h8sLHL6pUc, Author at Place d'Armes

March 22, 2023

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Classic Lunches That Define New Orleans Near Place d’Armes

New Orleanians love to eat, and so do the visitors who flock here. While dinner is the star of the culinary show, a host of classic New Orleans foods pop up at lunchtime. Gourmands can enjoy a long, leisurely lunch at some of the Quarter’s fanciest restaurants for a fraction of what they’d pay for dinner, or pick up a tasty lunch to go at a grocery store or po-boy shop. Try something different every day to experience the full spectrum of the city’s moveable feast.

Muffulettas at Central Grocery

923 Decatur St.

Sicilian immigrants have been a linchpin of the New Orleans food culture since they first arrived in the city. Founded in 1906 by Salvatore Lupo, Central Grocery gave birth to the most iconic Sicilian food of all: the muffuletta. Made with in-house sliced meats and cheeses, heaped with Central Grocery’s famous olive salad and sandwiched inside homemade sesame-seeded bread, muffulettas are guaranteed to satisfy your lunchtime cravings.

Prix Fixe Lunch at Antoine’s

513 Royal St.

Founded in 1840, New Orleans’ oldest restaurant offers one of the city’s best lunch bargains in an elegant historic environment. Seasonal $24 lunch specials include a choice of appetizers like coconut shrimp bisque and equally renowned entrees like Gulf fish.

Charbroiled Oysters at Acme Oyster House

724 Iberville St.

Visitors love to belly up to the oyster bar at the Acme, where entertaining staff members make time fly while you feast on fresh raw oysters. But save enough room for must-have charbroiled oysters! Jazz it all up with a couple of oyster shooters with vodka and hot sauce and you’re all set for the day.

Burgers at Port of Call

838 Esplanade Ave.

There’s a reason why you always see a line of hungry people waiting outside Port of Call. Its signature burgers have been hailed as New Orleans’ best by everyone from Zagat’s to Fodor’s, while its signature cocktails are infamously strong. The menu description of Neptune’s Monsoon says it all: “An old recipe used frequently as a last request by pirates condemned to walk the plank.”

Po-Boys at Johnny’s Po-boys

511 St. Louis St.

Looking for a real deal old-school New Orleans po-boy joint? Local favorite Johnny’s delivers and, like Port of Call, is worth the wait. Heaped high on Leidenheimer’s, the only true po-boy French bread, there are dozens of choices. Seafood lovers gravitate to the classic fried shrimp and fried oysters, but the roast beef po-boy is also one of the city’s best, and laden with gravy debris.

Gumbo at Restaurant R’evolution

777 Bienville St.

Gumbo is on the menu all over town, but one of the most memorable versions is found at R’evolution, an elegant nouveau cuisine restaurant that puts a unique spin on classic Cajun and Creole cooking. The seafood gumbo is a solid choice, but cognoscenti head straight for “Death by Gumbo,” which is worth every cent of its hefty $20 price. Steeped in a dark roux, its centerpiece whole semi-boneless quail is stuffed with smoked Andouille sausage, file rice and poached oysters. Overkill? Sure. But death never tasted this delicious.

Planning a trip to New Orleans? Check availability for your travel dates and book your stay online. Also, make sure to take advantage of our low weekday rates and special offers. If you find lower rates on your Place d’Armes room at the time of booking, we will match the rate! And you can get exclusive deals and discounts at our New Orleans hotel by signing up for our email list.

March 22, 2023

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New Orleans Attractions Things to Do in the French Quarter

Must-See Museums in and Near the French Quarter

New Orleans Pharmacy Museum. Photo by Cheryl Gerber

Whether you’re an art lover, history buff, or music fan, or just want to learn more about the city’s rich culture, New Orleans is home to many fascinating museums, from the sprawling National World War II Museum to tiny jewels like the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum. Many of the best are within easy walking distance in the Quarter, or in the nearby Arts District and Treme.

The National World War II Museum

945 Magazine St.

Designated by Congress as “America’s National World War II Museum,” this sprawling complex with five soaring pavilions tells the story of the globe-spanning war that changed the world through the experiences of the men and women who lived through it.

Four main halls transport visitors into the Pacific and European Theaters, the D-Day Invasion, and The Home Front. You can also submerge yourself in an immersive submarine experience, and see, hear, and feel the immensity of the war in the epic 4D movie Beyond All Boundaries, narrated by Tom Hanks.

Contemporary Arts Center

900 Camp St.

Founded by a passionate group of Louisiana artists who wanted to expand the concept of art beyond work that hangs on the walls, the CAC is a hub of creative activity, from large-scale visual art exhibitions to music, dance, and theatre performances. A winding circular ramp, with a central atrium for hanging installations, connects several levels of gallery spaces.

Ogden Museum of Southern Art

925 Camp St.

Home to the world’s largest and most comprehensive collection of Southern art, Ogden’s permanent collection of more than 4,000 pieces from 15 states dates back to 1733 and ranges from traditional folk art to cutting-edge contemporary art and photography. It mounts new exhibits throughout the year and also hosts special events, including live music.

