit right in at the city’s three Easter parades.

They kick off at 9:45 a.m., when The Historic French Quarter Easter Parade rolls from Antoine’s Restaurant (713 St. Louis St.) to St. Louis Cathedral for 11 a.m. mass.

After that, things take a turn for the campy with the Chris Owens French Quarter Easter Parade, which celebrates the late Bourbon Street’s reigning queen. It rolls from Canal and Bourbon streets at 1 p.m.

Finally, the Gay Easter Parade closes down the celebrations at 5:30 p.m., with floats, throws and dancers galore. Celebrate good times, come on!

French Quarter Festival – April 13-16, 2023

It’s the largest free music festival in the South, when more than 1,700 musicians take over 23 stages scattered throughout the Vieux Carre and commence to rock out. There’s a preponderance of jazz, zydeco, New Orleans funk, brass bands… Pretty much every form of music native to Louisiana and the Delta gets a chance to shine in front of more than 760,000 attendees. Wear sunscreen and comfortable shoes, because you’ll be doing a lot of walking from stage to stage (not to mention dancing).

Crawfest – April 22, 2023

You probably guessed it right: It’s a festival that revolves around crawfish, but it also comes with music and other kinds of food. It’s an annual festival held on Tulane’s Uptown campus.

New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival – April 28-May 7, 2023

If you’re coming to New Orleans during the last weekend in April, you probably already know about the granddaddy of all music festivals, Jazz Fest. From contemporary arena-filling rock stars and rap gods to pop princesses and living legends, the festival covers every musical base as it takes over the Fair Grounds Race Course (1751 Gentilly Blvd.). This year’s lineup is stellar, as it is every year.

And of course, there’s a hearty assortment of Louisiana acts at the stages. Don’t leave without feasting on food as well as music — crawfish bread, po-boys, muffulettas, boiled seafood, red beans and rice, and more are all for sale. Pro tip: Tent a bike to cruise right up to the gates — it’s an easy 3.4-mile ride — and wear rubber boots and a poncho if it rains. (You’ll thank us when the dirt race tracks turn to knee-deep mud.)

Wednesday at the Square – every Wednesday in April

This is the free spring concert series held on Lafayette Square from March through May in the CBD. Proceeds from food and beverage sales benefit the Young Leadership Council’s community projects. Check the event’s website for this year’s lineup.

by Jay

Celebrating Easter Sunday in the French Quarter

Celebrating Easter Sunday in the French Quarter

As a historically Catholic city, New Orleans takes Lent seriously. New Orleans also loves a good parade. Naturally, breaking the 40-plus days of fasting and the arrival of spring are great reasons to catch a parade, show off your bonnet, and feast on some Gulf seafood.

If you’re lucky enough to be staying in the French Quarter for Easter weekend, you can celebrate the end of Lent with three parades, Catholic masses, special Easter brunches, and an Easter Bonnet contest. Here’s a quick rundown of the things you can do on Easter Sunday in the French Quarter (April 9, 2023).

The Parades

Three groups parade annually through the French Quarter and downtown on Easter Sunday. The Historic French Quarter Easter Parade leaves from Antoine’s Restaurant at 9:45 a.m. and proceeds to St. Louis Cathedral for 11 a.m. mass. The riders, clad in their best Easter attire, ride in convertibles and carriages, handing out stuffed Easter bunnies, candy, and other theme-appropriate throws along the way. After mass, the parade slowly weaves its way back to Antoine’s.

The French Quarter Easter Parade rolls at 1 p.m. from St. Louis and Royal streets. The one and only Chris Owens traditionally helmed the parade as the Grand Duchess until her passing in 2022, but the organizers chose to go on in her memory. Expect colorful floats, marching bands, whimsical bonnets, and plenty of throws.

The annual Gay Easter Parade celebrates the city’s LGBTQIA+ community and benefits the Food for Friends charity. It starts at 5:30 p.m. on N. Rampart St. by the Armstrong Park arch and continues to St. Ann, Bourbon, and Esplanade. With stops at some bars along the way, the parade makes it back to N. Rampart for the after-party.

The Easter Bonnet Contest at Good Friends Bar at the corner of Dauphine and St. Ann streets is open to all participants, and spectators decide on the winners. A tall order every year, as the entries are often fabulous and wildly creative.

Brunch

What’s better than marking the end of Lent with a multi-course Cajun/Creole brunch? Many French Quarter restaurants offer a special Easter menu buffet-style or as a sit-down prix fixe option.

Since it’s a family tradition for many, reservations are highly recommended. (You can check the list of participating restaurants and make a reservation via OpenTable.)

Here are our five top Easter Sunday brunch recommendations.

The Bombay Club (830 Conti St.)

Start your Easter Sunday right with a cocktail and eggs in this elegant restaurant located at the back of the Prince Conti Hotel. The extensive Easter brunch menu runs the gamut from lighter fare to the more substantial and New Orleans-focused. Check with the restaurant for this year’s Easter brunch menu.

Antoine’s Restaurant (713 St. Louis St.)

Antoine’s holiday brunch menu will render you speechless with its baked oysters, Gulf shrimp, and other top-notch, Louisiana-centric delights. Top it off with either pecan bread pudding or strawberry mousse. Brunch includes one complimentary Mimosa. Check with the restaurant for this year’s Easter brunch menu.

Arnaud’s (813 Bienville St.)

In the years past, Arnaud’s Easter brunch menu was prix fixe and highlighted the best of the regional cuisine could offer, such as smoked duck, Andouille and oyster gumbo for starters. Let’s hope that this year one of the appetizer offerings will again include the signature Shrimp Arnaud: Gulf shrimp marinated in Creole remoulade. Check with the restaurant for this year’s Easter brunch menu.

Red Fish Grill (115 Bourbon St.)

On Easter Sunday, you’ll typically find a family-style Easter buffet with dishes like alligator sausage and seafood gumbo, crawfish etouffee, Creole potato salad, BBQ shrimp, oysters, pickled crawfish, and a carving station (just to name a few options). The kids’ buffet usually offers child-friendly versions of the above and a sundae bar. Check with the restaurant for this year’s Easter brunch menu.

Steamboat Natchez Easter Jazz Brunch Cruise (Toulouse St./boardwalk)

The two-hour Mississippi River cruise with live music by The Steamboat Stompers includes a buffet and reserved seating. Kids can meet the Easter Bunny aboard the steamboat. Check with the restaurant for this year’s Easter brunch menu.

Mass

Church services on Easter Sunday start early and continue throughout the day. You can see every year’s schedule on the Archdiocese of New Orleans website. For a truly unique experience, consider a stroll to Jackson Square to hear the bells of St. Louis Cathedral and mingle with the revelers in their Easter finery.

St. Louis Cathedral usually has a mass at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., and 12:30 p.m., and remains open between services. The majestic Our Lady of Guadalupe (411 N. Rampart St.) also offers Easter mass throughout the day, including at least one in Spanish.

by Jay

The Top 10 Landmarks Near Our French Quarter Hotel

The Top 10 Landmarks Near Our French Quarter Hotel

When it comes to travel with a twist of magic and adventure, it doesn’t get much better than exploring the French Quarter on foot. It’s the heart and soul of New Orleans, a testament to its colorful past — a richly woven tapestry of different cultures, cuisines, musical notes, and its everlasting joie de vivre — still manifested ’round the clock in so many unique ways.

Whether you’re on a quest to sample a savory Creole dish, dance the night away to a brass band, stroll the streets to admire the exquisite wrought-iron architectural details, or take in an eclectic street performance — this one-of-a-kind place has them in spades and pretty much around every corner.

While it’s easy to come up with a longer list of must-see landmarks in a city this old and colorful, here are our top 10 recommendations, all located within walking distance from each other in the French Quarter. There’s only one exception — Frenchmen Street is located in Faubourg Marigny, right outside the French Quarter.

1. Jackson Square (751 Decatur Street)

This timeless landmark is located in the heart of the French Quarter. Known since the 18th century as Place d’Armes, it was renamed in honor of Andrew Jackson following the 1815 Battle of New Orleans. Jackson’s bronze statue is the focal point of the square, surrounded by lavish flora and facing the Mississippi River.

Jackson Square is also a host to the open-air artist market and performance space, with local art displayed along the fence. You can have your sketch done, dance to a brass band, or have your fortune told. Carriage rides are offered in front of the square. When you cross the street to the riverside, you’ll find the French Market, Cafe du Monde, and Shops at Jax Brewery.

2. St. Louis Cathedral (615 Pere Antoine Alley)

St. Louis Cathedral is the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic Cathedral in the United States. It stands between its two historic neighbors, the Cabildo and the Presbytere, overlooking Jackson Square and the block-long row of the Pontalba Buildings. St. Louis Cathedral is one of the most instantly recognizable buildings in the world, its famous steeples showing up on many a postcard and in quite a few films.

The Cathedral-Basilica of St. Louis King of France was built in 1724 and had been rebuilt twice after a hurricane and a fire. It was dedicated in 1794 and has enjoyed an illustrious and eventful history. One of its most famous caretakers was Pere Antoine, a popular Capuchin priest who had been pastor of the Cathedral from 1785 to 1790 and again from 1795 to the time of his death in 1829.

You can check out the Cathedral’s stunning interior during its hours of operation, and attend a mass or a music concert. If you’re just passing by, depending on the time of day, you may get to hear its bell or witness an occasional wedding party spilling out of the Cathedral, followed by a second line.

3. The Cabildo and The Presbytere (701 & 751 Chartres St., Jackson Square)

General admission to either: $10

Did you know that the 1803 Louisiana Purchase was signed at The Cabildo? This historic building served as the seat of government during the Spanish colonial rule, and was built to replace the building claimed by the fire in 1794. Standing tall right next to St. Louis Cathedral, The Cabildo is now part of the Louisiana State Museum. It houses such precious artifacts as a painting of Marie Laveau by Frank Schneider; a self-portrait by Julien Hudson, an antebellum artist and free man of color; and Napoleon’s death mask, one of only four in the world.

On the other side of St. Louis cathedral is The Presbytere, which was built in 1791 in the style to match The Cabildo. It’s called “Presbytere” because it was built on the site of one, which served as a residence for Capuchin monks. The building served as a courthouse in the late 19th century and is now also part of the Louisiana State Museum, just like The Cabildo.

The Presbytere houses several permanent exhibits, including these two standouts. The magnificent “Mardi Gras: It’s Carnival Time in Louisiana” tells the story of the Carnival traditions in Louisiana, including Cajun Courir de Mardi Gras, Zulu coconut throws, 19th-century Rex ball costumes, and much more. “The Living with Hurricanes: Katrina and Beyond” exhibit documents the natural disaster, its aftermath, and the ongoing recovery with interactive displays and artifacts.

4. French Market (2 French Market Place)

French Market was founded in 1791 as a Native American trading post and has been operating continually since, making it the oldest public market in the country. Similar in structure to a traditional European market, this open-air mall covers roughly five blocks, from Cafe du Monde on Decatur St. across from Jackson Square to the daily flea market at the end of Esplanade Avenue.

Many retail shops and restaurants surround it in every direction. The flea market area hosts dozens of local artisans, plus vendors from all over the world. You’ll find souvenirs, handmade masks and jewelry, t-shirts, music, and more.

French Market also includes a small pedestrian plaza on Dumaine and St. Phillip streets called Dutch Alley. The food stands at the Farmers Market Pavilion offer a slew of spices, produce and local food that is uniquely New Orleans — from pralines to oysters to the beignet mix or the hot sauce you’d want to take home. The Farmers Market also hosts an annual Creole Tomato Festival to celebrate its harvest.

