February 05, 2015
Tucked quaintly in a crescent of the Mississippi River is the French Quarter, a cultural love child of genteel old Europe. This exotic Caribbean community of the sultry South plays host to the most memorable romantic getaways not only in the city, but in the South. Take a bite of the history-rich experience as you stroll arm-in-arm through original cobblestone streets and breathe in the aromas that pass you and disappear among the wrought-iron balconies. There is an intimate old-world charm that radiates romance, and delivers sensuality on a polished, silver platter.
Bask in the romance of the skyline and the best view of the Mississippi River with a stroll along the Moonwalk. Keep your ears open for the multitude of street musicians that congregate there to replace the sounds of an urban paradise with the sounds of soft jazz. You'll be especially lucky to happen upon solo saxophonist ZeWee making one of his coveted appearances along the walk since his retirement last summer. He still pops up from time to time to the delight of locals and tourists alike.
Famed as being the spot that built New Orleans, The French Market holds its own in the romance department. On Mondays at 10am, the French Market Tour takes participants from the Farmers Market to Jackson Square. Learn about the history of the French Market and get a sense of the entire riverside district, including landmarks and living and historical legends. Meet at the Ursuline Street Arch and get swept away by facts you never knew about regarding The French Quarter and the city in general. Be sure to walk the back walk among the shops and pop into the French Market Visitors Center for the best tips on what to eat, where to dance to good tunes, and what things you just shouldn't miss this Valentine's season. The Food and Music Tour starts inside the Jazz Park Visitor Center on Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m. culminating with a stroll through our lively Farmers Market which ends at the Old U.S. Mint. A locally licensed guide leads these free walking tours. Call 504-522-2621 to reserve a Food and Music Tour.
Take the Canal Street Ferry next to the Aquarium of the Americas, and get on board for a quick and free ride across the river to historic Old Algiers Point for a different view. Though the ferry itself is utilitarian, it affords an unparalleled river experience and views of the city, especially at sunset or during the night when the skyline is illuminated. Embracing each other under the Dixie moon on the rolling waters of the Mississippi may become one of your most cherished memories of your trip.
New Orleans is bursting with romance-ready restaurants. The very unique and picturesque Galvez Restaurant (914 N. Peters St., 504-529-1583) celebrates the Spanish influence on New Orleans cuisine. It tops the list for romantic restaurants offering fine traditional local and Spanish favorites, and incomparable views. When the windows are open, the breeze rolling in from the river, and the sounds of vessels headed out to the Gulf of Mexico, give the restaurant an irresistible romantic charm. Soft Jazz with your dinner you say? Well, you are covered. Richard Fiske's Martini Bar & Restaurant located on 301 Dauphine St. inside the Chateau Lemoyne Hotel is the place to go. Known for its martinis, music, and award-winning cuisine artfully created by Chef Nick Gile, Richard Fiske's offers brunch on weekends beginning at 11:30 a.m., dinner daily at 4 p.m., and Friday and Saturday late dining until midnight.
Cocktails anyone? Well, of course I thought you would never ask. Meet your sweet on Bourbon Street for a candlelit cocktail at Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop, the oldest bar in North America. This place has the real feel of New Orleans that Hollywood has come to know. The dark corners, candlelight silhouettes, and bricks exposed through the posts and walls; it's a slice of New Orleans all on its own. Another good option is the elegant Carousel Bar and Lounge in the Hotel Monteleone, which features a rotating bar and an extensive cocktail menu with all of the New Orleans classics. If a Sazerac doesn't make you feel amorous, nothing will. Other romantic bars to slip into and get cozy are, French 75 located at Arnaud's on Bienville St. and Irvin Mayfield's Jazz Playhouse in the Royal Sonesta, which hosts an old-school jazz-based burlesque show every Friday night by the Fleur de Tease dance troupe.
For wine and champagne lovers, Patrick's Bar Vin, has world-wide acclaim and is right here in the Vieux Carre at 730 Bienville Street. Fox News named it among the "Top Ten Wine Bars in the Country." Managed by New Orleans' own bon vivant, Patrick Van Hoorebeek, customers are made to feel as though they are his guests. Step inside the private courtyard and you will discover an elegant gathering place for locals and wine enthusiasts from around the world. They host a great Happy Hour every Monday through Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. and opens at 4 p.m. daily. Don't miss their Valentine's Day special with 20% off every bottle of wine or champagne.
Enjoy the feel of the French Quarter and soak in all the sites from comfortable seats of the mule-drawn Carriage rides. Visitors from all over the world have made these carriage rides a staple in experiencing the French Quarter.
