Historic New Orleans Hotel, Steps From the French Quarter
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Insiders Guide of things to do, eats and drinks in New Orleans

Rathbone Mansions Insiders Guide

With its unique, vibrant history, award winning chefs, craft cocktail bars, and party atmosphere, there's no wonder NOLA is consistently ranked one of the best cities to visit. We've got you covered with insiders' tips on the best places to visit, eat and drink during your stay. Click through our blog for suggestions, current events and truly experience New Orleans like a local.

New Orleans has a unique, vibrant history, award winning chefs, craft cocktails galore, and a low-key, Southern fun atmosphere. There's no wonder NOLA is consistently ranked one of the best US cities to visit.  We've got you covered with tips on locals' favorite spots to check out during your stay. Scroll through our blog for suggestions, current events and truly experience New Orleans like a local.

 

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Would You Like This Gift Cajun Style?-NOLA Holiday Market Guide

 

Put all the right spices in your holiday gift giving by visiting one of the many local holiday markets here in New Orleans. And here at Rathbone Mansions, we treasure supporting the local community as much as they support us. One of the best things about shopping local here is that you don’t have to stay in one place! Wander into any area and you will stumble upon an open market filled with local vendors and artists. That’s especially true during the holiday season, where last minute gift shoppers can find a unique something special. Everyone will enjoy a Crescent City gift, especially those who haven’t been able to make it back into town for a while. A little something to remember NOLA by.

Put on your fanciest festive wear (or shorts, there’s really no dress code for our weather!) and head onto 520 Royal St. Saturday 12/17 for the Holiday Market starting at 9:30am. Nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, this holiday market takes place at The Shop at The Collection, and recently was paid a visit by French Président Macron - don’t know if he walked away with any gifts though. Want to pack more in a day while finishing up your gift shopping list? The French Quarter Museum Association has you covered! The FQMA will be hosting a holiday market that spans over several must-visit museums: Gallier House, Hermann-Grima House, and New Orleans Pharmacy Museum. Saturday 12/17 starting at 10am, you can explore the history of the city, and pick up something special to support local vendors. Being that Rathbone Mansions is a only short distance from the French Quarter, you could easily shop, drop off things at your room, and then go back out for the nightlife!

If you’re heading up to Mid-City, stop by Coffee Science at 410 S Broad St. Saturday 12/17 at 4pm, and peruse and purchase funky presents for that person who you never quite know what to buy. Visit for the art, clothes, jewelry—stay for the food, drinks, and atmosphere. Bringing on the holiday cheer, and best of all with some beer- Zony Mash Holiday Art Market! Another Saturday 12/17 market, this one starting at 1pm at 3940 Thalia St., will host local vendors and artists, live music, food, and drinks. In another part of town on Saturday, ‘Tit Flea at 5101 Magazine St. (Henry’s Uptown Bar location) will also have its holiday market bazaar. Magazine Street always has unique finds in vintage, so a holiday market featuring locals will be a wonderful shopping experience for those look for one-of-a-kind and old school gifts.

Won’t be here for the weekend? No problem, over at Hi-Ho lounge will be their Wicked Wednesday 12/21 Holiday Market! Starting at 6pm at 2239 St. Claude Ave., the market will have more than just shopping, also live music, food and drink—but you can just go to wander and enjoy the cool Marigny area. A quick walk from Rathbone Mansions, you’ll find the St. Claude/Marigny area bustling with quirky energy. And for any last-minute shoppers who need to pick out something a little “offbeat” for the season-check out Cruel Yule Art Market on Tuesday 12/20. The only holiday themed market pop-up from Dark Art Market over at 1160 Camp St. in Rahm Haus Ice Cream Shop.

Whether you find gifts for family, friends, coworkers, or yourself—you’re bound to pick up something that will reflect your time and experience in New Orleans. You can even pick up a postcard here at Rathbone Mansions on your way back home! Having a present to hold in your hands will match the energy you hold in your heart, so make it count and sprinkle it in Cajun.