By Cates Lyman
It’s that time of year again when SMU students ditch Dallas and head down to New Orleans to celebrate Mardi Gras, a weekend filled with partying, bold outfits and packed schedules. Mardi Gras can get overwhelming fast, especially when you’re on a weekend limit to get back to campus in time. As a veteran Mardi Gras-goer, here’s my guide to maximizing your weekend and time in NOLA!
Friday
First: If you’re flying into New Orleans, prepare yourself. The airport during Mardi Gras weekend is chaotic, so packing a carry-on is a must. Scheduling your Uber ahead of time can save you from standing around in heels, wondering why everyone else had the same idea.
If you want a charming, New Orleans vibe hotel, The Chloe is a highly recommended, an old mansion turned boutique hotel. It sits right on St. Charles Avenue, which happens to be on the parade route, and is located between Uptown and the French Quarter. Perfect for a prime location and aesthetic.
Once you’re settled, it’s time to eat. New Orleans is a foodie city, but reservations during peak season can be nearly impossible. Freret Street in Uptown is your best bet for laid-back, reliable spots. My personal favorite is Dat Dog. The spot has a great atmosphere with a fun patio vibe and frozen drinks. Another go-to restaurant on Freret is Vals, for great tacos, but if you are missing a more traditional Mexican fare, Mr. Tequila is a classic. Make sure to download the WDSU Parade Tracker so you don’t miss any iconic parades. Finding a spot on the parade route can be tricky, but there is plenty of space. Don’t panic, you’ll find one.
For after-parade plans, you may opt to stay in Uptown over Bourbon, since Saturday will be a long day. Popular spots include F&M’s Patio Bar, Snak and Jake’s Christmas Club Lounge and Tchoup Yard. These spots are a fun, low-pressure way to ease into the weekend before things really escalate.
Saturday
Saturday is your only full day, so it’s time to hit the ground running. Brunch is non-negotiable. If you can snag a reservation at Commander’s Palace, consider yourself lucky. It’s a classic New Orleans experience with upscale cuisine and a happy atmosphere. If Commander’s Palace does not fit into your agenda, head over to Curio Bistro, which puts you right on Bourbon Street and ready for whatever the day brings.
Now it’s time to conquer Bourbon Street. Leave your nice jewelry at home; between the crowds and the chaos, it’s not worth the risk. Wander up and down the street, listen to live music pouring into the streets and fully embrace the energy. This is not a nap-friendly day, so pace yourself and stay hydrated.
As the afternoon fades into evening, more parades roll through the city. Be sure to grab a quick bite to refuel; Fresco’s in Uptown is perfect for cheap pizza and pitcher drinks. Peche offers a more elevated dinner option if you’re feeling fancy.
Saturday night is when Mardi Gras truly peaks. Whether you stay Uptown or head back to the French Quarter, there’s no shortage of options. Carousel Bar is a must-visit, with its iconic spinning bar and classic cocktails. For a more relaxed but still chic vibe, French 75 is perfect for catching your breath before heading back into the crowd.
Mardi Gras weekend is loud, crowded and nonstop, but with the right plan (and the right outfit), it’s unforgettable. From Uptown parades to Bourbon Street nights, New Orleans delivers a weekend that’s equal parts chaos and magic, and SMU students wouldn’t have it any other way
