I just returned from a trip to New Orleans and let me tell you, that is one crazy city! Often called “The City that Care Forgot”, New Orleans is a throwback to the old days when people did as they pleased, and generally, the law stayed out of the way. This type of atmosphere can make for a pretty wild weekend, but what it has also done is cultivated some of the coolest, most genuine bar scenes in the country. Below I have detailed my top 3 bars in New Orleans that are not to be missed. I have also included some images from my trip, which I think really capture the essence of the city. Please leave your feedback in the comments below!
1. Finn McCools
Tony Cado & Lloyd McKay having a brew outside of Finn McCools in 1939
Finn McCools is an awesome little Irish pub located in Mid-City. This spot was voted the #1 neighborhood bar in New Orleans, and one visit there will confirm the reasons why. This is a great bar to stop by if you’re looking to get off of Bourbon street and see where the locals go to kick back, have an Abita Amber, shoot some pool, and relax. I would also highly recommend ordering the Mac and Cheese burger to go with your Amber. It’s quite a delectable treat.
2. Blue Nile
The brass band gettin’ down at the Blue Nile
Once you’re ready to leave the neighborhood scene and head for the more happening part of town, head over to the Blue Nile on Frenchman st. Here, I was witness to one of the best brass band shows I have ever seen! The group was amazing, and their set included everything from old time Jazz, to all brass covers of Led Zeppelin and Nirvana. If you’re looking to hear some of that classic New Orleans live music, and shake your stuff on the dance floor, the Blue Nile is the place to be.
3. The Bulldog
“To Live Without Beer is to Not Live At All”
The Bulldog is a great bar located in the heart of New Orleans on Magazine street. They have one of the best outside patios in the city, as well as every kind of beer of tap you could hope for. My personal favorite was the Purple Haze from Abita. If you’re up for it, and have some considerable time to spend in the city, you can become a member of the Bulldog’s Great Beer Adventurers Club, and have your name added to the plaque above by drinking every beer on tap. Proceed with caution!
If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans anytime soon, I hope you’ll refer to this list and check out these great New Orleans bars!
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