New Orleans

Even in the heat and sweat of late June in the south, New Orleans is a beautiful city. The plants are lush and tropical, intermixed with beautiful old buildings in a downtown setting. The details in the architecture that has been around since the early 1800s makes New Orleans truly feel like the most European city in America. That combined with the fantastic food and drinks found in this city makes it one of my favorite places to spend some time. 

This was my second trip to New Orleans, we found ourselves stumbling upon places we had been to previously but also found new gems in the neighborhoods beyond the french quarter that are growing and becoming safer places to spend time. While the french quarter is quite touristy it is still a nice part of town to walk around in. Just look up at the beautiful apartments and homes above all the knick knack and crap bars below. With that said there are some decent spots to drink and grab some food in the French Quarter and the quieter edges of the quarter also make a great places to wander. 

We stayed at the Ace Hotel, which had a happening scene every hour of the day and a great rooftop lounging pool. The location was walking distance to a number of places we wanted to go as well as right on the street car line that takes you to the Garden District.

Here are a few of my recommendations: 

STAY

ACE HOTEL (Warehouse District)
HENRY HOWARD HOTEL (Garden District)

FOOD & DRINKS

CANE & TABLE - delicious food & drinks (French Quarter)
NAPOLEON HOUSE - great old school new orleans bar. classic new orleans dishes and affordable drinks, don't forget to grab a beer in a plastic cup to go to sip on as you wonder around the quarter. Still a novelty in your late 20s. (French Quarter)
SYLVAIN - gastropub with a nice interior. (French Quarter)
PAGODA CAFE - awesome spot for breakfast with a tropical feel. (Midtown)
PECHE - average interior and vibe, but amazing food and friendly service. (Warehouse District)
SEAWORTHY - cute little space great for oysters and cocktails. (Warehouse District)
BACCHANAL - awesome wine shop, bar and music venue in the bywater district. besides they cool atmosphere they also have pretty good food. (Bywater)

MUSIC 

BACCHANAL - small outdoor stage that brings in perfect bands to enjoy the wine and your company. (Bywater)
THREE KEYS - inside the lobby of the Ace Hotel, a happening crowd most nights with a mix of music styles. (Warehouse District)
D.B.A. - great live music and a mix of locals and tourist not only drinking but also dancing. (Frenchman Street)

WANDERING

GARDEN DISTRICT - some of the most amazing homes in the city. 
CITY PARK - huge park with beautiful live oak trees and a ton of walking paths.