New Orleans has style. There’s no denying it. It has a chilled-out anachronistic style, like that of your average local jazz musician. Sure, it’s a bit rough around the edges, but that’s all part of its slow Southern charm. Whether you’re walking down Bourbon Street with a drink in hand or perusing the boutiques of Magazine Street, New Orleans’ youthful energy is truly palpable.

“The Big Easy” is best known for Mardi Gras, voodoo, Cajun/Creole cuisine, jazz, a rambunctious nightlife centered around its French Quarter, distinctive Spanish/French influenced architecture, and the rather edgy rule of being able to take your alcoholic beverage out on the street. It's also a city with a lot of history, having passed hands between France and Spain before the United States laid claim to it and, sadly, being the center of the U.S. slave trade before the Civil War. As such, it’s a bubbling melting pot of influences, from the aforementioned Spanish and French influences to African-American, and that of the nearby Caribbean. All are evident in its food, architecture, and people.

New Orleans hospitality is legendary, making it one of the most welcoming places on Earth. Its diverse community makes it a haven for LGBTQ+ travelers, and just about everything about the city seems to have just a bit of a gay flair to it – be it its flamboyant festivals like Southern Decadence, the gay Mardi Gras, or simply the well-dressed locals. Its LGBTQ+ scene is every bit as vibrant as the city itself, and you'll find a healthy gaggle of gay or gay-friendly bars, clubs, and events that celebrate the city's intrinsically inclusive spirit.

So, whether you're there to savor the flavors of Creole cuisine, bask in the chaos of Bourbon Street, kick back to live jazz, take a ghost tour, or participate in one of the city's many festivals, all are offered a stool at the bar – or a plastic cup for the street.

Table of Contents

1. General Tips
2. Transportation & Airport Transfer
3. Gay Hotels in New Orleans
4. Sightseeing & Activities in New Orleans
5. Gay Tours in New Orleans
6. Restaurants & Cafes
7. New Orleans Gay Bars and Clubs
8. Gay Events in New Orleans
9. Day Trips from New Orleans

General Tips

New Orleans is a city that thrives on diversity and inclusion, making it a perfect destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, with a multitude of gay bars, clubs, and events that welcome everyone with open arms. The French Quarter is the heart of the action, with popular watering holes and clubs like Bourbon Pub and Oz. It is, however, a very chaotic place to stay, especially around Bourbon Street, as it’s busy every night of the week with partygoers. So, accommodations nearby but not right in the French Quarter are advisable for those who don’t like noise. The Warehouse District is a good choice.

The humidity of a New Orleans summer is really quite something, so if you’re the type to get hot and bothered easily, you should avoid the city during that time. The best period to visit New Orleans is during the cooler months from October to April when the weather is usually pleasant. That said, New Orleans’ weather is infamously changeable, so pack accordingly as it can be sunny one minute and rainy the next.

The city hosts numerous festivals. Mardi Gras, held in February or March, is obviously the favored event to come to New Orleans for, but bear in mind that the festivities take place for an entire month and the city gets predictably busy, so book your accommodations well in advance. Southern Decadence, the city’s “gay Mardi Gras” – as if Mardi Gras wasn’t gay enough already – is held every Labor Day weekend, attracting thousands of revelers from around the world. In fact, there seems to almost always be some festival going on in New Orleans, so check before you go so you know what you’re getting in for.

Thinking of driving in New Orleans? Forget it. The Big Easy is infamous for its terrible roads with potholes, bad paving, and all manner of death traps. The better option is to walk and take advantage of public transport like streetcars.

New Orleans is famous for its drinking-on-the-street rule, and you should definitely enjoy the ability to walk around the French Quarter with a cocktail in hand. Just be aware that glass containers are banned, so make sure you get a plastic cup when on the go, or you’ll face a fine. The city is more or less safe, but the crime rate is higher than in a lot of other cities. All that means is you should exercise caution and common sense at all times. A common scam is the “let me guess where you got your shoes from” scam. Should you hear the infamous phrase, just keep walking as they will harass you for money shortly afterward.

