New Orleans Bachelor Party
New Orleans, with its vibrant energy, rich culture, and legendary nightlife, is an exceptional destination for a memorable bachelor party. Known for its lively music scene, world-class cuisine, and iconic Bourbon Street, the city offers an array of exciting activities to celebrate this special occasion. Whether you're exploring the historic French Quarter, indulging in the delicious local cuisine, or dancing the night away in one of its famed jazz clubs, New Orleans promises an unforgettable experience. Here's our guide to help you navigate the best things to do for your bachelor party in this dynamic and spirited city.
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Best Things To Do In New Orleans
French Quarter
Embark on a journey through New Orleans' historic French Quarter, founded by the French in 1718. This vibrant neighborhood boasts a lively mix of bars, restaurants, jazz clubs, and unique stores set against a backdrop of captivating architecture. Explore the enchanting streets, including the renowned Royal and Bourbon Street, where the city's rich cultural tapestry comes alive with street performers and the soulful sounds of jazz.
Swamp Tour
Explore the enchanting swamps surrounding New Orleans on an airboat, kayak, or guided tour. Glide through still waters, surrounded by ancient cypress trees and diverse wildlife, with the chance to see alligators and graceful herons. Local guides share captivating stories, offering a unique and immersive experience in the heart of Louisiana's bayou. Here's a couple of places to consider for your swamp adventure.
Mardi Gras
Experience the electrifying energy of Mardi Gras in New Orleans with lively parades, vibrant costumes, and the iconic celebrations on Bourbon Street. Immerse yourself in the city's unique and festive spirit, catching beads and enjoying the world-famous revelry that defines Mardi Gras in the Big Easy.
New Orleans Sports
Experience the thrill of live sports by catching a game featuring the New Orleans Saints (football) or the New Orleans Pelicans (basketball). Alternatively, indulge in the refined atmosphere of professional golf at the prestigious Zurich Classic of New Orleans.
Zip Nola
Embark on an exhilarating adventure with Zip Nola, where you can experience a thrilling zipline adventure through the swamp. Soar through the treetops and glide over the diverse wildlife below, including alligators, snakes, turtles, and more.
Ghost Tour
Embark on a hauntingly intriguing journey by joining a ghost tour in New Orleans. Delve into the mystique of voodoo, explore tales of haunted spirits, and unravel the secrets of eerie mansions with knowledgeable guides. For a unique twist, consider enjoying a pub crawl ghost tour, immersing yourself in the city's spooky history while savoring the vibrant atmosphere of its pubs. Here's a couple of places to consider for your ghost tour.
Nola Motorsports Park
Rev up your excitement at Nola Motorsports Park for an unforgettable go-karting adventure. Take on the challenge of their expansive 30-acre outdoor track, boasting over 80 configurations, and satisfy your need for speed in a thrilling and dynamic setting.
Golf
Elevate your bachelor party experience in New Orleans by indulging in the city's vibrant golf scene. Tee off at iconic courses like TPC Louisiana, where the sprawling wetlands, cypress, and oak trees set the stage for a memorable round. For a strategic yet enjoyable game, venture to Lakewood Golf Club in Algiers, seamlessly blending natural beauty and design. Amp up the festivities with a unique twist at Audubon Park Golf Course, just minutes from downtown, featuring a distinctive par 62 18-hole layout. Cap off your golfing adventure at the elegant English Turn Golf & Country Club, designed by Jack Nicklaus, where meandering lakes and challenging bunkers await.
New Orleans Pedal Barge
Savor the unique experience of a booze cruise with New Orleans Pedal Barge, where you can enjoy drinks while cruising through the swamp. Tailor the experience to your group size with a variety of boats and choose between public or private tours—the boats are BYOB
New Orleans Brewery Tours
Gather your group and embark on an exciting journey with New Orleans Brewery Tours, exploring three fantastic breweries. Indulge in multiple samples from some of the finest craft beer establishments, with the 3-hour tours running from 4 to 7 pm. Enjoy the convenience of transportation provided via bus while learning about the intricacies of brewing and gaining insights into the brewing process. It's a perfect way to immerse yourself in the local craft beer scene while enjoying a fun and informative experience with your friends.