New Orleans Pharmacy Museum

514 Chartres St.

How did New Orleanians cure what ailed them back in the 19th century? This unique museum holds some clues. Built in 1823 for Louis Dufilho, America’s first licensed pharmacy, it showcases oft-questionable medical practices that proliferated in the mid-1800s, when opium was as common as aspirin and voodoo potions shared shelf space with patent medicines. Hundreds of artifacts include hand-blown apothecary bottles, old prosthetics devices and antique wheelchairs.

The Cabildo

701 Chartres St.

Built under Spanish rule between 1795 and 1799, the Cabildo served as the site for the transfer ceremonies that finalized the 1803 Louisiana Purchase and houses three floors of historic paintings, documents and objects. The museum houses several permanent exhibits and a few temporary ones. Subjects include Creole history, Mardi Gras, Katrina, and more.

New Orleans Jazz Museum

400 Esplanade Ave.

Housed in the Old U.S. Mint near the lively Frenchmen Street music corridor, the New Orleans Jazz Museum celebrates jazz in the city where it was born. Its collection of 25,000+ instruments, recordings, photographs, printed sheet music, and other musical ephemera is the largest in the world, but it’s not just a shrine to the past. The NOJM also produces 15+ music festivals and over 365 live concerts throughout the year, where history continues to be made today.

Backstreet Cultural Museum

1531 St. Philip St.

Second-line parades, Mardi Gras Indians, and countless world-class musicians emerged from the creative cauldron of Treme, one of the oldest African-American neighborhoods in the country. The museum houses an extensive collection of historic photographs and a rich trove of artifacts like second-line umbrellas and elaborately beaded Mardi Gras Indian costumes. BCM also hosts regular music and dance performances and serves as a Mardi Gras gathering spot for Indians, Baby Dolls, and Skull & Bones gangs, who wake the town up on Mardi Gras Day.

March 21, 2023

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New Orleans Attractions Place d’Armes Things to Do in the French Quarter

The Place d’Armes Guide to the French Quarter

valentino-hotel-group-prince-conti-new-orleans

Place d’Armes is located on the quiet 600 block of St. Ann Street, in the center of the French Quarter of New Orleans. You can stroll just two blocks to the historic Jackson Square, or Cafe du Monde for some beignets. The excitement of Bourbon Street is only eight blocks away, too!

Because the French Quarter has so much to offer in terms of history, entertainment and world-class cuisine, choosing a perfect itinerary could be overwhelming. So here’s our guide to what you can see, do, eat, and drink — all near the hotel. Also, do you need help choosing which room to book for your trip? We got you covered, too.

Choosing the perfect room at Place d’Armes

The beautifully restored 18th and 19th-century buildings of the historic Place d’Armes surround the lush tropical courtyards, a sparkling saltwater swimming pool and fountains. There are five room types, with either a king or a queen bed, and we also have rooms with two queen beds.

The one-bedrooms are ideal for solo travelers, couples, or besties who don’t mind sharing a bed. The rooms with two queen beds are well suited for families, friend trips, girl trips, and any small groups that are OK with sharing a room.

If you treasure your privacy and are sensitive to noise, the windowless interior room offers great value and all the peace and quiet you need. Our beautiful deluxe room has a little more space, and a street or courtyard view (great for people-watching!). The balcony room features a balcony that faces St. Ann Street and is perfect for people who want the full French Quarter experience. The courtyard room faces our lush tropical courtyard with fountains and a swimming pool, and the junior suite features the most space with its elegant sitting area.

Keep in mind that due to the historic nature of our property, we have some variations in our room sizes.

Getting around

Place d’Armes places you within walking distance of numerous New Orleans attractions, restaurants, art galleries, museums, and more. You will be able to browse through famous New Orleans art galleries and antique shops, eat at some of the best restaurants in the country, and shop at the Riverwalk Mall and the French Market.

What’s on St. Ann Street, you ask? St. Ann has its own hidden history, full of characters, places and events that make it one of New Orleans’ most storied streets. Take a trip back to antebellum New Orleans in the 1850 House (523 St. Ann), which is furnished with the exquisite art and decor found in the finest homes of the prosperous local gentry. Situated inside the Pontalba buildings bordering Jackson Square, the elegant apartments were designed and financed by Baroness de Pontalba Micaela Almonester.

The voodoo priestess Marie Laveau’s first house was an old adobe cottage between Rampart and Burgundy streets at an address then known as 152 Rue St. Some say Marie’s spirit continues to inhabit the current house (1020 St. Ann), which was built on top of the old foundation when the cottage was torn down in 1903.

One of the most remarkable historic landmarks, The Presbytère (751 Chartres at St. Ann), was built in 1791 to match the neighboring Cabildo alongside St. Louis Cathedral, and was originally used as a residence for Capuchin monks. It later served as a courthouse and became part of the Louisiana State Museum in 1911. The Presbytère’s permanent exhibits celebrate the joyous spirit and resilience of New Orleans. One of them, Mardi Gras: It’s Carnival Time in Louisiana, invites visitors to climb aboard parade floats and view historic throws, while Living with Hurricanes: Katrina and Beyond documents the city’s remarkable recovery from one of the worst disasters in U.S. history.

