Valentine’s Day, a tradition dating back to the 1300s, has shaped modern society through candy hearts, casual love letters, Galentine’s Day dinners, bouquets of red roses and other expressions of love. Celebrated on Feb. 14, Valentine’s Day in New Orleans offers special experiences for couples and singles alike.
Visit NOMA sculpture garden
Art is a beautiful way to celebrate love, and love is in the air in New Orleans’ enchanting sculpture gardens. The New Orleans Museum of Art’s Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden offers a scenic blend of art and nature, making it a romantic escape or a fun Galentine’s Day outing. The sculpture garden features over 90 sculptures, two lagoons and landscaping with magnolias, pines and live oaks.
Write love letters in local bookstore
Love letters have existed for centuries, but today, words of affection are often reduced to quick texts and colorful emojis. Step back in time at a cozy bookstore and rediscover the romance of handwritten letters. Explore NOLA’s independent bookstores, including Blue Cypress Books, a woman-owned shop, as well as Faulkner House Books and Octavia Books for this activity.
Celebrate with sweet treats
Nothing says love like sweets, and New Orleans has no shortage of them. Chocolate-covered strawberries have been a Valentine’s Day staple since the 1960s and for a fresh box, check out Mister Apple or Lolli’s Chocolates. You can also grab a king cake doughnut from District Donuts, a box of handmade chocolates or macarons from Sucré, or, for a fancier touch, a Baked Alaska from Antoine’s.
Check out local jazz spots
The beautiful, lively sound of jazz flows through the streets of New Orleans. Frenchmen Street is an eccentric hub filled with local jazz clubs. Take your valentine to one of the city’s great jazz spots which include The Spotted Cat Music Club, Blue Nile, Three Muses and many more.
Jewelry making
Creating charm bracelets at The Bead Shop is a fun and creative way to celebrate friendship. The Bead Shop offers a wide variety of beads, allowing you to personalize your bracelet with charms that reflect your friendship. Exploring Magazine Street and stopping by this beloved local jewelry store can be a great addition to your Valentine’s Day plans.
Riverboat cruise
For a classic romantic evening, book a dinner cruise along the Mississippi River aboard the Steamboat Natchez. With live jazz, breathtaking skyline views and an intimate ambiance, a riverboat cruise is often considered one of the most romantic experiences in the city. New Orleans offers plenty of romantic cruise options for an unforgettable evening.