Valentine’s Day is the day after Mardi Gras this year. So, if you are in town for Carnival, chances are you’ll be celebrating Valentine’s Day here, too! And what better city to celebrate, right?
After several days of revelry, we know you might want to take it easy on Valentine’s Day (we know we will be). There are plenty of relaxing and romantic ways to celebrate your love in the Crescent City without having to spend a lot of money. The best part? Many of these charming experiences are just a short walk from our French Quarter hotel!
Start with Early Morning Beignets and Au Laits at Café du Monde
This one might require you to wake up a little earlier than usual, but beating the crowd to beignets is worth the early alarm. Café du Monde is a New Orleans institution and for good reason. Their beignets are made fresh using original methods and relatively unchanged recipes.
We recommend nabbing a front corner under their iconic white and green awning so you can watch Jackson Square come to life as the morning passes.
Take an Afternoon Stroll in Crescent Park
Just past the French Market and Esplanade Avenue is the entrance to the new riverfront public space, Crescent Park. The 1.4-mile urban park used to be a shipping wharf, and relics from its former life have been transformed into picturesque recreational areas, including a sizable green space for picnics and a rusted red pavilion decorated with inspiring installations. Take a seat on one of the park’s industrial swinging benches and watch the ships navigate the Mighty Mississippi or enjoy a quiet stroll through the park’s beautifully manicured urban gardens.
Go Gallery Hopping on Royal Street
If you haven’t had the chance to experience Royal Street’s artistic side, Valentine’s Day is the perfect day to do so. Now that most of the Mardi Gras crowds have died down, you’ll have more freedom to explore the stunning art collections that span this creative French Quarter street.
There are also several locally owned gift shops on Royal Street, and we love the idea of bringing home a memento from your Valentine’s Day date in New Orleans.
Rent a Blue Bike and Ride Around the Lower Garden District
New Orleans’ new bike sharing program, Blue Bikes, are available to rent from designated kiosks throughout the Central Business and Warehouse districts. We suggest taking a scenic cruise through the historic Lower Garden District. This neighborhood is best known for its prestigious homes and famed cemeteries. Wind your way through the numbered streets toward Washington Avenue, where you’ll come across two of the most visually stunning landmarks in New Orleans: Lafayette Cemetery and Commander’s Palace.
Split a Delicious Tiki Drink at Beachbum Berry’s Latitude 29
After a day of exploring New Orleans together, it might be time for a little break back at Bienville House. Instead of retreating to your room, order up a few refreshing (and exotic) Tiki drinks in our tropical hotel lobby bar.
Beachbum Berry’s Latitude 29 is one of the most celebrated cocktail bars in New Orleans, and its proprietor, Jeff “Beachbum” Berry, is a beverage industry legend.
Dance the Night Away on Frenchmen Street
The best way to end your Valentine’s Day date in New Orleans? Dancing along to the sounds of brass and jazz on Frenchmen Street. This iconic street is home to dozens of live music venues and most of them are free to enter. You’ll be able to bar hop up and down the street until you find the perfect place to cut a rug with your loved one.
We’d Love to Have You at Bienville House
Valentine’s Day or not, the love never ends in New Orleans. Anniversary trip? Couple’s getaway? Popping the question? Bienville House is the perfect setting for your romantic New Orleans trip. Our recently remodeled French Quarter hotel puts your right in the heart of one of America’s most romantic cities, so you won’t have to go far to experience the charm of the Crescent City. Book your room right here.