If walking around the French Quarter isn’t quite your speed, other transportation options include mule-drawn carriages, pedicabs, streetcars, buses, cabs, Uber and Lyft, and even a ferry that goes to Algiers on the West Bank. One of the most versatile and easy options for visitors to see the city is the City Sightseeing New Orleans Hop-On, Hop-Off double-decker bus tour. The buses come to each stop every 30 minutes, allowing you to travel and sightsee throughout New Orleans at your own pace. It’s a nice way to get from the French Quarter to the Garden District and Magazine Street shopping district.

Other New Orleans neighborhoods are within easy reach as well. From the music-haven strip of Frenchmen Street in the Marigny to the club-hopping St. Claude Avenue in the Bywater and the galleries and the museums of the Arts District, they all offer a colorful tapestry of unique culture and traditions, within walking distance or an easy ride away.

Where to eat

Whether you’re looking for traditional American options or Creole- and Cajun-inspired recipes the city’s dining scene provides endless options, particularly in the French Quarter. From artisanal pizza to the signature cafe au lait and decadent desserts, the French Quarter has it all.

For breakfast, try the Bananas Foster French toast or eggs Benedict po-boy at Stanley (it also offers a great view of Jackson Square), or the wildly popular eggs cochon and BBQ shrimp and grits at the Ruby Slipper. Vacherie serves authentic Cajun cuisine from the Hotel St. Marie located on Toulouse Street, and the charming, French-style patisserie Croissant D’Or tucked away on a quiet block of Ursuline Avenue is perfect for early risers.

Do you have a food bucket list? Cross off the gumbo, po-boys, charbroiled oysters, muffulettas, and other classic dishes that came to define New Orleans while you enjoy a long, leisurely lunch near the hotel.

How about more classics for dinner? Some of the best restaurants in the Quarter, both fancy and casual, offer up Gulf coast fish, shrimp Creole, crawfish étouffée, and other deliciousness. And why not walk it off afterward, off the beaten path of the hand grenades and giant novelty cups, and explore a few local watering holes?

What to do

The Quarter is over 300 years old and is considered one of the most beautiful historic places in the country. When you’re staying at the Place d’Armes Hotel you’re already immersed in history. Even strolling around informally, you’ll discover storied landmarks just about anywhere you go.

Whether you’re a history buff or just want to explore lightly and have some fun within the walking distance of the hotel, you will not want to miss out on visiting some of the city’s most famous historical landmarks, including the must-visit museums, located right in or near the Quarter.

Whether you’re here on a girls weekend, a romantic getaway, a short stay, visiting with the whole family, or exploring on the budget, there’s plenty to do, round the clock, in and near the French Quarter. Bustling nightlife, walking tours, all kinds of sightseeing tours, and entertainment — you can find it all within walking distance from the hotel.

Where to shop

For souvenirs (including the edible kind like pralines and Louisiana hot sauces) and well-priced local arts and crafts, try Decatur Street and the French Market, including the strip of the Shops at the Colonnade adjacent to the market. Want to pick some cool masks and beads for the kids?

There are quite a few options that are fun for parents, too. There are three malls nearby, and Chartres Street is packed with boutiques, just as Royal Street boasts some of the best antiques and vintage shopping in the country.

The best time of the year to visit

Even during the hot and humid months, the Crescent City’s event calendar is pretty much always full, so when you should visit really depends on your interests and your tolerance for heat. There’s something going on year-round, from food and drink fests to the fall and winter holidays, the Carnival, and the Saints football season.

No matter when you decide to visit, we’ll be happy to have you! Book your stay with us today, and see why no other city compares to the magic that is New Orleans.

March 21, 2023

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Fun Things to Do in New Orleans In the French Quarter Things to Do in the French Quarter

Classic New Orleans Dinner Dishes

New Orleans boasts a bounty of iconic foods, from po-boys and muffuletta sandwiches to hot-out-the-pot boiled crawfish. Many of the items on local appetizer menus, like shrimp remoulade and gumbo, can be a meal in themselves, and some of the city’s tastiest treats are classic desserts like bananas Foster and bread pudding.

That said, when dinner rolls around, the stars of the menu are the main-course entrees. Here are some New Orleans classics you don’t want to miss. Pro tip: You get more bang for your buck if you order these dishes at lunch.

Barbeque Shrimp

Don’t let the name fool you. This rich melt-in-your-mouth dish has nothing to do with grills or traditional BBQ sauce. It’s spicy in-the-shell shrimp, sauteed in Worcestershire, garlic, and a positively decadent (and delicious) amount of butter. To sample it at the source, head uptown to Pascal’s Manale Restaurant (1838 Napoleon Avenue), where the dish was invented. Mr. B’s Bistro (201 Royal St.) in the Quarter also makes an excellent version, while Bayona (430 Dauphine St.) ups the decadence ante by serving its barbeque shrimp with cheese grits (Bayona’s menu is seasonal and subject to change).

Softshell Crabs

Softshell crabs, a seasonal delicacy available from May through September, have recently molted their hard outer shells and make for delicious eating. Usually deep-fried, they are sometimes used in po-boys, but also star as an entree on many menus. Widely available throughout the Quarter, the softshells at GW Fins (808 Bienville St.) get especially high marks for their crispiness.

