Onboarding clients as a freelancer is essential to having a successful business. A client is more likely to give you a glowing testimonial and refer you to other potential clients if you offer them a luxury onboarding process.

I’ve been freelancing full-time for almost a year now and have been onboarding new clients almost every month.

Over time, my process has become a lot more refined — I like to ask clients at the end of our time working together what could be improved.

When onboarding a new client, you need to pay lots of attention to detail and have a process that suits your business and your offerings.

By the end of this article, you’ll be able to finally have the streamlined process for onboarding clients that you’ve dreamed about.

Here’s everything you’ll want to know about onboarding clients as a freelancer.

What Does Onboarding Mean?

Essentially, onboarding clients refers to the process that you have in place once a potential client reaches out to you. Do they book a consultation call? What happens after that? These are all part of the onboarding process.

Everyone’s onboarding process is going to look different, and that’s a good thing.

You don’t want your onboarding process to look like everyone else’s, but it probably will be relatively similar to those businesses that offer the same services as you.

While many people think that the onboarding process starts after you’ve signed a client, it actually begins the second a potential client reaches out to you. Contacting you is the first step to working with you, right?

Just like all corporate jobs have onboarding processes for new employees, it’s important for freelancers and agency owners to have a new client onboarding process. It helps both you and the client in more ways than you could imagine.

10 Reasons To Have An Onboarding Process

Whether you’re a new freelancer or you’ve run your business for a while now, you need to be onboarding clients in a streamlined way.

Below, learn more about the importance of onboarding and why you should make sure it’s implemented in your business.

1. It will allow you to see if a client is a good fit

One of the most complex parts of being a freelancer is screening potential clients and seeing if they will be a good fit for your business. Luckily, the onboarding allows you to see if a client is someone you will be able to work with.

For instance, if a client refuses to tell you their budget before a discovery call or they are slow at answering your emails from the very beginning, then it could be a red flag. That’s what is so great about onboarding clients.

Throughout onboarding, you’ll be able to tell how easy a client is to work with. You want a client who will answer your emails in a timely manner (for you to follow a timeline) and someone willing to provide you with all the info you need during the onboarding process.

Onboarding a new client begins with you having a discovery call, or if you have a business model like mine, filling out an application form. Often, you can quickly tell whether you want to work with someone or not from one of these two things.

Make sure to always ask a client for their website information or social media handles so you can get a feel for their brand before you even meet them.

If you have a brand that’s all about helping remote workers and focusing on the digital nomad lifestyle, it might not be best for you to help a brand that is all about the corporate workforce.

One thing to keep in mind, too, is that you should not feel bad about letting a client know you’re not a good fit. I’ve had to do it a few times. Sometimes a client is aggravated by my choice, which only makes me feel like I made the right decision.

2. Your clients will know exactly what to expect working with you

When onboarding new clients, you’ll be able to let your clients know the expectations of working with you. This can save you significant headaches because you’ll be able to see if the client is up for the hard work.

Often, clients don’t realize that collaboration is needed for a successful project.

One of the top expectations that you’ll want to let clients know about is feedback. If you’re providing services like social media management or something design-based, feedback is critical to help your client have the best success possible. 

So, be sure to let your client know the expectations for getting feedback to you. Do they have a week, or do you need feedback in 48 hours? These are things your client needs to know so that they can also plan ahead.

Another vital expectation is payment. You need to be upfront during the new client onboarding process about when payments are due and how much each payment is.

Is payment due upfront? Is there a payment plan? Figure all of this out to let your client know.

If you charge a late payment fee, you’ll also want to let clients know about that. Of course, all of this should also be outlined in your contract or agreement that you both sign.

My favourite way to share expectations when onboarding clients is to create a welcome packet.

I have one pre-made that I use as a template, and I just fill out the information depending on the client I’m working with. This way, the client has everything they need to know all in one place.

3. Clients will become engaged more with the project process

Through onboarding a new client, you’ll be able to get a client more involved in the process. Like mentioned earlier, most clients don’t realize that projects are collaborative and require just as much insight from them as it does work from you.

By letting clients know about your expectations, processes, and more, your client will feel like they are part of your business. 

One of my favourite ways to get a client involved during the new client onboarding process is to assign client homework for my design projects.

This isn’t something that takes tons of their time; in fact, it’s mostly to help me get a feel for what they like design-wise and understand their aesthetic.

As an example, for my website design and branding projects, I have my clients create a Pinterest board of elements they love from other websites and brands. This way, I know what they like and can incorporate it with their own brand’s spin.

I also like to ask lots of questions through a Trello board that they have to fill out by the time our design week starts. I ask them questions about their business goals are, what words they would use to describe their business, and who their target clients are.

4. You will be able to gather important information from your clients

The most crucial part of onboarding new clients is gathering all of the information you need from them to have a successful project. Of course, this is going to vary depending on the services that you offer.

Usually, the type of information you might be gathering would include more about their business, clients, their goals, and more. It’s best to sit and think about all of the information you will need to gather and create a checklist of sorts — this will save a lot of back and forth.

Other information you might consider getting from your client includes usernames and passwords for accounts (especially if you’re a website designer or social media manager) or brand guidelines if you need them for a graphic design project.

Ensure you grab every possible login possible, even if you are not 100% sure you will need it.

If you’re a web designer, you might want to consider getting access to your client’s email marketing platform, too, in case you have to re-integrate it into the website during your design process.

Creating a checklist for this part of the onboarding process is very helpful. You’ll learn more about checklists for onboarding later on in this post!

5. Onboarding allows you to stand out from your competition

Even though you might not realize it, your onboarding process is the perfect time to show your clients that you have your stuff together. You want everything to be as streamlined and painless as possible.

This is the perfect time to give your clients a luxury experience, even if you aren’t charging high prices.

The experience that your client has from you right from the beginning is going to dictate how the rest of your time working together goes, so you want to start on the right foot.

The best way to do this is to streamline your processes as much as possible. You want to think about every step of the onboarding process and whether it’s necessary to include it for your services.

Another thing to consider is that if you offer multiple services as I do, your onboarding process will not look the same for each one.

For instance, you aren’t going to need the login information for your client’s social media accounts if you’re just creating their branding, but you will if you are a social media manager.

If you treat your client well and stand out from the competition, it’s likely that they will leave you a glowing testimonial. This could also lead to referrals and even more excellent clients down the line.

6. You’ll save yourself time

If you don’t have an onboarding process, you’re going to spend so much time going back and forth with your client while you’re working together.

You’ll probably be messaging them all the time, asking them for more information, and they might even be confused about your processes which can make it harder to work with them.

Sometimes, you might have issues with a client because of your lack of processes in the onboarding phases, which is why having one that’s solid is so essential.

By getting all of the information from your clients the second you start working together, you’ll be able to have everything stored in one place too.

Forms are a great way to do a lot of onboarding because you can quickly put answers into an Excel sheet of some sort for organization.

So, save yourself (and your client) major headaches and time by asking the questions now. Be sure to also account for onboarding in your timeline with your client.

7. It allows you to figure out the perfect project timeline

Figuring out a project timeline is best done while onboarding clients. During the process, you’ll want to provide an in-depth timeline to the best of your ability and let your client know that extreme cases might slightly change the timeline.

I often like to send the project timeline directly inside my project proposals so that the client knows what to expect before they even sign the contract.

If they need the project even sooner, then you know to charge an extra rush fee of your choosing because you’ll most likely have to work nights and weekends to get it done on time.

The best way to supply a timeline to a client is to be as informative as possible.

I like to break it down by the week and the day and send it in a calendar format because I’m visual. This also allows the client to see how the project is going to fit into their own schedules.

During this time, you can also collaborate a bit with your client to find out when their hard deadline is for the project.

8. Your clients will feel welcomed if you have an onboarding process

By having a complete process for onboarding a new client, you’ll make your client feel welcomed by you and your business. 

While having an onboarding process shows that you have your stuff together, it also shows your client that you are eager and ready to start working with them.

Often, onboarding processes can start immediately after a client signs the contract and makes their first payment.

If you’ve ever worked an in-person job in an office, then you surely had an onboarding day.

During that day, you felt welcomed by everyone in the company and started to learn the ropes. Even though you were working for that company and your client is paying for your services, it’s the same sort of idea.

Consider creating a PDF with all of the information and maybe even put together a short video to send to your client as they get acclimated with your company. This could help them feel even more welcomed.

Another possibility when welcoming a client is to consider purchasing a welcome gift.

I wouldn’t do this for small-ticket clients, but if you have a client that’s paying for a project over $1,500, then consider sending them a Starbucks gift card or another small gift to show your appreciation for their business.

9. You will better be able to understand your client’s needs

The new client onboarding process allows you to quickly understand the project’s scope and what exactly it is that the client needs. This is true from the initial application or consultation call to making a Pinterest board.

The onboarding process is great because it allows you and the client to understand each other better.

It’s almost like a first date of sorts because you begin to ask each other questions and figure out what is needed to do a successful project.

Meeting with your client via video call or having them complete client homework mentioned earlier in this list is the best way for you to learn more about what the client needs.

Sometimes, what they need might not fully fit into what your packages are, and that’s okay. You’ll have to decide if you still want to work with them or refer them to someone else.

After you figure out more about what the clients’ needs are, think about the deliverables. Be sure to include everything fully listed out in the initial proposal and the contract to avoid confusion later down the line.

10. Clients will learn more about your company

Last but not least, onboarding clients allows them to learn more about your business. This is the time for you to let them know all about your brand and values and make sure that they align with them during your screening process.

They will also get a feel for the type of business you are based on how streamlined your processes are and how well they are designed.

If you are a design business, then you’ll want everything to be 100% branded to your business, or else they might question your ability to help them.

Clients will also learn about your business hours, the types of businesses you like helping, and the outcomes that you desire to get for your clients. Plus, they’ll begin to feel even more of your personality, making them want to work with you even more.

At the end of the day, your brands should mesh well together and fit with your overarching brand mission, which the client onboarding process can help with.

New Client Onboarding Checklist

While every business will have a different onboarding process, here’s a checklist of some important steps to get you started.

1. Have a discovery call

The perfect first step for onboarding clients is to have a discovery call.

Some business owners will refer to this as a consultation call or even a needs analysis. It’s just for you and the client to get to know each other to see if you’d be a good fit.

A great way to do this is to use a site like Calendly that a client can use to immediately book a time to meet with you that works in their schedule.

If you’d prefer to not immediately hop on a call, another option is to create an application form you embed on your website. Within it, you ask some basic questions before you even get on a call with someone so that it won’t be a waste of time.

2. Send a proposal

After meeting with a client, send a proposal to them within 24 hours.

The proposal can be set up in a few ways. I personally send proposals via HoneyBook, but you can also use Dubsado, which is popular among some people in the online business space.

Another option is to create a PDF proposal using Canva or even Microsoft Powerpoint that’s only a few pages long, just going over the service you think would best help your client.

Within the proposal, I specifically like to include the following:

• Scope of work (Will it be a website design with 6 pages? 4 pages? List it out!)
• Pricing and payment plan options
• Contact information in case they have questions
• Proposed timeline

3. Sign the contract and collect payment for the first invoice

If you’re lucky, the client will have looked over your proposal and decided that they want to work with you. This is exciting, so do a little happy dance!

As soon as the client says yes to you, send the contract and first invoice over immediately.

Doing this ASAP is incredibly important because it doesn’t give the client time to change their mind and allows you to start thinking about timelines and other information that will be pertinent to the project.

4. Send a welcome packet to the client

Once that contract is signed, send over the welcome packet. There’s a way to automate your systems to automatically send once a client signs a contract, which can save you a lot of time.

Within the welcome packet, try to include basic information about your business like the following:

• Your business’s office hours
• Feedback and revision timelines
• Late fee information
• Contact information
• How you will communicate with the client
• Anything else that’s pertinent to the project

If you have the resources and it’s a larger project, you could also consider sending a fun little gift to your client during this stage.

5. Collect all assets you need from the client

Next, sit down and think about everything you’re going to need from the client and create a form of some sort to collect the details from your client.

If you need passwords, consider using LastPass, which is a lot more secure than submitting login information via an online form.

Don’t forget about things like branding guidelines either, which are essential with most service offerings. You might consider even having a questionnaire at this point in the onboarding process.

After these five steps, you’re ready to start executing the project.

My Client Onboarding Process (Example)

Onboarding clients and coming up with the perfect process for your business can be difficult.

This is my business’s onboarding process for my social media management services so you can get a feel of how the checklist above could be put into action.

1. Book a discovery/consultation call

The first step in my onboarding process is booking a discovery call. The client uses the “book now” call to action on my website to book through Calendly, and we both automatically get sent a link for the call ahead of time via integrations.

2. Send project proposal

Within an hour after the call, I send a project proposal outlining timelines, project scope, and pricing for the project.

I’m available for questions for the rest of the day and tell the client to let me know as soon as possible if they’d like to work with me because I tend to get booked fast.

3. Create and send a contract and first invoice along with the payment schedule

Next, I send over a client contract along with an invoice. Luckily, I use HoneyBook for my payments and invoicing, which automatically shows the clients when payments are due each month, and the client can set up auto-pay.

4. Send welcome kit

The welcome kit is sent over, which is just a 2-page PDF introducing the client to my business information. I like to be very clear about when I’m available for work because many clients tend to contact me super late at night. 

5. Put together a client onboarding questionnaire and send it to the client

My final onboarding step is sending over an elaborate client questionnaire. I won’t lie, it’s about 30 questions, but it helps me create the perfect social media strategy for them.

Because I’ve onboarded quite a few social media management clients, I already have a templated form that I just duplicate and add to my client’s project. Streamlined processes are everything.

Here is a sample of some of the questions I ask:

• What are the goals for your business?
• What CTA would you like most posts to include?
• Who is your ideal customer?
• How do you like to be contacted?

The questionnaire also instructs the client to use LastPass to send me the information for their social media accounts and prompts them to answer a required “Yes, I’ve sent you the information” before submitting. It also goes over how to add me as an admin to Facebook.

Conclusion

Now you know the importance of onboarding clients and also how to do it successfully.

Keep in mind that your onboarding process can be fluid; it’s going to change over time as your business grows and you become more experienced.

Do you have any questions about onboarding? Leave them in the comments below!

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With so much going on here, it’s important to figure out where to stay in New Orleans. Early birds and light sleepers will want to avoid the madness of Bourbon Street, while party animals will feel right at home there. 

I fell in love with New Orleans immediately on my first visit. The energy of the city is just amazing— it really sucks you in. After a 2nd trip there, I’m already planning a third. There’s just no shortage of fun things to do in New Orleans!

The good news is that there are plenty of excellent choices when it comes to places to stay in New Orleans.

In this post, I’ll provide a detailed look at the best areas in the city for tourists, along with a few hotel recommendations for each.

The French Quarter

The French Quarter is where to stay in New Orleans if it’s your first time in the city — the location to everything is perfect.

Here you’ll find:

• Historic Buildings
• Boutique Hotels
• Mississippi River Views
• Famous Restaurants
• Vibrant Nightlife

If it’s your first visit and you’re wondering where to stay in New Orleans, you can’t go wrong with the French Quarter. It’s also known as Vieux Carré, which actually translates to “Old Square.” 

If you’re planning a short trip to the city, then you’ll most likely want to stay in the French Quarter. This is the historic heart of the city and is even known as the “Crown Jewel of New Orleans.”

Although it’s called the French Quarter, much of the architecture you see is actually Spanish. That’s because the area was ravaged by fire and was later rebuilt during the brief period of Spanish rule.

The French Quarter is also the center of tourism in NOLA. It’s home to a vast array of hotels, restaurants, shops, and bars, making it a convenient base to explore the city. You’ll never be hungry or bored in this part of the city!

Located right on the Mississippi River, the French Quarter is a very scenic place to stay.

There are a few riverside parks that make for a nice stroll. The area is also home to the historic Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral. If you enjoy discovering a city on foot, then the French Quarter is one of the best places to stay in New Orleans.

Best Hotels in the French Quarter

Here are a few of the best New Orleans hotels located in the French Quarter:

1. Omni Royal

This place consistently comes up when you search for where to stay in New Orleans, and for good reason. It’s a historic hotel that dates all the way back to 1838.

Fun fact: gumbo, one of the most famous dishes from New Orleans, was invented here! You can try this and other classic New Orleans cuisine in their award-winning Rib Room. 

This excellent hotel also boasts a heated rooftop pool and a nice fitness center for when you need to work off those extra calories! Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

2. W New Orleans French Quarter

The courtyard-style architecture of this hotel makes it one of the coolest places to stay in New Orleans. It’s located right in the heart of the French Quarter, just a short walk from both Jackson Square and Bourbon Street.

After a big day of exploring Crescent City, it’s great to return here to lounge by the pool in the courtyard. Some rooms even come equipped with their own private hot tub and patio for extra relaxation!