Need more romance? An evening dinner cruise on the authentic Steamboat Natchez Riverboat docked behind Jax Brewery as the sun sets over the city could do the trick. Dance with your sweetheart to the Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland Jazz Band and watch the city pass by from the top deck. Savor the beauty and romance of the New Orleans skyline aboard the 7 p.m. Dinner/Jazz Cruise featuring breathtaking views of the city, casual buffet-style dining with a choice of two dinner seatings, and meals prepared fresh on board. Boarding begins at 6 p.m.; the Riverboat cruises from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Arrive at 5:45 p.m. for dinner seating at 6 p.m.; the second seating is at 7:45 p.m. The cruise leaves promptly at 7 p.m. regardless of your seating time, so don't miss the boat! For reservations, call 504-586-8777.
Sometimes the simplest settings provide the perfect romantic moment. Picnic along the Mississippi River at Woldenberg Riverfront Park, or on a bench at Jackson Square with music provided by the brass band that performs for tips in front of St. Louis Cathedral. For picnic supplies, two people can easily split a single muffuletta sandwich from Central Grocery (923 Decatur St., 504-523-1620) while nearby Johnny's Po-Boys (511 St. Louis St., 504-524-8129) offers a lengthy menu of New Orleans' famous po-boys. It was established in 1950 and boasts that it's the oldest family-owned po-boy restaurant in the world! Couples should take advantage of the city's liberal public-consumption laws and enjoy a bottle of wine, champagne or other libation during their feast. Vieux Carre Wine & Spirits (422 Chartres St., 504-568-9463) has an extensive selection and will provide plastic cups so you can imbibe wherever the mood strikes you.
If you want to get some sweets for your sweetheart, visit Laura's Candies, New Orleans' oldest candy store. Since 1913, they have been producing world-famous pralines and big, beautiful truffles in their original French Quarter kitchen. Laura's Candies is the premiere place for gourmet chocolate confections and traditional New Orleans-Style treats. One of their most popular items is the New Orleans Sampler, which includes a variety of their best products: it includes a pound of Mississippi Mud, a pound of assorted fine chocolates, and a dozen original Creole pralines. 331 Chartres Street, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
Considering popping the big question in the Big Easy? Maison Royale features sparkling hand-selected diamond engagement and wedding rings. Their elegant selection includes vintage, contemporary, and custom designs to best express your personal taste. Maison Royale, a New Orleans tradition, has been located at 501 Royal Street since the early 1960s. (504) 524-5045.
Romance is on the mind and in the streets as The French Quarter comes to life during this time of year. From the River to the Marigny, and back to Canal Street, passion runs freely waiting to be appreciated and indulged upon. It's easy, it's fun, and it's time for you to get romantic in the French Quarter.
Bask in the romance of the skyline and the best view of the Mississippi River with a stroll along the Moonwalk. Keep your ears open for the multitude of street musicians that congregate there to replace the sounds of an urban paradise with the sounds of soft jazz. You'll be especially lucky to happen upon solo saxophonist ZeWee making one of his coveted appearances along the walk since his retirement last summer. He still pops up from time to time to the delight of locals and tourists alike.
Famed as being the spot that built New Orleans, The French Market holds its own in the romance department. On Mondays at 10am, the French Market Tour takes participants from the Farmers Market to Jackson Square. Learn about the history of the French Market and get a sense of the entire riverside district, including landmarks and living and historical legends. Meet at the Ursuline Street Arch and get swept away by facts you never knew about regarding The French Quarter and the city in general. Be sure to walk the back walk among the shops and pop into the French Market Visitors Center for the best tips on what to eat, where to dance to good tunes, and what things you just shouldn't miss this Valentine's season. The Food and Music Tour starts inside the Jazz Park Visitor Center on Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m. culminating with a stroll through our lively Farmers Market which ends at the Old U.S. Mint. A locally licensed guide leads these free walking tours. Call 504-522-2621 to reserve a Food and Music Tour.
Take the Canal Street Ferry next to the Aquarium of the Americas, and get on board for a quick and free ride across the river to historic Old Algiers Point for a different view. Though the ferry itself is utilitarian, it affords an unparalleled river experience and views of the city, especially at sunset or during the night when the skyline is illuminated. Embracing each other under the Dixie moon on the rolling waters of the Mississippi may become one of your most cherished memories of your trip.
New Orleans is bursting with romance-ready restaurants. The very unique and picturesque Galvez Restaurant (914 N. Peters St., 504-529-1583) celebrates the Spanish influence on New Orleans cuisine. It tops the list for romantic restaurants offering fine traditional local and Spanish favorites, and incomparable views. When the windows are open, the breeze rolling in from the river, and the sounds of vessels headed out to the Gulf of Mexico, give the restaurant an irresistible romantic charm. Soft Jazz with your dinner you say? Well, you are covered. Richard Fiske's Martini Bar & Restaurant located on 301 Dauphine St. inside the Chateau Lemoyne Hotel is the place to go. Known for its martinis, music, and award-winning cuisine artfully created by Chef Nick Gile, Richard Fiske's offers brunch on weekends beginning at 11:30 a.m., dinner daily at 4 p.m., and Friday and Saturday late dining until midnight.