Crawfish Étouffée

The French word étouffée (pronounced eh-too-fey) means “smothered,” and this spicy seafood stew, made with shrimp as well as crawfish, is a traditional Creole/Cajun favorite. World-famous Galatoire’s (209 Bourbon St.) serves a classic shrimp étouffée over rice as an entree and, like many other restaurants, also offers it as an add-on topping over fish. Yum! Don’t want to put on a jacket for dinner, which Galatoire’s dress code for men requires? Some of the city’s best crawfish étouffée is found at the casual eatery Deanie’s (841 Bienville St.).

Gulf Coast Fish

Any New Orleans restaurant worth its salt features catch of the day on its menu, and fresh Gulf Coast fish, served grilled or fried, are local staples. For the biggest selection, head to Ralph Brennan’s Red Fish Grill (115 Bourbon St.), which serves grouper, pompano, swordfish and snapper, in addition to its namesake swimmer. But the award-winning Peche (800 Magazine St.) in the Warehouse District is rightly famous for its whole grilled fish, which is big enough to serve a whole table of seafood lovers.

Blackened Chicken

Blackened fish gets more press, but blackened chicken, its Cajun cousin, is just as delicious. Pierre Maspero’s (440 Chartres St.), housed in a historic building where Jean Lafitte once plotted his escape, serves its blackened chicken two ways: with blackened jambalaya and tossed with a creamy alfredo pasta.

Shrimp Creole

One of the first dishes that comes to mind when visitors think of New Orleans cuisine, shrimp Creole is a staple on many local menus. Try the traditional version of this savory tomato-based dish at New Orleans Creole Cookery (508 Toulouse St.) or the Gumbo Shop (630 St. Peter St.).

March 21, 2023

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Fun Things to Do in New Orleans New Orleans Attractions

Must-See Highlights in Nearby Neighborhoods

Armstrong Park. Photo by Cheryl Gerber

There’s no shortage of attractions just steps away from the Place d’Armes, where history and culture collide in the storied streets of the French Quarter. But New Orleans also offers a colorful patchwork of other neighborhoods with their own unique traditions.

The Arts District

Site of three major museums, including the world-renowned National World War III Museum, the Arts District transformed many old commercial warehouses into trendy restaurants, galleries and bars, where art meets the culinary arts.

Julia Street

Julia Street becomes a swarming hub of see-and-be-scenesters from Camp St. to Tchoupitoulas the first Saturday of every month, when top-tier galleries like Arthur Roger (432 Julia St.) and Jonathan Ferrara (400A Julia St.) open their latest shows. Pop into Galliano (200 Julia St.) for a twist on classic Cajun cooking, or feast on the exotic Southeast Asia/West African/Caribbean fusions at Carmo (527 Julia St.).

Julia Street also serves as the ground zero for the Arts District’s annual White Linen Night, held the first Saturday of every August.

Contemporary Arts Center (900 Camp St.)

Founded by Louisiana artists, the CAC is a hub of creative activity and performances. Several levels of gallery spaces are connected by a winding circular ramp, which overlooks a central atrium often hung with installations.

Ogden Museum of Southern Art (925 Camp St.)

The Ogden boasts the world’s largest permanent collection of Southern art, which ranges from traditional folk art to cutting-edge contemporary art and photography. It mounts new exhibits throughout the year and also hosts special events.

The Marigny

Frenchmen Street

The club-hopping strip of Frenchmen is the epicenter of the city’s live music scene. Hit The Spotted Cat (623 Frenchmen St.), or reserve a table at Snug Harbor (626 Frenchmen St.) to hear cool contemporary jazz. d.b.a. (618 Frenchmen St.) hosts some of the hardest-working musicians in town, while the Blue Nile (532 Frenchmen St.) presents high-energy shows by local stars along with national touring acts.

St. Claude Triangle

Just the other side of Elysian Fields, where the Rampart.-St. Claude streetcar line ends, a trifecta of live music venues offers a hip alternative to the oft-overcrowded Frenchmen scene.

Anything and everything goes at the AllWays Lounge (2240 St. Claude Ave.), from swing dance to burlesque to drag shows to the quirky, punky, and all kinds of wonderful. Catch hot up-and-coming bands at the Hi-Ho Lounge (2239 St. Claude Ave.), a lively neighborhood bar. The dimly lit Siberia (2227 St. Claude Ave.) churns our live shows on a regular basis just down the block.

The Bywater

Julia Street’s hipper cousin, the boho enclave of Bywater hosts art openings the second Saturday of the month at artist-run collectives like The Front (4100 St. Claude Ave.) and the Good Children Gallery (4137 St. Claude Ave.). It’s also home to the Music Box Village (4557 N. Rampart St.), a delightful collection of artist-built musical houses that visitors can play like instruments.

Bacchanal Wine (600 Poland Ave.) attracts visitors from around the world to its funky outdoor courtyard. Guests sip world-class wines while listening to live acoustic music and feasting on the seasonal menu of small plates, steak, and cheese plates.

Get your day off to a good start at the Bywater Bakery (3624 Dauphine St.), which makes delicious house-baked breakfast treats and savory specialties, and hosts events including live music.

Treme

One of the country’s oldest African-American neighborhoods, Treme is the living heart of second-line culture. Throughout the 19th century, enslaved Africans and free people of color gathered every Sunday in Congo Square to dance and drum in a corner of what is now called Louis Armstrong Park, which hosts free outdoor music festivals throughout the year.

