If you’re looking to go somewhere truly unique, the U.S. is home to a city that is truly incomparable.
Boasting European flair through art and architecture while simultaneously welcoming guests with quintessential southern hospitality, The Bayou is calling your name this winter.
While travelers love racking up passport stamps, USA Today claims the ultimate destination to experience European vibes without the dread of long-haul flights is none other than Louisiana’s shining star.
Offering some of the best cuisine and grand hotels stateside, you’re sure to have a blast indulging in the finer things in life as you explore New Orleans for winter sun, incredible culture, and a surprisingly ritzy side of the city that mainstream news ignores.
The South’s Ultimate Cultural Escape
If you’ve been through Louisiana, much of the state feels unreal. But nestled among the vast swamplands lies one of America’s most cultural cities, and to be honest, too often gets a bad wrap.
Certain areas of New Orleans are off-limits to tourists, but these crime-ridden districts don’t represent the city as a whole.
New Orleans is buzzing with life, from street performers day and night to vibrant architecture and world-famous Bourbon Street.
Such a diverse community lives here too where you can’t help but notice a distinct accent unlike any other U.S. city. and home to some off-the-wall quirks too like the very popular voodoo shops.
Dating back to the 1700s, with both French and Spanish influence, many of New Orleans’ streets are well-preserved time capsules and very inviting despite some dramatic news coverage over the years.
Don’t shy away from dancing in the streets with locals, enjoying a savory Cajun meal, or visiting one of a plethora of museums to learn more about this diamond in the rough.
And just know that Mardi Gras isn’t the only time to visit this fabulous city. Downtown is the city’s heartbeat, and it never stops beating.
The Mesmerizing French Quarter
Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting the ‘world’s coolest neighborhood’, which just so happens to be in France.
Having been to New Orleans’ famous French Quarter too, it definitely deserves more hype but probably didn’t make the cut simply because it’s well known unlike Marseille’s Notre-Dame-du-Mont.
I can attest it’s one of the coolest neighborhoods I’ve been to personally, truly feeling like you’re walking through Europe’s charming streets (at least until you catch a whiff of gumbo).
There’s certainly no place more photo-worthy in the city and one of your best bets for a lovely stay at a ritzy hotel or trendy boutique stay.
The streets are lined with colorful buildings dating back hundreds of years for many.
It’s a great balance of old and new as you can hear the soundtrack of New Orleans permeating through these historical blocks and some amazing restaurants dotted through the area.
Plus, you have to visit Jackson Square. Here is the epicenter of the French Quarter, and yes, it is touristy, but don’t let that stop you.
It’s truly a sight to behold, with the St. Louis Cathedral stealing the spotlight away from gimmicky attractions and overhyped restaurants like Cafe du Monde.
Restaurant Tip: If you want the best chicken wings of your life, eat at Chicken & Watermelon, a no-frills shop serving over 20 flavors at affordable prices. It’s a must-visit every time I’m in New Orleans.
N‘Awlins‘ Glamorous Side: Stay In Luxury At Numerous High-End Hotels
While winter is an excellent time to visit this fabulous city with temperatures consistently in the 60’s to enjoy nice strolls through the captivating streets, nobody could blame you for staying in your posh digs either!
New Orleans often has a reputation for being dirty, which, to be fair, after a wild weekend on Bourbon Street, you might want to avoid the area come Monday morning.
However, like many mainstream news portrayals nowadays, you can’t believe everything you hear.
The city makes for a great winter getaway largely in part for its affordable luxury aspect. We’re biased towards Windsor Court, being the 2024 Top Hotels winner for our very own Travel Off Path Best In Travel awards.
But there are numerous luxe hotels to choose from. Here are 5 of the best grand hotels to book this winter, according to TripAdvisor:
- Hotel Monteleone
- The Royal Sonesta New Orleans
- Le Méridien New Orleans
- Hotel Saint Vincent
- Omni Royal Orleans
Hotel recommendation: Although not “luxurious” per se, I loved staying at what was formerly the Olde Town Inn (now rebranded as Mardi Gras Inn) near the French Quarter. Great for budget travelers and offers a homey feel unlike towering hotels.
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