5. The Riverfront (1 Toulouse Street)

You can access the mile-long riverfront very easily from the Jackson Square area. There you will find grassy Woldenberg Park and a walkway called the Moonwalk, named after the former New Orleans mayor Maurice “Moon” Landrieu.

Woldenberg Park is a popular spot to watch the 4th of July fireworks. It also hosts one of the largest stages during the annual French Quarter Festival, which takes place in the spring.

Stroll along the Moonwalk to view public art, like the Holocaust Memorial, and watch the boats go by. The Riverwalk is also home to two popular family-friendly attractions, the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas and the Entergy IMAX Theater.

6. Bourbon Street, French Quarter

That much is true: Bourbon Street is home to one of the wildest nightly street parties in the country. It’s well known for its karaoke and burlesque clubs, bars that never seem to close, and crowds milling about round the clock. This endless party vibe makes Bourbon Street a great destination for your bachelor party, a girls’ night out, spring break, a couple’s getaway — and any other cause for celebration.

It is also one of the oldest streets in the country, a vivid example of Spanish colonial architecture dating back to 1798 and steeped in history, magic and legends. And it’s home to the city’s most iconic destinations like Galatoire’s and The Old Absinthe House. One of the best jazz clubs in the country, if not the world, also has a Bourbon Street address. Fritzel’s European Jazz Pub is located in the historic 1831 building and hosts live, traditional jazz performances nightly, attracting jazz aficionados from all over the globe.

7. Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop (941 Bourbon Street)

This ancient, at least by North American standards, the bar is housed in a Creole cottage on the corner of Bourbon and St. Philip streets. Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop was built between 1722 and 1732, and it’s said to be the oldest structure used as a bar in the U.S.

It’s also said to have been used by the infamous Lafitte Brothers, Jean and Pierre, as a base for their smuggling operation in Barataria, operating as a facade for the privateers. We won’t likely know the truth beyond the legend, but the bar is dripping in magic and history, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

8. Museum at the Old Ursuline Convent (1100 Chartres Street)

$8 general admission

The Old Ursuline Convent was built in 1752, which makes it the oldest surviving example of the French colonial period in the country, circa Louis XV. The building first served as a convent for the Ursuline nuns, and then, as centuries ticked on, it had been, at some point: a school, an archbishop’s and priests’ residence, archdiocesan offices/archives, and is now part of the Catholic Cultural Heritage Center of the Archdiocese of New Orleans.

9. Royal Street, French Quarter

Only one block away, running parallel to Bourbon Street, Royal Street presents a very different scene — a mix of performance art, live music on the corners, eclectic art galleries, funky boutiques, and upscale antique shops. The French Quarter part of Royal Street stretches for 13 blocks, from Esplanade Avenue to Canal Street, and the stretch between St. Louis and St. Ann streets is a pedestrian mall closed to traffic from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays and till 7 p.m. on weekends.

The scenic street is also known for its wrought-iron balconies and other charming architectural details and lush courtyards, including those featured by the street’s many restaurants. Consider having a leisurely break at Cafe Beignet, or Bananas Foster in Brennan’s stunning outdoor seating area.

Among the notable art galleries are Harouni, 933 Royal St., featuring the artist’s own work; and George Rodrique Studios, 730 Royal St., with his ubiquitous Blue Dog paintings on display.

As for shopping for antiques, from exquisite chandeliers to rare 17th-century furniture to fine art and jewelry, Royal Street also got you covered. M.S. Rau Antiques, 630 Royal St., for instance, is considered one of the best destinations in the world for antique shopping.

10. Frenchmen Street, Marigny

Frenchmen Street‘s three-block area has one of the best and most densely packed live-music venues and restaurants in the city. It’s located in Faubourg Marigny, right next to the French Quarter, featuring more than 20 bars and clubs, plus a night art market, a smattering of diverse restaurants, and live music on street, especially at night. Jazz, brass, funk, DJs — you name it — and it’s playing on the corner somewhere on Frenchmen.

Some of the city’s best clubs are located on Frenchmen and offer live music seven nights a week, day and night. The Maison, for example, has three floors and a packed late-night show calendar, plus New Orleans classics on its food menu. Dragon’s Den offers a diverse and eclectic mix of music on its two live music stages, plus the lure of a courtyard and a balcony for a more relaxed experience.

Marigny Brasserie‘s outdoor seating is as elegant as it is perfect for people-watching. Three Muses and Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro are the dinner-and-a-show kinds of places that focus on Creole and regional cooking, and d.b.a.‘s roster of world-famous musicians who have played there is legendary.

For smaller venues and a more intimate ambiance, you can try The Spotted Cat or the cozy, divey Apple Barrel. Finally, top off all the blues and funk with Adolfo’s Creole Italian cooking, from a tiny old-school restaurant directly above the Apple Barrel.

When you’re done with the hustle and the bustle of the French Quarter and the Marigny, have a handcrafted cocktail at The Bombay Club or a bite to eat at Cafe Conti at the Prince Conti Hotel. Although it’s located in the heart of the historical French Quarter, just steps away from its most exciting sights and destinations, Prince Conti offers a quiet respite from it all, an oasis with an elegant yet relaxed vibe.

by Jay

9 Reasons to Stay at the Prince Conti Hotel in the New Orleans French Quarter

Located comfortably in the heart of the New Orleans French Quarter, the charming Prince Conti Hotel is just steps away from all the fun and excitement the city has to offer. Despite its proximity to the 24/7 action, Prince Conti Hotel offers a quiet respite from it all, an oasis with an elegant yet relaxed vibe. Read on to discover why the Prince Conti Hotel is an ideal choice for travelers of any group size, who want to stay in the French Quarter during their visit to New Orleans.

