When I visited New Orleans a couple of years ago, I was introduced to the eclectic Bywater neighborhood. It’s an up and coming part of town that feels like its own little world: it’s packed with incredible restaurants, vibrant murals, and has an artsy, bohemian flair. I would say that this neighborhood is probably NOLA’s equivalent of Williamsburg or Bushwick.
If you’re visiting New Orleans in the near future, venture outside of the French Quarter and explore this quirky little neighborhood.
Here’s the Perfect Itinerary for a Day in the Bywater Neighborhood.
Take a Stroll in Crescent Park
Crescent Park is a 1.4 mile, 20-acre urban park that offers some of the best views of the New Orleans skyline and the Mississippi River. There’s always something to do at Crescent Park: there are several events and activations hosted at the park throughout the year, including free fitness classes and concerts. You can also take a stroll down the river and enjoy one of the bike paths and dog runs in the park as well. Make sure to walk across the Rusty Rainbow Bridge during your visit: it is one of the most Instagrammable spots in the city, in my opinion!
Go Mural Hopping in Bywater
Bywater is also home to some pretty incredible street art. There’s been an explosion of murals along St. Claude Avenue over recent years, and I would begin your search for the best street art in town along this particular street — and make sure to wear your walking shoes. A few must-visit spots include:
- “Umbrella Girl” by Banksy (Location: N. Rampart Street at Kerlerec Street)
- “The StudioBE girl” (Location: 2941 Royal St)
- “Second Line” (Location: St. Claude and Franklin)
- “I’m Here For You” (Location: N. Rampart & Elysian Fields)
- “Teedie” (Location: St. Claude Avenue and Elysian Fields)
Grab Dinner & Drinks at The Country Club
The Country Club is one of NOLA’s best-kept secrets. Before dinner, you can take a dip in their pool located in the rear of the restaurant and enjoy one of the best meals in the neighborhood afterward. The Country Club unveiled their massive renovation in the spring of 2017, and it is one of the most stunning properties I’ve visited in the city. They offer classic NOLA dishes with a twist — their Crab Meat Beignet is one of the best dishes I’ve had in all of New Orleans!
Enjoy Wine & Live Music at Bacchanal Wine
Hands down, Bacchanal is one of my favorite places in all of New Orleans. For starters, they carry hundreds of different types of wines from all over the world. If having that many options intimidates you, don’t fret: their staff is incredibly knowledgeable and can help you find the perfect bottle. If wine isn’t your thing, they also offer craft cocktails at their upstairs bar.
The food here was equally as impressive as their wine list: you can enjoy light bites or eat a full lunch or dinner at Bacchanal. They have a large, open courtyard and you can enjoy live music daily, weather permitting.
Have you ever visited the neighborhood? Let me know what your favorite things to do in Bywater New Orleans are!
Thank you to New Orleans and Company for partnering with me on today’s Bywater post! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
