The most romantic day of the year is almost here. Yep, I’m talking about Valentine’s Day. Haven’t made plans yet? No worries. We’ve put together some Valentine’s Day itineraries that we hope will inspire you to let that someone special know just how special they are to you.
VALENTINE’S DAY ON A BUDGET
There’s something for every couple to enjoy in our unique city regardless of how big — or small! — your wallet size. Here are some budget friendly activities for you to try this Valentine’s Day.
DAYTIME
Take a walk in one of the city’s riverfront parks. The Rusty Rainbow at Crescent Park is a great launching point for your perfect romantic day with gorgeous water views to set the tone. There’s always Woldenberg Park as well.
Treat your date to some beignets at Café Beignet for a romantic courtyard brunch in the French Quarter.
Afterwards you can browse the art galleries on Royal Street. Take a self-guided tour of The New Orleans Jazz Museum (free), St Louis Cathedral (free), The Pharmacy Museum ($5/person) or Ogden Museum of Southern Art (free on Thursdays for Nola residents from 10am-5pm).
EVENING
Share a bench on the historic St. Charles streetcar ($3 daily pass). The gorgeous Garden District mansions provide all the romance & charm one could hope for.
Hop off to grab some wine, cheese & sandwiches from St. James Cheese Company and Wine Seller on Prytania Street then head over to Audubon Park where you can have a picnic under the mossy branches of the Tree of Life. Or better yet, enjoy your picnic from The Fly as you watch the sunset on the Mississippi River.
Finish out the evening with a classic movie at Prytania Theatre ($11.75/ticket). Grease will be showing at 8pm this Valentine’s Day inside this cozy single-cinema theater.
AN UPSCALE VALENTINE’S DAY
Looking to up your game this Valentine’s Day? We’ve put together a list of some top-notch activities around the city worth splurging this holiday.
DAYTIME
Surprise your loved one with an aerial sightseeing flight over the city. New Orleans Aerial Tours offers a VIP package which includes champagne & chocolates. These 45-minute scenic flights can be scheduled to take off at 10am and cost $130 per person or $260 per couple.
Enjoy brunch in a classy yet comfortable space at Copper Vine Wine Pub. Share some delicious food and cocktails while sitting out on their lovely outdoor patio.
Take a gondola ride through the Sculpture Gardens in City Park with NOLA Gondola. It is truly one of the most romantic experiences in the city – you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to Venice, Italy (okay, maybe not quite but you get the point). You can even bring your own wine (cheese & crackers available upon request)
EVENING
If you’re in the Uptown area, you can enjoy an intimate dining experience at Avo Restaurant on Magazine Street. The cocktails and homemade pasta are delicious, and their cozy atmosphere and candle-lit courtyard is the perfect setting for a romantic evening.
If you can still walk after eating all that delicious pasta, head down the street for some cocktails at Saba or to St. Joe’s Bar for a couple of their signature blueberry mojitos to cap off your night out.
If you’re closer to the French Quarter, engage all your senses at Justine’s on Chartres Street. Savor food by James Beard award-winning Chef Justin Devillier while relishing in the eccentric decor and burlesque entertainment. A visit to Justine’s is sure to make for a vibrant Valentine’s dinner.
Later head over to the Palace Market on Frenchmen Street to peruse local artisans that set up shop from 7 PM to 12 AM. You may even find a special gift to commemorate your day together.
Cap the night off with some live jazz at Preservation Hall or Snug Harbor – or really anywhere on Frenchmen for that matter.
All images by Mary Losavio unless otherwise noted.
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