Transportation & Airport Transfer

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is located about 15 miles from the city center. To get into the center, the most economical route is to take the RTA’s 202 Airport Express from the airport terminals to Canal Street in Downtown New Orleans. The fare is $1.50, and the bus makes 9 daily trips to New Orleans.

The Airport Shuttle is a faster and more frequent option, but costs around $30 one way or $56 for a round trip. It operates every 30 minutes and drops you off at major hotels in the city, the French Quarter, or Cruise Ship Terminals. Alternatively, a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft will cost around $36 and take about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Getting around New Orleans by public transport or by foot is highly advisable because driving in the city is a complete nightmare due to the poorly paved roads. Luckily, public transportation in New Orleans is reliable and affordable. The Regional Transit Authority (RTA) operates buses, streetcars, and ferries. The historic streetcars are a classically charming and convenient way to explore the city, especially the St. Charles and Canal Street lines. A Jazzy Pass offers unlimited rides for one ($3), three ($8), seven ($15), or 31 days ($45), making it easy to hop on and off as you explore the city.

Gay Hotels in New Orleans

Although there are no specifically gay hotels in New Orleans, there are many that go out of their way to be gay-friendly, especially in the lively French Quarter.

Luxury

Hotel Monteleone – Perhaps the most famous hotel in New Orleans, this historic, gay-friendly establishment is located in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter. This luxury hotel features beautifully appointed rooms, a rooftop pool, a fitness center, a spa, and exquisite dining options. The elegant rooms and suites offer modern amenities and classic charm, ensuring a comfortable stay. A highlight is the iconic Carousel Bar & Lounge, featuring a revolving bar with a merry-go-round theme. The cheapest rooms cost around $250 a night but can go as high as $500 in the summer and during festivals.

Royal Sonesta Hotel – Located actually on the famous Bourbon Street, this hotel is somewhat of an institution in New Orleans – mainly for its multiple bars with craft cocktails and The Jazz Playhouse club downstairs. It’s where to stay if you really want to be in the thick of it and yet enjoy some luxury. Their pool has its own bar, and the hotel restaurants, Desire Oyster Bar and Restaurant R'evolution, offer quality food in a historic setting. Prices start at around $250 a night.

Mid-Range

Hotel Le Marais – This gay-friendly chic hotel is just five minutes from Bourbon Street – which is close enough for those who want an easy place to stagger home to after a big night, but just far enough to avoid the crowds. The contemporary retreat offers elegantly designed rooms with modern amenities. The hotel itself features a stylish courtyard with a heated saltwater pool, a fitness center, and a trendy bar where guests can enjoy handcrafted cocktails. Prices for a night operate in the $150-$200 region.

The Burgundy – A homely gay-owned Bed and Breakfast just a short walk from the French Quarter. The building is an architectural delight, a restored Victorian-era mansion in the traditional style of New Orleans. Each room is unique, has its own en-suite bathroom, and has its own fireplace. The house has a communal living room, dining room, kitchen, computer room, and a clothing-optional back patio with a hot tub. Prices include a Continental breakfast of cereal, fresh fruit, bread, and jam. Prices start around $150 a night.

Oliver House – Those wishing to experience living in a bona fide New Orleans townhouse instead of a chain hotel might consider this boutique hotel in the French Quarter. It was once the property of the wealthy Oliver family and oozes all that old-world New Orleans feel without sacrificing an inch of comfort. Each room is unique, with balconies either overlooking the streets of the French Quarter or their serene lush courtyards of the interior. There are two stocked parlor areas to relax in and a beautiful outdoor pool area. Prices start around $150 a night.