If you’re in town on a weekend, this is a great place to stay. Their “Legs and Eggs” Sunday brunch at the on-site SoBu features a burlesque show and is tons of fun. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

3. Hotel Monteleone

This charming hotel is located close enough to Bourbon Street to be near the action but far away enough to not deal with the noise. It’s a great choice if you want to party there but also want to get some decent sleep afterward.

One of the best things about staying here is the Carousel Bar. It’s not just a clever name as the bar is centered around an actual carousel.

It’s definitely one of the best bars in New Orleans to grab a drink at! Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

Bourbon Street

Bourbon Street is the best place to stay if you’re looking to party and be right in the action.

Here you’ll find:

• Raucous Nightlife
• Mardi Gras Celebrations
• LGBT-Friendly Bars
• Center of Tourism

While it’s technically a part of the French Quarter, Bourbon Street deserves its own section in this guide on where to stay in New Orleans.

Famous for its raucous nightlife, epic Mardi Gras celebrations and other fun festivals, this is a pretty wild place to stay.

Many of the hotels on Bourbon Street are literally right on top of the party, so this isn’t the place to stay if you want some peace and quiet on your trip. It’s better to stick with one of the French Quarter hotels mentioned above.

Click here for an in-depth look at staying on Bourbon Street. This post goes into detail about the layout and history of the street. There are recommendations for 10 different hotels to choose from as well.

Best Places to Stay By Bourbon Street

Here are a few of the top hotels on Bourbon Street.

1. Royal Sonesta

This is definitely one of the top places to stay in New Orleans. It’s actually more like a resort than a hotel, with several on-site restaurants and bars. 

Many rooms feature wrought-iron balconies overlooking Bourbon Street — the perfect spot for some people watching. If you can snag one of these for Mardi Gras you’ll be right in the thick of all the action.

It’s hard to imagine all the chaos of Bourbon Street is just outside when you’re sitting in the tranquil courtyard here. It’s an oasis in the middle of the huge party that’s raging just beyond the hotel walls. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

2. Lafitte’s Guest House

Whereas the Royal Sonesta is a massive hotel with some 500 rooms, this place feels more like staying in someone’s home. After all, this boutique hotel is actually set in a restored house. With only 14 rooms, it certainly has a homey vibe.

If you’re not a fan of the typical Bourbon Street bars with their offensively loud music, you’ll enjoy staying here.

It’s right next door to Lafitte’s Blacksmith Bar & Shop, which is the oldest, and one of the best bars in New Orleans. It’s still candle-lit to this day. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

3. Hotel Mazarin

Ok, so this hotel isn’t technically on Bourbon Street, but it’s just right around the corner. You’re still within stumbling distance from the party if you stay here! 

Before you hit the party on Bourbon, make sure you grab a drink in their 21st Amendment Bar. This Prohibition Era-inspired speakeasy is the perfect spot to kick off a night out in NOLA with a cocktail or two.

As far as the rooms here, they’re definitely pretty fancy. We’re talking crystal chandeliers and gold leaf accents! Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

Garden District

The Garden District is where to stay in New Orleans if you’re looking for a peaceful, laidback experience in NOLA. This is also one of the most beautiful areas of New Orleans. 

Here you’ll find:

• Antebellum Mansions
• Oak-Lined Streets
• Fine Dining
• Boutique Shops

If the over-the-top party vibe of Bourbon Street is too much for you, then the Garden District is a solid choice. This is one of the most scenic and peaceful places to stay in New Orleans.

When it was first developed, there were only a few homes per block here. The extra space allowed for large gardens, hence the name given to the area.

Thanks to development, there aren’t that many actual gardens here anymore. These days there are some pretty incredible mansions here, many of which are owned by celebrities. 

Staying in the Garden District is a good choice for those who are looking for a more laidback experience in New Orleans. There are still plenty of choices for accommodation, dining, and shopping here, but it’s not overly touristy. 

Best Places to Stay in the Garden District

Here are a few top hotel choices.

1. Hotel Indigo

Rooms at this Garden District hotel are well-appointed with chic decor. They have several options ranging from standard rooms to huge suites. 

Those looking to squeeze a workout in will be happy to hear that there’s a nice fitness center here. There’s also a business center if you actually need to get some work done on your trip.

Getting to and from the French Quarter is easy as this hotel is located right across from a streetcar stop. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

2. Parisian Courtyard Inn

This is a proper B&B and a beautiful place to stay. As the name would suggest, a delicious breakfast is included when you stay at the Parisian Courtyard Inn.

Guests who have stayed here rave about the amazing staff. If you’re trying to figure out where to stay in New Orleans where you’ll have a more personalized experience, this is a great choice.

There are only 10 rooms here, all featuring hardwood floors and antique furniture. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

3. Garden District Bed and Breakfast

There’s no doubt that this is one of the most gorgeous places to stay in New Orleans. This beautifully restored 1860’s Victorian home is locally owned and operated. 

Even the decorations in the rooms just scream New Orleans here, with beautiful antique decor and balconies.

Rooms here include a private bathroom, 12-foot ceilings, air-conditioning/heat, queen bed, wifi, and more. There’s also free street parking if you’re driving. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

Faubourg Marigny/Bywater

This neighbourhood is where to stay in NOLA for a more local experience in the city. 

Here you’ll find:

• Bohemian Atmosphere
• Live Music
• Affordable Restaurants
• Artsy Vibe

Just east of the French Quarter along the river is the small neighborhood of Faubourg Marigny. Known by locals simply as “The Marigny,” this is one of the oldest ‘hoods in the Big Easy.

When the city of New Orleans began to grow, some plantation owners decided to break up their land to develop residential property.

Bernard Marigny was one of the first to do this in the early 1800s and the neighborhood still has his name. 

The Marigny has gone through lots of changes over the years. One significant development occurred on Frenchmen Street, which grew to become the premier location for live music in the city.

There are tons of music clubs as well as roaming marching bands, making this one of the best places to stay in New Orleans for music lovers.

The adjacent Bywater has become somewhat of a hipster haven in recent years. This began in the 1980s when real estate speculation and profiteering led many residents to move downriver to the Marigny and Bywater areas.

The artistic community once found in the French Quarter is now largely based here. In the Bywater, you’ll find the New Orleans Center for the Creative Arts — a school that’s training the next generation of Crescent City artists and creatives.

Staying in either the Marigny or Bywater is a great choice if you want a more local perspective on your trip to New Orleans.

The Best Places To Stay in Marigny and Bywater

Here are a few great hotel options in the area.

1. Royal Frenchmen Hotel & Bar

Set in a 19th-century Creole home, this boutique hotel is the perfect place to stay for bar-hopping on Frenchmen Street. Rooms here feature elegant furnishings and neighborhood views, some from private balconies overlooking the famous street.

Before hitting the town, hang out in their scenic courtyard or at the Royal Bar. Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth it to drop by for the $3 martinis during their Happy Hour from 4-8 PM. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

2. Hotel Peter and Paul

There’s a lot of history in this Marigny hotel. The former church, schoolhouse, convent, and rectory dates all the way back to 1860. A 4-year restoration process turned it into the upmarket hotel you see today.

The result is an absolutely stunning hotel. A lot of attention to detail went into the design of the rooms, and no two are alike. It’s definitely one of the most beautiful places to stay in New Orleans.

In addition to the gorgeous guest rooms, this hotel boasts a few parlors for relaxing and socializing, a sunroom, cafe, bar, and even an ice cream shop. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

3. The Mansion on Royal Street

This excellent B&B is set in a 1850s Greek Revival mansion. It features eleven well-appointed suites, each with a unique design.

The Mansion on Royal is just a few blocks from Frenchmen Street as well as the riverside Crescent Park, making for a great home base to explore the area.

There’s a lot to discover beyond your room here. You can relax in a rocking chair on their front porch or take a dip in the hot tub in the backyard. How cool is that?

You can even rent out the entire B&B for a wedding or other special event. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

Central Business District (CBD)

This is the best place to stay in New Orleans if you’re in the city for events.

Here you’ll find:

• Proximity to Arena and Stadium
• Sporting Events and Concerts
• Local Restaurants and Bars

If you’re headed to the Big Easy for a conference, sporting event, or a big concert/festival, you may want to choose an area closer to the action. 

The city’s Central Business District is a great place to stay if you’re going to an event at the Superdome or the Smoothie King Center. 

Home to the NFL’s New Orleans Saints, the Superdome also hosts events like the NCAA Final Four and the Essence Music Festival. I went to WrestleMania there a few years ago and had an absolute blast!

Over at the arena, the NBA’s New Orleans Pelicans play ball. The season lasts from the fall through the end of spring, and there are home games very often during this time. They also have big concerts here quite often. 

Staying in the CBD puts you super close to the stadium and arena and it’s really not that far to get to the French Quarter. The streetcar makes a quick and affordable trip between the two. 

Best Places To Stay in the Central Business District

Here are a few of the best choices for accommodation in the Big Easy’s Central Business District:

1. Hyatt Regency

It’s hard to beat this location if you’re headed to a sporting event in New Orleans. This 4-star hotel is just a stone’s throw from both the Superdome and the Smoothie King Center. 

They have a wide variety of rooms here to suit all budgets, all the way up to some super fancy executive suites.

There are quite a few restaurants and bars on-site, as well as a well-stocked fitness center if you need to work off all those calories! Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

2. Drury Plaza

There’s a lot to love about this hotel, starting with the location.

You’re close to landmarks like Lafayette Square and the World War II Museum and right up the street from the scenic Riverwalk. It’s also just a few steps from the streetcar that’ll bring you to the Quarter.

The Drury Plaza has a nice outdoor pool with a jacuzzi and 24-hour fitness and business centers. You also get breakfast as well as free snacks and drinks in the evening when you stay here.

This place has thousands of positive reviews! Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

3. Ace Hotel

This hip boutique hotel is an excellent choice if you prefer something a bit more exciting than average chain hotels. Suites here come with living rooms featuring things like turntables and guitars, a nod to the importance of music in NOLA.

Speaking of music, there’s a venue right on-site here. Three Keys is open late and has live music most nights as well as a full bar and snacks. 

During the day, you can recover up at the rooftop pool. There’s also a bar up there for when you want to get the party going again! Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

Now You Know Where To Stay in New Orleans!

As you can see, you have plenty of awesome choices when it comes to places to stay in New Orleans. Wherever you decide to stay, I’m sure you’ll have a blast in the Big Easy. 

One word of advice about booking a place during big events like Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest -—do it early! Rooms go fast and the prices keep on rising during these types of events in New Orleans.

Have you been to New Orleans and have a great recommendation for where to stay, eat, or drink? Drop a comment below and let us hear about it.

Images in this article are courtesy of Shutterstock.com. Check them out for beautiful royalty-free photos.

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We’ve already covered how to travel with a drone in previous articles and videos, but we actually carry a lot more kit than just a flying camera. A lot of people have been asking us on Our Youtube Channel about what cameras we’re using, how the videos are stabilized, what editing software we use and how we get aerial footage.

In this article I’m opening up my electronics bag and showing you guys exactly what’s inside so that if you’re planning to become a YouTuber, a Vlogger or you just want to make cool travel videos, you can get an idea of the gear involved.

UPDATED 2021:  This post was updated in August 2021 to include new technology, storage, and software.

The Bag

 

This is the ideal bag to keep your drone and camera gear dry and safe no matter how crazy your travels get. 

This bag seals up completely air-tight which means if you’re wading waist-deep in the Amazon Rainforest or just caught in a massive rainstorm, your gear will remain dry and safe.

The bag itself isn’t padded (and don’t mistake it for a cooler), but these days most drones and cameras come with their own padded bags anyways. This bag is there to keep things dry and it’s one sturdy backpack.

At around $300, it ain’t cheap, but when you see the build quality you’ll know it’s worth it.

The Gimbal

• GoPro Karma
• Weight: 458g (1.01 lbs)
• Size: 3.62 x 4.21 x 10.55 inches

Previously I recommended a third-party gimbal made by a company called Feiyu-Tech, but these days it’s best to just go with the gimbal that’s actually made by GoPro, for your GoPro. 

If you want to stabilize your point-and-shoot camera or DSLR, I’d go with the DJI RS2 or the DJI Ronin SC.

For mobile phones, I recommend the DJI Osmo 3 Gimbal which is the newest model as of August 2021.

The Cameras

In my opinion, this is the best action camera on the market. I also have the HERO7 Black, but the 9 Black is a killer thanks to the front facing selfie screen and additional shooting capabilities.

This thing can shoot 5K video and take beautiful 20mp photos. Plus the image stabilization on it is so good that you basically don’t need a gimbal anymore. You really can’t go wrong with any newer GoPro, but as of 2021 when this post was written, the Hero9 Black is the cream of the crop.

I have this camera and I use it all the time in my videos. I’ve gone through the Canon G7X line of cameras as well as the Sony Nex line and I finally fell on this camera which I absolutely love.

If you want to shoot in crisp 4K and always have your subject in focus, even adding that sexy blurred background, then this camera is for you. This is currently the top-of-the-line point-and-shoot 1-inch sensor camera in the Sony lineup and it’s a beast. 

The biggest upgrade over previous models? The super handy audio-in jack for mics.

It’s incredible that you can get near-cinema quality video and decent (not the greatest) photos in the palm of your hand.

The Mic

Costing just around $25 and sounding incredibly clear for the price, this is a great mic to get on a budget. You can get an extended cord and use it as a lapel mic, or you can just plug it into your RX100 VII or another camera that has a mic jack.

If you’re looking for professional audio, then you’ll definitely want to go with a Rhode Wireless Lapel Mic, but for the budget video creator, the Saramonic Mic will do fine.

The Drone

It blows me away how far drones have come since I purchased my first Phantom 2 nearly 8 years ago. My latest purchase was the Mavic Mini and since I bought that one, they came out with the Mavic Mini 2 which blows the first Mini out of the water.

Somehow DJI has managed to pack a 4K camera and some incredible photo shooting capabilities into a 249g package, meaning it’s below the FAA restrictions so you can fly it without a license or permit in pretty much any country around the world (though you still can’t fly in national parks, etc.).

If you want an incredibly powerful drone that takes near-cinema quality video and beyond-Instagram-worthy photos, then this is the drone for you.

Note: Drone laws are becoming increasingly strict. In some places, you’re simply not allowed to fly the drone, while others require a licence. However, the only place we have had an issue so far is in Italy (Rome). On April 1st, 2016, the FAA laid down some new (and warranted) laws against flying in airplanes with LiPo batteries.

You should always carry these flammable batteries on the plane with you to avoid having them explode in the luggage compartment.

Put them in a LiPo Battery container and make sure they’re not charged or connected to your drone while flying in an airplane. This will ensure a smooth ride through the security at the airport.

UPDATE 2021: In most countries, you are now required to have a license and permit if you’re flying any drone over 250 grams. This is the only 4K drone that I know of that falls below this limit.

Click here to read more. 

The Tablet(s)

To use the drone, you’ll need a smartphone or tablet. I wouldn’t go any smaller than the 5.5″ screen size of the iPhone 6 Plus because you need to see detail in the photos and videos that you’re shooting from the sky.

The iPad Mini is the perfect size, but the Mini 2 and below is actually too slow to properly process the video feed from the drone. I recommend getting the Mini 3 ($298) or Mini 4 ($337) because in my experience, the Mini 2 is just too choppy and pixellated.

The iPhone 6s Plus has a fast enough processor that easily runs the DJI software and streams the video smoothly, but it’s still a bit small. If you have an iPad Mini, I think it’s the perfect screen size. Otherwise, the iPhone 12 Pro Max is the current perfect phone for the setup.

The Laptop

• Apple Macbook Pro M-Chip
• Weight: 2.06 kg (4.5lb)
• Size: 0.95 inch (2.41 cm) x 12.78 inches (32.5 cm) x 8.94 inches (22.7 cm)

The new standard in processing power is the Apple M-Chip. Currently only the 13-inch 2021 Macbook Pros have this, but I’m pretty sure there will soon be a release of a 15″ model which will be my next upgrade.

I currently have a 2019 15″ Macbook Pro with the older Intel Chips in it and with 16GB of RAM it’s good enough for editing 1080p video without any buffering time at all. When I upgrade, I’m hoping I can get the new 15″ M-Chip Macbook Pro with 32GB+ of RAM.

The Cords

• GoPro – USB-C & Wall Plug (Universal USB)
• RX100 – MicroUSB (Universal USB)
• Gimbal – MiniUSB & Wall Plug (Universal USB)
• Drone – USB-C 100-240V Wall Plug (400g)
• iPad Mini 5 – Lightening (Universal USB)
• iPhone 12 Pro Max – Lightening

One of the most annoying things about carrying around so much gear is the tangled mess of charging cords that goes along with it. I picked up a couple of universal USBs on Amazon for $8 each to help with the clutter, but I’m still waiting for Zap-Tips to come available to really help the problem.

All together the cords weight around 500 grams and take up about 100 cm² of space in my bag.

