New Orleans is known for its party atmosphere with an anything-goes reputation. There is always something going on when the sun sets in this raucous city
New Orleans is known for its party atmosphere with an anything-goes reputation. There is always something going on when the sun sets in this raucous city. The two main hotspots in New Orleans are the downtown area and the uptown vicinity. Bourbon Street and the French Quarter are located downtown and an array of bars and nightclubs are scattered uptown where college coeds congregate.
The main attraction at night downtown is Bourbon Street. At night, this area is only accessible by foot and is the locale that attracts most tourists. It is perfectly permissible to carry alcoholic beverages along the streets provided they aren't contained in glass bottles. The buildings that enclose this street are famous for the balconies that overlook the pedestrians milling about from club to club.
Pat-O'Brien's is one of the most famous bars in New Orleans. The front entrance is located on Saint Peter Street. Follow the path of slate flooring to the Patio Bar of O'Brien's. The Patio Bar awaits visitors with an open-air patio furnished with glass and iron tables. A flaming water fountain is at the center of this 4,000 square foot area that is open to the New Orleans night sky. Two bars serve customers so there is never a shortage of New Orleans famous Hurricane mixed drink or beer. There is also a restaurant, several adjoining bar areas, and a gift shop at this location.
There are a variety of small shops located along Bourbon Street that sell mixed drinks and beer to travelers who wish to wander the historic streets. A Hand Grenade mixed drink is another famed drink of the city worth a try and readily available at these cash and carry spots. These shops are also generously stocked with souvenirs.
Preservation Hall is a unique experience for blues and jazz music lovers. This venue is literally a hallway without bars, restaurants, chairs, or restroom facilities. The doorway is marked only by a small sign and is located 726 Saint Peters Street. Cover charge is very inexpensive, but an early arrival of 7:30 pm is highly recommended. Live music begins around 8:30 pm and offers the opportunity to hear some of the best music the city has to offer.
Travelers who enjoy gambling won't want to miss a visit to Harrah's New Orleans. This venue can be found at 512 South Peters Street. The interior of the 100,000 square foot casino and hotel hosts life-sized Mardi Gras floats, a pirate's ship, and statues of jesters. The Mardi Gras colors of gold, purple, and green add to the Mardi Gras theme. Stage shows, upscale and buffet dining, and live jazz performances are also available at Harrah's.
Bowling and rock "˜n' roll are featured at Mid-City Lanes Rock "˜N' Bowl. Don't expect state-of-the-art bowling facilities at Mid-City. The lanes are reminiscent of the late 1950's. Mid-City does offer great live music, inexpensive and tasty food, and friendly patrons that occasionally dance on the bar. This is a casual fun place to spend an evening in New Orleans.
Haunted History Tours are a unique way to explore the city at night. History buffs or travelers who enjoy ghost stories will enjoy these walking tours. Area experts lead nightly tours of area cemeteries and various locations within the French Quarter that have had documented ghost sightings. Nightly expeditions leave from the Reverend Zombie's Voodoo Shop in the French Quarter.