Budget

Dauphine Orleans Hotel – Tucked away on Dauphine Street, this historic hotel offers a serene escape while still being in the heart of the French Quarter. The Dauphine Orleans Hotel has comfortable modern rooms, a courtyard pool, and a complimentary breakfast. Thrillseekers might also hope to catch a glimpse of the hotel’s many rumored ghosts, who may have checked out but never left. Cheaper rooms start at around $120.

Sightseeing & Activities in New Orleans

French Quarter – New Orleans' most famous neighborhood is really a sight to behold. The action centers around Bourbon Street, which is always alive with the sound of music, street performers, and revelers drinking on the streets. You can also take a carriage ride right through the middle of the chaos. Outside of Bourbon Street, the area's narrow, cobblestone streets are perfect for a leisurely stroll, with countless boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops to discover. Known for its distinctive architecture, the Quarter boasts beautifully preserved Spanish buildings adorned with intricate ironwork balconies and lush courtyards. A highlight of the area is The French Market, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and savor local delicacies like beignets and po'boys. Book tour →

Jackson Square – Just a short walk from Bourbon Street is this historic square. Dominating the square is the stunning St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic cathedral in the United States, known for its striking spires and beautiful interior. The square itself is a lively place, often filled with artists, street performers, and musicians. Just a short walk from the Mississippi River, Jackson Square offers visitors picturesque views of the riverfront, where they can watch boats and ferries glide by. The nearby Moon Walk promenade along the river provides a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll with scenic views. Book tour →

Garden District – A picturesque and historic neighborhood renowned for its stunning antebellum mansions, verdant gardens, and tree-lined streets. This charming area offers a serene contrast to the bustling French Quarter, making it a popular destination for visitors seeking a quieter, yet equally enchanting, experience. Stroll along Magazine Street, which boasts an array of boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering a delightful mix of local flavors and unique finds. The district's architectural beauty is highlighted by grand homes with wrought-iron balconies, expansive porches, and intricate detailing, showcasing Southern elegance at its finest. Book tour →

Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 – Within the Garden District is one of the city's oldest cemeteries, full of ornate tombs to explore. The dead in New Orleans are buried above ground due to the city’s high water table, meaning that previously during heavy rain the dead would float out of their graves—gross. The cemetery is the final resting place of many historic figures, most notably voodoo legend Queen Marie Laveau. Take a guided tour to get the full grisly histories associated with the cemetery! Book tour →

The National WWII Museum – This world-class museum offers immersive exhibits that detail the American experience during the war in a highly explorative and interactive fashion. From interactive displays to a 4D movie experience, it’s both deeply engaging and educational. Highlights include the submarine simulator and soldier train car ride. Book tour →

NOMA (New Orleans Museum of Art) – Located in City Park, the New Orleans Museum of Art boasts an impressive collection of fine art, including pieces by Degas, Monet, and O'Keeffe. Don’t miss the rather cool Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden adjacent to the museum. Book tour →

Steamboat Natchez Cruise – Take an anachronistic two-hour cruise along the Mississippi River on an old-fashioned steamboat. You'll enjoy the river views of the city skyline with the whole experience amplified by live jazz and a Creole cuisine buffet. Book tour →

Frenchmen Street – Known for its vibrant music scene, Frenchmen Street is a local favorite for live jazz and nightlife. Visit iconic venues like The Spotted Cat and d.b.a. for an authentic taste of New Orleans’ musical heritage. 

Ghost + Vampire Tour – New Orleans is the most haunted city in the U.S., and this 90-minute tour is one of the top ten ghost tours in the world! You’ll see the LaLaurie Mansion (the most haunted house in the U.S.), restaurants where you can eat with the dead, and more. You can expect tragic history, folklore, and wonderful storytelling without any cheesy gimmicks. Also, you get a free Hurricane cocktail at the end – okay, that’s a bit of a gimmick, but a good one. Book tour →