The Software

For editing, you really can’t go wrong with Final Cut Pro. I also use Adobe After Effects and Motion 5 from time-to-time, but my go-to editing software is Final Cut. I’ve been using this program since I was 14 years old and I know it pretty well. The interface is easy-to-use for beginners and pros alike and I love it.

Although there are many issues with Apple products failing, like so many other Apple users, I’m so used to the products that I have no choice but to stick with them.

Either way, I wouldn’t trade in my Macbook, iPhone and Final Cut programs for anything else because they’re easy-to-use and indispensable.

I have just recently subscribed for 6 months to Pond 5 and they have a ton of great footage and images. I’ve not had a chance to dive too deep into it so far, but I found some clips of some pretty rural places that I didn’t think there would be footage for.

You do have to pay to license the footage and you have to buy a membership. I’ll report back and let you know if it’s worth it.

This is the most useful tool online and is well worth the upgrade to the Pro Version for the extra features and the incredible selection of royalty-free images and video clips.

If you want to make YouTube Thumbnails, Pinterest share images, or just edit up some beautiful graphics or logos, you should definitely have Canva.

Tutorials

Even though I’ve been editing and producing videos for nearly 20 years on and off, I am still learning so much every day. This isn’t really “in my bag”, but it definitely plays a part in my video creation. Some of my favourite online video creation tutorials and YouTube Channels include:

Total Package, Weight & Size

• Weight: 10kg
• Size: 27x34x52cm

Last time I weighed my day bag at the airport I was at 10 kg. I wear this bag on my front, with my Numinous 55L on my back. The Numinous bag weighs nearly twice as much, and is 5X less comfortable. The Vanguard pack does a great job of weight distribution and padding so it’s actually very comfy.

There You Have it!

That’s literally everything in my electronics bag. It fits in pretty snug without being crammed in any way, and other than my Nex-6, I love every bit of it.

If you’re planning to make some epic travel videos, you obviously don’t need all of this gear, but it gives you a good idea of what we have and hopefully gives you a few ideas for what you want to travel with on your next trip.

This is of course my job, so there’s a pretty substantial amount of kit here, but anyone can start making great videos with a GoPro, a gimbal and a mic.

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What’s your favourite travel video gadget, backpack or software? Please share with us in the comments below.

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Disclaimer:Goats On The Road is an Amazon Associate and also an affiliate for some other retailers. This means we earn commissions if you click links on our blog and purchase from those retailers.

Boston is one of the oldest and most famous cities in the United States. There’s no shortage of historic Boston attractions to visit, making this an incredible travel destination.

If you’re planning a trip here but are unsure of what to do in Boston, read on for a look at some of the best things to see and do.

Dating back to 1630, Boston holds an important place in American history. The city was founded by Puritan colonists who were fleeing religious persecution in England.

Much of the American Revolution unfolded here, including crucial events such as the Boston Massacre and the Boston Tea Party. 

Boston is the capital of Massachusetts and the biggest city in the area known as New England.

It has several nicknames, including “The City on a Hill” and “Beantown.” Baked beans and bread were a very common dish back in colonial times, and the name stuck — well, with tourists, not so much with the locals!

Here you’ll find an abundance of historical sights, world-class museums, beautiful parks, and much more. With so much going on in one city, it can be a bit tricky deciding what to do in Boston.

I really enjoyed my visit to the city and am excited to share my tips and all the best things to do in Boston.

1. Freedom Trail – topping the list of things to do in Boston!

One of the top outdoor activities in Boston is the Freedom Trail — a 2.5 mile-long walk that takes you to some of the most famous places in the city.

Along the way, you’ll pass by 16 different historic sights, from the Boston Common all the way to the USS Constitution.

If you’re new in town and don’t really know what to do in Boston, just hop on the Freedom Trail and take in some of the sights. There’s so much to see and learn along the trail that you could easily spend all day or even a few days taking it all in. 

Going for a walk on the Freedom Trail in Boston is like being inside of a history book. You’ll see the site of the Boston Massacre, the former home of Paul Revere, and the final resting place of such patriots as John Hancock. 

It’s quite easy to do a self-guided tour of the Freedom Trail. I recommend starting at the Visitor Center in Boston Common and moving along at a leisurely pace. Just click here for a PDF map that you can follow.

There are also many Freedom Trail tours that you can join. This one is a private tour including a local historian for a guide, while this one is a bit more fun — a historic pub crawl along the Freedom Trail!

The Freedom Trail tour is also included in the Go Boston Card. 

2. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

History buffs will definitely want to add a visit to the Tea Party Ships & Museum to their list of things to see in Boston. It’s an interactive museum that allows you to experience this historic event as if you were living it.

The Boston Tea Party is believed to be one of the most important events leading up to the American Revolution.

Colonists boarded British ships in the harbor and tossed chests full of tea overboard in protest. They were known as the Sons of Liberty and their famous rallying cry was “No taxation without representation.”

At the museum, your guide will lead you through a colonial town meeting and then onto an authentically restored ship to actually dump boxes of tea into the harbor.

After that, you can peruse their informative exhibits and check out the impressive multi-sensory documentary called “Let it Begin Here.”

You can find the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum at 306 Congress Street (click here for directions). It’s open daily from 10-4 or 5 depending on the season.

Tickets cost around $30 for adults and $22 for children. Click here to learn more and book tickets online. 

☞ SEE ALSO: 10 Cheapest Cities in the USA for Digital Nomads 

3. Visit Fenway Park

There’s no doubt that Boston is one of the best sports cities in the world.

Bostonians are very passionate about their teams, especially the Red Sox. The Sox play at Fenway Park, which is the oldest ballpark in the country. It dates all the way back to 1912 and is even on the National Register of Historic Places.

Catching a game at Fenway Park is definitely one of the top outdoor activities in Boston. That is if you can manage to score tickets!

It’s one of the smallest ballparks in the league and home to the reigning World Series champions. I recommend going for a day game on a weekday for the best chance of getting decent seats at a reasonable price.

Even if you don’t get to see the Sox play, it’s well worth it to take a tour of Fenway Park. It’s known as “America’s Most Beloved Ballpark” and a fascinating place to visit.

You’ll get to see the famous Green Monster and Pesky’s Pole and learn all about this iconic sports venue. 

There are several different options for tours of Fenway Park, even on game days. You can purchase tickets online up to 30 days prior, and they are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Tours last one hour and cost $21 for adults or $15 for children. Click here to browse the options and book your tour of Fenway.

4. Join a Duck Tour

If you’re wondering what to do in Boston that’s fun for the whole family, you should be sure to sign up for a duck tour.

I’m not talking about the birds that quack, though. This “duck” is an amphibious vehicle that can cruise on both land and sea. 

After boarding the duck, your group is whisked around Boston for a fun and informative tour of the city and its many landmarks. From there, you get to splash into the Charles River to enjoy some fantastic views of the skyline.

Duck tours last around 80 minutes and depart from either the Museum of Science, Prudential Center, or the New England Aquarium. Tours leave every 20-30 minutes throughout the day. Click here to book tickets.

This is one of the most popular things to do in Boston, don’t miss it. The “Duck” is also included in the Go Boston Card. 

5. Boston Common and Public Garden

I know I mentioned it in the blurb about the Freedom Trail, but Boston Common definitely deserves its own spot on this list of things to see in Boston. Dating all the way back to 1634, this is actually the oldest city park in the country!

Before you get moving along the Freedom Trail, be sure to spend some time walking around Boston Common. During the summer, you can cool off in the Frog Pond. In the cold winter months, it transforms into an ice-skating rink. 

Boston Common also hosts several different events and festivals throughout the year. You can check out Shakespeare on the Common in the summer for some outdoor theater, or see the ice sculptures and fireworks displays on New Year’s Eve. 

Walk across Charles Street and you’ll find yourself in the beautiful Boston Public Garden. Here you can enjoy a scenic stroll or jump in a swan boat for a spin around the lagoon. Click here to check the location on the map and get directions.

6. Faneuil Hall – a great place to eat and shop in Boston

After a few hours of walking the Freedom Trail and taking in the sights, you’ll surely be ready to grab some lunch and sit down for a while. The perfect place to go is Faneuil Hall, a marketplace full of shops, restaurants, and bars.

Historic Faneuil Hall is known as the “Cradle of Liberty,” as it was once home to the meetings that eventually led to the American Revolution. It’s one of the most famous Boston attractions and a must-visit while in the city.

In addition to all the shopping and dining here, you can also watch some pretty incredible street performers. If you’re looking for free things to do in Boston, here you’ll find fitness classes and dance nights. 

Faneuil Hall is open from Monday to Saturday from 10-9 and on Sunday from 11-7. Click here to get directions. For a full list of all the businesses that operate there and the event schedule, check out their website.

7. Feast on Seafood

Ask any local what to do in Boston, and you’re sure to get responses that include the words “chowdah” and “lobstah roll.”

Whether you can understand the accent or not, one of the most fun things to do in Boston is trying some of the city’s classic seafood dishes. (If you find yourself in Canada’s east coast province of Nova Scotia, eating lobster rolls is one of the best things to do there as well!)

Perhaps the most quintessential dish in Boston is New England clam chowder. This creamy seafood soup has been a staple of the Boston diet since the time of the Pilgrims. Great places for some chowdah include Legal Sea Foods and B&G Oysters.

Another must-eat in Boston is a lobster roll. This delectable concoction is made by adding lobster meat to a hot dog-style bun.

The lobster is usually soaked in either butter or mayo along with some salt and pepper. If that sounds amazing, that’s because it is!

Some of the best places to get this Boston classic are Island Creek Oyster Bar (update: sadly, this restaurant has permanently closed) and the aptly named Lobstah on a Roll — one of the best things to do on Newbury Street is eat one of these lobster rolls!

8. Visit The North End (and eat Italian food)

While lobster is one of the most popular foods in Boston, so too is Italian food. The North End has been inhabited since the 1630s and is home to an Italian American population.

If you love Italian food (balsamic vinegar, cheese, pasta, pizza, olive oil…oh my!), you’ll want to check out the North End. However, it’s not just about the food here, there are some great sites to see as well.

Don’t miss the sculptures and artwork, the oldest church in Boston (Old North Church), the Paul Revere House, the birthplace of Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy, and more.

You can wander around the North End sampling gelato as you go, but if you want to learn more about the neighbourhood and find some great restaurants, check out this tour, which includes a knowledgeable guide, food samplings, entrance fees and more. 

9. JFK Presidential Library & Museum

John F. Kennedy was the 35th President of the United States. He grew up just outside of Boston in Brookline, MA and he attended school at Harvard University.

Tragically, JFK was assassinated in 1963. History buffs will want to add a stop at the JFK Presidential Library & Museum to their list of things to see in Boston.

The striking building was designed by world-famous architect I.M. Pei on Boston’s waterfront. Before his untimely death, Kennedy visited the area to find a location for his future library, but he never got to see it completed.

Since he encouraged his administration to save both official and personal documents, this complex is considered both a library and a museum.

Through the various exhibits, you can learn all about the life and legacy of JFK. With interactive displays, high-definition projections, and countless original artifacts, it’s an amazing look into one of the country’s most beloved public figures. 

The JFK Presidential Library is located at Columbia Point (click here for directions). It’s open daily from 9-5 with the last introductory film showing just before 4 PM. Tickets cost $14 for adults and $10 for children. You can purchase tickets online in advance on their website.

10. See The Famous Universities

Boston is one of the biggest educational centers in the United States. The city is home to several prestigious universities, such as Harvard, MIT, and the University of Massachusets. 

Harvard consistently ranks at #1 on lists of the top universities in the world. As such, the campus of this Ivy League school is considered one of the top things to see in Boston. 

You have a few different options for seeing this world-famous university. Click here to download a map for a self-guided tour along with an accompanying audio tour.

It’s read by current Harvard students and provides a great introduction to the school. This is one of the best free things to do in Boston for sure. 

Another option is signing up for one of Harvard’s affordable walking tours led by students. Click here to learn more and book this popular tour online. A walking tour of Harvard University is also included in the Go Boston Card.

11. Skywalk Observatory

Update: Unfortunately, due to leasing issues, the Skywalk Observatory has been permanently closed. We’ve added more things to do in Boston below, so keep reading!

If you want to see the city from above, then head on over to the Skywalk Observatory. It’s located on the 50th floor of the Prudential Center and offers the best views in all of Boston.

From here, you can get a bird’s eye view of some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as Fenway Park. On a clear day, you can actually see up to 100 miles away from the observatory! They offer audio tours in several languages to enhance the experience.

In addition to the great views, you can check out the Dreams of Freedom Museum, which celebrates the role immigrants have played in the city’s history. You can also catch a film called “Wings Over Boston” in their three-screen theater.

You can find the Skywalk Observatory at 800 Boylston Street (click here for directions). It’s open daily from 10-10 from March to November and from 10-8 the rest of the year. Tickets cost $21 for adults and $15 for children, and admission is included in the Go Boston Card if you choose to go that route.

12. Museum Hopping

If you’re ever unsure of what to do in Boston, just pop into one of the city’s many excellent museums. In addition to the aforementioned JFK Library & Museum, you have several other choices to learn about art, history, and science.

All of the museums listed below are included in the Go Boston Card.

Museum of Fine Arts

Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts has an impressive collection of art from all corners of the globe. It’s not only one of the best museums in Boston but in the entire United States.

You could spend weeks here and still not take in all the amazing art that’s on display.

The museum is open daily from 10-5 Sat-Tues and 10-10 Wed-Fri. Tickets cost $25 for adults and $10 for children, but kids can visit for free any day after 3 PM and on weekends. Find the museum on the map, here. 

Other Must-See Museums in Boston

Other great choices include the Boston Children’s Museum, the Museum of Science, and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.

Travelers will love the Mapparium, which is home to a 3-story stained-glass globe that gives you a 3D perspective of the world. It’s located in the Mary Baker Eddy Library (click here for directions) and costs just $6 for adults and $4 for children.

13. Newbury Street

For those interested in finding some of the best shopping and dining options in town, a stroll along trendy Newbury Street is a must. I personally hate shopping and even I’ll admit that this is one of the most fun things to do in Boston!

This mile-long street is home to historic brownstones dating back to the 19th century. Here you’ll find a wide variety of boutiques, salons, cafes, restaurants, galleries, bars, and more. It really is a one-stop shop and a great place to spend a few hours.

At the lower end near Boston Public Garden, you’ll find mostly upscale shops. Because of this stretch, Newbury Street is considered one of the most expensive streets in the country!

As you make your way up the street, though, it turns into more of a bohemian vibe with more budget-friendly options. If you’re looking for fun, free things to do in Boston, wandering around Newbury Street is a great option.

One of the most iconic shops here is Newbury Comics, which was opened back in 1978 and kicked off the street’s transformation into a hip shopping area.

Come here to peruse their vast collection of pop culture merchandise, from comic books to vinyl and much more. Click here to get directions.

14. Visit Castle Island

One of the coolest things to see in Boston is definitely Castle Island. Here you’ll find the historic Fort Independence and Pleasure Bay Beach.

It’s a beautiful place to visit in the summer months when you can go for a walk along the waterfront, go for a dip, and maybe have a picnic on the beach.

If you don’t feel like bringing your own lunch, stop by local favorite Sullivan’s for fried clams and ice cream.

The Fort is only open from Memorial Day to Columbus Day, and there are free tours given by volunteers.

The tours always run from noon to 3:30 on Sunday, and there are also Saturday tours during the summer. In June and July, they add additional skyline viewing tours on Thursday evenings at 7. 

Castle Island is located in South Boston on the shore of Boston Harbor. For more information, be sure to check out their website.

15. Join a Brewery Tour

It’s no secret that Boston is a city that enjoys a cold one from time to time!

Taking a brewery tour is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Boston, and you have plenty of options. In fact, there are over 100 craft breweries in the state of Massachusetts.

Samuel Adams Beer Tour

Boston is very much a revolutionary city, and the craft beer revolution got going here as well. Brewer Jim Koch made his first batch of Boston Lager in his kitchen in the 80s.

Decades later, Samuel Adams is one of the most well-known beers in the country. 

Tours of their Boston Brewery run Monday to Saturday from 11-5. You can read about the various tour options on their website. You can find the Sam Adams Boston Brewery at 30 Germania Street (click here for directions).

Craft Beer Tours

If you prefer to leave the planning to someone else and focus more on the drinking, sign up for one of the City Brew Tours. You’ll visit 4 breweries/cider houses and enjoy tastings at each one, plus, a light lunch and round trip transportation are included. 

This tour with Boston Brew Tours offers 12 tastings at 3 different breweries/cider houses, round trip transportation, a guide and snacks.

Finally, this walking tour includes stops at the historic taverns in Boston. Included in the tour are a knowledgeable guide, visit to 2 historic taverns (with a drink at both), snacks, and a round-trip ferry ride across the Boston harbour. Learn more here. 

Other popular options for brewery tours in Boston include Harpoon, Somerville Brewing Co., and Night Shift Brewing.

