Planning a romantic getaway can be both exciting and overwhelming. New Orleans offers a plethora of romantic activities that cater to couples seeking memorable experiences. This guide explores the best romantic things to do in New Orleans, providing expert tips and insights to make your trip unforgettable.
Exploring the French Quarter
The French Quarter is a romantic haven, blending history, culture, and vibrant energy. Stroll through cobblestone streets, savor local cuisine, and enjoy live jazz music, with each corner exuding charm and history.
Jackson Square: Start your adventure surrounded by stunning architecture like the St. Louis Cathedral. This picturesque spot is perfect for people-watching and appreciating local artists’ work.
Café du Monde: Indulge in beignets covered in powdered sugar and chicory coffee in open-air seating, enhancing the lively atmosphere.
Preservation Hall: In the evening, catch a live jazz performance at this legendary venue, offering an intimate setting perfect for experiencing soulful New Orleans jazz.
French Market: Explore this historic market, operating since 1791, to discover fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade crafts.
Royal Street: Stroll down this charming street known for its shops, art galleries, and street musicians, providing a delightful browsing experience.
Carriage Ride: Cap off your day with a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the French Quarter, learning about the neighborhood’s history from knowledgeable guides.
Scenic River Cruises
Nothing says romance quite like a scenic river cruise. New Orleans offers a variety of options, including steamboat rides, sunset dinner cruises, and private boat tours, providing stunning views, intimate moments, and a unique way to experience the city’s charm from the water.
Steamboat Natchez: Enjoy a nostalgic ride along the Mississippi River on this authentic steamboat with its historic charm and traditional paddlewheel. Live jazz music and delicious Southern cuisine enhance the experience as you take in breathtaking views of the New Orleans skyline.
Sunset Dinner Cruises: Combine the beauty of a setting sun with gourmet dining. Indulge in Creole cuisine, sip fine wine, and listen to live jazz music while watching the sunset over the Mississippi River, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere.
Private Boat Charters: Customize your route and itinerary for a personalized adventure. Explore hidden gems along the river or simply enjoy a quiet, romantic evening with complete privacy, making for an intimate and unique experience.
These scenic river cruises offer couples a perfect blend of relaxation, romance, and adventure. With options ranging from steamboat rides to dinner cruises and private charters, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and New Orleans skyline while creating unforgettable romantic memories on the water.
Additionally, a sunset stroll along Woldenberg Park’s Moonwalk offers a picturesque view of the sun’s golden rays shimmering across the Mississippi River, providing another unique and romantic way to explore New Orleans.
Garden District Walks
The Garden District offers a peaceful and romantic escape with its historic homes and beautiful gardens.
Self-Guided Walking Tour: Admire stunning architecture and lush gardens at your own pace. The Garden District is home to exquisite mansions and historic homes, each with its own unique story and architectural style.
Audubon Park: Enjoy a picnic under ancient oak trees and tranquil lagoons, providing a serene setting for a romantic picnic.
Lafayette Cemetery No. 1: Explore one of the city’s most famous and historic cemeteries, offering a unique glimpse into New Orleans’ rich history with ornate tombs and moss-covered paths.
Quaint Shops and Cafes: Discover unique boutiques and relax with a coffee in a cozy setting, exploring the area’s charm.
Walking through the Garden District provides couples with a romantic journey through one of New Orleans’ most beautiful neighborhoods. Its historic charm, lush gardens, and peaceful ambiance make it an ideal destination for a romantic outing.
Art and Culture Exploration
New Orleans boasts a rich cultural scene perfect for couples who appreciate art and history. The city is filled with art galleries, theaters, and museums offering enriching and romantic experiences.
New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA): Begin at NOMA, with an extensive collection spanning 5,000 years, including classical European paintings, contemporary pieces, and African art. The tranquil sculpture garden with serene pathways and beautiful installations is a must-visit.
Saenger Theatre: Attend a performance at this opulent 1927 theatre, featuring Broadway shows, concerts, and ballets. Its stunning architecture and elegant interiors add a touch of glamour to any evening.
Ogden Museum of Southern Art: Explore the rich cultural heritage of the American South through diverse collections of paintings, photographs, and sculptures. Special exhibitions provide deeper insights into Southern art and culture.