1. Modern Amenities Combined With Old-World Elegance

Our historic hotel is a cool oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter, featuring an old-world southern atmosphere yet with modern amenities. The hotel is housed in a historic 19th-century townhouse, which sports a carriageway and plenty of European charm. Some of its rooms feature exposed brick, and recent renovations updated the amenities and the interior’s rich colors and moldings, adding touches of opulence and the classic New Orleans charm.

There are five room types, with either a king or a queen bed, and we also have rooms with two queen beds. The petite room is well-appointed and offers great value. If you treasure your privacy and are sensitive to noise, the windowless interior room with two queen beds also offers great value and all the peace and quiet you need. Our beautiful deluxe room offers a little more space and features elegant decor. The junior suite, with its sitting area, and the suite rooms with a separate elegant parlor, offer the most space.

We welcome groups of all kinds, too, including meetings, tour groups, conventioneers, family reunions, couples, and wedding groups at our convenient French Quarter location!

2. Martinis and Live Music on the Premises

Guests of the Prince Conti Hotel don’t have to walk far to experience the elegant yet relaxed atmosphere and outstanding New Orleans cuisine. The hotel houses The Bombay Club Bar & Restaurant, a classic New Orleans favorite featuring creative cocktails and bar bites. The Bombay Club is tucked away in the carriageway at the back of the hotel. There you will find nightly live music, including jazz and cabaret performers, an inventive menu (think British with a Cajun twist), and the largest selection of martinis in the city.

In the morning and afternoon hours, dine in style at the Cafe Conti, also located in the Prince Conti Hotel. Serving a variety of breakfast and lunch fare daily, Cafe Conti’s menu gives special attention to Creole and French cuisine.

3. Prime Location in the Heart of the French Quarter

The Prince Conti Hotel is also very close to a plethora of renowned historic sites and fun destinations. The always-hopping Bourbon Street is only a block away, and the historic St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square are six blocks away.

The shopping and dining destinations of Canal and Royal streets are close by, and the museums and world-class restaurants of the CBD are a short ride away. New Orleans is also known for its exciting nightlife, and the Prince Conti Hotel puts you close to some of the best nightlife destinations, like Harrah’s New Orleans Casino, Pat O’Brien’s, House of Blues, and more.

4. Easy Access to Other Neighborhoods 

Just outside the Quarter, not far from Prince Conti, you’ll find a wealth of nearby neighborhoods with their own distinctive character. You can bar-hop to live music in the Marigny, hit the many museums and art galleries of the Arts District, get a crash course in Tremé history at the Backstreet Cultural Museum, ride the historic St. Charles Avenue streetcar into the majestic splendor or the Garden District, or walk or bike along the Mississippi from the Marigny to the Bywater through Crescent Park.

5. Navigation Is a Breeze

You can pretty much walk to all of your destinations in the French Quarter from the hotel as the terrain is flat, the area is just 78 square blocks, and the street layout makes sense and is easy to navigate. The next best thing would be to bike or hail a pedicab.

Everything you’ll need in terms of dining, shopping, sightseeing, and entertainment in the French Quarter and nearby will be within walking distance from the Prince Conti Hotel. You don’t even have to venture far from the hotel as Conti Street, on which the hotel is located, has a few great bars and restaurants of its own. And if you want to go outside the Quarter, try a cab or rideshare, or the streetcar.

Another option is the Hop-On Hop-Off double-decker bus tours by City Sightseeing. They run every 30 minutes on a two-hour loop; the unlimited one-day pass is $46 for adults and $10 for kids under 12. To hop on the historic St. Charles Avenue streetcar, walk to Canal and Carondelet streets (directly across Canal from Bourbon St. in the French Quarter) and look for the iconic green car. It’s only $1.25 one way (exact change only, passes are also available).

6. Festivals Near You, Year-Round

From major music and cultural events to festivals that honor just about every local food there is, New Orleans celebrates life like no other city. From the fabulously unique traditions like Reveillon and Super Sunday to the Saints football season, the city doesn’t stop eating, drinking, and celebrating.

Cooler temps and the seemingly endless slew of food, drink, and music festivals are on tap in the fall in New Orleans, starting over the Labor Day weekend with the massive and fabulous Southern Decadence, a popular festival that celebrates LGBTQIA+ with block parties, shows, and a parade. The fun continues with the New Orleans Burlesque Festival, with performers from all over the world competing for the title of “Queen of Burlesque.”

Closing the month of September are the ever-expanding National Fried Chicken Festival at the Lakefront, the Beignet Festival at the City Park Festival Grounds, and NOLA on Tap Beer Fest Lafreniere Park, the largest fundraiser for the Louisiana SPCA and the largest beer fest in the area, with more than 400 beer offerings from the local and national breweries and homebrewers.

October is pretty heavy on festivals as well: The Crescent City Blues and BBQ Festival happens then, plus the New Orleans Film Festival, which is one of the largest film festivals in the South and is the longest-running festival of its kind in the state.

New Orleans does Halloween like no other city, so if you’re lucky to be visiting around that time, consider any of the balls, costume parties, parade, haunted tours, and a huge block party on Frenchmen Street! The kid-friendly parade called Krewe of Boo rolls through the French Quarter, courtesy of Kern Studios, and there are many more Halloween activities around the city happening in the couple weeks leading up to Halloween that your children will love.

Then, of course, there’s Voodoo Music + Arts Experience, a mammoth outdoor music festival that takes over City Park with the national headliners, art installations, and throngs of partiers in their Halloween finery. The festival took a pause during the pandemic but plans to return.

November brings another food festival, the Oak Street Po-Boy Festival. Marching on, Thanksgiving at the Fair Grounds Race Course is a long-standing New Orleans tradition of turning out at the track on Thanksgiving Day to watch the opening-day races while sporting cocktails and some seriously fabulous hats. Next, there’s Bayou Classic, a fan fest, a parade, the battle of the bands, and, of course, the big game at the Superdome between Southern University and Grambling State University.

The beloved Celebration in the Oaks kicks off the holiday season with a dazzling holiday lights festival scattered throughout the 25 acres of the City Park, including the Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park.

