Anniversary Weekend Getaway to New Orleans

Jan 28

A First-Timer’s Guide to New Orleans: Food, Jazz, and Luxury!

When you live in Charleston, SC, there’s no shortage of charm and beauty, but sometimes a change of scenery is the perfect way to celebrate an anniversary. For an unforgettable weekend escape, consider hopping on a quick, easy flight to New Orleans, a city brimming with culture, music, and culinary delights. Visit our Travel Journal for a curated guide to make the most of a long weekend getaway in the Big Easy.

Beth and her husband celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary along side their friends Sarah and Paxton who celebrated 20 years of marriage, with a trip to New Orleans. Here are their recomendations on how to spend a long weekend in The Big Easy as a group of “first timers.”

Friday: Arrival and Check In

Check-In at The Four Seasons New Orleans
After a short flight from Charleston, check into the luxurious Four Seasons New Orleans, perfectly located along the Mississippi River. The Four Seasons combines elegance with modern amenities and boasts stunning views of the city skyline. Upgrade to a suite for an extra special touch—perfect for an anniversary celebration.

Dinner at Jack Rose
Upon arriving in New Orleans, we headed straight to Jack Rose for dinner. This sleek spot inside the historic Pontchartrain Hotel offers a fun, modern take on Southern classics. We recommend the signature oysters and the crispy fried chicken to set the tone for the weekend.

After-Dinner Drinks at Hot Tin Bar and Four Seasons Chandelier Bar
Located upstairs at the Pontchartrain Hotel, Hot Tin Bar offers sweeping views of the city’s skyline. We sipped on expertly crafted cocktails while soaking in the view, and if you're in the mood for something more relaxed, head to Bayou Bar for a cozy nightcap in a charming, laid-back setting.

The iconic Four Seasons Chandelier boasts a 15,000 hand-strung Bohemian crystal chandelier to light up your evening. Enhance your experience with caviar and sharable cuisine by acclaimed New Orleans chef Alon Shaya.

Saturday: Jazz, Food, and Exploring

Get Your Jazzy Pass and Ride the St. Charles Street Car
Start your Saturday by purchasing a Jazzy Pass for unlimited rides on the iconic New Orleans trolleys. We hopped on the St. Charles Street Car for a picturesque ride down one of the city's most historic routes. The grand homes along the way are a must-see, and we even did a turn around at the end to catch more of the beautiful architecture.

Lunch at Cooter Brown’s
After our trolley ride, it was time for lunch at Cooter Browns. This spot is a local favorite for oysters and po’boys, and it’s a great place to get a taste of classic New Orleans flavors.

Afternoon Shopping on Magazine Street
Next, we ventured to Magazine Street, a bustling area full of antique stores, unique boutiques, and charming cafés. Be sure to stop by Dunn and Sonnier for the best eclectic finds and The Vintage Restaurant for coffee, bubbles, and bites. The beignet flight here is a delicious and whimsical treat!

Live Jazz on Bourbon Street
After shopping, take a stroll down Bourbon Street, where you can pop in and out of bars to hear live music. We couldn’t resist trying a famous “Hurricane” cocktail while enjoying the energetic atmosphere. Finally, we settled in at the 21st Amendment Bar for an intimate live jazz performance. This spot is iconic for its relaxed vibe and excellent acoustics, perfect for music lovers.

Sunday: Savoring the Last Full Day

Brunch at Miss River, Four Seasons
After a night of jazz, we enjoyed a leisurely brunch at Miss River inside the Four Seasons. The view of the Mississippi River is a stunning backdrop, and the brunch menu offers elevated Southern staples. It’s a perfect spot to fuel up before a day of exploration.

Spa Treatment at Four Seasons
After brunch, we treated ourselves to a spa experience at the Four Seasons. A couple’s massage was the perfect way to unwind and relax before more adventures. The soothing ambiance of the spa made it an unforgettable experience.

WW2 Museum
For the history lovers - New Orleans is home to the incredible National WWII Museum, and it was an educational and moving experience. With multiple exhibits, it’s easy to spend a few hours here learning about history, military artifacts, and personal stories.

Oyster Happy Hour at Chemin a la Mer, Four Seasons
After the museum, we headed back to the Four Seasons for some oysters and jazz music during happy hour at Chemin a la Mer. The seafood here is top-notch, and the restaurant’s luxurious atmosphere made it the perfect mid-afternoon stop.

Dinner at Ruth’s Chris Steak House (The Original)
To cap off our trip, we dined at the original Ruth’s Chris Steak House, where the chain first started. It’s the ideal place to indulge in a juicy steak and end the weekend on a high note.

Monday Morning: Farewell to New Orleans

After a restful night at the Four Seasons, enjoy a light breakfast at the hotel before heading to the airport for your flight back to Charleston. With New Orleans being such an easy destination to reach, you’ll be back home before lunchtime, already dreaming of your next visit.

Tips for a Smooth Trip

Packing: Opt for comfortable outfits, including walking shoes and a chic evening look for jazz bars.
Transportation: Uber and streetcars are the easiest ways to get around New Orleans. Most attractions are within a short distance of each other.
Reservations: Book dining and jazz venues in advance to avoid missing out on popular spots.

A weekend in New Orleans is the perfect mix of relaxation, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re savoring oysters at Cooter Brown’s or swaying to live jazz, the city promises memories to last a lifetime.

More NOLA Restaurant Recommendations

Italian

Casamentos - Oysters

Seaworthy - Hip, oyster bar

Cocktail Bars

Jewel of the South (Top 50 worldwide bar)

Sazerac Bar (Roosevelt Hotel)

Carousel Bar (Hotel Monteleone)