The Backstreet Cultural Museum (1531 St. Philip St.) houses a fabulous array of Mardi Gras Indian costumes and photographs that trace the neighborhood’s musical history. Catch a jazz mass at St. Augustine Catholic Church (1210 Governor Nicholls St.), then hit Lil Dizzy’s Cafe (1500 Esplanade Ave.) for lunch. Or try the savory gumbo z’herbes at Dooky Chase’s (2301 Orleans Ave.), where the late, great Creole chef Leah Chase worked her magic.

The Garden District

Hop the St. Charles Streetcar at Canal and Carondelet to travel in style to the fashionable Garden District.

Get off at Washington Street to wander among the above-ground graves at Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 (1427 Washington Ave.). (Closed for renovations as of 2023.) Just across the street is Commander’s Palace (1403 Washington Ave.), an elegant old-school Creole restaurant known for its decadent Jazz Brunch spread.

March 21, 2023

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In the French Quarter Things to Do in the French Quarter

Cool New Orleans Souvenirs for Kids

Photo by L. Allen Brewer

“Please, mom, can you buy me that?” Whether you’re visiting New Orleans with the kids in tow, or shopping for souvenirs for young ones back home, you’ll find a wealth of cool options in the Quarter for kids of all ages that are fun for parents, too.

Kids’ Clothes, Books & Accessories

If you’re looking for a one-stop shop, Nola Kids (333 Chartres St.) has you covered. It stocks a vast array of kids’ clothing with New Orleans motifs, like “Rollin’ with My Krewe” t-shirts, and plenty of Who Dat Saints gear for young football fans.

You’ll find sparkly tutus, body glitter, monster costumes for youngsters who love dressing up for Mardi Gras any old day, and a whole menagerie of animal plushies (including a mosquito!). The well-stocked library of books ranges from popular local classics (Cajun Night Before Christmas) to popular titles no kid could resist, while imaginative accessories include unicorn slippers, fancifully mismatched Story Time Knee Socks, and backpacks with butterfly wings.

Voodoo Dolls & Talismans

Voodoo casts a spell over the Quarter many visitors can’t resist, and kids are just as intrigued by the occult arts as grownups. Tourist shops abound with inexpensive voodoo dolls, but Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo (739 Bourbon St.) stocks the real deal. Handcrafted with Spanish moss and other natural elements, House of Voodoo dolls are specifically created for positive effects that help make dreams come true.

You’ll also find tiny Guatemalan worry dolls that take worries away at night when youngsters tuck them under their pillow, and kid-pleasing talismans like good-luck painted chicken feet and Turkish Evil Eye charms that ward off bad spirits. Sister store Reverend Zombie’s House of Voodoo (723 St. Peter St.) sells the same products.

Gators, Masks & Beads

The open-air shed at the historic French Market (1008 N. Peters St.), which dates back to 1791, is the best go-to spot for popular New Orleans souvenirs like feathered masks and boas, novelty gators of every sort, and a seemingly infinite supply of Mardi Gras beads of all varieties.

The price is always right. If you give the kids $20 to spend, they can score a whole lot of stuff. Immediately adjacent to the souvenir stalls in the shed is an open-air flea market, where local artists and crafters sell some cool handmade products that actually are made in New Orleans. Open daily, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Toys, Games & Books

Two bright red toy soldiers stand guard outside the door of the Little Toy Shop (513 St. Ann St.), a family-owned store that’s catered to kids for over 60 years. Chock full of all manner of toys, from old standbys like spinning tops and rubber duckies to classic toy soldiers and miniatures, Little Toy Shop also stocks a slew of branded lunch boxes and plenty of New Orleans-themed kids’ books like The Runaway Beignet. Games range from chess sets with dragon-themed pieces to several variations of Rubik’s Cube-style puzzlers.

Looking for something more artisanal? Idea Factory (924 Royal St.) makes delightfully creative toys handcrafted from wood, including Pinocchio and dinosaur marionettes, wooden cars and trains, and a polished-wood snake made of interlocking pieces.

Year-Round Christmas Shopping

Most kids wish Christmas came every day. Well, in New Orleans, it does! Get a jump on the season at Santa’s Quarters (1025 Decatur St.), which specializes in high-end ornaments like Christopher Radko’s hand-blown creations. The kids will likely have more fun checking out the glittery gators and guys-with-fish-tails ornaments just down the street at Merry Christmas & All That Jazz (820 Decatur St.).

March 21, 2023

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New Orleans Attractions Things to Do in the French Quarter

What’s on St. Ann Street in the French Quarter?

Pontalba Apartments

If you’re staying at the Place d’Armes, which borders bustling Jackson Square, you’re in the heart of the Quarter on St. Ann Street, which boasts a wealth of restaurants, bars and boutiques. St. Ann also has its own hidden history, full of characters, places and events that make it one of New Orleans’ most storied streets. Discover the lore and legends while enjoying some of the Quarter’s best dining, drinking and shopping.

History, Legends & Lore

Birthplace of Voodoo Priestess Marie Laveau (1020 St. Ann St.)

