New Orleans charms couples with its vibrant culture, storied history and one-of-a-kind experiences. From strolling hand-in-hand through the charming French Quarter to dining by candlelight overlooking the Mississippi River, romantic possibilities abound in this captivating city. Below, we’ve compiled a guide to the best things for couples to do in The Big Easy, so you can create your own itinerary and make the most of your time there.
Wandering Jackson Square
Location: Jackson Square, French Quarter
Begin your romantic journey in the heart of the French Quarter at Jackson Square. This charming square is brimming with live music, street performers, and historic buildings, creating a lively ambience perfect for couples. Take a leisurely stroll, immersing yourselves in the city’s vibrant energy. Admire the stunning architecture of the St. Louis Cathedral and capture the moment with a romantic photo in front of this iconic landmark.
While exploring the square, stop at Cafe Beignet or Central Grocery to grab some delicious food. Find a cozy spot, perhaps on a bench overlooking the Mississippi River, and enjoy a romantic picnic together. Let the soothing sounds of jazz fill the air as you savour the flavours of New Orleans and create unforgettable memories.
360-degree Views from Vue Orleans
Location: The Top of Four Seasons Hotel
If you’re looking for a unique and memorable experience in New Orleans, head to Vue, which is located at the top of the Four Seasons Hotel. Here, you can journey through the city’s 300-year history, making it a perfect idea for a date before or after dinner.
One of the highlights of Vue is the Orleans Observatory, located on floors 33 and 34. This observation deck offers a 360-degree view of the unique architecture and vibrant streets of New Orleans.
Riding the Romantic Rail
Location: St. Charles Avenue
Taking a romantic streetcar ride along St. Charles Avenue is a great way to step back in time and experience the charm of New Orleans. The historic rail-guided trams are a unique and charming way to explore the lovely neighbourhoods of the city. For over 150 years, the St. Charles Streetcar has been rumbling down the ‘neutral ground’ or middle of St. Charles and Carrollton avenues. It has become a symbol of the charm and romance of New Orleans. The dark green St. Charles streetcar is, in fact, the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world.
Related: A taste of the south – what to do and see in New Orleans
Exploring the Fascinating Cemeteries
Location: Various Cemeteries in New Orleans
Exploring the historic cemeteries of New Orleans may seem unconventional, but it can be a fascinating and romantic experience. These unique resting places offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture, with their above-ground tombs and intricate architecture. You can wander hand in hand through the moss-covered pathways of Lafayette Cemetery or St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, where famous figures like Marie Laveau, the Voodoo Queen of New Orleans, rest.
As you stroll among the tombstones, the eerie yet captivating atmosphere can spark conversations about life, love, and the mysteries of the afterlife. You can embrace the beauty in the macabre and delve into the stories and legends surrounding these hauntingly beautiful cemeteries.
This website has more information and excellent guides to free walking tours through various New Orleans cemeteries.
Savouring the Flavors of New Orleans
New Orleans is a food lover’s paradise, from mouth-watering gumbo to savoury jambalaya. Embark on a culinary adventure together and relish the flavours that make this city a gastronomic haven.
Begin your day with a classic Southern breakfast at a local cafe, enjoying fluffy beignets and a steaming cup of coffee.
A visit to a famous po’ boy shop for lunch is a must. The iconic po’boy sandwich is deeply intertwined with the city’s history and spirit, offering a unique and delicious culinary experience. This beloved dish originated in the 1920s when Bennie and Clovis Martin began serving this simple yet hearty sandwich to striking workers. Legend has it that whenever a hungry striker would approach their shop, someone would shout, “Here comes another poor boy.” Over time, this name became synonymous with the sandwich itself, evolving along with the vibrant city of New Orleans.
Today, a po’ boy represents not only a delectable meal but also a symbol of resilience and community, perfectly capturing the essence of New Orleans. Try Short Stop Poboys or Parkway Bakery & Tavern for reliably great Po Boys.
In the evening, treat yourselves to an intimate dinner at a romantic restaurant, where you can enjoy a candlelit ambience and a menu brimming with mouth-watering dishes. Complement your meals with refreshing cocktails like the famous Sazerac – The official cocktail of New Orleans – or a vibrant Hurricane.
Immersing in the Sounds of Jazz
Location: Jazz Clubs in New Orleans
New Orleans is synonymous with jazz, and immersing yourself in the soulful melodies of this iconic music genre is a must for any romantic getaway in the city. Explore the vibrant jazz scene by visiting one of the many atmospheric jazz clubs scattered throughout New Orleans.
Dance the night away at iconic venues like the Davenport Lounge.
This upscale and lively lounge is in the Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans and is named in honour of the hotel’s headline entertainer, Jeremy Davenport. You can sip on refined cocktails as you sway to live jazz, singers, and standards all night long.
Or head to Snug Harbor, described as the classiest jazz club in New Orleans” by The New York Times, where you can groove to the rhythm of live jazz bands. Let the intoxicating sounds of saxophones, trumpets, and pianos transport you to another era, creating an unforgettable ambience for you and your loved one.
