If you’re hosting visitors, you want to show them the side of the city locals know and love. This guide highlights the best places to take out of town guests in New Orleans – spots that feel authentic, memorable, and genuinely fun without falling into the usual tourist traps.
Classic New Orleans Food (Without the Long Lines)
Dooky Chase’s Restaurant – Tremé
A cornerstone of Creole cooking, full of history, art, and meaning. Visitors instantly feel the cultural heartbeat of New Orleans the moment they walk in.
Mandina’s – Mid-City
Unpretentious, bustling, and beloved by locals. Comfortable enough for a casual night, impressive enough for out-of-town friends.
Liuzza’s by the Track – Fairgrounds
Neighborhood character in every corner. Great gumbo, cold beer, and proximity to City Park make it a solid first-day stop.
Showing Off the Music Side of the City
The Spotted Cat Music Club – Faubourg Marigny
Small, lively, and atmospheric – this is the jazz-soaked moment most visitors imagine before they arrive.
Tipitina’s – Uptown
A legendary room with a loyal local crowd. Bring guests here for a music night that feels unmistakably New Orleans.
Frenchmen Street (as a whole)
A walkable stretch of clubs and street musicians. Ideal for letting visitors explore and discover their own favorites.
Scenic Walks and Afternoon Adventures
City Park
Oak trees, sculpture garden, waterways, and quiet corners – a perfect way to show guests the softer, greener side of the city.
The Fly (Audubon Riverview Park)
Picnic-friendly river views behind the zoo. Relaxed, breezy, and a favorite local hangout.
Crescent Park – Bywater
Industrial charm, skyline sightlines, and wide-open paths. Great for golden-hour photos with your guests.
Drinks in Places They’ll Talk About Later
Carousel Bar & Lounge – French Quarter
The slow-spinning bar creates an instant “I have to take a picture” moment. An iconic stop that actually lives up to the hype.
Bacchanal Wine – Bywater
Courtyard seating, shared plates, and live music drifting through the air. A guaranteed hit with guests who love a laid-back vibe.
Pat O’Brien’s Courtyard – French Quarter
Yes, it’s touristy. But the flaming fountain, the piano bar, and the Hurricanes add up to an experience your guests won’t forget.
Neighborhoods That Show the Real New Orleans
Freret Street – Uptown
Food, drinks, coffee shops, boutiques – all in one walkable area. Perfect “choose your own adventure” energy.
Magazine Street – Garden District / Uptown
A long, lively stretch full of shopping and eating. Great for exploring at a relaxed pace with out-of-town guests.
Oak Street – Carrollton
Low-key, neighborly, and full of music and food. A great alternative to the intensity of the French Quarter.
One Big “Only in New Orleans” Moment
The Singing Oak – City Park
An unassuming spot with a magical soundtrack of wind chimes. Visitors love the peaceful surprise.
Café du Monde (at night)
Late-night beignets away from the daytime crowds. A small shift in timing creates a whole different mood.
Steamboat Natchez
Classic riverboat energy with skyline views. Touristy? Sure. Memorable? Absolutely.
How to Use This Guide
When you’re planning where to take visitors, think in simple “vibes” instead of rigid itineraries:
- One great meal
- One live music moment
- One scenic walk
- One “only in New Orleans” experience
Pick one from each category and you’ll give guests a visit that feels real and memorable. These truly are some of the best places to take out of town guests in New Orleans.
Afterward, share your experience on WelcomeToNOLA.com. Your memories help the next visitor discover something special.