Going to Mardi Gras when you’re single is like going fishing in a marine reserve during a storm. Crazy but fun. And there will be plenty of fish in the sea. But honestly, there is so much more to New Orleans than the beads and the booze.
New Orleans is one of my favorite cities, and I’ve been a frequent visitor for years all year round. But even if that was the case, I feel like I still have not fully experienced the Big Easy.
Now that Mardi Gras is in full swing in New Orleans, I put together a quick guide for all the single ladies out there who are looking to party in NOLA.
Explore the Neighborhoods
There are more than 70 distinct neighborhoods in the Big Easy so there is definitely something for everyone. The most popular neighborhood is obviously the French Quarter. This is where the party ‘s at! The famous Bourbon Street is located in the heart of this old neighborhood. However, don’t miss out on exploring other areas such as the opulent Garden District, the trendy Marigny, classy Uptown, boozy Bywater, artsy Warehouse District, and the Central Business District to name a few.
My personal favorite is Marigny’s Frenchmen Street area. It is a great place to meet other single people and it is also known for great live music!
French Quarter
Garden District
Uptown
Day Drinking
New Orleans is one of the few cities in America where drinking alcohol in the streets is legal. It is also one of the few places where you can drink as early as possible and no one will judge you because they’re too busy drinking as well!
Outdoor Dining
You know how I love love love dining outdoors. New Orleans in February has the perfect weather. Especially if you’re flying in from somewhere cold, enjoy the outdoors and go to restaurants and bars with outdoor seating. Pat O’Brien is a crowd favorite. They have amazing drinks and a cute garden for outdoor dining. Another favorite of mine is the French Market Restaurant & Bar. I love the second floor balcony for people watching and of course good food!
For breakfast or late night snack, Café Du Monde is a must. This is probably the most popular food destination in the French Quarter, famous for their French-style beignets. Plus, it is always full of people. A great place to meet new friends.
Follow the Beat
New Orleans is distinctly known for its jazz music. It is an important part of its history and culture and Mardi Gras evokes not just jazz but all kinds of music. The whole city is alive musically, from street performers to parades, to outdoor concerts and bluegrass bands. It is such a beautiful thing especially if you are a music lover.
Make Friends
This is a great time to make new friends. The south is full of friendly people and most of the tourists are from all over the country and the world. Trust me, there will definitely be the crazies and there will be the fun colorful characters so choose wisely
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Make Memories
Admit it, if you’re going to Mardi Gras, you want to party hard. Or else, why would you even go and spend all that money in the first place? You’re single, you’re free, you can do whatever the hell you want. Mardi Gras is the craziest, wildest and freakiest festival in America so let loose and live a little. Heck, live a lot! This is the time to blame it on the a-a-a-alcohol. But always keep in mind to stay safe still. It’s all about balance.
Most of all, drink and dance the night away! You only live once.
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Jen is a Chicago-based traveler and creative. She is a full-time development & communications executive specializing in non-profit organizations. Originally from the East Coast, she created The Jetsetter as a place to share her travel stories and photos with friends and family. Now, it is a place for adventurers and dreamers. Its purpose is to inspire and encourage busy professionals to see the world and achieve a better work-life balance.