Move to the Beat
Location: Fleur de Dance, Various Dance Studios in New Orleans
For couples who love to move to the beat, New Orleans offers a variety of dance classes where you can learn new moves and create beautiful memories together. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or have two left feet, there’s a dance style for everyone to enjoy.
Head to Fleur de Dance, a famous dance studio in New Orleans, where you can take a couples’ dance class and learn styles like West Coast Swing, Latin, or country two-step.
If you’re getting ready for your wedding, it’s worth considering taking private dance lessons to create an unforgettable first dance that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. Embrace the rhythm, let go of your inhibitions, and dance the night away in the city of music and love.
Cruising along the Mississippi River
Location: Mississippi River, Riverboat City of New Orleans
Enjoy a romantic dinner cruise along the majestic Mississippi River aboard the Riverboat City of New Orleans. As the steam-powered paddle wheel churns through the water, you and your partner can enjoy a leisurely evening filled with breathtaking views and enchanting entertainment.
Savour a delicious meal as the city skyline glides by, illuminated by the warm glow of the setting sun. After dinner, steal away to the top deck of the riverboat, where you can embrace and marvel at the beauty of the city’s landmarks passing by. Let the soothing sounds of live music create a soundtrack for your romantic evening on the water.
Finding Serenity in City Park
Location: City Park
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find serenity in the lush oasis of City Park. This expansive park is a haven for nature lovers and couples seeking a peaceful retreat.
Take a romantic stroll along the tree-lined paths and soak up the beauty of the park’s ancient live oak trees and colourful gardens. Pack a picnic and find a secluded spot by one of the park’s picturesque lagoons or under the shade of a moss-draped oak tree. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a paddleboat and explore the park’s tranquil waterways.
Embarking on a Haunted Adventure
Location: French Quarter, Various Haunted Tour Locations
For couples who enjoy a thrill, New Orleans offers a wealth of haunted adventures that will ignite your sense of adventure. Join a guided walking tour through the eerie streets of the French Quarter and delve into the city’s haunted history.
Visit iconic locations like the Lalaurie Mansion and the Old Ursuline Convent, rumoured to be haunted by restless spirits. Explore the city’s dark alleys and hidden corners as your guide shares spine-chilling tales of voodoo, ghosts, and mystery. Feel the adrenaline rush as you and your partner uncover the secrets beneath New Orleans’s surface.
Picnicking by Lake Pontchartrain
Location: Lake Pontchartrain, South Shore
For a tranquil escape from the city centre, venture just 15 minutes away from the French Quarter to the South shore of Lake Pontchartrain. This serene lake offers a picturesque setting for a romantic picnic with your loved one. Choose one of the seafood restaurants dotting the shore in the West End area and savour a delicious meal with a view.
If you’re in the mood for a bit of adventure, consider chartering a boat and spending the day exploring the crystal-clear waters of Lake Pontchartrain.
Strolling Through the French Quarter
Location: French Quarter
You can’t come to New Orleans with your love and not enjoy a romantic stroll through the magnetic French Quarter. This historic neighbourhood is a treasure trove of romantic experiences, from its lovely architecture to its vibrant streets filled with music and laughter.
Wander through the charming, narrow cobblestone streets and discover the one-of-a-kind shops, art galleries, and boutiques that adorn the way. Marvel at the intricate ironwork balconies and colourful facades of the historic buildings as you fully engage yourself in the lively atmosphere of the Quarter.
Be sure to make a stop at Preservation Hall to witness the best jazz musicians in town and perhaps even in the world. The beautifully faded old space is packed with people every evening. This place has been hosting jazz performances since 1961, and if you’re lucky enough, you might get to see members of the world-famous Preservation Hall Jazz Band perform.
Enjoying an Outdoor Dining Experience
Location: Various Restaurants and Bars in New Orleans
Indulge in a romantic outdoor dining experience at one of the charming restaurants and bars scattered throughout New Orleans. There’s something inherently romantic about dining al fresco, surrounded by the vibrant and utterly unique atmosphere of New Orleans.
Choose a restaurant with a picturesque courtyard, such as the Columns Hotel or Hotel Peter and Paul, where you can enjoy a candlelit dinner under the starry sky.
For a more casual experience, head to N7. This neighbourhood French restaurant and wine bar, founded by filmmaker Aaron Walker and chef Yuki Yamaguchi, offers a unique fusion of French cuisine with a Japanese twist.
Or Sylvain, a casual southern bistro with Gastropub leanings that offers a romantic courtyard illuminated by candlelight and surrounded by stone walls draped with scrolls of jasmine. As you walk through the low-lit carriageway, you will be greeted by the tavern-styled dining room with its lively ambience, long bar, mismatched wooden chairs, and charcoal walls adorned with antique prints.
New Orleans is a city that ignites passion and touches the soul. It’s a place where love stories are written and new adventures await at every corner. Whether taking a romantic stroll through historic neighbourhoods, indulging in unforgettable culinary experiences or getting lost in the rhythm of dynamic jazz performances, New Orleans has no shortage of romantic activities.