Contemporary Arts Center (CAC): For a modern perspective, visit the CAC, focusing on contemporary visual and performing arts. Enjoy thought-provoking installations and performances that challenge traditional artistic boundaries.
New Orleans Jazz Museum: Located in the historic Old U.S. Mint, this museum celebrates jazz history with interactive exhibits, rare artifacts, and live performances, making it a lively and educational stop for music-loving couples.
Historic New Orleans Collection: This museum and research center tells the story of New Orleans through art and artifacts, from the city’s founding to its vibrant present-day culture, providing a comprehensive overview of its rich history.
Exploring New Orleans’ art and cultural scene offers couples a deep dive into the city’s rich heritage and artistic expression. Whether visiting museums, attending theater performances, or exploring contemporary art, there’s no shortage of enriching experiences.
Outdoor Adventures
New Orleans offers adventurous couples a wealth of outdoor activities to create lasting memories. From kayaking in the bayou to biking through city parks, there’s something for every nature-loving pair, blending excitement and romance while exploring the region’s natural beauty.
Bayou St. John Kayaking: Rent a kayak and explore the tranquil waterways, perfect for both beginners and experienced kayakers. Paddle together, taking in lush surroundings and spotting local wildlife.
City Park Biking: Rent bikes and explore over 1,300 acres of picturesque landscapes, including ancient oak trees, serene lagoons, and beautiful bridges. This urban oasis offers a scenic escape and plenty of opportunities for leisurely rides.
Botanical Gardens: Within City Park, the New Orleans Botanical Garden provides a romantic and serene setting. Stroll through diverse collections of plants, flowers, and sculptures, creating a visually stunning environment for romantic walks.
Hot Air Balloon Rides: For a thrilling adventure, take a hot air balloon ride over the city and surrounding areas. Experience breathtaking views and share a quiet, intimate moment high above the ground.
Lake Pontchartrain Paddle boarding: Try paddle boarding on Lake Pontchartrain, where the vast expanse of the lake offers plenty of space to paddle at your own pace, enjoying the open water and stunning views.
These outdoor adventures in New Orleans offer couples perfect opportunities to explore natural beauty and create unforgettable memories, whether on water or land.
Romantic Dining Experiences
Dining in New Orleans offers a tapestry of flavors and atmospheres that elevate any romantic evening. The city boasts a variety of romantic dining options, from charming courtyards to fine dining restaurants and rooftop eateries, each providing a unique backdrop for an unforgettable date night.
Café Amelie: This enchanting courtyard restaurant offers a serene escape with contemporary Louisiana cuisine under twinkling lights.
Sylvain: Known for its sophisticated Southern fare and charming indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for a relaxed yet refined dining experience.
Commander’s Palace: This award-winning restaurant in the Garden District is renowned for its elegant setting, exceptional service, and innovative Creole cuisine.
Bayona: Nestled in a 200-year-old cottage, Bayona combines Mediterranean, Asian, and Creole flavors with a serene courtyard and historic ambiance, making it ideal for a romantic meal.
Beyond these renowned spots, New Orleans is filled with numerous other romantic dining experiences catering to all tastes and preferences. Whether it’s a quaint bistro in the Marigny, an opulent dining room in a historic hotel, or a hidden gem in the Bywater, the city’s diverse culinary scene ensures every couple can find their perfect romantic meal.
Relaxing Spa Days
A day at the spa is the perfect way to unwind and reconnect. New Orleans offers several luxurious spas that provide couples massages and private spa packages, ensuring a serene and rejuvenating experience.
The Ritz-Carlton Spa: Offers couples massages and personalized treatments in a tranquil environment designed to melt away stress.
Woodhouse Day Spa: Enjoy soothing massages and invigorating facials in a calm, inviting atmosphere.
Spa at Windsor Court: Known for its elegant setting and exceptional service, offering aromatherapy massages and luxurious body scrubs.
Belladonna Day Spa: Located on charming Magazine Street, offering a range of treatments including hydrotherapy, mud wraps, and holistic therapies.
New Orleans’ spas offer a range of options for relaxation and rejuvenation, from upscale hotel spas to charming day spas, with personalized treatments and peaceful environments as common themes, allowing couples to create unforgettable moments of relaxation together; each spa promises a unique and luxurious experience, perfect for a romantic and soothing escape.
