Written by: Mariah Hickman
In New Orleans, never-ending are the stories of pure joy, authentic excitement, unexpected adventures, and unforgettable memories – making it the ideal destination for a much-needed baecation. Whether you’re in the puppy love stage or keeping the spark alive in a seasoned relationship, the Crescent City is filled with date night inspiration and romantic outings that are sure to bring you closer together and deeper in love.
Here’s how baecationing in the Crescent City is done.
Beignets for Breakfast
The two of you go together like beignets and cafe au lait! Start your day with a treat just as sweet and satisfying as your love at the world-famous Cafe du Monde. With locations in both the iconic French Quarter and the scenic City Park, enjoy a romantic morning stroll following breakfast NOLA-style.
Instagram-Approved Photo Ops
What’s a baecation without at least one perfect picture? Make your way through New Orleans’ many unique neighborhoods with a few stops along the way at eye-catching murals and city backdrops. Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, Crescent Park, and Studio Be are just a few places to check out. Browse NewOrleans.com’s list of famous street art and GoNOLA’s round-up of NOLA’s Most Instagrammable Spots for more inspiration.
Secluded Swamp Tours
Love lasts longer with a little adventure, and New Orleans has plenty to go around. Take a couple of hours to ditch the excitement of the city and take in the beauty of the bayou with your partner. Air boating, kayaking, walking and even aerial tours of Louisiana’s swamplands are the perfect mid-day romantic escapes.
Afternoon Picnic
A true New Orleans picnic calls for two things: a few pounds of crawfish and a gallon of daiquiris! If seafood isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other only-in-New Orleans foods that travel well and make picnicking easy like fried chicken from Lil Dizzy’s, po-boys from Parkway, muffulettas from Central Grocery, snoballs from Sno-LA and more. Head over to NewOrleans.com for their Guide to New Orleans Picnics for the perfect places and spreads.
Romantic Relaxation
Sometimes, the best thing to do is nothing at all. Relax and pamper yourselves with a couple’s spa package at the NOLA Organic Spa. This 2.5-hour session includes manicures, pedicures, and massages for two. Unwind, detox, and refresh before the evening begins. Did we mention NOLA Organic Spa is black-owned?
New Orleans Drink Lab
Nobody does craft cocktails quite like the Crescent City, and if you want to see how it’s done then look no further than the New Orleans Drink Lab. Enjoy mixology with your mate with a private, craft-cocktail class. Learn the history behind and how to make some of New Orleans’ most famous cocktails like the hurricane, Sazerac and more.
Dinner for Two
New Orleans is known for its food. Creole cuisine, Cajun classics, fresh seafood, and savory sweets are among the city’s many specialties. There’s nothing better than a meal of a lifetime with the love of your life. Vyoone’s, Cafe Sbisa, Emeril’s and more among the city’s many romantic restaurants that feature intimate seating, dim lighting, and fine dining.
Frolic Through the French Quarter
Evenings in New Orleans’ French Quarter are magical. Before heading out for music, drinks, and dancing take a horse-and-carriage ride through the Quarter to experience the city’s architecture, culture, and serenity.
Live Music on Frenchman
Closeout the day with live music – New Orleans style. One of the best places to catch truly soulful live music is along Frenchman Street. Brass bands, jazz sets, soca, and hip-hop beats can be found on just about any given day of the week. Dance the night away to the sounds of the city and the beat of each other’s hearts!
Lagniappe (a little something extra): Attend a Festival
There’s always something unique and fun happening in the Crescent City. From food fests to multicultural festivals, arts, music and more. Check out NewOrleans.com’s Event Calendar to see what’s happening during your next baecation to NOLA.
New Orleans is a chapter that has to be written in your love story. Consider the Crescent City during your scout for the perfect baecation destination, and leave with a story, not just a souvenir.
This piece is brought to you in partnership with New Orleans Tourism.