New Orleans, Louisiana, might be the most lush, delicious destination in America, and no it’s not just because of The Originals. The thriving city has much to offer – from the delightful crunch of fresh beignets, comforting crawfish étouffée, and delish Muffaletta sandwiches (yum); to the symphony of live music and breathtaking local art, one is simply spoilt for choice.
Talk about getting spoilt, as Taylor Swift arrives in town around late October for the last leg of Eras Tour dates. For the occasion, we’ve rounded up our list of the most thrilling places to eat, stay, and play in the Crescent City. As the locals say, Laissez les bon temps rouler! (Let the good times roll)
Taylor will be playing at Caesar’s Superdome in downtown New Orleans, and some of the best hotels in town are rolling out the red carpet for Swifties. We’re coming in hot with the details.
HERE TO STAY
Copper Vine Wine Pub and Inn
Copper Vine Wine Pub and Inn is brand-new and located a quarter-mile from the concert venue. The hotel will be showcasing a select menu accompanied by concert prep activations like a glitter station from Pixie Dust, pop-up accessory shops, and more.
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Hotel Monteleone
The glamorous Hotel Monteleone is offering themed programming and special amenities for concertgoers. Guests can enjoy a poolside DJ set with Taylor Swift hits, sip on themed cocktails, create personalized friendship charms and glam up at the glitter bar to add a touch of sparkle to their concert attire. We love.
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Virgin Hotels New Orleans
Virgin Hotels New Orleans invites Swifties to indulge in custom cocktails, Taylor Swift-themed events, and interactive experiences. Just a short walk from the Caesars Superdome (talk about convenience), it is the perfect spot to immerse yourself in all things Tay-Tay, this weekend.
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Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans
However, if you’re staying in this weekend to celebrate with friends, here’s how you can make yours at home. (Courtesy: Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans)
Ingredients:
1.25 oz. Gin (infuse gin with butterfly pea flower to give it a lavender colour. You can also use Empress Gin)
1.5 oz lemon
.25 oz honey
Method:
Shake and strain into a coupe glass.
Top with Moet & Chandon
Kimpton Hotel Fontenot
Kimpton Hotel Fontenot is hosting a weekend full of events for Taylor’s visit, namely an Eras Pop-Up at King Brasserie & Bar, a T&T Brunch at the Peacock Room, an opportunity for hair & makeup with Faces of Virtue Beauty Studio, and Kitten Yoga with NOLA Vibes Yoga.
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The Columns
The Columns, located in the Garden District, is a glamorous, historic hotel like none other and you should pop by.
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CULINARY WONDERS
For a morning beignet, drop by the world-famous Café Du Monde. Get a cafe au lait on the side.
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Since 1840, Antoine’s has been known as one of the best for decadent cuisine. We don’t say this lightly but they invented Oysters Rockefeller!
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Venture into the Marigny neighbourhood for Creole-Italian food and cozy atmosphere at Adolfo’s.
Spend a perfect New Orleans afternoon at the Napoleon House. Be sure to order a Pimm’s Cup (its a non-negotiable) and Muffuletta, the quintessential New Orleans sandwich loaded with cured meats and cheese, slathered with a tangy olive salad dressing piled onto a sesame-crusted Italian loaf. That description has us in a chokehold.
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Head to Jacque-Imo’s for the best Cajun food (like étouffée) in the city and live music to accompany.
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Ayu Bakehouse is introducing Eras-themed baked goods under the Look What You Made Me Dough menu, that includes a “Gown Shaped like a Pastry” and a signature stenciled sourdough crafted to the theme. For beverages, they’ll be serving the Bejeweled, with butterfly tea and edible glitter, and King of my Heart, a raspberry white chocolate latte. Ayu’s popular hot chocolate beverage bomb, Hot Mallows (Taylor’s Version) will also be available, so snag it while you can.
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Noted as one of Taylor’s previous stops, Alon Shaya’s Saba on Magazine Street will feature themed beverages like the French Blonde with gin lillet blanc, grapefruit, and elderflower; the Lavender Haze with vodka, prosecco, lemon, and lavender syrup; and the Maroon with rose, pomegranate, and orange blossom syrup. Guests can dine like the pop star and enjoy modern Israeli cuisine before the show.
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WHERE TO PLAY BEFORE/AFTER THE SHOW
At Cane & Table, Owner-Partner Kirk Estopinal will be introducing a cocktail lineup inspired by iconic Taylor Swift moments, including a “Seemingly Ranch Water” with tequila, lime, and soda water, as well as “Champagne Problems” served with vodka and bergamot liqueur.
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The Carousel Bar at the Hotel Monteleone is a local treasure.
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The Double Dealer is hidden beneath the historical Orpheum Theater, a secret gem.
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In true NOLA fashion, end your night like a local at the eclectic, Saturn Bar.
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Tip – If your visit allows, be sure to drop by the New Orleans Museum of Art & Sculpture Garden and sign up for a Cajun cooking class with The Traveling Spoon. You’re very welcome.
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Images: Pinterest, Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans
PS: Loved reading our NOLA guide? Be sure to read more about our luxury travel destinations across the globe.