There’s a whole slew of events that accompany Christmastime in the Crescent City, from bonfires on the Algiers levies to concerts at St. Louis Cathedral to the family-friendly NOLA ChristmasFest to Reveillon menus at some of the city’s classic Creole restaurants.

But surely one of the most pleasurable things you can do during the winter holidays in New Orleans is simply strolling through the French Quarter, marveling at the light displays that are hung from wrought iron fences and elegant European-style balconies. The streetcars are decked with wreaths, and the city is alight with the holiday sparkle, including at the annual LUNA Fête that brings large-scale light and sound installations to the Convention Center.

The New Year’s Eve celebrations in New Orleans include the Dick Clark Rockin’ New Year’s Eve at the historic Jax Brewery in the French Quarter, with a fleur-de-lis drop at midnight to the countdown on Jackson Square, quite a few balcony parties on and around Bourbon Street, and the fireworks over the Mississippi River.

The first day of the carnival season, known as Twelfth Night, or the Epiphany, kicks off every year with three parades, marking the beginning of the Mardi Gras season, which culminates every year on Fat Tuesday anytime between February 3 and March 9.

The lovely weather and the endless festivals continue this time of year with Wednesday at the Square; Tremé Creole Gumbo Festival, the Tennessee Williams Literary Festival (don’t miss the “Stella!” shouting contest); the Mid-City’s own Bayou Boogaloo, held on the picturesque banks of Bayou St. John; and, of course, the two heavy hitters and the reason so many visitors come to New Orleans in the spring — the French Quarter Fest and Jazz Fest.

St. Patrick’s Day and Easter are subject to more celebration, with multiple parades and parties. Finally, the Mardi Gras Indians Super Sunday is a treasured tradition dating back to the 19th century and held on the Sunday closest to St. Joseph’s Day, which gets its own unique celebration across the Catholic churches and even private homes in the city with the beautifully appointed altars (the Italian-Sicilian contribution to New Orleans’ rich cultural tapestry).

Summer is also packed with events, despite the heat and humidity. Want to cross an iconic New Orleans restaurant off your bucket list? There’s no time like Restaurant Week New Orleans, during which dozens of participating restaurants, from the James Beard luminaries to the new hotspots to the Creole grand dames offer set course menus at a deep discount. The best restaurants and bars in town celebrate Tales of the Cocktail in July, and COOLinary New Orleans with prix fixe menus in August. You can also browse the galleries on the White Linen Night (or its spin-off of sorts, the Dirty Linen Night).

The city comes to life for the Satchmo SummerFest and a slew of events over the Fourth of July and the Labor Day weekends, like Go 4th on the River, and the Essence Festival at the Superdome. The Running of the Bulls brings Encierro to New Orleans, except the bulls are the Big Easy Rollergirls.

And that’s just a taste of what’s going on in New Orleans year-round!

7. Unique Shopping Opportunities

Gifts and souvenirs as distinctive as New Orleans itself can be found in many local shops, and several of the best are in or near the Quarter, not far from the Prince Conti Hotel, including the gift shop at Basin Street Station, the French Market, or the many vintage boutiques and clothing shops throughout the Quarter (there’s a high concentration on Chartres Street in particular).

8. Non-Stop Music

Want to dive into New Orleans’ storied nightlife? You’ve got a head start at the Prince Conti Hotel. The Bombay Club, the hotel’s swank in-house bar and restaurant, is just steps away from your room.

Start your evening at one of the club’s nightly music showcases, where you can sip a perfect martini from the largest martini selection in town while listening to live music. The musical menu changes nightly, so The Bombay is always a good launching pad for hitting the streets at other legendary New Orleans venues.

Then, the world is oyster as you bar- and club-hop your way through the live-music spots of the French Quarter and Frenchmen Street in the Marigny.

9. Dining for Every Budget

Whether you’re indulging your family with an all-out feast at one of the French Quarter’s storied old-school restaurants, crossing gumbo and po-boys off your New Orleans food bucket list, or just want a quick bite that won’t break the bank, options are abundant. From decadent breakfast to exquisite dessert, the French Quarter is teeming with dining options that run the gamut from casual to world-class, chef-driven gems.

Don’t wait! Book your room at the historic Prince Conti Hotel today, and come explore the many sights, sounds, tastes, and charms of the New Orleans French Quarter!

Check out the Prince Conti Hotel’s specials, and stay in touch and save on rates and more at the Prince Conti Hotel by signing up for our email list at GuestService@PrinceContiHotel.com. If you find lower rates on your Prince Conti Hotel rooms at the time of booking, call 1(888) 626-4319 and we will match the rate.

by Jay

Prince Conti Hotel’s Ultimate Guide to the French Quarter

The French Quarter has a lot to offer round the clock in terms of sightseeing, food, cocktails, nightlife, history, and old-world charm. For over 300 years, it’s been a cultural medley of Spanish, French, Caribbean, and African influences, and it’s evident in every cobblestone, wrought-iron balcony and lush tropical courtyard.

In the French Quarter, you can sample uniquely New Orleans dishes prepared by award-winning chefs, walk the streets steeped in over three centuries of volatile and magical history, witness only-in-New-Orleans traditions playing out in the street, and catch a performance of a world-class musician. There’s no other city like New Orleans, and its heart, the French Quarter, distills everything that makes New Orleans so alluring, and dishes it out 24/7, with flair.

Needless to say, finding your way through the French Quarter can be a little overwhelming to a visitor. We would like to make sure that you experience the best of the Quarter’s many sights, sounds and tastes, so if you need help locking in a perfect itinerary and choosing a room that would best suit your needs, read on! Here, we offer our recommendations on what to see, do, eat, and drink, and give you a little more information about our well-appointed rooms.