Swamp Tours – Around New Orleans is a superabundance of alligator-infested swamps and bayous. As terrifying as that sounds, no trip to the Big Easy is complete without braving a tour out into them. And they’re surprisingly peaceful. Take a boat tour out into the wetlands to see raccoons, snakes, turtles, native birds, and yes, alligators. Book tour →

Gay Tours

French Quarter Walking Tour: LGBTQ History, Literary History, and Voodoo – This private, customizable tour takes you through all the ins and outs of the French Quarter, led by an LGBTQ+ guide who really knows his stuff. Learn about the LGBTQ+ history of the area, its literary history, and just a splash of voodoo. Book tour →

Walking with the Gay Ghosts of New Orleans – Get to know the gay spirits of New Orleans on this queer history tour, and have a few spirits too, as there are quite a few bar stops along the route. Learn about lesbian turf wars, Marlon Brando, the gay revolution, and homoerotic vampires. This tour has just the right amount of history mixed in with some gay smutty storytelling. Book tour →

Restaurants and Cafes

Cafe du Monde – The most iconic New Orleans coffee shop in the French Quarter, established in 1862, famous for its beignets – a delicious sugary square-shaped doughnut unique to New Orleans. In fact, that and coffee are all you can get there. There is often a queue, but it moves quickly and jazz street performers offer entertainment to help the time pass. Enjoy the outdoor seating with a view of Jackson Square.

Brennan’s – This sophisticated restaurant in a beautifully restored 18th-century building is known for its elegant Creole cuisine and historic charm. Enjoy classic dishes like Eggs Sardou and their very own Bananas Foster – ripe bananas sautéed in a rich, buttery sauce made from brown sugar, cinnamon, dark rum, and banana liqueur.

Oceana Grill – The place to go for great seafood, this restaurant has a menu full of local favorites like po'boys (a traditional New Orleans sandwich), gumbo (a Louisiana stew made of meat or seafood, such as chicken, sausage, shrimp, or crab, and includes vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and celery, known as the “holy trinity” of Creole cooking), and fresh seafood. With friendly service and generous portions, it's a fantastic place to sample authentic New Orleans flavors.

Pat O’Brien’s – Famous for its Hurricane cocktail (a New Orleans specialty that’s a blend of light and dark rum, passion fruit juice, orange juice, lime juice, simple syrup, and grenadine) and lively dueling pianos, Pat O’Brien’s is a quintessential New Orleans experience. Their courtyard is a lovely spot for enjoying Cajun-inspired dishes and soaking up some festive atmosphere.

The Ruby Slipper Cafe – A popular spot for breakfast and brunch in the French Quarter, The Ruby Slipper Cafe serves up comfort food with a Southern twist. Known for its delicious Eggs Benedict variations and friendly service.

Muriel’s Jackson Square – Located on Chartres Street, Muriel’s Jackson Square offers a romantic dining experience with a menu that blends Creole flavors and contemporary techniques. The elegant setting, overlooking Jackson Square, is perfect for a memorable meal. Don't miss their renowned bread pudding.

Commander’s Palace – A legendary restaurant in New Orleans' Garden District, celebrated for its upscale Creole cuisine and impeccable service. Established in 1893, this iconic eatery boasts a charming, vibrant ambiance with its distinctive turquoise exterior, chandeliers and lush courtyard. One of its signature dishes is the turtle soup, a rich and savory classic of New Orleans' culinary tradition. This flavorful soup is made with tender turtle meat, a variety of spices, vegetables, and a touch of sherry, creating a complex, hearty broth. Their Bread Pudding Souffle is also pure heaven.

Willie Mae’s Restaurant – Located in New Orleans' Treme neighborhood, this cherished institution is known for its award-winning fried chicken. Established in 1957 by Willie Mae Seaton, this humble, family-run eatery has gained national acclaim for its soul food. The restaurant’s fried chicken is renowned for its perfectly seasoned, crispy crust and juicy, tender meat. In addition to fried chicken, the menu features Southern comfort food staples such as red beans and rice, cornbread, and butter beans.