Bonus! Food Tour

Of course, you can eat your way around Boston, but if you want to find the best places to eat, and learn about the city while doing so, joining a food tour is a great option. 

There are a few excellent choices — depending on what you feel like.

Italian Food Tour: Pizza, Meat, Cheese, Bread

If you love the above foods, you’ll want to check out this Italian Tour! Located in the North End, you’ll enjoy learning about the history of the city from your guide. Plus, samplings of pizza, meat, cheese, bread, pastries, and coffee are included. Learn more here. 

Boston North End Pizza Tour

This is a great tour for pizza lovers. You’ll visit 5 different sites on the Freedom Trail and enjoy a slice of pizza and the top 3 pizzerias in the city — including the oldest. Plus, you’ll try cannoli and learn about the city from your guide. Find out more here.

Boston’s North End: Secret Food Tour

Sticking in the North End of Boston, this private tour (up to 2 people) includes a 3-hour walking tour, with 6 stops to taste local specialties — including seafood and the classic baked beans and bread. You can also upgrade this tour to include craft beer. Find out more here.

Now You Know What To Do in Boston

Hopefully, after reading this guide you won’t have a hard time figuring out things to do in Boston. As you can see, you’ve got plenty of amazing options!

It really is a fascinating city to visit, whether you’re interested in history, sports, art, or just enjoying the culinary and nightlife scenes. With a few days in Boston, you can enjoy a nice mix of them all.

Have you been to Boston and have a great recommendation on things to do, places to eat, or cool spots to grab a drink? Let us know in the comments below!

Some images in this article are courtesy of Shutterstock.com.

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Portland is one of the best cities to visit in the USA. With several excellent parks, a thriving music and art scene, and an abundance of food trucks and breweries, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Portland, Oregon!

A popular slogan here is “Keep Portland Weird,” as the city and its residents are known for their creativity and independence.

The city hosts funky annual events like the World Naked Bike Ride and the Adult Soapbox Derby. It’s also home to places like the Freakybuttrue Peculiarium and a vacuum museum — oh ya, there are lots of weird things to do in Portland!

Weirdness aside, there are plenty of awesome Portland attractions to visit, from one of the largest urban parks in the country to a French Renaissance mansion.

Add in all the museums, galleries, markets, and live music venues, and you’ll never be bored when traveling in the city.

I’ve been all over the country and Portland is hands-down one of my favorite American cities to visit. What can I say? I’m a sucker for the great outdoors, efficient public transportation, and craft beer.

Here’s a list of the top 15 things to do in Portland.

1. Join a Walking Tour

Get to know the city known as Portlandia by taking a walking tour. There are several different options for exploring the best that Portland has to offer on foot. 

Around Portland Tours runs their Intro to Portland Walking Tour daily and it’s just that — the perfect introduction to the city.

On this entertaining and informative tour, you’ll learn why Portland is considered one of the best cities to call home in the US. After the tour, you might want to move here!

Tickets cost $25 per person for the 2.5-hour tour. Click here to learn more about this affordable, fun and informative tour.

If you’d rather add some craft beer to your walking tour, have a look at this tour.

You’ll check out the Inner Eastside neighbourhood with a knowledgable guide, while stopping at breweries to sample sours, craft barrel-aging, Belgians, wits, imperial IPAs, and more. This fun and boozy thing to do in Portland is about 2.5 hours long. Learn more here. 

2. Visit Pioneer Courthouse Square

Dubbed the “living room” of the city, this has been a central gathering place in Portland for 35 years. 

One interesting feature of the square is that there are over 70,000 bricks with names on them. Citizens and businesses purchased the bricks with donations of $15 to help fund the square’s construction in the early ’80s.

Inside the square, you’ll find the Waterfall Fountain and several different artworks.

One of the most famous is Allow Me, which depicts a businessman offering his umbrella. The square is also home to the Weather Machine — a sculpture that predicts the following day’s weather at noon with a bit of fanfare. 

There are over 300 events that take place in the square throughout the year. From concerts to fitness classes to movie screenings, there’s a lot going on here. Be sure to check their calendar of events to see what’s happening.

Pioneer Courthouse Square is also home to an information center where you can get tons of info on the various Portland attractions. 

3. Enjoy Washington Park

One of the top things to do in Portland is to visit is Washington Park. Actually, this massive park is several attractions rolled into one. There’s so much going on here that the park could be its own list!

In the City of Roses, you should start your visit to the park at the International Rose Garden. There are over 10,000 rose bushes here, and they’re in bloom between April and October. The Rose Garden is included in this Morning Highlights Tour.

From Memorial Day to Labor Day, they also run free public tours every day at 1 PM. 

The park is also home to the beautiful Portland Japanese Garden. It features eight unique garden areas, as well as a Cultural Village where you can immerse yourself in Japanese culture. Tickets cost $18.95 for adults and $13.50 for children (click here to book them online).

We haven’t even scratched the surface of all that’s on tap in the sprawling Washington Park. Here you’ll also find the Children’s Museum, the Hoyt Arboretum, and so much more.

With over 15 miles of trails, it’s also a great place to enjoy a bit of hiking in the city. Check their website for a detailed look at all the various attractions.

The park is open daily from 5 AM to 10 PM. You can easily reach the park by light rail. From May to October, there’s also a free shuttle that makes a loop of the park, stopping at the top attractions. Click here for directions to Washington Park.

4. Go Museum Hopping

While you can easily fill your days outdoors in Portland, it does tend to rain up here in the Pacific Northwest. Thankfully there are several great museums you can add to your list of things to do in Portland Oregon for those inevitable rainy days.

Portland Art Museum

One of the best choices is the Portland Art Museum, which is known for its impressive collections of Native American and Asian art. They’re always adding exciting new exhibitions, so be sure to check their website to see what’s currently on display. 

The art museum is open from 10 am – 5pm Wednesday to Sunday. It’s closed on Monday and Tuesday. Tickets cost $20 for adults and children 17 & under are totally free. Click here to get directions.

Oregon Historical Society

Right across the street, you’ll find the Oregon Historical Society. This fun and interactive museum aims to make the history of the state both visible and accessible to visitors.

Here you can learn all about the people, places, and events that have shaped the state of Oregon. It’s open from 10 am – 5 pm Monday to Saturday, and noon – 5 pm on Sunday. Tickets to the museum cost $10 for adults and $5 for kids.

Weird Museums to Visit in Portland

Remember how I said the city has a slogan that goes “Keep Portland Weird”? Well, that definitely applies here, as you’ll also find museums dedicated to hats, puppets, toys, and even vacuum cleaners… 

5. Visit Powell’s City of Books

This may be hard to believe in the year 2021, but one of the top things to do in Portland Oregon is hanging out in a bookstore.

This isn’t just any old bookstore, though — Powell’s City of Books is the largest independent new and used bookstore in the world!

The store takes up an entire city block, and it’s composed of nine color-coded rooms with over 3,500 sections.

They claim to buy over 3,000 used books every day and house up to one million at any given time! The place is so massive that they actually hand out maps to help you find your way around.

Drop into Powell’s, grab a coffee, and peruse this one-of-a-kind collection.

A major highlight is their Rare Book Room that’s full of antique furniture and several thousand of their most valuable and unique books. Be sure to take a look at their calendar of events before you visit to see what’s going on here.

Powell’s City Books is open daily from 9 AM-11 PM. They run free guided tours every Sunday at 10 if you happen to be in town over the weekend. Click here to get directions.

6. Visit Forest Park

If you’re like me and would rather be hiking in the forest than walking through the concrete jungle, be sure to pay a visit to Forest Park.

Located just a short trip west of downtown, this massive urban forest covers over 5,000 acres. It’s one of the biggest in the country and one of the best places to visit in Portland.

Stretching for around 8 miles on the eastern slopes of the Tualatin Mountains and overlooking the Williamette River, this is an incredibly scenic area. It’s located just a short drive from downtown Portland, allowing you to experience a true Northwest forest within the city limits.

Forest Park is home to an astounding 70 miles (about 110 km) of trails.

The Wildwood Trail section of the famous 40-Mile-Loop that goes around the city is a part of the park if you want to do some serious walking. You can see a map of all the various trailheads with descriptions on their website. 

The park is open every day from 5 AM-10 PM. They also frequently do guided tours of the park, so you’ll want to take a look at their calendar to see if you can join one. If so, it’s definitely worth adding to your list of things to do in Portland.

If you’d rather head out to Forest Park with a guide and enjoy a 4.5 – 5 mile (8-9 kilometer) hike. This is a great way to not get lost, and learn about the place you’re visiting. Of course, there has to be something weird to do in Portland added to this hike, so you’ll also visit the Witch’s Castle… Find out more here.  

Portland’s Smallest Park

Now that you know about one of the biggest urban parks in the USA, how about visiting the smallest in the world. 

A classic example of Portland’s famous weirdness is the fact that the city is home to the world’s smallest park. Mils End Park covers just 452 squares inches (0.292 square meters), so it won’t take you long to visit!

Oh yeah, and it was dedicated on St. Patrick’s Day as “the only leprechaun colony west of Ireland” as well. Click here to get directions to this hilarious tiny park.

7. Wander Around Chinatown

While it’s not as famous as its counterparts in New York or San Francisco, Portland’s Chinatown is well worth a visit. It’s also known as Old Town, which is a fitting name seeing as how it’s the city’s oldest neighborhood. 

At the corner of NW 4th Ave. and W Burnside St, you’ll find the Chinese gate and lion statues. Find Chinatown on the map, here.

After snapping a photo there, you can head a block north to check out the Portland Chinatown Museum. It’s open Thursday-Sunday from 12-5 in the summer and costs $8 for adults or $5 for children.

Without a doubt, the highlight of this part of Portlandia is the Lan Su Chinese Garden. It was built after Suzhou became a sister city of Portland, as it’s famous for its traditional gardens.

The Chinese name translates as “Garden of the Awakening Orchids,” and it’s an absolutely gorgeous place to spend a few hours.

The Chinese garden is open daily at 10:00 am, and the closing hours depend on the season. The garden stays open until 6:00 pm during the summer months, but closes as early as 4:00 in the winter.

Ticket prices vary as well, costing $12.95 for adults and $9.95 for kids in the summer months. Check their event calendar to see what’s happening and be sure to drop by their lovely tea house as well. You can find it on the map, here.

8. Eat At The Food Trucks (one of the best things to do in Portland for foodies)

One of the tastiest things to do in Portland Oregon is eating your way across the city’s countless food trucks. Portlandia boasts an impressive 500+ different food trucks, which are grouped into pods all over the city.

Unfortunately, the biggest food truck pod in Portland recently had to close down. The 10th and Adler pod was previously known as the largest concentration of street food in America, so it’s sad to see it go. 

These days, one of the best spots to get a variety of street food is the pod on 3rd and Washington (click here for directions). Take your pick from around 20 carts cooking up Mexican, Korean, Egyptian, Greek, and much more. 

Another excellent choice is Cartopia in East Portland. It’s mostly a late-night spot, so it’s the perfect place to grub down after a big night out on the town. 

A great way to experience the food “pods” is to join this fun foodie tour. Together with your guide, you’ll walk through Central Eastside Portland, while sampling food from 7 food trucks. Plus, you’ll enjoy a cold beer to wash it all down. Find out more and book with your platform of choice: Get Your Guide or Viator.

9. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

We’ve already covered a few parks, but it’s definitely worth adding another one. The Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden in southeast Portland is a beautiful place to escape to for a few hours. 

Founded back in 1950 as a test garden, it currently has over 2,500 rhododendrons, azaleas, and many other plants. It’s set on Crystal Springs Lake and features several paths that lead you around the garden. This is the spot for your own personal moment of zen in Portlandia.

In addition to all the pretty flowers, this is also a great spot for some bird watching. There are over 100 species of birds and other animals here, including ducks, blackbirds, sparrows, herons, and more. 

The garden can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time to see the rhododendrons is between late April and early May. They have two large events during this time — the Rhododendron & Daffodil Show and then a larger one over Mother’s Day weekend. 

It’s free to visit from October 1-February 28 and always free on Monday. From March 1 to September 30, they charge $5 admission for adults. The garden is open from dawn to dusk year-round. Click here to get directions.

10. Watch Live Music

While it may not be as famous as its neighbour, Seattle, there’s a solid live music scene in Portland as well. The city has music venues of all shapes and sizes and there are shows going on every night of the week here.

From local bands trying to make a name for themselves at dive bars to big-name headliners playing at the arena, there are plenty of options for rocking out in Portlandia.

Some of the best places to catch live music include Doug Fir Lounge, Roseland Theater, Crystal Ballroom, and Mississippi Studios. 

My wife and I went through Portland on our month of music trip around the country and had a blast. Check this calendar of events to see who’s playing when you’ll be in town and add an evening of live tunes to your list of things to do in Portland Oregon.

11. Visit Pittock Mansion

One of the most popular Portland attractions is the Pittock Mansion. This 46-room mansion was built in 1914 in both Victorian and French Renaissance architectural styles.

This gorgeous mansion was home to Henry Pittock, published in the Oregonian newspaper, and his wife Georgiana. He chose the location on the West Hills above Portland for the panoramic views of the city, river, and mountains. 

Unfortunately, they both passed away within five years of moving in.

The house remained in the family for decades, but it sustained serious damage during a storm and was almost demolished. Locals helped raise nearly $70,000 to protect the property and the city of Portland eventually bought it and turned it into a museum. 

This half-day, small-group tour takes in many activities in Portland, including a visit to the Pittock Mansion. Learn more here.

The Pittock Mansion is open daily from 10 am – 4 pm. Tickets cost $12 for adults and $8 for children. Be sure to check their website to read more about their different options for tours.

12. Shop At The Saturday Market

If you’re in town on a weekend, you’ll definitely want to add a trip to the Saturday Market to your list of fun things to do in Portland. This bustling arts & crafts market is the largest of its kind in the entire United States and is a really fun place to explore.

The market is located on the west side of the river right under the Burnside Bridge. While you’re in the area, you can also check out some popular spots for photos such as the Skidmore Fountain and the famous White Stag sign. Click here to get directions. 

It’s open every Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm from March through to Christmas Eve. 

In the week leading up to Christmas, it becomes the “Festival of the Last Minute” — the perfect place for slackers to finish up that holiday shopping!

There’s a lot going on at the Portland Saturday Market, so you can easily spend a few hours there.

In addition to the wide variety of vendors, they also have a kid’s corner, live music, and a food court. Head to their website to find out what’s going on while you’re in town. 

13. Ride Across Bridges

In addition to its weirdness, Portland is also known for its bridges and cycling. Why not go ahead and combine the two? After all, Portland is known as the most bike-friendly city in the country and Bridge Town is one of its many nicknames. 

First up, you’re going to need some wheels.

Shared Bikes

BIKETOWN is the city’s bike-share program and it’s very easy to get started. Just sign up, unlock the bike, ride, and lock it back up when you’re finished.

There are over 1,000 bikes and 100 stations around the city, so they’re always easy to find. For visitors, you can just pay a $5 sign-up fee and then $0.08 per minute. Check their website to get the app.

Bike Tours

If you’d rather experience the city with a group, you can sign up for one of the excellent tours with Pedal Bike Tours. On their classic Downtown Portland tour, you’ll get a fun crash course on PDX.

Along the way, you get to enjoy some awesome views of the river and the many bridges that span it.

Tours cost $50 per person and last for 3 hours. You’ll ride about 9 miles in total but it’s mostly flat terrain.

They also have a few other tours that focus on some of the finer things Portland is famous for — doughnuts and beer. Find out more about the very popular brewery and bike tour here.

Speaking of Homer Simpson’s favorite things, that brings us to the final items our list of things to do in Portland…

14. Sample All The Beer

As if Portland doesn’t have enough nicknames, let’s add another one to the list — Beervana.

This one is deserved, though, as the metro area is home to an astounding 100+ breweries! Don’t believe me? Just click here to see the official count.

With so many delicious beers to choose from, where does one start? You can join the aforementioned Oregon Brewery Trail tour with Pedal, where you’ll visit three different brewpubs by bike.

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, check out one of the options from BrewGroup PDX. Their BrewCycle tours are done on party bikes that can seat 6, 11, or 15 and are tons of fun.

You also have the option of getting out in the water on their BrewBardge pedal-powered boats. Tours cost between $30-40 depending on which one you choose and the day of the week. Check their website for all the info. 

If you’d rather walk than cycle, the folks at Around Portland have the perfect tour for you. Their brewery tour also has three stops, and you get 6 different samples. Click here to learn more and book online.

15. Doughnuts Galore!

You can’t leave Portland without eating some donuts! The obsession with fried dough in Portland started out with Voodoo Doughnuts. Known for their eclectic decor and unconventional toppings (Cap’n Crunch, dried chili, bacon, etc.), this place is a local legend.

There’s almost always an hour-long line (get skip the line tickets here), and many locals will dismiss it as being “for tourists” these days, but it’s worth it to try the famed doughnuts at least once — with more than 16,000 reviews on Google, they’re definitely doing something right.