Shaded by honeysuckle vines, pomegranate and banana trees, Marie Laveau’s first house was an old adobe cottage between Rampart and Burgundy streets at an address then known as 152 Rue St. Ann. It served as a sanctuary for children, the poor and sick, and New Orleanians seeking powerful charms from a voodoo priestess who casts as potent a spell today as she did in her own lifetime. Some say Marie’s spirit continues to inhabit the current house, which was built on top of the old foundation when the cottage was torn down in 1903.

NCIS: New Orleans Headquarters (719 St. Ann St.)

While it was filming in New Orleans, the hit CBS show had its headquarters on St. Ann between Royal and Bourbon streets, where a gated carriageway leads inside to a squad room, kitchen and courtyard, with an interrogation room in the back. In real life, the carriageway serves as parking spaces for residences on either side. The actual set was in a Jefferson Parish soundstage, but fans of the series can check out its weathered, exterior entrance on St. Ann.

1850 House in the Pontalba Apartments (523 St. Ann)

Take a trip back to antebellum New Orleans in the 1850 House, which is furnished with the exquisite art and decor found in the finest homes of the prosperous local gentry. Situated inside the Pontalba buildings bordering Jackson Square, the elegant apartments were designed and financed by Micaela Almonester Baroness de Pontalba, a remarkable woman whose initials (AP) can still be seen in the cast iron balcony railing. A shrewd businesswoman and heiress, the Baroness survived a gunshot attack by her money-hungry father-in-law.

The Presbytère (751 Chartres at St. Ann)

Built in 1791, the Presbytère was designed to match the neighboring Cabildo alongside St. Louis Cathedral, and was originally used as a residence for Capuchin monks. It later served as a courthouse and became part of the Louisiana State Museum in 1911. The Presbytère’s two of its several permanent exhibits celebrate the joyous spirit and resilience of New Orleans. Mardi Gras: It’s Carnival Time in Louisiana invites visitors to climb aboard parade floats and view historic throws, while Living with Hurricanes: Katrina and Beyond documents the city’s remarkable recovery from one of the worst disasters in U.S. history.

Eat, Drink & Shop

Stanley (547 St. Ann St.)

Breakfast and brunch are served all day at this lively Quarter eatery, which boasts a soda fountain with house-made ice cream and features a full menu of delicious sandwiches, from classic Reuben and corned beef pastrami to the ever-popular Stanley Burger.

Muriel’s Jackson Square (801 Chartres St., corner of St. Ann)

Muriel’s history stretches back to the founding of New Orleans. It was rebuilt after going up in flames during the Good Day Fire of 1788. An extensive renovation in 2001 restored Muriel’s to its mid-1800s glory, and its classic Creole food and specialty cocktails are as classy as its ambiance.

Cafe Du Monde (800 Decatur, corner of St. Ann)

A New Orleans tradition since 1862, Cafe du Monde serves its iconic sugar-dusted beignets and chicory-laced cafe au lait 24 hours a day, and fresh-squeezed orange juice is always on the menu. Pro tip: Skip the crowds that flock there for breakfast and stop by at night, when you rarely have to wait for a seat.

Maskarade (630 St. Ann St.)

Masks are a Mardi Gras tradition, and Maskarade is brimming with the fanciful creations of some of the world’s most gifted maskmakers. Don’t see anything that strikes your fancy? Commission your own personal made-to-order mask.

New Orleans Cajun Store (537 St. Ann St.)

Looking for edible souvenirs? Choose from dozens of hot sauces and spices made by Tabasco and Andy Roo’s. You’ll also find a slew of other Louisiana mementos, from colorful aprons and apparel to playful ornaments to elegant fleur de lis serving ware.

Creole Delicacies Shop (533 St. Ann St.)

Visitors make a beeline for this shop’s creamy pralines and other Louisiana pecan delicacies like Praline Honey Butter. It’s also stocked with regional cookbooks, Cajun spices and mixes and plenty of local souvenirs, from kitchen gadgets to seafood decor to Christmas ornaments.

Willa Mae’s Scotch House (2401 St. Ann St.)

Grab a cab and head to this fried chicken and soul food mecca in Treme. A destination for activists during the Civil Rights movement, the family-owned restaurant was honored with a James Beard award. It counts President Barack Obama among its many customers.

March 20, 2023

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Fun Things to Do in New Orleans Place d’Armes Things to Do in the French Quarter

12 Reasons to Stay at the Place d’Armes Hotel in the New Orleans French Quarter

The Place d’Armes Hotel sits in the heart of the New Orleans French Quarter and embodies old-world charm inside and out. It occupies two restored historic townhouses dating back to the 18th and 19th century, located on a quiet block of St. Ann Street, mere steps away from the excitement of Bourbon Street and the historic Jackson Square (which used to be called Place d’Armes, hence the hotel’s name). Here are just a few reasons why Place d’Armes is an excellent choice for your next trip to New Orleans.

beautiful shaded courtyard pool at the Place D'Armes

1. The Old-World Ambiance

Guest rooms facing both the street and the courtyard have wrought-iron balconies and feature exposed brick, conveying the traditional, old-world ambiance of the French Quarter. The hotel’s courtyard is particularly enchanting, showcasing a variety of tropical plants native to Louisiana, fountains, and a sparkling saltwater swimming pool.