Live Music and Dancing
New Orleans is synonymous with live music and dancing, offering a pulsating nightlife that is deeply embedded in the city’s culture. From intimate jazz clubs to energetic dance floors, couples can find countless opportunities to sway to the rhythm and experience the soul of New Orleans.
Mid City Lanes Rock n Bowl: Enjoy a unique blend of live music and bowling at this lively venue. Dance to a variety of musical genres while taking breaks to bowl a few frames, making for a fun and energetic date night.
Tipitina’s: Dance the night away at Tipitina’s, a legendary music venue known for its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic lineup. Whether you’re swaying to a soulful band or grooving to the beats of a lively DJ, Tipitina’s offers a quintessential New Orleans music experience that will keep you on your feet.
Frenchmen Street: Experience the vibrant street performances along Frenchmen Street in the evenings, where the sounds of live music fill the air and create an impromptu dance floor. For a daytime adventure, nearby Armstrong Park offers a scenic setting to enjoy music and soak in the local culture.
Beyond these renowned spots, New Orleans is filled with numerous other venues where live music and dancing come alive. Whether it’s an intimate jazz club in the Marigny, a bustling dance hall in the Bywater, or a hidden gem in the Warehouse District, the city’s vibrant nightlife ensures every couple can find their perfect rhythm.
Historic Tours and Attractions
Exploring New Orleans’ historic sites and attractions can be a romantic adventure, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich and storied past. From mysterious ghost tours to iconic landmarks, there are numerous ways for couples to discover the charm and history of New Orleans together.
Ghost Tours: Embark on a ghost tour to uncover the haunted history of New Orleans. Guided by storytellers who bring the city’s spooky past to life, these tours are both thrilling and intriguing, providing a unique way to explore the darker side of New Orleans’ history.
St. Louis Cathedral: Visit the historic St. Louis Cathedral, an architectural gem and a symbol of New Orleans’ rich heritage. Located in Jackson Square, this stunning cathedral offers a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere for couples to admire its beauty and historical significance.
French Market: Explore the French Market, a bustling hub of unique shops and curiosities. Dating back to 1791, this historic market offers a delightful mix of local crafts, fresh produce, and artisanal goods, making it a perfect spot for couples to stroll hand-in-hand and discover hidden treasures.
Cooking Classes and Wine Tasting
Couples who love food and drink will find joy in New Orleans’ cooking classes and wine tasting tours. These activities provide a fun and interactive way to delve into the city’s culinary delights and learn the secrets behind its renowned cuisine.
New Orleans School of Cooking: Learn to make authentic Creole dishes at the New Orleans School of Cooking. In a fun and interactive setting, couples can discover the rich flavors and techniques that define New Orleans cuisine, creating memorable dishes to recreate at home.
Wine Tasting Tours: Participate in a wine tasting tour at a local winery or wine bar. These tours offer a chance to sample a variety of fine wines, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy a relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere perfect for a romantic outing.
Craft Cocktail Workshops: Mix up your own New Orleans-inspired drinks in a craft cocktail workshop. Guided by expert mixologists, couples can learn to create classic and innovative cocktails, adding a touch of New Orleans flair to their mixology skills.
Festivals and Events
New Orleans is known for its vibrant festivals and events, offering couples a chance to immerse themselves in the city’s lively and festive atmosphere. From world-famous celebrations to local cultural events, there are countless ways to experience the spirit of New Orleans together.
Mardi Gras: Celebrate Mardi Gras, the city’s most famous and colorful festival. Known for its elaborate parades, vibrant costumes, and lively street parties, Mardi Gras is an unforgettable experience that brings the entire city together in a joyous celebration.
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival: Enjoy the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, a spectacular event that showcases incredible music and culture. Featuring performances by renowned artists, delicious local food, and an array of cultural exhibits, this festival is a must-visit for music lovers.
French Quarter Festival and Voodoo Music + Arts Experience: Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of seasonal events like the French Quarter Festival and the Voodoo Music + Arts Experience. These festivals offer a unique blend of music, food, and art, providing couples with a vibrant and engaging way to experience the best of New Orleans.
Unique Romantic Activities
For couples seeking something out of the ordinary, New Orleans offers a wealth of unique romantic activities that promise to create lasting memories. From hands-on creative experiences to breathtaking aerial views, the city provides a variety of special moments to share with your loved one.
