On Day 2 in New Orleans, we recommend some time on the other side of Canal Street from the French Quarter. This is the Downtown area and the Arts/Warehouse District. This is a great place to stay in a hotel. We stayed at and recommend the Pelham Hotel.
Start at Mother’s Restaurant, a local institution dating back to the 1930s. There is often a line outside, but the breakfast is worth the wait. Try their large biscuits and their baked ham.
Walk to the Sazerac House and take the tour. It explores the history of the drink, and cocktails in general, with several tastings along the way. In the gift shop, you’ll find their Pralines & Cream, that is a delicious addition to coffee or as a dessert drink.
If you can’t see the Mardi Gras experience in person, visit Mardi Gras World. It is out of the way, so take advantage of their complimentary shuttle. They show a video about their history, provide a taste of traditional king cake, and then walk you through their working float factory. You’ll learn about various krews and see how the floats are made. You’ll have additional time to wander the warehouse after the tour completes. There are a so many pieces to admire and lots of photo opportunities. Afterwards, take their shuttle to Canal Street.
Take the street car on Canal Street all the way to City Park. This is a 30-minute ride, but you get to enjoy riding a street car along one of the main streets. The park is the last stop. Take your time exploring this urban park’s many places to wander. The art museum’s sculpture garden is really cool and admission is free. If you get hungry for a snack of coffee and beignets, there is a Café Du Monde in the park.
For dinner, there are plenty of great restaurants in Mid-City to explore.
If you find yourself back in the French Quarter, we recommend Felix’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar, near Bourbon Street. They have the New Orleans classics, such as charbroiled oysters and po’ boys. Afterwards, walk through the Carousel Bar, a classy space in which the bar and its seats actually spin slowly around the room.