Their Old Town location is even open 24/7, so you can satisfy your sweet tooth after a night of bar-hopping if you want.

Another solid option for satisfying your doughnut craving is Blue Star. They’ve got some wild flavors here, such as Blueberry Bourbon Basil and Mexican Hot Chocolate. These are definitely some high-end doughnuts here.

Both Blue Star and Voodoo have several locations across Portland, so you’re never too far from some delicious fried dough.

Want your doughnuts with a side of information and fun with a group? Join a doughnut tour!

The tour includes stops at 4 doughnut institutions (including the two mentioned above), information about Portland while walking and eating, and “skip-the-line” tickets for Voodoo where people wait up to an hour. Find out more here.

Bonus! Visit The Wineries

The Willamette Valley in Oregon is making a name for itself as a top producer of Pinot Noir. With 676 wineries in the region and just around 1 hour outside of the city, this is a day trip from Portland you won’t want to miss!

You can rent a car and visit yourself, but drinking and driving is never a good idea. A better plan is to join one of the great trips from Portland, which include transportation, and in some cases, lunch and/or tastings. 

The Southern Willamette Valley Wine Tour includes a trip to 3 wineries, several tastings of wine at each winery, a cheese and cracker board, and water. And of course, transportation and guide are included. Learn more and book on your choice of platform: Get Your Guide or Viator. 

If you’d prefer to have a meal included, and purchase wine tastings of your choice, The Willamette Valley Wine Tour from Portland with Lunch tour includes a visit to 3-5 wineries, a country picnic-style lunch at a winery, water and transportation. Wine tastings are not included. Learn more about this highly rated trip here.  

If you’re a wine aficionado, a trip to the wineries in the Willamette Valley is one of the best things to do in Portland.

Now You Know What To Do in Portland

Well, that does it. If you weren’t sold on traveling to Portland already, I’m sure the beer and doughnuts sealed the deal. At least you’ll be doing plenty of hiking and cycling to walk off all those calories!

Writing this guide reminds me of how much I love Portland. Although I visit frequently, I haven’t lived in the US in over a decade now and don’t really plan on moving back, but if I did, Portlandia would be high on my list.

It’s a beautiful city surrounded by nature, you can get everywhere on public transport or by bike, and it has a vibrant culture that’s all its own. 

I hope this guide helps you discover the top things to do in Portland. If you have any recommendations for things to do in the City of Roses, feel free to leave a comment and let us know!

Images in this post are courtesy of Shutterstock. Check them out for royalty-free pictures and videos.

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Famous for its festivals, live music, cuisine, and raucous nightlife, New Orleans just might be the most fun city in the United States.

If you’re planning a trip to the Big Easy and want to stay right in the thick of all the action, you’re probably looking for the best hotels on Bourbon Street.

Even if you haven’t been to New Orleans yet, you’ve probably heard of Bourbon Street. After all, there are few places on earth that party as hard as this infamous street in New Orleans.

It’s true, there’s always a huge party going on here, but there are quite a few hotels on Bourbon Street where you can escape the madness.

For those interested in being near the action but not necessarily right in the middle of it all, there are also plenty of excellent French Quarter hotels nearby.

In this guide, we’ll take a look at 10 of the best hotels on Bourbon Street (and nearby) to help you plan that dream trip to New Orleans. 

Ready to get right into it? Click here to jump down the page to the best Bourbon Street hotels. Or, read on to learn more about the area.

An Introduction to Bourbon Street

There’s no doubt that Bourbon Street is the most iconic street in New Orleans. Located in the city’s historic French Quarter, Bourbon Street stretches for 13 city blocks from Canal Street to Esplanade Avenue.

In a city famous for its rowdy nightlife, epic Mardi Gras celebrations, and other awesome festivals, Bourbon Street is definitely party central.

Bourbon Street is home to countless bars and clubs.

No matter what night of the week it is, you’ll find hordes of tourists here enjoying “to go” cups as they stroll along the famous street. That’s right — this is one of few cities in the US where you can legally drink alcohol in public!

Popular choices include New Orleans cocktails with names like the Hurricane and Hand Grenade or the ubiquitous “huge ass beers.”  Bars stay open late here (some of them don’t even close), so the party rages all night long on Bourbon Street. 

On this hard-drinking and hard-partying street, you might assume that it got its name from the liquor. Actually, there’s an interesting history lesson behind the name…

History and Layout of Bourbon Street

New Orleans was founded back in 1718, and French engineer Adrien de Pauger had the task of laying out the city’s streets a few years later.

He named one of the streets Rue Bourbon in honor of the French royal family that was ruling at the time. As a matter of fact, some people believe that the famous liquor actually got its name from the street.

Upper Bourbon Street is where you’ll find an abundance of bars, souvenir shops, and restaurants that are geared towards party animal tourists.

You definitely won’t find many locals hanging out here, but it’s still a fun place to check out if you’re visiting New Orleans. 

Moving downstream towards the Mighty Mississippi, you’ll eventually cross what’s known as the “Lavender Line” on St. Ann Street. This area, known as Lower Bourbon Street, caters to the thriving LGBTQ community.

This is the center of the Southern Decadence festival that happens over Labor Day weekend, which many refer to as NOLA’s “gay Mardi Gras.”

It’s not all just a wild party on Bourbon Street, though.

Here you’ll also find the Musical Legends Park, which has statues of famous jazz musicians and free outdoor concerts. In a city that’s known as the Birthplace of Jazz, there are several venues on Bourbon Street to catch some live music.

Should I Stay On or Near Bourbon Street?

Whether you stay directly on it or opt for one of the hotels near Bourbon Street is entirely up to you. It depends largely on your tolerance for noise, as the hotels on Bourbon Street are right on top of the action.

If you’re not a fan of loud music or you’re a light sleeper, it might be better to look for a hotel that’s a few blocks away.

That being said, most of the hotels on Bourbon Street offer rooms that face away from the street and look out onto a courtyard. Many also provide earplugs in the room, as they’re well aware of the racket that’s going on down on the street! 

During Mardi Gras, rooms with a balcony overlooking Bourbon Street are in very, very high demand. These book up many months in advance and cost a pretty penny.

Even on regular weekends in the city, it can be difficult and expensive to get one of these sought-after rooms. Thankfully there are several options for cheap hotels near Bourbon Street.

Now that you know a bit more about the street and what’s going on there, let’s take a look at where to stay on Bourbon Street.  

Best Hotels on Bourbon Street

Here are some of the top hotels on or near Bourbon Street. To find the price, I searched for a 3-night stay in New Orleans over a normal weekend a few months away.

Prices are usually lower during the week, and they can be much higher during holiday weekends or big events like Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest.

If you plan to visit New Orleans when one of those is going on, you’d better book your accommodation well in advance.

1. Royal Sonesta

When it comes to the best hotels on Bourbon Street, it’s hard to top Royal Sonesta.

It’s located right in the heart of all the action on the Big Easy’s most legendary party street. This historic New Orleans hotel recently celebrated its 50th anniversary! 

The Royal Sonesta has almost 500 rooms, ranging from their standard guest rooms up to their fancy balcony entertainment suites. All rooms are very well-appointed, each featuring a flat-screen TV, Keurig coffee maker, refrigerator, and much more. 

Every room boasts a view of the French Quarter.

Many of them have wrought-iron balconies, some facing straight onto Bourbon Street that make for great people watching. Others face their tranquil outdoor pool and courtyard, for those who prefer a bit more peace & quiet. 

This is more like a resort than a hotel, with several different bars and restaurants to choose from. There’s even a jazz bar here with nightly live music.

In addition to the pool, there’s also a 24/7 fitness center. With so much to offer, the Royal Sonesta is definitely one of the top French Quarter hotels. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

2. Four Points by Sheraton

Location, location, location! The Four Points by Sheraton is right in the center of Bourbon Street, meaning you’re just a short walk away from landmarks such as Jackson Square and Preservation Hall. 

This is certainly one of the nicer-looking hotels on Bourbon Street, as it used to be a French opera house. It’s a classy oasis in the middle of a wild party, and the perfect place to retreat to after a big night out on the town.

Rooms here have a view out to their courtyard or the French Quarter. Many of them feature a balcony looking right out onto Bourbon Street. If you’re worried about the noise, don’t be — they provide earplugs so you can still get a good night’s sleep.

There are two different restaurants on-site here: Cafe Opera and the Puccini Bar.

They also have a nice outdoor pool and a well-equipped fitness center for when you need to work off that tasty New Orleans food and daiquiris! Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

3. Lafitte’s Guest House

This boutique hotel is set in a restored home that dates all the way back to 1849. It feels more like staying in someone’s home than a hotel here, as there are only 14 rooms in total.

Lafitte’s Guest House is located on Bourbon and St. Phillip Street, which is a great location for exploring all that the French Quarter has to offer.

The hotel features several shared balconies and some rooms have private ones as well. Each room has a private bath along with a flat-screen TV and a mini-fridge. 

This is definitely one of the best hotels on Bourbon Street if you’re looking to have a wedding, reunion, or just a fun get-together in the Big Easy.

They can help you plan an event for anywhere from 10-100 people, as they can offer additional accommodation at their sister property the Royal Frenchmen Hotel.

One of the best things about staying here is that it’s located right next door to Lafitte’s Blacksmith Bar & Shop. This is the oldest bar in town and one of the coolest places on Bourbon Street to visit.

Enjoying a drink in this historic watering hole while you listen to some live piano is a must-do when in New Orleans. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

4. Hyatt Centric French Quarter

While this hotel isn’t technically on Bourbon, it’s close enough. It’s right around the corner and offers some rooms with balconies overlooking Bourbon Street. After a late-night out on the town, you’re just stumbling distance from your room!

As it’s located near Upper Bourbon Street, this is a great option for those who are attending an event at the Superdome or Smoothie King Center. Both are just 15-20 minutes away on foot or by public transportation. 

The Hyatt Centric has a wide variety of rooms to choose from, including some pretty swanky suites. All guests can enjoy the outdoor pool and gym. If you need to get some work done while you’re here, there’s also a business center on the premises.

With a few different restaurants and bars on-site, you don’t have to go far to get some tasty food or cocktail.

There’s even a poolside bar that’s open from April to September. This is definitely one of the best hotels close to Bourbon Street! Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

5. Astor Crowne Plaza

• Location: 739 Canal Street
• Rating on Booking.com: 8.1/10
• Price: See the latest price here 

While their address is listed as being on Canal Street, the Astor Crowne Plaza is still located right on Bourbon Street.

The building itself dates back to the 1850s, but the hotel was recently renovated. It’s a 4-star hotel in the heart of NoLa and it comes at a very reasonable price.

The Astor Crowne Plaza is an excellent choice for travelers who still need to get a bit of work done in between all the sightseeing and partying on Bourbon Street.

Rooms here have complimentary WiFi and executive work desks. There’s also a business center in the hotel.

This is one of those French Quarter hotels that really exemplifies southern hospitality. They’ve got an attentive concierge service, as well as laundry, valet, limo, and room service available.

You can get late-night munchies to your room anytime as room service operates 24/7!

With nearly 700 rooms and 32,000 square feet of event space, this is a great choice for large gatherings like weddings or conventions. There’s also a really nice outdoor pool and a fully stacked fitness center here. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

Best Hotels Near Bourbon Street

Near to all of the action, but just a little farther away.

1. Bourbon Orleans Hotel

For those looking to be near Bourbon Street but not right on it, this is a great choice. Bourbon Orleans Hotel is located just around the corner from the action but it feels worlds apart once you’re inside.

This hotel has a lot of history, as it was once a high-society ballroom and then later a convent. Some actually say it’s a haunted hotel!

A common ghost story is that of a little girl rolling her ball up and down the hall. You can read more about the spooky history of the Bourbon Orleans Hotel on their website.

For wining and dining options, you’ve got their signature Creole restaurant Roux on Orleans and their Bourbon “O” bar for some of the best New Orleans cocktails and live jazz.

With a great location, comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and some great food & beverage options, this is one of the best French Quarter hotels around. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

2. Hotel Le Marais

Hotel Le Marais must be doing something right, as they have a 9/10 score on Booking.com with over 600 reviews. That’s pretty impressive!

It’s located on Conti Street, right around the corner from Bourbon. This puts you close to all the bars but far away enough to be able to sleep.

I don’t think I can describe this hotel to you better than they do on their website. Their description says, “the elegance of a luxury hotel fuses with the intimacy of a boutique hotel.” Sounds great, doesn’t it?

They have a few different types of rooms here. Their deluxe rooms have limited views, while the superior rooms feature courtyard or French Quarter views.

If you want to splurge, go for the premium room with its own private balcony. All rooms have a nice desk, ergonomic chair, fast WiFi, and coffee maker if you need to get some work done.

This is one of few hotels close to Bourbon Street that actually has breakfast included. You can also work up a sweat in the gym, cool off in the pool, and start your night off with a cocktail at their on-site bar, Vive! Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

3. Omni Royal

Omni Royal is one of the most historic French Quarter hotels, dating back to 1838 when it was called the City Exchange. It was constructed as a “European grand” hotel and was the first of its kind in New Orleans.

Over the years, the hotel crumbled and burned down several times, but it was always rebuilt.

It was here that one of the most quintessential New Orleans dishes (gumbo) was invented. The phrase “there’s no such thing as a free lunch” also comes from this hotel, which once offered free food to daytime drinkers to entice them to keep ordering rounds.

Getting to and from this hotel is a breeze, as they have a partnership with the official shared shuttle service at the airport.

A quick walk brings you right to the center of Bourbon Street. With a heated rooftop pool and a fully-equipped fitness center, you’ve got a nice place to retreat to after sightseeing.

While staying at the Omni Royal, be sure to sit down for a drink and a meal in their award-winning Rib Room. If you’re in town over a weekend, don’t miss out on their Sunday champagne jazz brunch. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

4. Hotel Mazarin

This is definitely one of the classiest hotels near Bourbon Street.

Rooms here feature crystal chandeliers and black porcelain, and they’re accented with gold leaf. Talk about fancy! If you really want to splash out, you can book their amazing Fleur de Lis Suite.

Hotel Mazarin is just a quick walk from Bourbon Street. It’s a great location for those who want to take advantage of the nightlife here but still be able to get some decent sleep.

In the morning, you can enjoy a complimentary breakfast in their lovely courtyard and get a quick workout in before exploring New Orleans.

One of the best things about staying here is the 21st Amendment bar. Inspired by the Prohibition era (the 21st Amendment officially repealed Prohibition and made alcohol legal again), this speakeasy is definitely one of the best bars in New Orleans. 

Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

5. Best Western Plus French Quarter Courtyard Hotel

Last but certainly not least on our list of the best hotels near Bourbon Street is Best Western Plus French Quarter Courtyard Hotel. The location is excellent!

This hotel is located near Bourbon Street, just 2 blocks from the action. The non-smoking hotel has beautiful French Quarter decor, an outdoor courtyard, cocktail bar, fitness center, and swimming pool — perfect for those hot Louisiana days.

Guests here love the beautifully decorated rooms and the fact that breakfast is included in the rate. There’s also a tea/coffee maker and refrigerator in the rooms. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

Looking for more New Orleans Articles?

Enjoy Your Stay On Bourbon Street!

Hopefully, this post has helped you find the perfect place to rest your head in the Big Easy.

Whether you go with one of the hotels on Bourbon Street or opt for one that’s nearby, you’re sure to have a blast in New Orleans. After all, the city’s motto is “Let the good times roll!”

New Orleans is probably my favorite city to visit in the US. The food is incredible, the bars are tons of fun, and the city hosts festivals and big sporting events all throughout the year. Plus, there are numerous day trips you can do from here, including a swamp tour.

Have you been to New Orleans? Do you have a good recommendation for a hotel that’s on or near Bourbon Street? If so, drop a comment below and let us know about it!

Images in this article are courtesy of Shutterstock.com.

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Disclaimer:Goats On The Road is an Amazon Associate and also an affiliate for some other retailers. This means we earn commissions if you click links on our blog and purchase from those retailers.

There are endless reasons to visit Mexico. You could travel to Mexico 20 times and have a totally different experience on each trip.

Want to relax on powdery beaches? Climb an enormous volcano? Hike an underground river? Explore ancient limestone pyramids in a steaming jungle full of howler monkeys? How about wandering down elegant streets of Spanish colonial buildings?

All of these experiences and more can be had on a trip to Mexico. 

I was fortunate enough to do all of these during the ten years I lived in Mexico. I’m certain that the next time I visit, I’ll find even more things to see and do. 

Below are 15 reasons to visit Mexico, followed by five top things to do.

1. Friendly People

Spending time with Mexicans is one of the best reasons to go to Mexico. In general, Mexicans are friendly, patient, and tolerant, which is good news for foreigners who don’t speak Spanish but want to have a local experience.

The unrelenting cheerfulness of Mexicans is both charming and infectious. If you need help with anything, they’re there to assist. If you are looking for a good time, again, Mexicans will be right there beside you! 