Tijon Perfume Creation Studio: Create personalized perfumes, blending unique scents guided by expert perfumers.
Art Workshops: Participate in painting, pottery, and other artistic disciplines at local studios.
Scenic Helicopter Tour: Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city, taking in iconic landmarks and picturesque neighborhoods.
Staying in Charming Accommodations
Choosing the right place to stay can significantly enhance the romance of your trip to New Orleans. The city offers an array of charming accommodations, each with its own unique character and ambiance. From boutique hotels to historic inns and cozy bed and breakfasts, there is something to suit every taste and preference.
Hotel Monteleone: Nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, Hotel Monteleone stands as a beacon of history and elegance. This grand hotel, which has been welcoming guests since 1886, offers an experience steeped in tradition and luxury. Its beautifully appointed rooms and suites exude classic charm, while the Carousel Bar & Lounge provides a unique and whimsical setting for evening cocktails. Staying at Hotel Monteleone places you within walking distance of iconic New Orleans attractions, ensuring that the magic of the city is right at your doorstep.
Soniat House: For those seeking a more intimate and luxurious retreat, Soniat House is the perfect choice. This exquisite inn, housed in three historic Creole townhouses, offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Each room is individually decorated with antique furnishings and fine linens, creating a romantic and sophisticated atmosphere. The lush courtyards and personal service add to the sense of exclusivity and charm, making Soniat House an ideal haven for couples looking to indulge in a tranquil and refined setting.
The Green House Inn: For a more personal and cozy experience, consider staying at The Green House Inn. This charming bed and breakfast, located in the Lower Garden District, offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The inn features comfortable and uniquely decorated rooms, a tropical garden with a saltwater pool, and a relaxed, homey feel. The Green House Inn provides a delightful blend of privacy and hospitality, allowing guests to feel right at home while enjoying the charm and character of New Orleans.
The Columns on St. Charles Avenue: For a stay steeped in historic charm, The Columns on St. Charles Avenue is a splendid choice. This elegant hotel, housed in a 19th-century mansion, offers a blend of Southern hospitality and grandeur. The beautifully appointed rooms, with their antique furnishings and luxurious linens, create a romantic and timeless atmosphere. Guests can enjoy cocktails on the grand porch overlooking St. Charles Avenue or dine in the sophisticated restaurant, experiencing the epitome of New Orleans elegance and charm.
Additional Options: In addition to these standout choices, New Orleans boasts numerous other accommodations that cater to a variety of tastes. Whether you prefer the modern amenities of a boutique hotel or the historic allure of a centuries-old inn, the city’s diverse lodging options ensure that every visitor can find the perfect place to stay. Embrace the spirit of New Orleans by selecting accommodations that reflect the rich culture and unique personality of this enchanting city.
Key Takeaways: Romantic Things for Couples to do in New Orleans
- The French Quarter offers historic streets, local cuisine, and live jazz music.
- Scenic river cruises provide romantic steamboat rides, dinner cruises, and private boat tours.
- The Garden District is perfect for historic home tours, garden picnics, and cemetery visits.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are some romantic places to eat in New Orleans? Charming courtyards like Café Amelie, fine dining at Commander’s Palace, and rooftop restaurants like Hot Tin offer romantic dining experiences.
2. What is a unique romantic activity in New Orleans? Creating personalized perfumes at Tijon Perfume Creation Studio is a unique and memorable activity for couples.
3. Are there any romantic outdoor activities in New Orleans? Yes, couples can enjoy kayaking in the bayou, the botanical gardens or biking through City Park.
4. How can couples experience New Orleans’ music scene? Visiting jazz clubs like the Spotted Cat Music Club, dancing at Tipitina’s, and enjoying street performances on Frenchmen Street are great options.
5. What are some romantic accommodations in New Orleans? Hotel Monteleone, Soniat House, and The Green House Inn are some charming accommodations perfect for a romantic stay.
Piper Burch is a distinguished author and journalist, renowned for her insightful coverage of local business news and enterprises. With a keen eye for uncovering the stories that shape communities, Piper brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the economic landscape to her writing. Her work is characterized by a commitment to highlighting the successes, challenges, and innovations of local businesses, providing readers with a comprehensive view of their community’s economic health and potential.
