Welcome to New Orleans!

Whether you’re a regular or first-timer, NOLA’s many charms make for unforgettable memories no matter where you choose to stay. Check out Alex & Colton’s favorite spots & lodging recommendations below.

Travel

If you’re flying in, please plan to arrive on Friday no later than 6pm. We'd love to see everyone at the Welcome Party, and plan to do speeches that night with an open mic should anyone like to speak.

Garden
District

Welcome to the Garden District.

With its oak tree canopies, the Garden District is New Orleans’ most serene and picturesque neighborhood. It’s where most of the weekend’s events will take place, and boasts a handful of the city’s premier sights, restaurant, & shopping. Stay here to ride the streetcar & smell the roses in close proximity to the wedding party & events.

Places to visit: Independent shops & restaurants along Magazine Street, eat at the Commander’s Palace, explore the historic Lafayette Cemetery No. 1

Where to stay.

2031 St Charles Ave
New Orleans, LA

Home base for the weekend! A historic gem with luxury amenities, the wedding party will be staying at the Pontchartrain. Book block rooms through our button link — if what you’re looking for isn’t there, contact the hotel directly at 504.323.1400 or info@thepontchartrain.com, referencing the Bird Welch group name, and you’ll be assisted.

Alts: Hotel Saint Vincent, St. Charles Coach House, Hotel Indigo Garden District

French
Quarter

A timeless, walkable neighborhood full of vibrant culture, the French Quarter is perhaps most famous for its raucous nightlife pulsing all through the night. Alex & Colton love how this area feels like a little European village tucked away in the South — its unique laissez-faire vibes are unlike anywhere else in America.

Welcome to the French Quarter.

Places to visit: Drink at Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, Cafe Lafitte in Exile, Allways Lounge, and Bar Marilou, get jazz brunch at The Court of Two Sisters, enjoy a classic NOLA dinner at Brennan’s or Arnaud’s

Where to stay.

The French Quarter isn’t very big, and there are tons of great places to stay in & around it. Here’s some suggestions across price points, in slightly varying locations:

Marigny

Alex & Colton’s favorite neighborhood, and not just because it reminds them of Williamsburg. It’s right next door to the world-famous Frenchmen Street jazz clubs, and home to some of New Orleans’ trendiest restaurants & bars; where new chefs go to reinvent the city's cuisine. Neighborhood galleries and antique stores offer gems for every pocketbook, from museum-quality art to thrifty second-hand chic.

Welcome to the Marigny.

Places to visit: Enjoy jazz at The Spotted Cat, drink up at the classy Elysian Bar, enjoy local eats at St. Roch Market, and enjoy wine, cheese, & live music at Bacchanal Wine (a short cab ride away).

Where to stay.

2317 Burgundy St
New Orleans, LA

A converted school house, rectory, and convent stunningly reimagined. A bit of a trek from the wedding festivities, but NOLA is easily navigated. Book your room with group code “BIRDWELCH” to access our room block for our weekend.