Find a spot at one of the patio tables or the benches in the shade of the magnolia trees, and relax to the sound of the gurgling fountains. Or stroll just a block to Cafe du Monde for beignets and cafe au lait.

2. We Welcome Groups of All Sizes

The Place d’Armes Hotel presents special opportunities for groups and small meetings looking for a quiet, intimate venue that stands apart from the less-personable offerings of larger chain hotels. We welcome all: meetings, tour groups, conventioneers, family reunions, couples, and wedding groups.

3. Modern Amenities

We want you to feel right at home during your stay, which is why our staff provides guests with some great amenities. You can choose from several room sizes when booking with Place d’Armes, such as the interior room, deluxe room, courtyard room, balcony room, and junior suite. Wi-Fi is complimentary and children ages 12 and under stay for free.

4. You’ll Be Close to All French Quarter Attractions

The Place d’Armes Hotel is centrally located in the French Quarter and when you stay with us, you are in the heart of the action and just a short distance away from Bourbon Street, Harrah’s Casino, Pat O’Brien’s, the Superdome, the Riverfront on the Mississippi, and the National WWII Museum.

The nearby neighborhoods of the Arts/Warehouse District, the Tremé, the Marigny, the Bywater, and the Garden District are easy to get to by car, streetcar, or even walking, and they all have a lot to offer in terms of dining, entertainment and sightseeing.

Even if you just explore the French Quarter alone, there’s much to see and do within walking distance from the hotel. Why not have your fortune told on Jackson Square, visit a museum, or tour a historic house?

5. The French Quarter Fest Is at Your Fingertips

The French Quarter Fest, billed as the largest free music festival in the South, happens every April, taking over the French Quarter with over 20 stages, dozens of food vendors, and hundreds of musicians, playing traditional jazz, Zydeco, and every Louisiana music genre in between. Special events also abound, including dance lessons, parades, art shows, and talks with some of the biggest legends of New Orleans music. You’ll be in the middle of it all if you stay at Place d’Armes!

6. … And Always a Festival Nearby

Every new season in New Orleans brings something special, including a packed festival calendar all year round. Here is a quick rundown of the annual fun by the season, just to give you a glimpse.

The Holiday Season

Dance with the Ghost of Christmas Past in the Quarter, where you can join the throngs of carolers in Jackson Square, and eat elaborate, multi-course Reveillon Dinners based on traditional Creole meals once served after midnight mass. Make advance reservations in classic restaurants like Muriel’s Jackson Square, right next to Place d’Armes, which dishes up specialties like turtle soup and pecan-crusted drum.

Mardi Gras Season

The biggest free party on earth is an entire season that can stretch for weeks, depending on when Easter falls, so be sure to check the Mardi Gras Calendar before booking your rooms. Serious revelers hit the town on the final, parade-packed weekend leading up to Fat Tuesday, but you can also join the revelry at a less frenetic pace. Come for the lovely Joan of Arc Parade on Twelfth Night (January 6), which winds its way through the Quarter on horseback and foot and launches the Mardi Gras season.

Spring and Summer Festival Seasons

Come spring, music lovers make a beeline for New Orleans during French Quarter Fest and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, the great-grandaddy of them all, so advance booking is essential. But things slow down in summer, when you get more for your buck, thanks to the great deals on hotels and restaurants. Summer also brings several marquee events in and around the Quarter, including Tales of the Cocktail, Satchmo SummerFest, White Linen Night, and Dirty Linen Night.

Fall/Spooky Season

Many visitors come to New Orleans to pledge their troth as the witching hour of Halloween approaches, and the Quarter becomes even more haunted. And while destination weddings require precision planning (the fall wedding season in New Orleans is always busy), casual visitors can just slip on their fangs, walk out the door of the Place d’Armes, and join the masked revelry throughout the spooky season at several parades and happenings.

In October, foodies chow down at the Mac n’ Cheese Fest; and culture mavens celebrate Art for Art’s Sake and the New Orleans Film Festival. The city also celebrates German food, music, and beer during the three weekend-long Oktoberfest.

Halloween isn’t just one day in New Orleans, where the veil between the living and dead is paper-thin. It’s an entire season, filled with balls, costume parties, and multiple parades. Krewe of Boo, the city’s official Halloween parade, kicks off the season in mid-October with an extravaganza of family-friendly monster floats that throw scads of plush toys and candy. On October 31, join a more Bohemian street parade on Decatur St. and dive into the throngs of costumed revelers on Frenchmen Street, which rages till the wee hours.

Thanksgiving is just the final course of a month’s worth of food festivals in November. Sample more than 50 varieties of New Orleans’ most iconic sandwich at the Oak Street Po-Boy Festival, then don a fabulous hat and hit Thanksgiving at the Fair Grounds Race Course for the opening day races, a New Orleans see-and-be-seen tradition where you can feast on a sumptuous buffet in the clubhouse whilst betting on the ponies.