Napoleon House – This historic bar and restaurant in the French Quarter is known for its old-world charm and unique atmosphere. Housed in a building dating back to the early 19th century, it was originally intended as a residence for Napoleon Bonaparte during his exile. The establishment is famed for its classic New Orleans cocktails, particularly the Pimm's Cup, a refreshing blend of Pimm's No. 1, lemonade, and soda. The menu features a variety of traditional Creole dishes, including muffulettas, a beloved sandwich made with Italian meats, cheese, and olive salad.

Sylvain – Looking for a romantic meal? Then this contemporary restaurant nestled in a historic carriage house in New Orleans' French Quarter does the job. Blending rustic charm with modern flair, Sylvain offers a cozy, intimate dining experience with its exposed brick walls and candlelit tables. The menu features a creative take on Southern comfort food, with dishes such as crispy pork shoulder, braised beef cheeks, and their renowned Sylvain Burger.

New Orleans Gay Bars and Clubs

Oz – There’s no place like Oz. Located on the gay side of Bourbon Street, Oz is the most popular gay dance club in New Orleans. It’s always busy with a high-energy atmosphere, gogo boys, drag shows (the Ladies of Oz), and themed nights. The dance floor is spacious and there’s a balcony that overlooks Bourbon Street, offering respite from the sweaty club.

Bourbon Pub & Parade – Just across the road from Oz is the area’s most iconic gay bar – and it’s open every night till the early morning. Bourbon Pub & Parade offers two floors of fun with nightly drag shows, DJs, karaoke nights, and a bustling dance floor to almost rival Oz’s.

Cafe Lafitte in Exile – The oldest continuously operating gay bar in the U.S is a landmark as much as a bar – it’s been around since 1933. The tavern is known for its community spirit vibe, classic cocktails, lively patio, and wrap-around balcony. Not to be confused with Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar nearby, which also has a history as one of the oldest bars in the US, but isn’t a gay bar – it’s still pretty cool though with a piano bar in the back which holds singalongs.

The Phoenix – A popular no-frills gay leather bar catering to a more mature crowd with a laid-back attitude. It features a downstairs bar, an upstairs dance area, and an outdoor patio. They host themed nights with everything from pool competitions to puppy nights.

Rawhide 2010 – This leather bar is along the same lines as the Phoenix but – just as the name would suggest – with a slightly more cruisy feel, evident by the adult videos playing on the screens in the background. It's rough and ready, but the people are laid back with an anything-goes attitude. It also has its own pool table and an old school jukebox beside a mini dancefloor.

Good Friends Bar – This cozy spot has a more relaxed vibe than a lot of the other nearby gay bars. It’s the place to take your friends and have a good chat – as the name implies. Enjoy strong drinks, friendly bartenders, a pool table, and six widescreen TVs playing music videos or sports games. Upstairs is the old school Victorian bar the “Queen’s Head Pub” with solid oak flooring and Andy Warhol pictures on its walls, making it a charismatic place to have a drink.

Napoleon's Itch – When walking up Bourbon Street chances are this is the first gay bar you’ll see. Its boast of “the best mojitos in town” is a valid one. It’s more modern-looking inside than its neighbors and they often have a DJ or live music.

The Golden Lantern – For a more intimate pub-style atmosphere head to The Golden Lantern. The historic bar known for its strong drinks and vibrant drag shows is a local favorite and a good spot for some day drinking too.

Country Club – A vibrant and inclusive venue located in the Bywater neighborhood which serves as a popular gathering spot for the LGBTQ+ community and allies. The establishment features a chic restaurant and bar, offering a diverse menu of Southern-inspired dishes and craft cocktails. One of its standout features is the lush pool area, which used to be clothing-optional until a recent law change. Still, it remains a popular place for the LGBTQ+ community and hosts various events, including drag brunches, live music, and themed parties.

