The Irish Channel
The Irish Channel in New Orleans is a real gem! It’s packed with history, charming boutiques, and some of the best restaurants in the city. Back in the 1830s, Irish immigrants and the working class settled here to work the docks on the Mississippi River. Giving the neighborhood the historic buildings and shops it has today. If you’re visiting during Mardi Gras or St. Patrick’s Day, you can easily get to the parade route in just 15 minutes by walking to St. Charles Street. The Irish Channel is surrounded by other awesome neighborhoods like the Garden District, Uptown, and East & West Riverside. You’ll find everything you need here, but don’t forget to explore other neighborhoods and discover their unique charm!
Restaurants
The Irish Channel is filled with some of the best food in the city. You will find a list of up and coming restaurants and New Orleans staple restaurants with classic dishes. Weather you are at Atchafalaya enjoying the best shrimp and grits in the city or at Turkey and the Wolf trying their famous decadent fried bologna sandwich you will be savoring every bite from all the amazing restaurants in the Irish Channel. However, with neighboring area like the Garden District and Uptown you can easily adventure to other classic and new restaurants such as Commander's Palace, Dakar (2024'sJames Beard best new restaurant winner), or Hansen's Son-Bliz. The options are endless and delicious.
Molly's Rise and Shine Chicken Biscuit
Carnival & Festivals
New Orleans is a city that is ready to celebrate for any occasion. In fact, there are more than 130 festivals celebrated every year. But the biggest is Mardi Gras. Mardi Gras is only part of something even bigger, Carnival season. And depending on the year, Carnival season starts and ends on different days. Lots of people think of Mardi Gras and Carnival season as an adult-only party in the streets with lots of drinking (which can be true in some parts of the city). However, Mardi Gras and Carnival are mostly family-friendly and fun. During Carnival season, you will find parades and celebrations happening all throughout the city. However, one of the main parade routes can be found on St. Charles Avenue, a 15-minute walk a few blocks away from the Irish Channel's Magazine Street. Although this can be convenient, it can make driving around really difficult so using apps for parade trackers can be very helpful.
Stadiums, Parks, and More
The Irish Channel offers a plethora of exciting destinations. Catch a Saints game at the Caesars Superdome, just a 4-mile drive away, or enjoy a concert at the Smoothie King Center. For history buffs, the National WWII Museum, located in the business district, is a must-visit, situated just 3 miles from the Irish Channel. The Irish Channel’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring various attractions. From the Audubon Zoo, park, and golf course to the Mardi Gras Museum next to the cruise terminal, you can easily reach these locations within a 5-mile radius.