Cocktails anyone? Well, of course I thought you would never ask. Meet your sweet on Bourbon Street for a candlelit cocktail at Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop, the oldest bar in North America. This place has the real feel of New Orleans that Hollywood has come to know. The dark corners, candlelight silhouettes, and bricks exposed through the posts and walls; it's a slice of New Orleans all on its own. Another good option is the elegant Carousel Bar and Lounge in the Hotel Monteleone, which features a rotating bar and an extensive cocktail menu with all of the New Orleans classics. If a Sazerac doesn't make you feel amorous, nothing will. Other romantic bars to slip into and get cozy are, French 75 located at Arnaud's on Bienville St. and Irvin Mayfield's Jazz Playhouse in the Royal Sonesta, which hosts an old-school jazz-based burlesque show every Friday night by the Fleur de Tease dance troupe.
For wine and champagne lovers, Patrick's Bar Vin, has world-wide acclaim and is right here in the Vieux Carre at 730 Bienville Street. Fox News named it among the "Top Ten Wine Bars in the Country." Managed by New Orleans' own bon vivant, Patrick Van Hoorebeek, customers are made to feel as though they are his guests. Step inside the private courtyard and you will discover an elegant gathering place for locals and wine enthusiasts from around the world. They host a great Happy Hour every Monday through Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. and opens at 4 p.m. daily. Don't miss their Valentine's Day special with 20% off every bottle of wine or champagne.
Enjoy the feel of the French Quarter and soak in all the sites from comfortable seats of the mule-drawn Carriage rides. Visitors from all over the world have made these carriage rides a staple in experiencing the French Quarter.
Need more romance? An evening dinner cruise on the authentic Steamboat Natchez Riverboat docked behind Jax Brewery as the sun sets over the city could do the trick. Dance with your sweetheart to the Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland Jazz Band and watch the city pass by from the top deck. Savor the beauty and romance of the New Orleans skyline aboard the 7 p.m. Dinner/Jazz Cruise featuring breathtaking views of the city, casual buffet-style dining with a choice of two dinner seatings, and meals prepared fresh on board. Boarding begins at 6 p.m.; the Riverboat cruises from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Arrive at 5:45 p.m. for dinner seating at 6 p.m.; the second seating is at 7:45 p.m. The cruise leaves promptly at 7 p.m. regardless of your seating time, so don't miss the boat! For reservations, call 504-586-8777.
Sometimes the simplest settings provide the perfect romantic moment. Picnic along the Mississippi River at Woldenberg Riverfront Park, or on a bench at Jackson Square with music provided by the brass band that performs for tips in front of St. Louis Cathedral. For picnic supplies, two people can easily split a single muffuletta sandwich from Central Grocery (923 Decatur St., 504-523-1620) while nearby Johnny's Po-Boys (511 St. Louis St., 504-524-8129) offers a lengthy menu of New Orleans' famous po-boys. It was established in 1950 and boasts that it's the oldest family-owned po-boy restaurant in the world! Couples should take advantage of the city's liberal public-consumption laws and enjoy a bottle of wine, champagne or other libation during their feast. Vieux Carre Wine & Spirits (422 Chartres St., 504-568-9463) has an extensive selection and will provide plastic cups so you can imbibe wherever the mood strikes you.
If you want to get some sweets for your sweetheart, visit Laura's Candies, New Orleans' oldest candy store. Since 1913, they have been producing world-famous pralines and big, beautiful truffles in their original French Quarter kitchen. Laura's Candies is the premiere place for gourmet chocolate confections and traditional New Orleans-Style treats. One of their most popular items is the New Orleans Sampler, which includes a variety of their best products: it includes a pound of Mississippi Mud, a pound of assorted fine chocolates, and a dozen original Creole pralines. 331 Chartres Street, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
Considering popping the big question in the Big Easy? Maison Royale features sparkling hand-selected diamond engagement and wedding rings. Their elegant selection includes vintage, contemporary, and custom designs to best express your personal taste. Maison Royale, a New Orleans tradition, has been located at 501 Royal Street since the early 1960s. (504) 524-5045.
Romance is on the mind and in the streets as The French Quarter comes to life during this time of year. From the River to the Marigny, and back to Canal Street, passion runs freely waiting to be appreciated and indulged upon. It's easy, it's fun, and it's time for you to get romantic in the French Quarter.