Gay Events in New Orleans

Southern Decadence – Held over Labor Day weekend, Southern Decadence is one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in the country, often referred to as the “Gay Mardi Gras”…as if Mardi Gras wasn’t gay enough already! It features parades, parties, and a lot of flamboyant costumes, attracting over 200,000 visitors from around the world for a weekend of decadence and debauchery. The largest attended bear dance party and most prolific gay dance event in the U.S, Bearracuda, also takes places during the festivities.

Mardi Gras – Not specifically a gay event, but no guide to New Orleans can be without a mention of the big event itself that draws 1.4 million visitors to the city every year. It marks the culmination of the Carnival season, which begins on January 6th and continues to the start of Lent. Mardi Gras is renowned for its lively parades featuring elaborate floats, bizarre costumes, and spirited marching bands. Revelers adorn themselves with masks and bead necklaces, often thrown from parade floats. The festival is characterized by its joyful, party-like atmosphere, with events including masked balls, street parties, and indulgent feasting on traditional foods like king cake.

New Orleans Pride – Taking place in June, New Orleans Pride seeks to give Mardi Gras a run for its money with its colorful parade through the French Quarter. In addition to the parade, New Orleans Pride includes a variety of events such as street parties, drag shows, cultural performances, and educational workshops aimed at raising awareness about LGBTQ+ issues.

Gay Easter Parade – Yes, another parade! They do love a good parade in New Orleans. The Gay Easter Parade, held on Easter Sunday, showcases the creative flair of the LGBTQ+ community with a colorful procession through the French Quarter. Participants don elaborate costumes and bonnets, raising funds for local charities while celebrating the spirit of Easter.

Halloween New Orleans – With its haunted history, it should come as no surprise that New Orleans puts on a good show for Halloween. four-day festival over Halloween weekend, Halloween New Orleans features themed parties, a costume contest, and a dance extravaganza. All proceeds benefit Project Lazarus, a home for those living with HIV/AIDS, making it a fun event with a meaningful cause.

Saints and Sinners Literary Festival – Held in March, the Saints and Sinners Literary Festival celebrates LGBTQ+ literature and writers with panel discussions, readings, and workshops. It's a great opportunity for literary enthusiasts to connect with authors and explore queer literature.

Gay Appreciation Awards – The Gay Appreciation Awards, usually held in July, honor the contributions of individuals and businesses within the LGBTQ+ community. The event includes performances, award presentations, and a celebration of the vibrant culture and achievements of New Orleans’ LGBTQ+ scene.

Jazz & Heritage Festival – Not a gay event per se, but “Jazz Fest” is an important festival that is attended by a lot of the LGBTQ+ community nonetheless. Held over two weekends in late April and early May at the Fair Grounds Race Course, Jazz Fest showcases an eclectic lineup of local and international musicians across multiple genres, including jazz, blues, rock, gospel, and R&B. In addition to world-class musical performances, the festival features traditional Louisiana cuisine, artisan crafts, and cultural displays that reflect the diverse traditions of the region.

Day Trips from New Orleans

Plantation Tours – Experience the grandeur and history of Louisiana’s antebellum South with a visit to plantations like Oak Alley and Laura Plantation. Located less than an hour from New Orleans, these tours offer a glimpse into the region’s past with stunning architecture, lush gardens, and engaging historical narratives. Oak Alley Plantation is especially worth a visit, with the mansion being renowned for its picturesque alley of 28 evenly spaced, 300-year-old live oak trees that create a dramatic canopy leading up to the Greek Revival-style mansion. It’s also known for being where Interview with the Vampire was filmed. Book tour →

Gulf Coast Beaches – Escape to the serene beaches of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, just a 90-minute drive from New Orleans. Enjoy a day of sun, sand, and surf at popular spots like Biloxi and Gulfport, where you can relax on the sandy shores, indulge in fresh seafood, and even try your luck at the local casinos. 

Featured image by Simon from Pixabay

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