The Exchange Pickleball + Bar
Indulge in a game of pickleball on the indoor or outdoor courts at The Exchange Pickleball + Bar with your friends. Alternatively, engage in a round of cornhole or ping pong. Whether you're waiting for your turn or winding down after a game, relish in a refreshing drink and some delicious food.
Casino Night
Elevate your New Orleans experience with a thrilling casino night, either at the nearby Harrah's New Orleans, just a short drive from the French Quarter. Explore the 115,000-square-foot gaming floor offering a diverse range of entertainment. Indulge in multiple dining options within the casino, making it a complete and immersive experience. Alternatively, venture to the unique Treasure Chest Casino, located on a riverboat dockside to Lake Pontchartrain. Enjoy the excitement of gaming, entertainment, and vibrant atmospheres at these popular venues, creating a memorable and lively night out in the heart of the city.
Photo by Kristina Volgenau on Unsplash
Best Breweries In New Orleans
Embark on a journey through New Orleans' dynamic and thriving craft beer scene, where a variety of fantastic breweries cater to diverse palates. Whether you're a seasoned craft beer enthusiast or a casual visitor eager to explore local brews, the city offers a curated list of establishments that provide a unique selection of beers, distinct atmospheres, and memorable experiences. Here's a curated list of some worth checking out.
Best Nightlife In New Orleans
The French Quarter
Explore the historic French Quarter in New Orleans, founded by the French in 1718. This lively neighborhood, dating back to the 18th century, features vibrant bars, restaurants, jazz clubs, and unique stores against a backdrop of captivating Creole townhouses. Wander through the enchanting streets, including Royal and Bourbon Street, where the city's rich cultural tapestry comes alive with street performers and soulful jazz. Embracing historic preservation and cultural heritage, the French Quarter includes the iconic French Market, offering fresh produce and local crafts. As night falls, it transforms into an entertainment hub with jazz-filled bars and a diverse culinary scene, making it a resilient and integral part of New Orleans' identity.
Bars in The French Quarter
Cat's Meow is a lively karaoke bar, brimming with energy, has seen the likes of Bill Gates, Charles Barkley, Mario Lopez, and more.
Arnaud's French 75 is a cocktail bar known for its commitment to high-quality drinks, featuring signature creations like the French 75 and Duck Fat Old Fashioned.
Erin Rose is an Irish bar known for its lively atmosphere, fun drinks, and friendly crowd, offering options like frozen Irish coffee for any time of day and featuring beer buckets of 5 beers for $10 on Saints football gamedays.
Crescent City Brewhouse, a microbrewery in the French Quarter, is an ideal spot for enjoying live Jazz music, along with a selection of craft brews and delicious food.
Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar, one of the oldest in the country housed in a building from the 1700s, provides a uniquely cool bar experience with its historic setting, dimly lit ambiance, good drinks, and a piano bar in the back.
Bourbon Heat is a unique and cool venue, featuring a bar on the main level, a nightclub upstairs, and a courtyard outside, making it the perfect place to dance the night away.
The Carousel Bar, located inside the Hotel Monteleone, is a world-class cocktail bar known for its unique feature of rotating every 15 minutes.
Marigny and Bywater
Marigny and Bywater collectively form a vibrant, hipster haven in New Orleans, characterized by bohemian charm, vivid colors, and an overall lively atmosphere. This dynamic area beckons visitors with a plethora of live music venues, eclectic bars, captivating art galleries, and diverse culinary delights. A visit to Marigny and Bywater promises a kaleidoscopic journey into the heart of New Orleans' bohemian spirit.
Bars in Marigny & Bywater
Bacchanal Wine creates a backyard party vibe with daily live music, providing a laid-back atmosphere for enjoying exceptional wines and delicious food.
The Spotted Cat Music Club, open seven days a week from 2 pm to 2 am, is the go-to spot for incredible jazz music.
Parleaux Beer Lab, a microbrewery, promises a unique, creative, warm, and friendly craft beer experience for all, inviting patrons to enjoy a beer in their welcoming beer garden.