It’s easy to befriend the locals in Mexico and make genuine connections.  

2. Fascinating Culture

Mexican culture has many influences and countless manifestations. From food and festivals to art and music, Mexican culture is incredibly diverse, deep, and ancient.

For hundreds of years, Mexican culture has been shaped by contrasting influences: the mysticism of the Old World, the upheaval of the Spanish conquest, and the gradual unification and reconciliation of a large country that’s quite varied geographically, culturally, and linguistically.

Today it all blends together in a mix that’s fascinating to discover.

3. Opportunities to Practice Spanish

Spanish is the 3rd most spoken language in the world, and for English speakers, it’s extremely useful to learn. Knowledge of Spanish will open opportunities for work, travel, cultural understanding, and much more.

Unfortunately, your high school Spanish course probably didn’t prepare you to actually speak the language.

If after years of classroom learning, Spanish has been banished to a dark corner of your brain, you may find that a week or two in Mexico kickstarts your memory and inspires you to take it up again.

And if you’re really serious, you can take a short course at a small private school in tourist areas such as San Cristobal de las Casas, Puerto Escondido, San Miguel de Allende and Playa del Carmen.

4. Diverse and Fantastic Food

Food is undeniably one of the main reasons to love Mexico. And I’m not just talking about tacos, but also seafood, fresh fruit and vegetables, cheese, ice cream, and the seemingly thousands of ways tortillas can be prepared.

You can spend as much or as little money as you’d like on food in Mexico, and wherever you go, you’ll find something different.

5. Good Transportation

You can travel all over Mexico on a wide variety of public transportation. Buses range from super cheap to super fancy, Uber is now firmly established as a convenient option, and renting a car is generally hassle free. Or, you can hire a taxi or private driver to get between cities.

By far the best option for traveling around Mexico is by air. A one-hour flight on one of Mexico’s independent airlines (Volaris, Interjet, VivaAerobus) is almost always cheaper than a 20-hour bus ride on a first-class bus.

6. Very Affordable

Not only transportation, but pretty much anything you can think of is cheaper in Mexico than in your home country. This includes meals, hotels, museums, concerts, and all kinds of activities like scuba diving and fishing excursions.

Except for golf, I’m pretty sure golf is more expensive in Mexico.

7. Safe Tourist Areas

There’s no denying that many parts of Mexico are outrageously dangerous. Anyone who claims that crime and violence in Mexico isn’t a big deal is either a liar or doesn’t really know much about Mexico.

The truth is, however, that the country’s tourist destinations are safe. Even Mexico City is reasonably safe for such a large metropolis—at least the central area, where tourists go, not all of the city.

As with anywhere in the world, take basic precautions, don’t get involved in anything illegal and don’t let your guard down, and you’ll be fine in Mexico.

8. Wonderful Weather

Numerous advanced civilizations developed in Mexico partly due to the high elevation of the massive Central Mexican Plateau, which makes for perfect spring-like weather year-round in much of the country.

Stretching from the U.S. border to the lower third of the country, it’s also where nearly all of the major cities are located, including Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Puebla.

It may be freezing cold or scorching hot where you live, but it’s almost certainly pleasantly sunny and warm in much of Mexico.

9. Many Mountains

The endless valleys of the Central Mexican Plateau are separated by high mountains, many of them volcanos. This means great opportunities for hiking.

In fact, the second and third highest peaks in Mexico, both of them volcanos, are right next to Mexico City.

You can’t climb Popocatépetl, the active one, but you can get all the way to the top of its neighbor, dormant Iztaccíhuatl, on a long, rugged day hike.

10. A Variety of Beaches

The sucrose sand and turquoise water of the Caribbean coast at the Mayan Riviera is only the beginning. Mexico’s 9,300 kilometers of coastline have something for everyone.

The Pacific Coast has surf, especially the state of Oaxaca. Baja California has beaches with sand leading directly to the desert behind. And the Gulf of Mexico has flocks of flamingos, bright pink lagoons, and Spanish forts.

You can choose from humongous yet tasteful all-inclusive resorts, elegant eco-hotels, small family-run places, quiet bungalows, or dirt-cheap campsites. You can stay for a weekend, a month, or the rest of your life.

11. Ancient Ruins

One of the top reasons to visit Mexico, exploring ancient ruins is often a life-changing experience.

They can be found nearly everywhere in the country. Some of the most famous sites are in the south, where the Mayan civilization flourished.

These include the ruins of Tulum, a fortress built on cliffs over the Caribbean, and Chichen Itza, one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.

There are also many in Mexico City, which was built atop the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan. Nearby are the tall pyramids of Teotihuacan, which are so old that the Aztecs didn’t even know who built them.

Other incredible ruins in Mexico include Palenque, Uxmal, Coba and Ek Balam. 

12. Holidays and Festivals

Like ancient ruins, festivals can be found everywhere, and attending one is a great reason to visit Mexico. Major music festivals include Vive Latino in Mexico City and Cervantino in Guanajuato.

Big national celebrations include the Day of the Dead and the Mexican Independence Day on September 16.

Plus, every small town has a party for its patron saint on his birthday, when you can expect fireworks, live music, and lots of food and drink.

13. Live Music

Music festivals aren’t the only place to enjoy the many styles of Mexican music.

At Garibaldi Square in downtown Mexico City, you can hire a mariachi group to play you a song or two.

Next, you can go to a huge cantina with a different kind of live music on every floor: mariachis on the first, guitar and accordion norteño music on the second, a funky salsa/cumbia band on the third, and electronic music in a nightclub on the fourth.

Furthermore, Mexico has concerts all the time, many of them outdoors and free. International bands frequently make stops on their North American tours, and you’ll always have the chance to see a band from Mexico’s thriving domestic music scene.

14. Fresh Fruits and Juice

Mexico has many famous drinks, among them tequila, mezcal, and beer with lime squeezed into it. But don’t overlook non-alcoholic choices. Indeed, sampling fresh fruits and juices is another of the many reasons to visit Mexico.

How much does a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice cost in your country? In Mexico, a whole liter costs between 10 and 40 pesos (.50 to $2 USD).

Orange juice is generally the easiest to find. People sell it from carts on the street or on the sidewalk in front of a fruit shop.

At juice stands in markets or small restaurants, you can find many more options, including grapefruit, carrot, and mixes like jugo verde (green juice). 

You’ll find Fruterias (fruit shops) all around the country. Make sure to stop in and purchase some fresh, tasty, tropical fruits.

15. The Original Chocolate

Did you know that chocolate is originally from Mexico? The cocoa plant is native to the south, and it had a long history before it was introduced to Europeans during the Spanish conquest.

Chocolate was originally drunk, not eaten, and it was so important to Mesoamerican cultures that the beans were used as currency.

Today, drinking it warm is still the main way chocolate is enjoyed in Mexico. It goes best with some churros for dipping. Also, look for fresh and 100% natural chocolate cooked in rolls and croissants in Mexican bakeries, especially in the south.

If you’re really into chocolate, try eating cocoa beans, which are widely available in markets in southern Mexico. Simply peel them and pop them into your mouth. They aren’t sweet, lacking the sugar of chocolate, but you’ll get that original taste.

5 Top Things To Do in Mexico

So, now that you know a few reasons why you should visit Mexico, here are five of the top things to do.

For many people, relaxing on the beach, attacking a buffet in an all-inclusive resort, or exploring the historic area of Mexico City would make better reasons to travel to Mexico than the ones I included below.

But those are obvious things to do. I chose a few you may not know about yet.

1. Scuba Diving in Cenotes

Cenotes are the sinkholes full of fresh water that are found throughout the Yucatan Peninsula. They’re great spots for swimming and snorkeling.

Certified scuba divers can find excellent dive sites on the Mayan Riviera, especially around Cozumel.

But, like a divemaster I met in Tulum, they might never go into the sea again once they’ve tried diving in the dark, mysterious, stalactite-filled caverns of a cenote.

2. Climbing the Palenque Ruins

I’ve been to the most famous ruins in Mexico and plenty of tiny, out-of-the-way places. They’ve all had something interesting. If I had to choose just one to recommend to a visitor to Mexico, I’d choose Palenque in the southern state of Chiapas.

Palenque has it all. It’s deep in the jungle, full of monkeys and tropical birds, and you can climb its tall pyramids and enter the narrow passageways of its limestone palace.

3. Exploring the Surrealistic Garden of Las Pozas

Between 1949 and 1984, Edward James, a British poet and patron of the arts who sponsored Salvador Dali, constructed a surrealistic garden in the Huasteca Potosina, a large region of jungle in east-central Mexico.

Today, visiting Las Pozas is a little like visiting an archeological site. You can walk on paths through the rainforest, climb up strange structures, and learn about its unique history.

4. Visiting the Colonial Mountainside Town of Taxco

Mexico has more gorgeous small towns than I have fingers and toes to count them on.

The old silver mining town of Taxco may be the most beautiful. Located a few hours to the southwest of Mexico City, Taxco is built on the side of a mountain. All the colonial buildings are painted white, and steep cobblestone streets wind between them.

If you have more than a few days to explore, you can go to the nearby Grutas de Cacahuamilpa, a deep cave with chambers bigger than a Chinese train station.

5. Eating in the Markets of Mexico City

Of course, eating delicious Mexican food is one of the main reasons to visit Mexico, and exploring public markets is a fun and interesting way to spend a few hours.

You’ll surely work up an appetite, and fortunately, most markets have a small section with small local restaurants.

You’ll find excellent versions of traditional Mexican finger food like tacos and gorditas, fresh seafood, and regional food from all over Mexico, such as mole poblano from Puebla or salbutes from the Yucatan.

Always choose the busiest restaurant. If there’s a crowd of people gathered around, then that’s the place to eat, whatever the wait.

Have a look at this full list of things to do in Mexico.

Conclusion

There you have it, my top 15 reasons to visit Mexico. No matter what you’re interested in, you’ll find it in Mexico. This diverse country has something for everyone. Book a trip and discover the many reasons to travel to Mexico for yourself. 

 

Disclaimer:Goats On The Road is an Amazon Associate and also an affiliate for some other retailers. This means we earn commissions if you click links on our blog and purchase from those retailers.

Being a remote worker can be challenging and lonely, especially if you’re an entrepreneur running your own business all on your own in the middle of the Mile High City. Luckily, there are many coworking spaces in Denver so that you can connect with others, network, and work somewhere new!

I’ve been a freelance design studio owner while living in Denver for almost a year now, so I know how tough it can be to work from your home every day.

After using a shared workspace in Denver, my productivity immediately shot up, and I started looking forward to working each day.

So, if you’re curious about the best coworking space in downtown Denver, you’re in the right place. By the end of this article, you’ll be racing to buy a membership to one of these fantastic locations.

Here are all of the most amazing coworking spaces in Denver!

1. WeWork

Easily, one of the top coworking spaces in Denver (and worldwide) is WeWork. This globally recognized company blew up in popularity a few years ago and has become an easy place to work as a remote worker ever since.

In Denver, there are a few different locations for WeWork, so you can choose whichever one is closest to where you are located or where you’ll be visiting.

There’s Financial House, Wells Fargo Center, Tabor Center, The Circa Building, The Lab, and the Triangle Building.

Arguably the most popular WeWork in Denver is the Financial House.

Pricing at WeWork Financial House is pretty affordable; there are day passes available for $29 USD per day, dedicated private offices starting at $600 USD, and an all-access pass for $299 USD. 

If you don’t need a private office, opt for the all-access pass because you can use it to enter any WeWork locations across the country.

The Financial House is located right downtown and includes various amenities like a mother’s room, event space, recreational games, bike storage, and a coffee bar.

2. Green Spaces

Green Spaces is another excellent spot for coworking in Denver with a few locations, similar to WeWork.

It’s aptly named because the entire company works to be environmentally friendly with their coworking spaces, as they feature recycling, solar panels, and tons of plants.

The Green Spaces location in Denver is in RiNo, or River North, which is just north of downtown. So, it’s in an excellent neighbourhood, and RiNo, in particular, is filled with tons of fantastic coffee shops.

Pricing at this shared workspace in Denver varies depending on which type of monthly membership you’re interested in getting.

A private office starts at $695 USD, a dedicated desk is $399 USD, a pod desk (dedicated seat in a pod) is $299, and access to the lounge space (traditional coworking) is $199 USD.

This coworking space has high-speed WiFi access, printers, bottomless coffee and tea, a kitchen, mailing services, and you’ll get access to the Winter Park location by purchasing a membership through the RiNo one.

3. Thrive

Thrive is one of the best coworking spaces in Denver, Colorado, because of its ideal location and pricing model.

Compared to other coworking spots around the city, this one is located right next to Ballpark (the Coors Field area) and has prices for monthly access starting at as little as $50 USD per month.

In addition to the Ballpark location, Thrive can be found in Centennial, Cherry Creek, and West Arvada, so you can choose the one that’s located closest to where you are in Denver.

Each one has its own amenities, but because Ballpark is right in Denver’s centre, that’s the one that will be discussed here.

Ballpark’s Thrive coworking space has phone booths, conference rooms, bike storage, refreshments, snack machines, printers, video conferencing equipment, and reliable high-speed internet, in addition to other great amenities.

Private office suites for 1-2 people start at $650 USD, a dedicated desk starts at $400 USD, and a mobile (regular coworking pass) membership starts at $50 USD per month. To learn more about their prices and get more of a custom quote, you have to book a tour.

4. Expansive 16th Street

One of the best coworking spaces in Denver that’s highly underrated is Expansive 16th Street, formerly Novel Coworking.

What immediately makes this such an excellent spot for coworking is that it’s located right along the 16th Street Mall, which is right in the city centre.

It’s so easy to get to because of its location, meaning you can take the Light Rail, public bus, or even an electric scooter to this coworking location pretty quickly. 

This coworking location offers a wide variety of amenities, including furniture in offices, an espresso bar, lounge area, hi-speed printers, great wifi, and direct fibre internet. Plus, it’s located inside a smart building.

Arguably one of the greatest things about Expansive 16th Street is that it also has a huge rooftop patio with tons of outdoor seating. So, you can enjoy the Denver weather and have the Rocky Mountains as your scenery while working from the top of this great building.

Like all other coworking spaces, the pricing varies depending on which type of monthly membership you decide to purchase.

Office suites for between 10 to 500 people start at $2,999 USD, office space for 1 to 20 people starts at $399 USD, a dedicated desk starts at $329 USD, a coworking pass starts at $249 USD, an expansive office pass (private office through reservation) starts at $219 USD, and a virtual office (address for receiving mail) starts at $59 USD.

5. CTRL Collective

Next is CTRL Collective, which is often rated as the best spot to cowork if you work in a creative industry. The entire marketing effort at this coworking space is targeted towards creative entrepreneurs looking to connect.

CTRL Collective is located in LoDo, which is the best place to work in all of Denver. It’s mainly located inside the Dairy Block, an area filled with fantastic art galleries and restaurants.

Memberships range from private offices to a hot desk, meaning you can have full access to all lounge areas to work. The private office suite (available for 2 to 50 people) starts at $1,525 USD, a dedicated desk starts at $599 USD, and a hot desk costs $350 USD.

With a purchase of the hot desk membership, you’ll be able to use both the Denver location as well as the two locations around the Los Angeles area. 

At the Denver location, there’s email service, high-speed internet, conference rooms, a creation lab, free coffee, and a photo studio.

6. Enterprise Coworking

Enterprise Coworking is another ideal coworking space in Downtown Denver. Their central Denver location is in RiNo, but if you’d rather work in a suburb, they also have a location in Greenwood Village.

This remarkable coworking space has free beer, an on-site cafe, is pet-friendly, and has 1 GB fibre internet. Plus, there’s a recreational room, indoor bike storage, parking, free local coffee and tea, and printing services. What more could you need?

The coworking space features private office suites, dedicated desks, and all-access passes. Plus, they offer virtual memberships if you need a physical business address for your business.

Private office suites are custom quoted, so pricing is available upon request on their website.

The coworking floater pass starts at $99 USD a month, while dedicated desks start at $450 USD a month. A virtual membership is only $50 USD per month, which is lower than most other coworking offices. 

Oh, and did I mention that there’s also a rooftop patio? It offers unbeatable views of the skyline.

7. Alchemy Creative Workspace

If you’re looking for coworking in Denver, you’ll also want to consider Alchemy Creative Workspace. This coworking space really focuses on creating connections and cultivating business growth, which can be helpful if you’re an entrepreneur working alone.

Because there’s a significant emphasis on a personal connection, the amenities are fantastic and are community-oriented.

There’s fast and secure wifi, free kombucha and sparkling water, free coffee and tea, conference rooms, printing services, dog-friendly offices, and business tools.

While this coworking space is not as downtown as LoDo, it’s still pretty central. Alchemy Creative Workspace is located in West Wash Park, an area known for being pretty modern. Plus, it has some top-notch bars.