Fall also brings football fans eager to catch Who Dat fever in Saints country, which spreads like wildfire in the Quarter on a Sunday afternoon. New Orleanians bleed black and gold, but you don’t have to be a Saints fan to cheer your favorite teams on to glory. College sports fans converge on Thanksgiving weekend for the Bayou Classic, when longtime rivals Grambling State and Southern University clash in the Superdome. Catch your own home team in action-packed Quarter sports bars like the American Sports Saloon; Jimani Lounge & Restaurant; and The Corner Oyster House. But be forewarned: If your team’s playing the Saints, you might be in for a little friendly roasting.

7. The Nightlife Around the Corner

The French Quarter never closes! You can stay up all night enjoying the cocktails and delicious food, dance till dawn, listen to live music, or simply roam the 300-year-old streets — even on the budget.

For some free live music (most often a very decent brass band) plus street performances of every kind hit Jackson Square, only two blocks away from the hotel. From there, the hustle and the bustle of the neon-lit Bourbon Street is an easy walk away (grab a hurricane to go at Pat O’Brien’s while you’re at it).

If you want a historic setting along with your drink, walk down Bourbon toward Esplanade Avenue where you’ll hit Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop. If you’re heading the other way, toward Canal Street, don’t miss the beautifully appointed Bombay Club. It has live music and the largest selection of martinis in the city.

For some never-ending indoor fun, Harrah’s Casino New Orleans is full of late-night action, and we don’t just mean gambling but all of its restaurants, bars, and so on. To drink where the locals drink, try Molly’s at the Market on Decatur Street or Black Penny on N. Rampart Street.

A lot of restaurants are open past midnight in the French Quarter, but if you want to grab some food way later, Killer Poboys inside Erin Rose doles out some of the best po-boys in the city from a tiny takeout window in the back. Then you can hit the 24/7 Cafe du Monde for some beignets, or dance till dawn at Santos.

Photo courtesy of the *Old Ursuline Convent*

8. The Opportunities to Celebrate French Culture and Heritage Abound

Signs of New Orleans’ French history can be found all around the city, manifesting so often that people start taking it for granted. Why not stop and visit some of the places that help give New Orleans its unique French flavor? For instance, you can tour the Old Ursuline Convent, the oldest building in the Mississippi Valley. Designed in 1745 and completed eight years later, the building has served as a convent, a school, and many things in between, and is considered one of the best surviving examples of French Colonial public architecture in the country. You will just have to see for yourself!

While you are out, grab a bite to eat at the oldest family-run restaurant in the United States, Antoine’s Restaurant, established back in 1840. This famous restaurant has been a long-time draw for both tourists and locals thanks to its ambiance and unparalleled French-Creole cuisine. Come taste some delectable escargots or Oysters Rockefeller.

If you find yourself in the nearby neighborhood of Mid-City, you can brush up on your art knowledge and tour the restored Degas House, where the French Impressionist has created over 20 paintings and drawings.

9. The Best Local Shopping Within Walking Distance

The French Quarter is a haven when it comes to specialized shopping. Whether you’re visiting New Orleans with the kids in tow, or shopping for souvenirs for young ones back home, you’ll find a wealth of cool options in the Quarter for kids of all ages that are fun for parents, too — like voodoo dolls, masks, creative toys, Louisiana-centric books, and more.

Want to take a taste of New Orleans home? By all means! From hot sauces to chicory coffee to pralines and a beignet mix in a box, many of the city’s distinctive Creole and Cajun flavors and spices make terrific edible souvenirs to pack in your suitcase.

10. Dining for Every Occasion and Budget

New Orleans boasts a bounty of iconic foods, from po-boys and muffulettas to hot-out-the-pot boiled crawfish. Many of the items on local appetizer menus, like shrimp remoulade and gumbo, can be a lunch meal in themselves, and some of the city’s tastiest treats are classic desserts like bananas Foster and bread pudding.

That said, for lighter fare on the earlier side (perhaps with a dash of caffeine) you can also hit a number of unique and charming cafes and breakfast/brunch nooks, all within walking distance from the hotel.

11. Family-Friendly Fun Awaits

Don’t be fooled by New Orleans’ hard-partying reputation. Beyond the 24/7 bars and Bourbon Street debauchery, there’s a culturally rich, historic, and yes, kid-friendly city to explore. That goes double for the French Quarter, which is a tourist destination as well as a living, breathing neighborhood with residents of all ages.

Round up the kids and ride the streetcar, or visit the Audubon Butterfly Garden & Insectarium or Aquarium of the Americas. (Reopening in the summer of 2023.) Take a City Sightseeing Tour on the double-decker bus, or a walking ghost tour (find the kid-friendly ones that focus more on history rather than the gore).

Want to take in a scenic view of the Mississippi River while you dine on the Creole/Cajun buffet? When you take a Creole Queen river cruise you’ll see the French Quarter, the Port of New Orleans, and the Jean Lafitte National Historic Park all in a single morning or afternoon. And your kids will be having so much fun, they won’t realize how much they’re learning!

12. The Place d’Armes Hotel Guarantee

Planning a trip to New Orleans? Check availability for your travel dates and book your stay online.

Make sure to take advantage of our discounted weekday rates and special offers, and receive even deeper discounts when you prepay in advance. If you find lower rates on your Place d’Armes room at the time of booking, we will match the rate! Also, you can get exclusive deals and discounts at our New Orleans hotel by signing up for our email list.