Our Hotel near Bourbon Street

You’d be forgiven for thinking the legendary Bourbon Street was named for that classic American spirit — after all, there’s no shortage of spirits (of both the alcoholic and otherworldly variety) to be found here — but the name actually comes from a French royal family in power during the 1700s. And you’ll have a royally good time day or night along this high-octane street, known for its sweet sounds and even sweeter drinks.

Amid the energy and excitement, it can be difficult to know where to begin, but don’t miss these historical institutions:

• Galatoire’s Restaurant: Founded in 1905, Galatoire’s is one of the city’s oldest and most revered restaurants. Dress up and come here for French fine dining that is just as it was a century ago, with time-honored French-Creole recipes passed through the generations, served expertly by waiters in tuxes.
• Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar: Swill a purple Voodoo Daiquiri by candlelight in one of the oldest buildings in New Orleans, named after legendary pirate and War of 1812 hero Jean Lafitte. While the origins of this mysterious Creole cottage are debated, its iconic status is not.
• Old Absinthe House: A cozy tavern with a copper-topped bar, the Old Absinthe House serves up classic drinks like Sazeracs, Irish coffees, and Ramos gin fizzes. But it’s especially known for inventing the absinthe frappé, whose fans have included literary legends Mark Twain and Oscar Wilde.