Each year hundreds of thousands of visitors flock to New Orleans for the annual Mardi Gras Festival. They revel in the music, dance all night, and costume themselves ornately. If you’re attending Mardi Gras this year but crave a more luxurious view of this sometimes raucous gathering, you’re in luck. We’re sharing our top 4 ways to enjoy Mardi Gras, luxury style!
Grand Stand Seating
There’s no need to battle the crowds when you book Grand Stand seating for the many Mardi Gras parades. Booking a seat in the Grand Stand gives you an up-close look at the elaborate parade floats and performers.
Get the best view of the parades by choosing to sit in one of our elevated seating options. We have two front-row grandstands located on St. Charles Avenue. Both parade stands are situated directly on the parade route for maximum parade enjoyment and participation. Everyone in the stands is able to easily catch bagfuls of beads and other parade throws. –Mardi Gras Parade Tickets
With seating tickets, you will also have convenient access to restrooms as well as food and drink options. When booking Grand Stand seating, you can reserve the parade and time of your choice, allowing visitors to pick the Krewe parade they most desire. There is no better way to witness the elaborate display of the Mardi Gras festival.
Emeril’s New Orleans
After the parades, head to Emeril’s New Orleans for a memorable meal. The flagship restaurant of famed chef and New Orleans native Emeril Lagasse, this is a must while attending Mardi Gras.
Since opening in 1990, Emeril’s has been a definitive force in contemporary New Orleans cuisine and has earned rave reviews and accolades for nearly 25 years, including Esquire magazine’s “Restaurant of the Year” and Wine Spectator’s “Grand Award” for 14 consecutive years. At the helm is chef de cuisine Douglas Braselman, who works closely with Chef Emeril to push culinary boundaries and deliver bold and diverse flavors for a one-of-a-kind dining experience with unparalleled service and a festive unpretentious setting.
For the ultimate indulgence, dine at the chef’s table. Here you can watch the kitchen in action. There is even a frosted glass wall to allow you privacy while dining.
Krewe of Orpheus Black Tie Ball
The Krewe of Orpheus was founded in 1993 by New Orleans native Harry Connick, Jr. Their annual Black Tie Ball is one of the most popular events each year during Mardi Gras festival. It is held on Lundi Gras, the Monday evening before Fat Tuesday.
Experience a side of Mardi Gras seldom seen by New Orleanians or visitors, and join us for the Orpheuscapade. This black tie event begins with live music and dancing until the magic moment when the gigantic floats arrive. As the entire parade rolls through the Convention Center, guests are showered with beads, doubloons, and other throws that fly fast and furious from the magnificent floats. Once the floats are inside, the music resumes, and dancing and merriment reign.
With over 700 members of the Krewe, the event makes for a truly memorable evening.
Commander’s Palace
Since 1893, the Commander’s Palace has been a New Orleans landmark. The restaurant specializes in ‘haute Creole” cuisine. Chef Tory McPhail strives to source at least 90% of the kitchen ingredients locally.
Known for the award-winning quality of its food and its convivial atmosphere, the history of this famous restaurant offers a glimpse into New Orleans’ storied past and has been the go-to destination for Haute Creole cuisine and whimsical Louisiana charm. The winner of seven James Beard Foundation Awards, Commander’s Palace has evolved into a culinary legend.
Dinner at Commander’s Palace is a must on any luxury Mardi Gras festival itinerary!
Attending Mardi Gras is a must for any traveler’s bucket list. What should you eat while at the Mardi Gras festival? Try our look inside Mardi Gras food!