Private office suites start at $1,199 USD, dedicated desks start at $400 USD, and a coworking membership is $265 USD. They also have a one-week membership (access for seven days) for $89 USD a week and a day pass for $25 USD a day.

8. Shift Workspaces

Shift Workspaces is a modern and industrial coworking space in Denver. This workspace offers flexible memberships and has tons of meeting areas for all of your conference needs, even if you are working remotely.

Great amenities that help with productivity are available to all members at this location. They include fast internet, ergonomic furniture, mailboxes, 24/7 access, a print centre, parking, free coffee, fitness classes, a gym, outdoor seating, and even massage therapy.

Membership prices at Shift Workspace are similar to those at other coworking spaces throughout the city.

A private office starts at $625 USD, a dedicated desk starts at $499 USD, a coworking space starts at $299 USD, and a virtual office begins at just $69 USD.

Plus, Shift Workspaces has more than one location around Denver, so you can hop around from place to place. Their locations include Corona, Bannock, and Littleton. Choose whichever one is closest to your location, or maybe even try them all!

9. Spaces – Ballpark

If you’re looking for coworking spaces in Denver, Colorado, and you’re creative, then you’ll most likely love Spaces. It’s located between Ballpark and Lodo and is situated inside an old 1940s building, one of the more historic spots in the city.

Spaces has four meeting rooms, an on-site restaurant, dedicated desks, breakout areas, parking, fast wifi, and private offices. Plus, they offer a variety of networking events to those that have memberships with them.

Monthly memberships are available depending on which type of space you’re interested in booking.

Private office space starts at $400 USD, a coworking membership starts at $226 USD, a dedicated desk starts at $377, a virtual office starts at $112 USD, and meeting rooms cost $44 USD an hour.

Because all of their rates are “starting at” prices, you have to tour the location and get more of a custom quote to find out exactly how much it will cost you to have a membership there. However, their starting prices are very comparable to other coworking areas. 

10. The Hive on 16th

Last but not least is The Hive on 16th, another excellent coworking space located right on the 16th Street Mall. It’s incredibly centrally located and is right next to Denver Pavilions, a great spot filled with restaurants and all the shops you could ever need.

This coworking space is mainly known for its incredible views that are unbeatable.

You look out the window, and you’re surrounded by the beauty of Denver, and some of the office spaces even have fantastic views of the Colorado State Capitol building.

Of course, there are tons of amenities that are an added bonus to having a membership with The Hive on 16th. There’s printing, phone booths, whiteboards, a kitchen, coffee bar, hi-speed wifi, and a snack bar. 

Plus, this coworking space has a partnership with Sweet Bloom Coffee Roasters, a local roastery, so there’s always great coffee.

Private offices at The Hive on 16th start at $735 USD per month and increase depending on the number of people that will be in the office.

A designated desk starts at $365 USD for a standing desk or $329 UDS for a traditional desk. A day pass is $25 USD, while hot seat access starts at $65 USD per month.

Conclusion

Now you know all about the best coworking spaces in Denver. Because there are so many of them, I highly suggest touring a few that sound like they might be a good fit and then book your membership from there.

Plus, a lot of the coworking spaces on this list give you a free day pass if you schedule a tour, which means you can try out the buildings and amenities before you even make a payment.

Hopefully, this post has inspired you to try out one of Denver’s great coworking spaces.

Disclaimer:Goats On The Road is an Amazon Associate and also an affiliate for some other retailers. This means we earn commissions if you click links on our blog and purchase from those retailers.

There’s perhaps no city in the US that knows how to party quite like New Orleans. Now I know New York can throw it down, and I realize they call Las Vegas Sin City for a reason, but you just can’t beat the Big Easy when it comes to nightlife.

There are so many awesome cocktail bars in New Orleans that you could go out every night for a year and not have a single repeat.

Think I’m joking?

As of the last count, New Orleans has the highest amount of bars per capita in the country!

In the French Quarter – and especially on Bourbon Street – it seems as if every other establishment is a bar. With so many choices, how do you choose where to wet their whistle?!

I’ve been to NOLA a few times now, and I spent a vast majority of my trips there bar-hopping with friends.

In one weekend, I managed to hit a swanky hotel rooftop bar, a heavy metal joint, and one of those New Orleans Bourbon Street bars where cocktails come in giant plastic tubes.

While the memories may be a tad bit fuzzy, rest assured I did proper research for this one!

If you’re planning a trip to the Big Easy and are wondering where to grab a drink, read on for a look at some of the best cocktial bars in New Orleans.

I’ve actually included some variety in this article to appease beer and wine drinkers as well — so there should be something for everyone in this guide. 

Here’s my list of the best 10 cocktail bars in New Orleans (+ a couple of wine and beer spots).

Introduction to New Orleans Bars

Bars in New Orleans run the gamut from grungy dive bars to classy cocktail lounges. The city has secret speakeasies, craft breweries, fancy wine bars, and everything in between.

Whether you’re looking for a casual night out or you want to end up dancing on tables, there’s a bar for you here.

One interesting thing about New Orleans bars is that they can stay open 24/7. The phrase “last call” might as well be in a foreign language here! Oh yeah, and did I mention that you can take your drinks to go here as well?

New Orleans is one of very few places in the US that has no open container laws. Just make sure you’re not drinking out of glass on the street and you’re good to go!

Another really cool thing about the bars in New Orleans is that you can try several cocktails in the very bar where they were invented.

It’s pretty amazing to pull up a stool at a bar that’s hundreds of years old and try a famous cocktail in its birthplace. Be sure to check out this post on New Orleans cocktails so you can familiarize yourself with the city’s most popular adult beverages.

It’s always a good idea to put some food in your belly before a big night out, and there’s plenty to eat in this foodie haven. Speaking of food, be sure to bookmark this post on the best New Orleans food to try when you’re in town. 

Alright, let’s get this party started. There are so many awesome cocktail bars in New Orleans bars that it’s near impossible compiling a definitive “best of list,” but I sure tried.

1. Sazerac Bar

• Must-Try: A Sazerac, of course! 
• Prices: $7-8 for beer, $9-18 for wine, $12-21 for cocktails (a Sazerac is $18)
• Hours: Friday – Sunday from noon – 11 pm. Monday – Thursday from 4 – 10 pm
• Location: 130 Roosevelt Way (in the Roosevelt Hotel)

Our tour of the best cocktail bars in New Orleans begins at Sazerac.

There’s a lot of history at this place, as it’s named after what some consider to be the first real cocktail. The classic Sazerac dates back to the 1830s, and it’s been a go-to cocktail for New Orleanians ever since.

Legendary former governor of Louisiana Huey Long used to hang out here, Ramos Gin Fizz in hand, chatting it up with his constituents. These days, you’ll find a mix of locals and tourists, who flock here to enjoy their creative cocktails. 

The Sazerac is definitely one of the classiest of the many New Orleans cocktail bars.

Recent renovations here uncovered some 1930s murals by painter Paul Ninas, which you can admire while sitting on one of their elegant bar stools. It’s especially lovely here in December when the hotel lobby transforms into a veritable winter wonderland. 

2. The Carousel Bar & Lounge

• Must-Try: The Vieux Carre is the signature drink here; the Fleur de Lis was also created here
• Prices: $12-15 for cocktails
• Hours: 7 days a week from noon – 12
• Location: 214 Royal Street (inside the Monteleone Hotel)

One of the most quintessential New Orleans bars is definitely the Carousel.

In case you’re wondering, that’s not just a clever name — the bar is an actual, fully functional carousel here. Thankfully they replaced the animals with proper bar stools, so you don’t need to straddle a horse to get a drink here.

While the thought of drinking while spinning around in circles may seem nauseating, rest assured that it’s a pleasant experience.

The carousel takes about 15 minutes to make a rotation, so you’ll barely even notice it. You’ll be too busy chatting it up with the expert mixologists here and trying their classic cocktails. 

Fun fact, the famous Vieux Carre cocktail was actually invented here!

Sip on one of these as you enjoy the sounds of some live jazz, as they usually have live music from Wednesday to Saturday. It’s often crowded, but it’s worth the wait to have this classic New Orleans drinking experience. Find out about their daily events here.

3. Lafitte’s Blacksmith Bar & Shop

• Must-Try: Frozen daiquiris are popular here, but most just drink standard cocktails or beers
• Prices: $5 and up for everything
• Hours: 7 days a week from 10AM-3AM
• Location: 941 Bourbon Street

It’s not every day that you get to drink in a bar that’s 300 years old. That’s precisely what you can do at Lafitte’s Blacksmith, which tops the list of oldest bars in New Orleans. It’s actually said to be the oldest building used as a bar in the country!

This historic bar is named after Jean Lafitte, a 19th-century French pirate.

It’s said that he once hid out here when he needed a safe place to smuggle his pirated goods. Whether or not that’s true, he would most likely approve of the cheap, strong drinks that they pour here.

While this bar is in fact located on Bourbon Street, it’s pretty far removed from the chaos.

Personally, I’m not a big fan of New Orleans Bourbon Street bars, but this one is a winner. It’s candle-lit and one of the very few piano bars in the city, making for a very fun atmosphere. 

4. Courtyard Brewery

• Must-Try: Beer – they have over 30 beers on tap here
• Prices: $3 and up
• Hours: Friday – Sunday from 11am – 1am. Monday – Thursday from 4pm – 12am
• Location: 1020 Erato Street

When most people think of New Orleans bars, they picture people slamming down sugary Hurricane drinks and mass-produced beers. While there’s certainly plenty of that going on, the city is also home to a burgeoning craft beer scene.

One of the best bars in New Orleans to get your hop fix is Courtyard Brewery.

They have an impressive selection of draft beer that’s made in-house as well as quite a few guest taps. Whether you fancy an IPA, stout, or sour, they’ve got a brew for you here.

They don’t have a restaurant, but they do host rotating food trucks for when you need something to soak up the booze. Courtyard also hosts an annual craft beer and food festival called Hopfest, so you might want to check that out if you’re in town at the same time.

New Orleans is famous for its epic festivals and events, don’t miss this one.

5. Arnaud’s French 75 Bar

• Must-Try: The French 75 (a mix of champagne and cognac)
• Prices: Cocktails from $12.50-14
• Hours: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday from 5:30pm – 10:30pm. Sunday from 10:30am – 1am. 
• Location: 813 Bienville Street

Not only is this one of the best cocktail bars in New Orleans, but Esquire Magazine named French 75 one of the top five bars in the country.

Originally a “gentlemen only” place, these days everyone can enjoy this classy bar. This is the kind of place where the servers wear tuxedos, so you may want to dress up a bit for this one.

The current incarnation of this legendary NOLA drinking establishment focuses on making classic cocktails with premium spirits. As the name would suggest, the French 75 is their signature drink. There are lots of other excellent options on the menu, though.

Even if you don’t plan to have dinner at the restaurant next door, you can still enjoy some of the food. From 6-10PM, the bar serves a varied snack menu featuring oysters en brochette, cheese puffs stuffed with prosciutto, and much more. 

After all this drinking, you might be ready to do something outside of a bar! Don’t miss these popular swamp tours in New Orleans.

6. Bacchanal Wine

• Must-Try: Wine and cheese! Take your pick from countless varieties.
• Prices: Very reasonable (retail prices for wine)
• Hours: Friday – Sunday from noon – 11pm. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday from 5 – 10pm
• Location: 600 Poland Ave

After sampling so many cocktails, maybe it’s time to switch to a wine bar. 

Wine lovers will absolutely love Bacchanal, which bills itself as the city’s “backyard party.” The city shut them down due to a lack of permits, but thanks to local support they managed to bring their wine-fueled shindigs back to the city’s Bywater district.

At first glance, Bacchanal doesn’t look like much. From the outside, it just looks like a regular old storefront.

Head in and purchase a bottle of wine (at retail price!) and then head out into their lovely courtyard where there’s live music seven days a week (weather permitting). As it’s in the Bywater, you’ll find way more locals than boozed-up tourists here.

One reason that Bacchanal is definitely one of the top New Orleans bars is that they do a bi-weekly free wine tasting. These happen on Wednesday from 1-3PM and Saturday from 3-5. Oh yeah, and it was even featured on the HBO series Treme! How cool is that?

I’m not a huge wine drinker, but even I can admit that Bacchanal is one of the coolest New Orleans bars around.

7. Pat O’Brien’s

• Must-Try: The Hurricane cocktail is the signature drink here
• Prices: $6-8.50 for their cocktails (Hurricanes cost $8.50)
• Hours: Wednesday – Monday from 12pm – 12am 
• Location: 718 St. Peter

The Hurricane is one of the most famous New Orleans cocktails, and you can try one in the very bar where it was created!

As the story goes, the owner of Pat O’Brien’s once found himself with an excess of rum. At the time, distributors made bar owners buy vast quantities of rum before they would sell them more desirable liquors like bourbon. 

In an effort to get rid of this abundance of rum, he mixed it in with passion fruit syrup and lime juice.

He poured the new concoction into a glass that resembled a hurricane lamp, and the rest is history. While most New Orleans bars serve Hurricanes, you’ve got to try one in the original spot where it was made.

Pat O’Brien’s is actually three bars in one.

There’s the main bar where you can catch sporting events on TV, the patio centered around their famous “Flaming Fountain,” and even a dueling piano lounge. This place is fun any day of the week, but it’s especially lively on St. Patrick’s Day.

8. Napoleon House

• Must-Try: They’re famous for their Pimm’s Cup (gin, lemonade & 7-up)
• Prices: $4.50-7 beer, $7-12 for wine & cocktails 
• Hours: Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday from 11am – 9pm. Friday and Saturday 11am – 10 pm. 
• Location: 500 Charles Street

One of the oldest bars in New Orleans is the famous Napoleon House.

This historic building dates back over 200 years. Back in those days, then-mayor Nicholas Girod was living here. He offered the house to none other than Napoleon Bonaparte during his exile. 

Actually, Napoleon never made it, but his name did. The bar has been here since 1914, and it feels as if time stood still here. Find out more about the cocktail bar’s history here. 

With its peeling walls, multiple paintings of Napoleon, and classical music playing, it feels like stepping back in time. You’ll often hear Beethoven’s Eroica, which was actually composed for Napoleon. 

There’s no way to top the description of Napoleon House than what they have on their website: “exudes a European charm that is a mecca for civilized drinking and eating.”

Order up a Pimm’s Cup and a classic Muffuletta and settle in for an evening at one of the best bars in New Orleans.

9. 21st Amendment Bar at La Louisiane

• Must-Try: The La Louisiane is their signature cocktail (rye, vermouth, bitters)
• Prices: cocktails are $13
• Hours: Thursday – Saturday from 4pm – 11pm
• Location: 725 Iberville Street

For those who flunked (or never took) American History, the 21st Amendment officially repealed Prohibition and made the consumption of alcohol legal again.

When he signed it, President Franklin Roosevelt exclaimed, “What America needs now is a drink!” With the stroke of a pen, he did away with one of the least popular amendments in American history.

The 21st Amendment Bar is a tribute to the Prohibition era when underground speakeasies flourished and mobsters ran the alcohol trade.

Look around the bar and you’ll spot pictures of many of them. As a matter of fact, the place was actually run by mobsters for many years when it was a hotel & restaurant.

These days, 21st Amendment is a popular hangout for both locals and tourists alike.

They mix up hand-crafted cocktails here and there’s live music every day of the week. Be sure to check their calendar to see what’s playing and add 21st Amendment Bar to your list of must-visit New Orleans cocktail bars.

10. Espíritu Mezcal Bar

• Must-Try: It’s all things Mezcal here! Try the Mezcal with cucumber, or the Mezcal Mule
• Prices: cocktails are from $9
• Hours: Tuesday – Thursday from 11:30am – 9pm. Friday 11:30am – 10pm. Saturday 4pm – 10pm
• Location: 520 Capdeville St.

If you’re craving a bit of Mexico in New Orleans, Espíritu is the place to go. Sustainably sourced mezcal and fantastic Mexican cuisine are on the menu here. 

Whether it’s National Tequila Day or just “Tasting Thursdays”, there’s always something fun going on at this cocktail bar in New Orleans. Visit Espíritu and learn about smoky mezcal, while dining on yummy tacos, tortas, ceviche and guacamole. 

Mezcal has become a popular drink over the past few years, don’t miss the signature cocktails which include Mezcal with cucumbers, peppers, and lime, or Mezcal with lemon, mint, and basil. Salud! 

Bonus! Snake & Jake’s 

• Must Try: Cheap beers and standard cocktails are tops here
• Prices: $2-4 for beer, $5 and up for wine, $4-6 for cocktails
• Hours: 7 days a week from 7pm – 7am
• Location: 7612 Oak Street

No list of New Orleans bars would be complete without the city’s most infamous dive. It’s Christmas year-round at Snake & Jake’s, as they’re like your neighbors who never take the lights down. 

This is often called the “diviest of dive bars,” and that’s a pretty fitting description for this late-night haunt.