Choosing the perfect room at the Prince Conti

Our historic hotel is a cool oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter, featuring an old-world southern atmosphere yet with modern amenities. The Prince Conti Hotel is also very close to a plethora of renowned historic sites and fun destinations. The always-hopping Bourbon Street is only a block away, and the historic St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square are six blocks away. The shopping and dining destinations of Canal Street are close by, and the museums and world-class restaurants of the CBD are a short ride away. New Orleans is also known for its exciting nightlife, and the Prince Conti Hotel puts you close to some of the best nightlife destinations, like Harrah’s New Orleans Casino, Pat O’Brien’s, House of Blues, and more.

The hotel also houses The Bombay Club Bar & Restaurant, an elegant New Orleans favorite featuring creative cocktails and bar bites. The Bombay Club serves up dozens of varieties of martini and nightly live music. In the morning and afternoon hours, dine in style at the Cafe Conti, also located in the Prince Conti Hotel. Serving a variety of breakfast and lunch fare daily, Cafe Conti’s menu gives special attention to Creole and French cuisine.

There are five room types, with either a king or a queen bed, and we also have rooms with two queen beds. The one-bedrooms are ideal for solo travelers, couples, or besties who don’t mind sharing a bed. The rooms with two queen beds are well suited for families, friend trips, girl trips, and any small groups that are OK with sharing a room.

Minimalists will love the petite room, it’s well-appointed and offers great value. If you treasure your privacy and are sensitive to noise, the windowless interior room with two queen beds also offers great value and all the peace and quiet you need. Our beautiful deluxe room offers more space and features elegant decor. The junior suite, with its sitting area, and the suite rooms with a separate elegant parlor, offer the most space.

Keep in mind that due to the historic nature of our property, we have some variations in our room sizes. 

Getting around

The Prince Conti Hotel is located within walking distance from the many attractions the whole family will love, such as the Riverwalk along the scenic Mississippi River, where you can enjoy watching the boats go by, have a picnic, or just stroll and people-watch. The Aquarium of the Americas features an IMAX theater and is located on the river, too.

There are plenty of shopping areas to visit as well, including the historic open-air French Market. New Orleans is known for its amazing food, and your trip would not be complete without having an order of beignets and a cafe au lait from Cafe Du Monde. Enjoy live music next door, and try not to get that powdered sugar all over yourself!

You can pretty much walk to all of your destinations in the French Quarter from the hotel as the terrain is flat, the area is just 78 square blocks, and the street layout makes sense and is easy to navigate. The next best thing would be to bike or hail a pedicab. If you want to go outside the Quarter, try a cab or rideshare, or the streetcar.

The historic St. Charles Avenue streetcar stops across Canal Street and will take you through the CBD, the Garden District, Uptown, and all the way to the Riverbend for just $1.25. Riding the famous green streetcar is a rite of passage for many a visitor, and one of the easiest ways to get around and see the nearby neighborhoods. It stops on almost every block, and you can explore at your own pace.

Similarly, the City Sightseeing New Orleans Hop-On, Hop-Off double-decker bus tour is another flexible and convenient way to travel from the French Quarter to the Garden District and Magazine Street shopping district. Your ticket includes three free walking tours, and the buses come to each stop every 30 minutes. You can hop and off anytime, as the name suggests, allowing you to travel and sightsee on your own terms. 

Wondering what’s on Conti Street? A nod to the city’s multicultural history, it connects the Mississippi River and Rampart Street. Named for French royalty, a prince in the Bourbon family, Conti Street today is home to numerous restaurants, bars, and other attractions. Check out the free Irish Cultural Museum, which explores the rich history of the city’s Irish residents dating back to the 1700s, and has a whiskey and coffee bar on-site; or the Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture, which has one of the largest personal collections of Mardi Gras costumes in the city. 

Where to eat

Besides the casual Cafe Conti which makes a great breakfast or dessert stop, and the elegant Bombay Club, both located inside the Prince Conti Hotel, a few popular restaurants call Conti Street home. Those include the Gulf seafood haven Oceana Grill, the cocktail pro standout Kingfish, the 24-hour burger and breakfast mainstay Deja Vu Bar & Grill, and Broussard’s, the grande dame of Creole dining that’s been delighting New Orleanians with oysters Broussard, crawfish remoulade, Gulf shrimp, and other local delicacies since 1920.

If you’re out late and need a bite, don’t miss the family-owned agave bar and restaurant Cuñada (open till midnight), or head to the local fave, Erin Rose. This beloved Irish bar dishes out Guinness on tap, very good frozen Irish coffee, and hosts a po-boy popup in the back, Killer Poboys.

What to do

The many attractions of the French Quarter are located within walking distance and just waiting to be explored, including the antique store-packed Royal Street, the 18th century (and still operating) Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop bar, and such notable landmarks as the Old Ursuline Convent, the oldest surviving example of the French colonial period in the country, circa Louis XV.

There’s plenty to do in the Quarter, whether you’re short on time, on a limited budget, working during your visit, or facing a rainy day. We have suggestions on how to stay fit during your New Orleans stay, or where to celebrate a romantic occasion. The French Quarter is a simply perfect backdrop for your romantic getaway! Need some local tips on how to spend a perfect girls’ day in the Quarter, including getting glam? We have recommendations, too!

And, of course, the Quarter (and the adjacent Marigny with its incredible club-hopping destination, Frenchmen Street) never really sleeps, so we hope you take advantage of the abundant nightlife, with its live music, burlesque, karaoke, and all kinds of late-night entertainment.

Where to shop

The one-of-a-kind boutiques of Chartres Street, the souvenir shops blasting zydeco that pepper the long strip of Decatur Street, the daily flea and food markets at the French Market and Shops at the Colonnade, plus three malls (including the upscale Shops at Canal Place), are all within walking distance from the hotel.

Gifts and souvenirs as distinctive as New Orleans itself can be found in many local shops, but also any of the last-minute essentials should you find you forgot to pack a toothbrush, need an umbrella, or want to stock up on snacks for your hotel room. The French Quarter also packs an impressive number of women’s shops, including some vintage gems.

