New Orleans: Your Guide to Southern Decadence and Beyond

Laissez les bon temps rouler! Why not end the summer in the Big Easy? ⚜️

As Labor Day approaches, New Orleans is gearing up for one of its most legendary events: Southern Decadence. All the craziness of New Orleans —taken to its gayest extreme. Known as the "Gay Mardi Gras," this annual celebration is a must for LGBTQ+ travelers looking for a weekend of pure revelry. But beyond the festivities, New Orleans offers a rich tapestry of culture, history, and vibrant gay life that makes it an ideal destination any time of year.

Neighborhoods to Explore

• French Quarter: The heart of Southern Decadence, the French Quarter is where the magic happens. Bourbon Street, with its iconic balconies and lively bars, becomes the epicenter of the celebration. But even outside of Southern Decadence, this historic neighborhood is full of charm, from the jazz-filled streets to the French-Creole architecture.

• Marigny: Just outside the French Quarter, Marigny is a hip, artsy neighborhood that’s home to some of the best live music spots in the city. Frenchmen Street is the place to go for a more authentic, less touristy vibe, and it's a favorite among the local LGBTQ+ community.

• Bywater: For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, head to Bywater. This eclectic neighborhood is known for its colorful shotgun houses, indie boutiques, and a strong sense of community. It's a great place to explore if you’re looking for something unique and laid-back.

• Uptown/Garden District: If you’re interested in seeing a different side of New Orleans, take a streetcar ride through Uptown and the Garden District. The beautiful, historic homes and tree-lined streets offer a more relaxed pace, with plenty of gay-friendly cafes and shops along the way.

Nightlife

• Oz: A staple of New Orleans’ gay nightlife, Oz is a two-story dance club in the French Quarter that’s known for its energetic atmosphere and drag shows. During Southern Decadence, it’s one of the hottest spots in town.

• The Bourbon Pub: Another French Quarter institution, The Bourbon Pub is the place to be for dancing, drinking, and meeting new people. With a balcony overlooking Bourbon Street, it’s perfect for people-watching during Southern Decadence.

• The Corner Pocket: A lively gay bar known for its go-go dancers and no-frills vibe. It's the perfect spot for those looking to enjoy a more casual, yet energetic, night out. With its diverse crowd and entertaining shows and bingo nights, The Corner Pocket offers a uniquely New Orleans experience that’s both fun and unpretentious.

• Lafitte's in Exile: Located just down Bourbon Street from its historic namesake, Lafitte's in Exile is claims the mantle of the oldest continuously operating gay bar in the United States. This lively spot is known for its welcoming atmosphere, strong drinks, and fantastic balcony views perfect for people-watching during Southern Decadence or any night of the year. 

• The Phoenix: More wild than mild - especially the dark room. For those looking for a more alternative scene, The Phoenix in Marigny is a leather bar with a welcoming vibe. It’s a popular spot for bears, leathermen, and those who enjoy a more laid-back atmosphere… at least in the front room.

Foodie Favorites

• Bywater Bakery: Bywater Bakery is a charming, gay-owned café and bakery located in the vibrant Bywater neighborhood. Known for its delicious pastries, cakes, and savory breakfast items, this spot is a local favorite for both its food and its welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're stopping in for a quick coffee and a pastry or enjoying a leisurely brunch, Bywater Bakery offers a delightful taste of New Orleans with a warm, community-focused vibe.

• The Country Club: The Country Club in the Bywater neighborhood is a gay-owned restaurant and bar that offers an upscale dining experience with a laid-back, inclusive atmosphere. Known for its delicious Southern-inspired menu, The Country Club also features a stunning pool area that's perfect for a relaxing day in the sun. Whether you're there for a weekend brunch or a romantic dinner, this spot combines great food with a welcoming space that celebrates diversity.

• Saints and Sinners: Owned by LGBTQ+ allies, this French Quarter hotspot is co-owned by actor Channing Tatum and offers a sultry, speakeasy-style ambiance. Saints and Sinners has a strong connection to the LGBTQ+ community and is known for its lively atmosphere and creative cocktails. The menu features a mix of Southern comfort food and Creole classics, making it a great place to start your night in the French Quarter.

• The Ruby Slipper Café: While not exclusively gay-owned, The Ruby Slipper Café is a beloved brunch spot with strong ties to the LGBTQ+ community. With several locations throughout New Orleans, this café offers a welcoming atmosphere for all, serving up hearty Southern brunch favorites like Eggs Benedict and shrimp and grits. The Ruby Slipper is known for its community involvement and support of LGBTQ+ events, making it a great place to enjoy a meal in a friendly and inclusive setting.

Southern Decadence: The Main Event

Southern Decadence is a massive celebration that takes over the French Quarter every Labor Day weekend. What started as a small gathering in 1972 has grown into one of the most anticipated LGBTQ+ events in the country, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

• The Parade: The highlight of Southern Decadence is the annual parade, a colorful and exuberant procession through the French Quarter. Expect elaborate costumes, floats, and an atmosphere of pure joy and freedom.

• Themed Parties: Throughout the weekend, the French Quarter is packed with themed parties, DJ sets, and events at iconic venues like the Bourbon Pub and Oz. Each night offers something different, from leather nights to drag extravaganzas.

• Street Parties: Much of the action spills out onto the streets, with Bourbon Street becoming a sea of revelers. Whether you’re dancing, people-watching, or just soaking in the atmosphere, the street parties are not to be missed.

New Orleans is a city that embraces diversity, history, and celebration, making it an incredible destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. Whether you’re coming for the vibrant Southern Decadence or looking to explore the rich culture and unique neighborhoods, New Orleans offers something for everyone. So, pack your beads and bags, get ready to dance in the streets, and experience the magic of the Crescent City!

This Week’s *~Best Deals~*

We’re always on the hunt for top-tier experiences that welcome all and won’t break the bank—here are this week’s faves ✨ 

• 🚨 Cheapest flights we've ever seen to Tenerife, Spain 

• It’s the final night of Spirit Airlines’ $40 one-way flight sale

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• And JetBlue’s Big Fall Sale ends tonight - apparently now is the time to book your flights

• Here’s how you can score 2 free tickets to Taylor Swift's Miami show 

• Get a free spa treatment for picking up trash in a National Park

• Or get a big discount at NYC’s legendary Guerlain Spa (thank you, TravelZoo)

• This trendy new Asheville hotel is on sale - and it’s the perfect place to explore one of our favorite up-and-coming Gay destinations

• This is the lowest price we've seen for a Lisbon-Porto combo trip all year

• And - here is your chance to win $4,000 for a trip to Japan!

Our favorite Tweet of the week: