The Drifty Guide To New Orleans, Louisiana [Drifty Guide]

By Talia Francena, Drifty Writer
Photos By Melissa Elise Randall, Editor

There’s no other place in the country quite like New Orleans. The hodgepodge of different cultures and deep historical roots blend to form a city rich with a certain je ne sais quoi.

Maybe it’s the mouth-watering aromas wafting around the streets that define this place or the ragtime sounds of grooving jazz. Of course, it’s the marriage of all these things and more that make NOLA one special jambalaya. Below are few examples of some key ingredients that make New Orleans sizzle.

A Little Bit of This, a Little Bit of That…

Markets have it all! Grab some local meats and fresh produce, window shop boutiques, and browse art among the various markets located around New Orleans.

A must see destination for any NOLA visitor is the French Market. Historic? This is the oldest market in the country. A five-minute stroll past the various vendors and you’ll feel like you’re in a simpler time. It begins at the iconic Café du Monde and runs for five blocks along the edge of the French Quarter right on the Mississippi River.

Another unique attraction to check out is Freret Market, open the first Saturday of every month, with the exception of June, July, and August. It focuses on three major categories; food, art, and flea. If you’re planning on staying awhile, you can even sell your own goods here.

One Of A Kind Vintage Finds

Forget shopping at malls - how boring. In New Orleans, you can say goodbye to everyday retail and say hello to uncommon, and sometimes quirky, thrift store and vintage finds.

One of the oldest thrift stores around is Bloomin’ Deals, run by the Junior League of New Orleans. Originally established in 1927, this eclectic little shop is part fundraiser, part community service, and it has everything you need to create an outfit as extraordinary as the city it calls home.

For one of a kind, high-end fashion pieces look no further than the Saint Claude Social Club. This fabulous women’s boutique boasts trendy vintage clothing and accessories that’ll make you want to swap out your entire wardrobe for these sophisticated, glamorous digs.

Art, Art Everywhere

There is no shortage of fancy galleries and studios where one could discover an expensive painting - but where's the fun in that? For an art-filled experience that resonates with that authentic New Orleans vibe consider exploring these creative stops.

Support local artists by taking something home from Jackson Square, an open-air market where craftsmen and creators can showcase their talent. You’ll often be able to observe painters and artists while they work, and don’t be surprised if they offer to paint your portrait.

For more handmade art, be sure to visit Palace Market Frenchmen, located right outside the French Quarter. This outdoor, nighttime market offers a rotating selection of artists, painters, jewelry makers and much more.

It’s Jazz, Baby

Without jazz, the music we know today would not exist, and there’s no better place to experience it than it’s birthplace. If you wanna hear some screaming trumpets and rattling drums then look no further than these popping spots.

For a more traditional take on the jazz scene, there’s Preservation Hall, whose founding mission in 1961 was to protect this art form during the rise of rock’n roll. It worked - you can visit this popular French Quarter spot today and still find people lining up outside to listen.

The Spotted Cat is another favorite jazz joint located on Frenchmen Street in the Faubourg Marigny District. Experience local musicians playing traditional jazz as well as some modern and progressive variations. The best part is there’s never a cover (plus you may even get to see some spontaneous swing dancing).

PoBoys, and Crawfish, and Gumbo. Oh My!

Within New Orleans, you can find a whole melting pot of delicious foods from places like Vietnam and the Mediterranean. But if it’s those quintessential dishes you’re after, save your appetite for these timeless haunts.

For a taste of old-timey NOLA cuisine, head over to Dooky Chase’s Restaurant. Since 1941, this family-run business has specialized in signature soul food options such as fried chicken and red beans and rice. Choose their lunch buffet option to sample a little bit of everything.

Another local staple is Parkway Bakery and Tavern, established in 1911. It’s a must-stop destination if it’s poboys you’re after, and is considered by many to be the best in town. They also serve other New Orleans classics such as hot sausage and fried catfish.

Escape From it All

Writer, artist, musician, whatever you define yourself as you can find a retreat in New Orleans to focus on your craft. Check out these places that offer residences where you can tune out society and get to creating.

If you’re a writer looking to spend some time working on your next novel or essay, take a look at the New Orleans Writers’ Residency. It’s a writers collective that offers lodging, an airfare stipend of $350, and also a weekly meal and entertainment allowance.

A Studio in the Woods is a nature-based artist’s retreat from Tulane University that offers residencies from September to May. During the rest of the year, there are also workshops, celebrations, and educational events that often showcase guest speakers.

But Wait There’s More

If you need a break from the big city, there are tons of smaller surrounding towns to visit. Many of these places still possess the southern charms of Louisiana with a few special characteristics of their own.

Covington is a quaint city right across Lake Pontchartrain that has a historic downtown, tasty places to grab a meal, and plenty of fun ways to spend time. Pay a visit to H.J. Smith & Sons General Store (actually a museum) to get a feel for what life was like back in 1876.

Nearby is Abita Springs, home to the Abita Brewing Company where you can take a tour and score some free tastings. While you’re here be sure to check out the Mystery House - a popular roadside stop packed full of folk art and other interesting knick-knacks.

Editor's Picks + Notes

By Melissa Elise Randall, Editor

New Orleans is pure magic.

I've always loved the idea of New Orleans. So much in fact, I was terrified to actually go there and spoil it for myself. But once I got there, my fears subsided, in favor of more electric sensations - salty fried chicken, thick, humid afternoons, and a large sip of sweet tea.

Here were my favorite things to do and see in NOLA.

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