The Perfect Girls’ Weekend in New Orleans
Last updated 2/2024
Whether you're exploring the charming French Quarter, indulging in beignets at Café du Monde, or dancing the night away on Bourbon Street, New Orleans offers a great mix of relaxation and excitement for you and your friends. Here's your ultimate guide to the best things to do, see, and experience in New Orleans for an unforgettable girls' getaway.
Beignets at Cafe Du Monde Photo: Chelsea Audibert via Unsplash
What does the ultimate girls trip in New Orleans look like? There are so many things to do in New Orleans but for me it’s all about eating as much delicious food as possible and exploring the history and architecture of this beautiful city. If you have the chance to visit Nola with a good friend, go! No agenda needed. Seriously, we had no plans and had a blast.
Girls Weekend in New Orleans
Where to Stay in New Orleans
Full disclosure: New Orleans isn't cheap and there’s a wide variety of styles and price points when it comes to places to stay. For something familiar and cost effective, I’ve stayed at the La Quinta Inn & Suites Downtown which is one of the cheapest options in the quarter plus free breakfast and a pool. I’ve also stayed at the Hilton in the Quarter several times. If you’re traveling on a budget, check out some of these deals.
On the flip side, there are some beautiful vacation rentals on VRBO that would be fun if you have a bigger group or what the comfort of having your own kitchen and other amenities. If you want to stay in a more residential area, check out rentals in the Garden District or the Irish Channel. You’ll be really close to Magazine Street which is my fav place to shop and not too far from the French Quarter. Here are a few vacation rentals that would be fun for a small group:
Food & Drinks in New Orleans
The options are seriously endless but here are a few spots I’ve Loved over the years.
Peche Seafood
Peche in New Orleans
After a long afternoon of shopping, Claire and I stopped here for a rest during our walk from Uptown back to the French Quarter. Peche is the latest from restauranteur and James Beard award winner Donald Link of Herbsaint and Cochon. It's a beautiful space with an open kitchen serving up a variety of seafood. We sat at the bar and grabbed a couple of beers, fish sticks, and hushpuppies. I would love to go back and try the raw bar menu.
La Petite Grocery
girls weekend | new orleans
This place is an Uptown institution. The building was built 100 years ago as a full-service grocery store with tea, coffee, and butter as the specialties. After years operating as a general store, the restaurant La Petite Grocery opened in 2004. With incredible service, atmosphere, and food, dining here was one of the best restaurant experiences I've ever had. They are known for their burger and fries and I couldn’t resist.
Cocktails at The Sazerac
Drinks at The Roosevelt
The Roosevelt Hotel has been a New Orleans landmark since 1893. Having undergone a major renovation post-Hurricane Katrina, it is a must-see. Grab a drink in the legendary Sazerac Bar. With original Paul Ninas murals, dark walnut bar, and glittering chandeliers, this stunning Art Deco watering hole is as famous for it's decor as its cocktails. If you can't find a seat in The Sazerac, grab a cocktail from the bar and wander around the first floor.
*Another classic New Orleans bar for cocktails is the Carousel Bar in the Hotel Monteleone.
More Cocktails at LaFitte's Blacksmith's Shop
La Fitte’s Blacksmith Shop
Built between 1722-1732, it is rumored to be the oldest structure used as a bar in the United States. Grab a signature purple "drank" and sing classic tunes around a piano with 50 of your closest new friends.
Sunday Morning Breakfast at Cafe Du Monde
Beignets at Cafe Du Monde
Before you head out of town, Cafe Du Monde really is a must. Enjoy a cafe au lait and a mound of piping hot beignets covered with an absurd but delicious amount of powdered sugar. If you've been to beignet paradise or just want to stretch the weekend even more? Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the New Orleans classic, Brennan's. They have the most incredible eggs benedict.
This is just a sampling of places to eat in town. Talk to locals when you’re out exploring and find the latest hot spot or hidden gem.
Things to do in New Orleans
Whether you’re in town for a big event like Mari Gras or St. Patricks Day in New Orleans, when I’m visiting I like to shop and gawk and architecture. These are some of my favorite spots.
Shopping Magazine Street
Magazine Street is packed with boutiques, and vintage shops. Take your time and explore! Bambi DeVille and Funky Monkey are a few of my favorite vintage boutiques. If you need a little pick me up, stop by Haydel’s Bakery for a pastry or gelato or grab a classic cocktail at Cavan’s Happy Hour for just $6 (from 4-6 pm).
Exploring Architecture in the Garden District
Garden District, New Orleans
It's hot as hell in New Orleans for much of the year but you can see so much most if you walk around, not to mention walk off all the delicious food you're eating. The Garden District a perfect place to swoom over some of the most beautiful houses in the South. Be respectful though, people do live here.
Garden District, New Orleans
Grab your girls, hit the road, and enjoy! Don't forget to make some reservations though. Have you been to New Orleans?