All the Romantic Things To Do On Your New Orleans Honeymoon

A New Orleans honeymoon offers a unique blend of romance, culture and lively entertainment, making it an ideal US honeymoon destination for couples seeking adventure not too far from home.

New Orleans is perhaps best known for its legendary Mardi Gras celebrations that bring travelers from across the globe to the famous French Quarter each year. But the Louisiana city is also a mecca of amazing food and romance. Foodie couples will enjoy indulging in Creole and Cajun cuisine favorites like po'boys and gumbo against the backdrop of live music. There are also historical sites, grand luxury hotels with private balconies and all the southern hospitality you deserve after saying, "I do."

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When it comes to planning your honeymoon in NOLA, let us be your guide. From the best months to visit Louisiana to the top honeymoon hotels and things to do, use our expert tips to plan your New Orleans honeymoon itinerary.

New Orleans Honeymoon Tips in this Article:

• Best Time to Honeymoon in New Orleans
• New Orleans Honeymoon Planning Tips
• Best New Orleans Honeymoon Hotels and Resorts
• New Orleans Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas
• What to Pack for a New Orleans Honeymoon

Photo: Sean Pavone | Shutterstock

Best Time to Honeymoon in New Orleans

New Orleans summers are hazy, hot and extremely humid, and the area is prone to hurricanes in the fall. The best time to visit for a New Orleans honeymoon is from February through May, when the weather is at its mildest.

Best weather: February to May.
Festival highlights: Mardi Gras, the most famous one, offers parades, masquerade balls, and jubilant street parties typically in February or March. The Jazz & Heritage Festival in late April or early May showcases incredible music, food, and crafts. The French Quarter Festival in April is another great opportunity to experience the city's rich cultural heritage.

New Orleans Honeymoon Planning Tips

New Orleans is a vibrant experience from check-in to departure. It's also a fairly affordable honeymoon option, which is always a plus. You'll see gorgeous and historic places, like Bourbon Street, the Garden District and Jackson Square. Live jazz music will provide the soundtrack to your days and nights, and the warm air during the first half of the year feels pleasant. Your tastebuds will sing as your palette tries beignets, bayou shrimp pasta and other foods that are simply unforgettable. The fragrant scent of dough and sweets filters throughout the city.

Though New Orleans is known for its warm weather, it's not exactly a beach getaway. It takes nearly two hours to get to the nearest beach, Biloxi, and it's in Mississippi. Couples hoping to dip their feet in the ocean will want to pick another spot while remaining vigilant about hurricane season.

Entry requirements: You won't need your passport, but bring your IDs.
Language: English.
Location: New Orleans is located in southeastern Louisiana, straddling the Mississippi River.
Currency: USD.
Flight time to Destination: From New York City, direct flights are about 3 hours.
Getting around: New Orleans is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot, especially areas like the French Quarter and Garden District. The streetcar system is both scenic and historic, offering a charming way to see the city. Taxis and rideshares are readily available for longer distances.

Pro tip: Invite a honeymoon planning expert to join your vendor team. Browse travel agents near you on The Knot Marketplace for NOLA honeymoon expertise, reviews, testimonials and more.

Best New Orleans Honeymoon Hotels and Resorts

New Orleans offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from luxurious hotels with rooftop pools to charming boutique hotels in historic buildings. Here are our top picks for honeymooners on the hunt for a romantic getaway in NOLA.

Photo: Wangkun Jia | Shutterstock

Hotel Monteleone

Besides comfortable accommodations, Hotel Monteleone is perhaps best known for its Carousel Bar and Lounge. The only revolving bar in NOLA, the hotspot serves craft cocktails like Sazeracs and old-fashioneds, and bar grub like oysters Rockefeller and seafood gumbo.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans

Ritz-Carlton hotels have a reputation for posh and plush accommodations, and the one in New Orleans is no exception. After a night on the town, roll out of bed and head to the hotel's spa for a treatment. Or, sip coffee on your private balcony overlooking the French Quarter.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Windsor Court Hotel

Windsor Court Hotel boasts a five-star reputation. The guestrooms feature Italian marble bathrooms and suites have wet bars. Relax in the heated rooftop pool or spa. The grand salon offers afternoon tea, and you'll hear live jazz in the lounge.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Pro tip: If you're looking for other kinds of New Orleans honeymoon accommodations, consider staying at a romantic Airbnb or VRBO.

New Orleans Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas

From historical sites and antique shops to food to write home about, couples on a NOLA getaway will have plenty of fun things to do together. Each area has a distinct charm.

Photo: John Coletti | Getty

Walk Bourbon Street

Bourbon Street is the 13-block stretch in the heart of the famous French Quarter. Upper-Bourbon Street draws the most attention for its nightlife, bars and restaurants serving large Sazerac cocktails. But the central section of the street also has its share of must-sees, including Channing Tatum's restaurant Saints and Sinners. Peek into your future at Marie Laveau's House Of Voodoo.

Be sure to explore Magazine Street and Frenchmen Street while you're at it.

Eat at Café du Monde

Kim Kardashian famously once flew to New Orleans simply for Café du Monde beignets. The establishment started as a French Market coffee stand in 1862, and its beloved beignets have attracted visitors and locals alike. The French-style treats are generously covered in powdered sugar and pair perfectly with a cafe au lait or dark-roasted coffee. It's an ideal spot for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Visit St. Louis Cathedral

St. Louis Cathedral's triple steeples don many postcards from New Orleans. Dedicated to Saint Louis, also known as King Louis IX of France, it is the oldest cathedral in continuous use in the nation. Visitors can attend mass daily (check the schedule). You can also take self-guided tours Thursday through Monday.

Stroll Around Jackson Square

Couples who like to experience history alfresco will want to make a pit stop at Jackson Square, which faces the Mississippi River. The park was added to the National Historic Landmark register in 1960, but first entered US history books as the site of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. These days, it's known for its live music, including holiday caroling, unique street performances and timeless natural beauty.

Visit the Garden District

The Garden District exudes Southern charm at every turn. Honeymooners will take in historic mansions, lush landscaping, quaint cottages and oak-lined streets. Hop the St. Charles streetcar or stroll through the area, taking time to stop and smell whatever is in bloom in one of the well-manicured gardens. You can get a complete history lesson about the Garden District by signing up for a walking tour.

Enjoy Nature at New Orleans City Park

The 1,300-acre New Orleans City Park is larger than Central Park in New York City and a hub of greenspace and activity. Embrace your inner child at the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park or discover a hidden gem in the Train Garden. Active couples will especially love the biking and boating opportunities.

Pro tip: Cooking classes and tickets to art galleries or jazz clubs are perfect NOLA honeymoon experiences to add to your wedding gift registry. Your loved ones will love contributing to your romantic getaway in New Orleans!

What to Pack for a New Orleans Honeymoon

Photo: DiMaggio/Kalish | Getty

New Orleans weather is typically on the warmer side. Lightweight, light-colored clothing will prevent you from overheating. Your packing checklist will want to include soft cotton tees, flowy tunics, linen sundresses and polo shirts. For bottoms, linen shorts, skirts and light cotton pants will keep you comfortable. Some places may have the AC blasting, so bring layers like cardigans.

You'll be walking a lot, so comfortable-but-stylish shoes like sandals or cool sneakers are a must. You'll want some dressier outfits, like black dresses or pants and a nice top, for romantic dinners and nights out.

Insect repellent and SPF will keep the area's bugs and sunburn from putting a damper on your vacation. You'll want to toss a hat or sunglasses into your honeymoon luggage, too.

Brittany Barber contributed to this article.