From the architecture to the history to the blend of cultures, New Orleans is one of the most romantic cities in the world. Valentine's Day is quickly approaching, so here are some last minute ideas for celebrating.
Dinner and a Movie
With tons of intimate bars and restaurants, there are plenty of spaces to have a memorable date night experience! Head to Lola's for authentic Spanish tapas, paella, and sangria in the coziest and quaintest environment. Right across the street is Cafe Degas, a romantic French bistro that has intimate inside and patio seating. If you're still feeling French, check out La Crepe Nanou and try to sit in the back room which is perfect for one-on-one conversation. In the French Quarter, head to Bayona, Chef Susan Spicer's restaurant where sublime Contemporary Louisiana fare is prepared. If the weather is nice, try and get a seat in the courtyard, one of New Orleans' most enchanting outdoor eating spaces. Lilette with its intimate booths and sophisticated French fare has date night written all over it. Also Uptown, La Petite Grocery's elegant dining room and inspired and precise southern cooking will make a memorable Valentine's Day date.
After dinner, head to the Prytania Theater, the historic, circa-1914 single-screen movie theater located Uptown. Also, be sure to check out the newly renovated, Broad Theater.
Get Outside
No reservations? No problem! There are plenty of other options in New Orleans that will make this Valentine's Day memorable. Head to The Fly at Audubon Park and take in a sunset on the Mississippi River. Bring a blanket, your favorite take out and some wine, and enjoy one of the picnic spots in the city.
City Park has it all and is the perfect setting for a relaxed evening. Explore NOMA and the Botanical Gardens or grab some beignets and cafe au laits from Morning Call. Have a picnic by the Big Lake or take a gondola ride from The Gondola Guy for something unique and extra romantic. Take a trip through the lagoons of city park and even bring your own wine, champagne or grape juice.
Indulge Your Sweet Tooth
Sure, it may be cliché, but nothing says romance like chocolate and champagne! Head to Sucre for both. Sucre on Magazine Street, which is open until 10:00 pm on weekdays and midnight on weekends, is the go-to spot for desserts. Get a bottle of champagne, an assortment of macaroons and take a seat outside — it doesn’t get much better. Angelo Brocato's (215 N. Carrollton) has been a New Orleans institution since 1905 and is know for gelato & Italian desserts in a nostalgic, pastel-pink parlor setting. For classic ice cream, Creole Creamery (4942 Prytania, 6260 Vicksburg Street) is a must. Both locations are cash only.
New Orleans Classics Bar Crawl
New Orleans is known for its one-of-a-kind cocktails. Celebrate Valentine's Day by indulging in a few! Enjoy a Sazerac at The Roosevelt Hotel's Sazerac Bar or a Pimm's Cup at the Napoleon House. Drink one (or two!) French 75's at Arnaud's French 75 Bar or a Vieux Carre at the Hotel Monteleone's Carousel Bar. If you're in the mood for some music, enjoy a classic Hurricane at Pat O'Brien's iconic piano bar.
If you’re a solo traveler, don’t be afraid to venture out on your own. After all, one of the most important relationships you can have is the one with yourself!
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Every female solo traveler is different when it comes to exploring a city alone at night. Some are reluctant to leave the comfort of their hotel, others are eager to hit the town, and some want to be out and about, but don’t want to drink alcohol. Our list of 7 things to do at night as a solo traveler in New Orleans has something to suit every preference!