Sea Cave is an underwater-themed arcade bar featuring a variety of beers, wines, and cocktails for a uniquely immersive experience.
Markey's Bar, a Bywater fixture for over a century, boasts a rich history. With an impressive selection of 27 beers on tap, along with wine and liquor options, it provides a diverse drink menu. Additionally, patrons can enjoy entertainment with shuffleboard and darts.
Arts/Warehouse Distict
The Arts/Warehouse District, once an industrial hub, has undergone a remarkable transformation into a revitalized area. Now, it features a dynamic mix of shops, galleries, museums (including the National WWII Museum), restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and even Harrah's Casino. This vibrant district showcases the city's cultural and entertainment offerings, making it a must-explore destination in New Orleans.
Entertainment in Arts/Warehouse District
Republic NOLA stands as a transformed live concert venue, formerly an old warehouse, now redesigned for an exceptional music experience. For those who cherish music, this venue provides an unforgettable setting to witness extraordinary concerts and create lasting memories.
Fulton Alley stands out as one of the most attractive bowling alleys, offering a perfect blend of fun and aesthetics. Gather your friends, indulge in some bowling, and savor the experience with one of their delightful cocktails.
The Metropolitan is a sprawling two-story nightclub with multiple bars and VIP areas, boasting incredible DJs for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Best Food In New Orleans
With an abundance of dining options in New Orleans, choosing where to eat for your bachelor party can be a delightful challenge. To make it easier, here are some recommendations for you to check out and savor during your celebration.
Cafe Du Monde, right in the heart of the French Quarter, is the go-to spot for those irresistible beignets—soft, fluffy pastries covered in a generous sprinkle of powdered sugar. These iconic treats have become a quintessential symbol of New Orleans' culinary charm, enticing both locals and visitors with their warm, fluffy indulgence.
Parkway Bakery & Tavern, nestled in the Mid-City neighborhood of New Orleans, is a beloved institution celebrated for its iconic poor boy (po’boy) sandwiches. Renowned for their mouthwatering variety and commitment to quality, Parkway's poor boys have earned a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike, making it a must-visit destination for those craving an authentic taste of New Orleans cuisine.
Frankie & Johnny's is your classic New Orleans spot with a laid-back vibe and hearty Creole-inspired dishes. From fried seafood to iconic po'boys, this neighborhood gem is a top pick for anyone looking to dive into the traditional flavors of the city.
Dooky Chase Restaurant, founded in 1941 by Leah Chase, is a historic culinary institution in New Orleans, known for its Creole and soul food. Having served both President George W. Bush and Barack Obama, it remains a cherished spot, offering flavorful dishes that showcase the essence of the city's Creole culinary heritage.
Cochon is your go-to for delicious Cajun dishes that scream flavor. Don't leave without trying their meat pies, wood-fired oysters, or the signature Louisiana cochon. It's a taste of the region's culinary richness you won't forget.
On the shores of Lake Pontchartrain, The Blue Crab Restaurant & Oyster Bar offers a fun and scenic dining experience. With a variety of seafood options, it's the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal paired with a refreshing beer.
Red Fish Grill right on Bourbon Street, is a flavor haven. From BBQ oysters to alligator seafood gumbo, they've got you covered. And guess what? They serve bottomless brunch cocktails—because why not?
Boil Seafood House is where the party's at for group dining. With seafood buckets, crab legs, crawfish, clams, and appetizers, there's something for everyone. It's a one-stop-shop for a feast and a good time.
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Best Time To Visit New Orleans
The best time to plan a bachelor party in New Orleans typically falls within the fall and spring months, specifically from September to November and March to May. During these periods, the weather is generally mild, avoiding the extreme heat of summer and the chill of winter. The festive atmosphere of the city is consistently vibrant, offering a plethora of outdoor and indoor activities. While the iconic Mardi Gras season in late winter is a renowned celebration, it may attract larger crowds, and accommodation prices can surge. Opting for the more temperate seasons ensures comfortable weather for exploring the lively streets, enjoying outdoor venues, and partaking in the city's renowned nightlife.