The best time of the year to visit

If you can handle the heat, anytime, really, is a good time to visit. The city’s event calendar is staggeringly full all year, though the fun intensifies, if that’s possible, in the fall and leading up to the holidays, and stays that way through Mardi Gras and the spring festival season. Even when the heat and humidity descend on the city in late spring and till mid-fall, Crescent City still parties hard. Just to give you an idea, here are just a few highlights of all that’s going on in New Orleans year-round.

No matter when you visit, we’d love to have you. Book your room today and take in all the wonderful and delicious things the French Quarter has to offer!

Bombay Club
by Jay

Eat, Drink, Work: Co-Working in the French Quarter


Image courtesy of The Bombay Club

Traveling purely for pleasure is delightful. But if you need to work remotely on the road, New Orleans is one of the best places on the planet to mix business with pleasure. Many charming spots in the Quarter near Prince Conti are co-working havens with blazing Wi-Fi, where you can soak up local ambiance along with cafe au lait, craft cocktails, and gourmet New Orleans cuisine.

Envie Espresso Bar & Cafe (308 Decatur St.)

One of the few coffee shops in the city that serves shots of booze in their coffee, Envie has it all: steaming cups of java, scrumptious pastries and breakfasts, and a full-service bar.

French Truck Coffee (217 Chartres St.)

Need a jolt of caffeine to get down to business? French Truck boasts some of the city’s best locally-roasted coffee, prepares espresso to perfection, and puts a unique spin on mocha with hints of cayenne and cinnamon.

Kingfish (337 Chartres St. at Conti)

Known for its award-winning craft cocktails, the Kingfish is another great happy hour co-working spot. Sip $7 cocktails, $6 wine, or $4 beer, and sample $9 small-plate specials like fried boudin balls or duck and Andouille gumbo. Monday through Friday from 2 to 5 p.m.

The Bombay Club (Prince Conti Hotel, 830 Conti St.)

You could work in your room at the Prince Conti Hotel. But what fun is that? Wander down to The Bombay Club during happy hour, and graze on small and shareable bites like Ploughman’s Board or Natchitoches meat pies while imbibing great specials on beer, wine, and house cocktails. From 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.

by Jay

Getting Around As a Guest of the Prince Conti Hotel

You can pretty much walk to all of your destinations in the French Quarter from the hotel as the terrain is flat, the area is just 78 square blocks, and the street layout makes sense and is easy to navigate. The next best thing would be to bike or hail a pedicab (check out Blue Bikes). If you want to go outside the Quarter, try a cab or rideshare, or a streetcar.

Taxicab and ride-share services

The ride-share options in New Orleans include Uber and Lyft. We also recommend United Cabs, Inc. (504-522-9771). Use the United Cabs Passenger app to book.

Bus and streetcar

City buses run every 30 minutes on average on weekdays (less often on weekends) and have special schedules on holidays. It costs $1.25 one-way (a transfer costs 25 cents), and you can see routes and schedules online. To pay the fare on the bus, you must have exact change, but you can also buy passes via the Le Pass App, online, and at the ticket machines.

Another option is the Hop-On Hop-Off double-decker bus tours by City Sightseeing. They run every 30 minutes on a two-hour loop; the unlimited one-day pass is $46 for adults and $10 for kids ages 3-12. To hop on the St. Charles Avenue streetcar, walk to Canal and Carondelet streets (directly across Canal from Bourbon St. in the French Quarter) and look for the iconic green car.

by Jay

Last-Minute Essentials Near the Prince Conti Hotel


Image courtesy of Matassa’s Market on Facebook

The French Quarter may be the crown jewel of New Orleans, a tourist mecca where the revelry never ends. But it’s also home to thousands of locals, who do what residents everywhere do: shop for groceries and do their laundry. Forgot your razor? Fancy a bottle of wine? You don’t have to wander far to find what you need, along with an only-in-New-Orleans ambiance.

Rouses Market (701 Royal St.)

This family-owned supermarket chain puts a distinctly local spin on grocery store staples, from grab-and-go boiled crawfish (in season) to dozens of fiery hot sauces. Rouse’s also boasts an excellent selection of wine, beer and spirits, which you can pick up on the fly until 10 p.m.

Matassa’s Market (1001 Dauphine St.)

For over 90 years, French Quarter residents have stocked up on staples like milk and TP at Matassa’s. But the real draw is their famous fried chicken and other hot-plate specials. The best part? This full-service grocery, deli and liquor store delivers to your door. Matassa’s underwent a renovation in 2021, and is better than ever, with an expanded deli menu.

Mary’s Ace Hardware Store (732 N. Rampart St.)

Chances are you won’t need a saw or a hammer. But Mary’s stocks lots of handy stuff for visitors, from bike-repair kits to umbrellas, and perks include free coffee and off-street parking. Venture “a step above” to the second-floor kitchen & bath emporium, where you’ll also find shelves laden with local gourmet foods.

Suds Dem Duds (1101 Bourbon St.)

Got a load of laundry to do? Fire up your laptop with free Wi-Fi while your clothes cycle through the coin-up machines. Or get the VIP service, and text 504-345-2828 for a pickup. Suds Dem Duds returns your clean, folded laundry the same day, and even ties a festive bow on top.

Walgreens (619 Decatur St.)

It’s got everything you’d expect at your own local Walgreens, including sunscreen essentials for tropical weather. But the Decatur St. branch is housed in an art deco building, complete with neon arches, and boasts a trove of New Orleans souvenirs like pralines and Cafe du Monde coffee, some priced lower than in Quarter tourist shops.

CVS (620 Decatur St.)

As in many cities, CVS is directly across the street from Walgreens, and stocks many of the same items as its competitor. But insiders also know CVS as one of the best places in town to score good deals on champagne, wine and spirits.

by Jay

Best Things to Do and See in Nearby Neighborhoods


Photo by Trevor Mark

Just outside the Quarter, not far from the Prince Conti Hotel, you’ll find a wealth of nearby neighborhoods with their own distinctive character. Ready, set, explore!

