New Orleans Uptown & The Garden District

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Deciding Where to Stay in NOLA

As we gear up for our next big adventure—a cruise out of New Orleans—we’re taking the opportunity to spend two nights in the Big Easy before setting sail. It’s always smart to arrive a day early to avoid any last-minute travel hiccups, but why stop at just one day? We’re coming in late the first night, catching some Zs, and then diving headfirst into exploring this magical city.

But first, we need to decide where to stay. Each neighborhood in New Orleans offers something unique, so we’re breaking it down and considering doing one neighborhood a day before settling on our favorite. Let’s take a look at what makes the Lower Garden District, Irish Channel, and Uptown/Carrollton neighborhoods shine.

Lower Garden District

The Lower Garden District is a feast for the senses. With streets that radiate charm and an artistic, offbeat vibe, it’s easy to see why this neighborhood is a favorite. Magazine Street runs through the heart of it, lined with boutique shops and eateries that make it the perfect spot for wandering.

What We’re Excited About

  • Food & Drink: We’re already planning stops at District Donuts for unique treats and French Truck Coffee for our caffeine fix.
  • Architecture: The beautiful Southern homes and creative flair make this a dream for photo ops.
  • Vibe: It’s funky, artsy, and local—a nice balance of vibrant energy and laid-back charm.

What to Keep in Mind

  • It’s a bit far from larger parks like Audubon or City Park if that’s your thing.
  • Housing can get pricey, so accommodations here may stretch the budget.

Irish Channel

If we’re looking for a more low-key, community feel, the Irish Channel might just win us over. Nestled along the Mississippi River, this neighborhood combines a maritime history with a burgeoning brewery scene.

Why We’re Intrigued

  • Brewery Hop Heaven: Tchoupitoulas Street is a hotspot for breweries, perfect for an afternoon of beer sampling.
  • Local & Unpretentious: It feels more residential and less touristy—a great place to unwind.
  • St. Patrick’s Day Spirit: While we’re not here for the parade, it’s fun to imagine the Irish Channel at its festive peak.

What to Consider

  • The maritime industrial vibe might not be for everyone.
  • It’s a bit more spread out, so an Uber or car rental might be the best way to get around.

Uptown/Carrollton

If classic Southern charm is calling our name, Uptown/Carrollton is hard to beat. From its stately homes to the iconic St. Charles Avenue streetcar, this area oozes grandeur.

Why We’re Drawn To It

  • Stunning Mansions & Live Oaks: A stroll through Uptown feels like stepping back in time, with tree-lined streets and wrap-around porches.
  • University Town: Proximity to Tulane and Loyola gives it a youthful energy, with plenty of coffee shops and casual eateries.
  • Streetcar Ride: We can’t wait to hop on the St. Charles streetcar for the quintessential NOLA experience.

Challenges Here

  • It’s a bit farther from downtown attractions, which means we’d need to plan our day trips carefully.
  • The price tag—both for housing and some upscale restaurants—can be steep.

How We’re Planning Our Stay

We’re leaning toward spending one day in each neighborhood to soak up its unique vibe. From indulging in donuts in the Lower Garden District to sampling brews in the Irish Channel and riding the streetcar in Uptown, it’s going to be an adventure to remember.

Where we’ll ultimately choose to stay is still up in the air, but one thing’s for sure: New Orleans’ neighborhoods are as diverse and exciting as the city itself. Do you have a favorite spot in NOLA? Let us know—your suggestions might help us decide!

Stay tuned as we continue our pre-cruise explorations in the Crescent City.

—The Trekking Pawns 🌴✨

Comments

  1. AnonymousJanuary 10, 2025 at 12:43 PM

    Infamous Carlos marcello (Minacori)Came New Orleans Baby grewupareaWestBankWestwego/Marrero/Harvey/Gretna/Algiers La.Nothing around area but some Plantations which Carlos Father Joseph worked at&Joseph found run down plantion to live at?Carlos his brothers learn the bayoo Swamps Marshlands etc.Joseph grew vegetable had son Carlos get them to market sell them in New Orleans.Carlos Left home around 18yr moved New Orleans french quarter.He must try his hand at petty crimes but petty crimes in Algiers (carlos live in that area?Kingfish-John Davis)census 1920:TowerCoast Algiers Outside N.D.La.census1930:PlaqueMine Parish La.census1935:320 Romaine Gretna La.Census1940:320 Romaine Gretna La census1950:620 RomaineGretnaLa.(JosephMarcello)Later:800 Barataria DrMarreroLa.577WoodvineAv MetairieLa.(Carlos Moved around alot protectprivacy)Carlos Marcello livehood gangster? Carlos had wife children but he had g/f's which come n go?Carlos Enjoy Italian food/Goat barbq&Willswoods-Mosca/Town-Country airlineHwy Metairie.

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