From the street, it looks like the kind of place your mom told you never to frequent. Inside, however, you’ll find jovial bartenders and a few furry friends roaming about. You’ll also find some of the cheapest drinks in town, especially during their nightly Happy Hour from 7-10.

On your bucket-list of booze-fueled things to do in New Orleans, you should definitely add a nightcap at Snake & Jake’s. They stay open until 7am, which always makes for an entertaining scene. 

Ready to Hit The New Orleans Cocktail Bars?

I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to party after getting through this post! It really is amazing just how many unique New Orleans cocktail bars (and wine and beer joints) there are.

Once you get past the tourist traps pouring cheap, excessively sugary drinks, there’s an abundance of excellent drinking establishments in the Big Easy.

Just think about all the history behind the walls of these bars in New Orleans. Where else in the world can you drink at a place named after Napoleon and another one named after a 19th-century French pirate? Or try famous cocktails right where they were created? 

The variety of bars in New Orleans is quite impressive as well.

With a few nights in the city, you can experience a bacchanal backyard party, sample some of the city’s finest craft beers, and sip on a historic cocktail while riding a carousel. And that’s only just the beginning.

There are so many fantastic New Orleans cocktail bars that couldn’t fit into this condensed list. 

If you’ve been out in the Big Easy and have a recommendation for a great bar or two, drop a comment below and let us know about it!

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Known as the Emerald City, Seattle just might be the most scenic metropolitan area in the United States. The largest city in the Pacific Northwest offers visitors endless things to see and do. 

Seattle is surrounded by evergreen forests, mountains, and water. In addition to its natural beauty, there are also plenty of excellent attractions and places to visit.

As the name would suggest, Seattle is home to lots of green spaces. As a matter of fact, there are hundreds of parks here! If you love the great outdoors, there’s no shortage of great places to visit in Seattle.

Even if you’re just in Seattle for a weekend trip, it’s enough time to enjoy many of the things to see and do. 

In this guide, I’ll introduce some of the top things to do in Seattle along with lots of practical info to help you plan a great trip.

About Seattle

Seattle is located between Puget Sound and Lake Washington and has the Olympic Mountains to the west and Cascades to the east, making for some postcard-worthy scenery around every corner.

Unfortunately, it’s true that it rains quite often here. Don’t let it rain on your parade, though  — there are tons of great museums and other indoor activities to keep you busy when it gets a bit wet. 

Seattle is also well-known for its music and sports. The grunge era started here with bands like Pearl Jam and Nirvana and it’s now a hub for indie music and underground hip-hop.

Seattle sports fans are some of the loudest in the country as they show their unwavering support for teams like the Seahawks and Sounders.

I’ve been to cities all over my home country from coast to coast (including Denver, Detroit, Austin, Asheville, Boston, New Orleans and many more), and Seattle is definitely among my favorites.

It really is amazing how you can enjoy all the amenities of a big city and yet so easily get out in nature.

Here’s my list of the top 15 things to do and places to visit in Seattle:

1. See the Space Needle

Without a doubt, the most iconic landmark in Seattle is the Space Needle. Built for the 1962 edition of the World’s Fair, it has been a fixture in the city’s skyline ever since.

The observation deck is 520 feet (158 meters) tall, so you get to enjoy 360-degree panoramic views. On a clear day, you can see the entire city along with natural wonders such as Lake Union and Mt. Rainier. 

While the Space Needle has always been one of the top places to visit in Seattle, it’s even cooler now thanks to some serious renovations.

A recent multi-million dollar upgrade gave the famous tower The Loupe — the first rotating glass floor in the world. They also added wall-to-ceiling glass and the new Skyrisers, which are tilting glass benches that provide for some unreal views of the city.

The Space Needle is open daily from 8 AM-Midnight, with the last entry at 11:15. Tickets range from $34 – 37.50 for adults and $25 – 30 for children. This is one of the top places to visit in Seattle and is included in the Seattle CityPass.

2. Check Out The Seattle Center

The Space Needle is just one part of the massive Seattle Center. This hub of education, art, and entertainment has so much going on that you could easily spend an entire day here and still not do it all.

One of the top Seattle attractions you’ll find here is the International Fountain. At different points throughout the day, the fountain is synchronized to music, making for a great show that’s fun for all ages. 

The Seattle Center is also home to Artists at Play — a funky playground designed by artists. There’s a climbing tower, labyrinth, carousel, and much more here. This is one of the best free things to do in Seattle.  

There’s much more to see and do here, including several different museums. Don’t miss the excellent Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center. They run free group tours from Tuesday-Saturday at 2:00 PM and it’s always free to visit.

In addition to all the different attractions here, the Seattle Center also hosts thousands of events and programs throughout the year. Concerts, fitness classes, movies, festivals, and more are on tap here. Be sure to check their event calendar to see what’s going on.

3. See Chihuly Garden

One of the most popular places to visit in Seattle is the Chihuly Garden & Glass Museum. It’s dedicated to the stunning glasswork of Dale Chihuly, whose work can be seen in over 200 museums around the world.

The museum is split into three different areas — the Garden, Interior Exhibits, and the incredible Glasshouse.

There’s also a theater that’s constantly showing short videos of Chihuly and his work. You’ll definitely want to carve out a couple of hours to take it all in. 

The museum is open from 8:30am – 8:30pm Monday to Thursday and stays open an hour later on the weekend.

Tickets cost $30 -35 for adults and $19 – 21 for children. Entrance to the Chihuly Garden & Glass Museum is included in the Seattle CityPass, and on this 3 hour “highlights tour” of Seattle.

Finally, if you prefer to simply purchase your entrance ticket direct from the company, make sure to utilize the free audio tour on offer. 

4. Join a Food Tour

One of the most fun things to do in Seattle is eating your way across the city on a food tour. Eat Seattle and Show Me Seattle come highly recommended and has several different options for food tours in the Emerald City.

Their highly-rated signature tour of Pike Place Market Chef Guided Food Tour lasts two hours and includes numerous bites. Along the way, you’ll learn all about the history and culture of the market, find some small businesses and enjoy sampling all of the amazing foods on offer. 

Another solid option is the Pike Place Market Walking Food tour which includes a guide, samples at seven artisanal food stalls, and more.

5. Visit The Museum of Pop Culture

Formerly known as the EMP (Experience Music Project), the Museum of Pop Culture is one of the best Seattle attractions around. Before you head inside, you’ll want to take some time to admire the stunning building from world-famous architect Frank Gehry.

Once you step inside the museum, which also goes by MoPOP, you’ll notice the impressive guitar sculpture called “If VI Was IX.” There are over 500 instruments making up this tornado-like sculpture! 

Speaking of music, the museum has several permanent exhibits dedicated to Seattle’s most famous rockers — Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, and Pearl Jam.

You can even channel your inner rockstar in their Sound Lab or take your picture in front of a packed audience in their On Stage area. 

That’s not all, though. MoPop also has exhibits on fantasy, science fiction, horror, video games, comedy, and much, much more.

I’ve been to a lot of museums in my travels, and this one is definitely my favorite. Be sure to add it to your list of fun things to do in Seattle.

MoPOP is open Monday – Friday from 10 am – 6 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 9 am – 6 pm. Tickets cost around $35 for adults and $21 for children. Entrance tickets to MoPOP is included in the Seattle CityPass.

Click here to get directions.

6. Pike Place Market – One of the most famous Seattle attractions!

One of the top places to visit in Seattle is Pike Place Market. Dating all the way back to 1907, this is one of the oldest public farmers’ markets in the United States. 

By shopping at Pike Place Market, you’re doing much more than just checking off one of the best Seattle attractions. You’re supporting local farmers, artisans, and small businesses as well! 

There’s so much to see (and taste) here that you’ll want to make sure you come hungry and stay awhile.

In addition to the farmers’ market and crafts market, there are 80 restaurants and over 200 unique shops. With so many options, it can be a bit intimidating. Don’t miss a food tour (listed above at #4) of this market. 

It’s much more than just a market, actually. It’s a community with lots of excellent initiatives, such as a senior center, food bank, and pre-school.

If you want to show some extra love, pay a visit to Rachel the Piggybank. Rub her snout and make a donation, and legend has it you’ll have good luck.

The market is only closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas. It officially gets going at 9 am and closes at 6 pm, but you can come here as early as 6 am for breakfast if you’re an early riser.

Head over to their website to plan your visit and browse all the various options. You can find Pike Place Market on the map here.

7. Enjoy the Waterfront Park

After exploring Pike Place, you’re just a short walk from the next spot on our list of Seattle attractions — Waterfront Park. There are several benches and picnic tables here, so it’s the perfect place to sit down and enjoy whatever delicious food you picked up at the market.

The park is home to two different platforms where you can enjoy some fantastic views.

On a clear day, you can even see the Olympic Mountains in the distance. There are coin-operated telescopes here to help you get an even better look at the surroundings. Be sure to check out the Waterfront Fountain as well.

One of the most fun things to do in Seattle is taking a ride on the Seattle Great Wheel. This giant Ferris wheel is open from Monday – Thursday from 11 am – 10 pm, Friday and Saturday from 10 am – 11 pm and Sunday from 10 am – 10 pm. 

Tickets cost $16 for adults and $11 for kids. You also have the option of splurging for a VIP ticket ($50) for their luxury gondola and a souvenir t-shirt.

Waterfront Park is a great spot to unwind after a big day taking of sightseeing in the Emerald City. It’s located between Pier 57 and 59. Click here to get directions.

8. Day Trip to Mount Rainier 

If you have some extra time in Seattle, consider doing a day trip out to Mount Rainier which is an active stratovolcano in the Mount Rainier National Park.

This towering volcano is 14,400 ft (4,390m) and in the National Park, you’ll find numerous activities on offer, including hiking, camping and rock climbing.

For travellers on a day trip, hiking along one of the many trails is a top choice. During the winter months, you can trade in your hiking boots for show shoes and still enjoy the trails. 

The highly-rated Evergreen Escapes runs full-day, small group tours to Mount Rainier, which are tailored to your fitness levels.

Included in the trip are transportation, a knowledgeable naturalist, lunch, snacks, and entrance fees. To learn more about this top trip from Seattle, click here.

If you’d like to add wine tasting to your day trip to Mt. Rainier, check out this fun tour! Enjoy a hike in the park, organic picnic outside, and wine tastings at local vineyards. Of course, transportation, all fees, and food and wine are included. Learn more here.

9. Take a Cruise

While Seattle looks great on land, it looks even better from the water! Taking a cruise around Elliot Bay and the Puget Sound is easily one of the most fun things to do in Seattle.

Your options for a cruise range from a simple 1-hour harbor trip to overnight getaways.

On the budget end, you can simply take one of the local ferries to enjoy the views. The ferry to Bainbridge Island only costs $8.50 for adults and $4.25 for children, and the return trip is free. It’s a nice way to spend an afternoon without spending a ton of cash.

Argosy Cruises has been in business for 70 years and their tours come highly recommended. They have seven different options, including their one-hour cruise of Elliot Bay and the Seattle Harbour where you’ll enjoy a fully narrated trip, amazing views of the Seattle skyline, and on clear days, of Mount Rainier.

A cruise with Argosy is actually included in the Seattle CityPass if you choose to go that route.

10. Walk Through Washington Park Arboretum

The Washington Park Arboretum is definitely one of the most beautiful Seattle attractions to visit. This scenic park has miles upon miles of trails and is a living collection of plants. It’s a prime example of why Seattle is known as the Emerald City and a lovely place to spend a few hours.

Spring is a very popular time to visit the park thanks to the azaleas that are in bloom. Come here in the fall and you’ll see Japanese maples and strawberry trees, creating a vibrant tapestry of colors.

The arboretum is open daily from dawn to dusk and is one of the best free places to visit in Seattle. They also have several different tours and classes as well as options for birding and boating. Check their website for all the details. 

While you’re here, it’s well worth it to pay the entrance fee for the Japanese Garden ($8 for adults and $4 for children). They have free guided tours from April to October at 12:30, and you can also enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony here for an extra $10. It’s a little slice of Japan right here in Seattle!

Click here to get directions to the arboretum. The Japanese Garden is in the southwest corner of the park. Be sure to add a stop here to your list of places to visit in Seattle.

11. Visit the Seattle Art Museum

Art lovers will want to experience SAM. The Seattle Art Museum actually consists of three different facilities — the main museum, the Asian Art Museum, and the Olympic Sculpture Park.

At the main museum, you’ll find an impressive collection of art from all corners of the globe. It’s known for its extensive collections of Native American and Northwest Coast art. There are over 25,000 different works of art on display here, so take your time.

In addition to the main museum, you can also pay a visit to the Olympic Sculpture Park. It’s located just a mile away (click here for directions), so it’s easy to visit both. Once an industrial site, it’s now a free public park full of unique sculptures. 

The art museum is open from 10 am – 5 pm on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday-Sunday. It’s closed on Tuesday but stays open until 9 PM on Thursday.

Tickets are $29.99 for adults, $19.99 for students and teens ages 15-18, and free for kids 14 and under. If you happen to be in town on the first Thursday of the month, it’s free for everyone! Click here for directions.

12. Visit The Museum of Flight

If you’re interested in air and space, you’ll want to include the Museum of Flight to your Seattle itinerary. There are over 150 aircraft on display here along with thousands of artifacts and photos.

There’s enough to see and do to spend several hours here, so this is a great thing to do in Seattle when it rains (which happens quite frequently!).

A major highlight is the Aviation Pavilion, which features an impressive collection of rare airplanes. There are WWII bombers, the first Boeing 747, and even the first jet Air Force One. You can even board some of them!

In addition to all the aircraft, they have plenty of interesting exhibits to check out, which change frequently. Click here to view a list of current exhibits and see what’s coming up.

For those airplane fanatics, you can also visit the Boeing Factory which is about 30 miles (50km) from Seattle. On the tour, you’ll check out the Boeing factory with a local guide and see planes at various stages of assembly!

Plus, you’ll wander around the 28,000-square-foot Aviation Gallery and check out the exhibits and displays. Learn more about this tour here. 

The Museum of Flight is open daily from 10 AM-5 PM. Tickets cost $25 for adults and $16 for children.

On the first Thursday of every month, the museum remains open from 5-9 PM and it’s totally free to enter. Click here to buy your tickets online for one of the best Seattle attractions. You can find the Museum of Flight on the map here. 

13. Watch Some Professional Sports

People in Seattle are crazy about their sports, and they express their love for their teams very loudly.

In fact, Seahawks fans have twice set the Guinness World Record for loudest crowd noise at a sporting event. The team refers to their passionate fans as the “12s,” as they basically act as the 12th player.

The Seahawks (NFL) play their home games at CenturyLink Field. The stadium is also home to the Seattle Sounders FC, which have been selling out home games since their debut in MLS ten years ago. If you can manage to score a ticket, you’re in for a good time.

During the summer months, you can catch the Mariners (MLS) at T-Mobile Park. With around 80 home games per season, there’s a good chance they’ll be in town if you’re visiting between May and September. 

Fun fact: the Seattle Metropolitans were the first American team to win the Stanley Cup way back in 1917. The NHL wasn’t even a thing at that time, as it got started later that year.

The city will finally have an NHL team starting with the 2021 – 2022 season, which will play at the New Arena in the Seattle Center.

14. Experience Discovery Park

While there are plenty of excellent green spaces in the Emerald City, Discovery Park really takes the cake. This is the largest park in Seattle and is home to around 12 miles of excellent trails. It also has beaches, sand dunes, cliffs, meadows, and much more.

If it’s your first time at the park, your best bet is starting out with the Loop Trail. This 2.8 mile-long trail goes through the center of the park and branches out to other trails if you feel like exploring further.

Try to make it all the way out to the West Point Lighthouse, where you can enjoy some incredible views of the mountains and water.

Discovery Park is located on Magnolia Bluff overlooking the Puget Sound, click here for directions. It’s definitely one of the most picturesque of all the Seattle attractions and is well worth the effort to reach.

15. Join an Underground Tour

Rounding out our list of fun things to do in Seattle is taking an interesting underground tour. 

Beneath The Streets is one of the most popular Seattle attractions. On this fun and educational tour, you’ll explore subterranean sidewalks and storefronts that were built on top of after the Great Fire of 1889. 

This one-hour tour takes you beneath Seattle’s streets to explore three underground passageways, dating back to the 1890s.

This highly-rated tour is fun for everyone and affordable at $29. Click here to learn more about the tour.

Now You Know What To Do in Seattle

These are just some of the many interesting things to do in Seattle. There’s a lot more going on in the Emerald City, including plenty of other parks, beaches, museums, tours, and a whole lot more. 

With some more time in Seattle, you can also take advantage of the many amazing day-trip opportunities.

Within a few hours, you can find yourself exploring Mt. Rainier or Olympic National Park. Or perhaps you’d rather go visit a waterfall or soak in a hot spring. The options for adventure really are endless!

If you’ve been to Seattle and have a great recommendation for things to do, leave a comment below!

*Images in this post are courtesy of Shutterstock.

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