Feast Your Eyes and Fine Dine in the Arts District

New Orleans is steeped in history. But modernism takes center stage in the Arts District, where old warehouses find new life as contemporary art galleries and nouvelle cuisine restaurants. Home to more than a dozen world-class galleries, Julia Street invites the public to view their latest exhibits at lively wine-fueled receptions on the first Saturday of every month. Feast your eyes on art, then delight your palate with cuisine from some of the city’s most creative chefs at Herbsaint and Cochon (Donald Link), Compere Lapin (Nina Compton), and the man who started it all: Emeril’s.

Bar-Hop to Hear Live Music in the Marigny

Once known only to locals, Frenchmen Street now rivals Bourbon Street as a tourist destination. Live music bars line the street, where top New Orleans musicians start playing long before dark at small clubs like the Spotted Cat and continue well past the wee hours at marquee venues like Blue Nile.

But don’t stop at Frenchmen. Hit three hotspots right next to the Elysian Fields streetcar stop: Siberia, the Allways Lounge & Cabaret, and the Hi-Ho Lounge. All offer an eclectic range of terrific music from local and touring bands, along with a colorful grab bag of homegrown entertainment.

Spend the Day Exploring Bywater

If you’re feeling outdoorsy, walk or bike along the Mississippi from Marigny to Bywater through Crescent Park, a lovely 1.4-mile stretch of native landscaping. Cross the “rusty rainbow bridge” over the tracks to Piety Street, where you can grab a slice at Pizza Delicious and browse bins of collectible vinyl at Euclid Records. Junk hounds can rummage through found objects at Bywater Bargain Center (3200 Dauphine St.).

Whet your whistle at Bud Rips, the locals’ favorite dive bar, and take a dip in the pool at the Country Club. Then swing by Bacchanal Wine, grab a bottle of wine, and take it out to the open-air courtyard, where you can feast on upscale bar food like build-your-own-cheese-plate and bacon-wrapped dates. Dreamy!

Discover the Heart of African-American Culture in Tremé

The living, breathing heart of New Orleans culture is the African-American community of Tremé, where free people of color once proudly brought their own property and where many generations of black residents continue to live today. Second-line parades and Mardi Gras Indians emerged from these streets, which nurtured countless jazz greats.

Get a crash course in Tremé history at the Backstreet Cultural Museum, and catch its current incarnation at the Candlelight Lounge, where live brass bands perform often. Tremé also abounds in the city’s signature Creole cuisine. Known for its world-famous fried chicken, Willa Mae’s Scotch House serves “food for your soul,” while Dooky Chase’s menu is a rich sampler of Creole faves like Shrimp Clemenceau and Gumbo Z’Herbes. Both have been justly honored with James Beard awards. Dig in, and enjoy!

by Jay

Shop for Unique New Orleans Gifts Near the Prince Conti Hotel


Photo by Trevor Mark

Steeped in history and blended with a rich and spicy mix of cultures, New Orleans is one of the most unique cities in the world. The best part? Visitors who immerse themselves in its magic don’t have to leave it all behind when they go home. Gifts and souvenirs as distinctive as New Orleans itself can be found in many local shops, and several of the best are in or near the Quarter, not far from the Prince Conti Hotel.

The Gift Shop at Basin St. Station (501 Basin St.)

There’s no better introduction to New Orleans than Basin St. Station. Once the hub of the city’s rail service, the historic building now serves as a welcome center and offers a wealth of information and exhibits, as well as the city’s most unique gift shop. This streetcar-shaped gift shop stocks a plethora of New Orleans-themed souvenirs, Mardi Gras masks and voodoo dolls, along with local art and a great selection of cookbooks and historical titles.

Forever New Orleans (308 Royal St.; 606 Royal St.; 700 Royal St.)

Whether you’re looking for only-in-New Orleans home decor, want to sport the city’s charms with stylish apparel, or pack its heady aromas in your suitcase, Forever New Orleans has you covered. Local artist Jax Frey’s colorful New Orleans-themed pillows are emblazoned with iconic images like the Desire streetcar, while the dreamy Greetings from New Orleans scarf makes an eye-catching fashion statement. Scent mavens can choose from a wide array of candles, and six distinctive home fragrance room sprays, including crème brûlée and magnolia.

Roux Royale (600 Royal St.)

Another one-stop shop for unique New Orleans gifts, Roux Royale is especially strong on the culinary arts, and offers a host of iconic edibles, along with a wealth of local cookbooks and New Orleans-themed kitchenware. Here you’ll find fleur de lis waffle-makers, alligator gumbo spoons with wide-open jaws, classic barware, and seasonal merch for Mardi Gras and the holidays.

Cafe du Monde: Grandad’s General Store (813 Decatur St.)

You’ll find Cafe du Monde’s classic Beignet & Coffee souvenir package in most tourist shops, but why not get it from the source? Stop by Cafe Du Monde for a final plate of sugar-dusted beignets, dipped in a cup of chicory-laced cafe au lait, and pick up a gift pack on your way out at Grandad’s General Store. You’ll also find plenty of Cafe du Monde-branded kitchenware, including mugs, potholders and the iconic green-and-white striped aprons all the servers wear.

Defend New Orleans Downtown (600 Carondelet St.)

Founded in the early 2000s, this young upstart business garnered national attention in the wake of Katrina, when its “Defend New Orleans” image of a skull with a spiky mohawk emblazoned with a fleur de lis became a symbol of the city’s resilience in the face of devastation. DNO now boasts an entire line of T-shirts in all kinds of cool designs made with sustainable materials. Committed to “engaging with and uplifting our communities,” DNO donates a portion of all its proceeds to support local cultural organizations, so you’re giving something back to New Orleans when you buy one of their products.