The Oldest & Most Delicious Creole Restaurants in New Orleans

Though the focus is often on boozy drinks and great jazz, NOLA is also a culinary powerhouse.

The city is home to classic Cajun, Creole, and Southern cooking—and its restaurants are some of the oldest in the country. In fact, two Creole restaurants listed below rank in the top three for the oldest continually run establishments in the United States.

Cooking is a big deal, in other words, if not a NOLA specialty. Creole and Cajun dishes alike are highly celebrated.

Creole traditions come from a blend of the city’s urban residents, from Spanish and French colonial staples to West African and Indigenous influences.

Cajun, by contrast, is a more rural style of cooking that comes from French settlers who came down from Canada, known as Acadians. (They speak Cajun, a descendant of French.)

You’ll notice that many Creole restaurants feature Cajun dishes on their menus—but if you want to dig into the city’s most famous dishes, you’ll be munching on Creole favorites like turtle soup and shrimp Clemenceau.

And where should you eat Crescent City’s most famous dishes? At its most famous legacy Creole restaurants.

Here, I’m counting down the oldest Creole restaurants in New Orleans where you can eat dishes that come with a side of history.

Best Creole restaurants in New Orleans—from oldest to newest

Antoine’s (Est. 1840)

Nearing its 200^th anniversary, Antoine’s isn’t just a New Orleans staple—it’s part of US history as one of the oldest family-run restaurants still in business.

Its unique atmosphere and top-tier service have helped keep its doors open, but the true star is its Creole menu. From shrimp remoulade to chicken Rochambeau to its special twist on bread pudding, you can sample some of the most famous Creole dishes in the country.

Tujague’s (Est. 1856)

Tujague’s flies under the radar compared to other Creole restaurants in New Orleans, despite the fact that it has been open for almost as long as Antoine’s.

You’ll find unique offers on its menu, including its famous boiled brisket, which has been its signature dish for over 100 years. And don’t forget about the grasshopper cocktail, which was invented on the grounds.

*Tujague’s restaurant changed locales in 2020, so you might notice that the interior doesn’t feel too dated. But have no fear—its chefs are serving up the same beloved dishes.

Commander’s Palace (Est. 1893)

If you’ve been to New Orleans before, you’ve likely eaten at Commander’s Palace or recognized its bright blue exterior.

Commander’s Palace has been putting out some of the city’s most famous Creole dishes for well over a century, including turtle soup and bread pudding souffle with whiskey sauce. Step into the past at Commander’s Palace—you’ll be surprised by how tasty it is.

Cafe Sbisa (Est. 1899)

With a recent facelift from a passionate chef who grew up in the city, Creole staples at Café Sbisa are pushed to the next level. You can expect a master class in Creole dishes like BBQ shrimp, court bouillon, duck a l’orange, and more.

Most ingredients are sourced from local providers, including seafood, which is sourced from a seafood dock that’s managed by the restaurant’s current owners.

Galatoire’s (Est. 1905)

Similar to Commander’s Palace, you’ve probably heard a thing or two about Galatoire’s, which is located in the heart of Bourbon Street. It might be the most well-known of all Creole restaurants in New Orleans.

Despite the hustle and bustle outside, Galatoire’s offers a quaint respite inside. Plus, you can feast on the city’s best Creole dishes, including crab maison, oysters Rockefeller, seafood okra gumbo, and more.

Arnaud’s (Est. 1918)

You aren’t just getting a taste of Creole cuisine at Arnaud’s—you’re biting into original spinoffs of classic dishes.

The best example is Shrimp Arnaud, which comes in a house special remoulade sauce, or Oysters Bienville, which is an oyster dish topped with shrimp. Foodies won’t know where to start on this menu.

Broussard’s Restaurant & Courtyard (Est. 1920)

Serving up Creole staples, Broussard’s is a historic and upscale dining spot that offers a more opulent take on classic bites. From duck, alligator, and sausage gumbo to classic Creole turtle soup, you’ll find a well-balanced menu… at a slightly higher price point.

Dooky Chase Restaurant (Est. 1941)

This well-known restaurant was one of my top picks for best places to grab some fried chicken in New Orleans—but it’s just as well known for its Creole specialties.

Simple dishes like red beans and rice come alive at Dooky Chase, along with finer dining picks like shrimp Clemenceau and stuffed shrimp. Lastly, and most importantly, don’t miss out on the gumbo.

Explore Paris on Foot: Best Pedestrian-Only, Car-Free Streets

Experiencing Paris on foot isn’t for the faint of heart.

Many city streets are winding and uneven, with narrow sidewalks. On top of that, crowds and traffic can make a pleasant stroll feel more like a hike through an industrial wasteland.

On top of the lackluster infrastructure and hustle, Paris is also massive, stretching over 42 square miles and home to 20 unique arrondissements.

In short: you aren’t advised to tackle the city as a pedestrian, even if you prefer to get around on foot.

That being said, the City of Love is undergoing a bit of a green revolution. As with other cities around the world, locals have been pushing for more pedestrian-only streets.

The battle has been long, but successful—especially in Paris, which recently voted to make 500 streets open to foot traffic only. Though that mission will take a few years to be fully realized, visitors heading to Paris can (and should) enjoy the pedestrian-only streets that already exist.

Here’s how to explore Paris on foot—while avoiding all those honking cars and nauseating exhaust fumes. Keep in mind that some streets are only car-free during certain timeframes, which I’ve listed below.

Also, rue means street in French. Alright, allons-y!

Best pedestrian streets to explore Paris on foot

Rue Montorgueil

The permanent market street of Rue Montorgueil is lined with shops, cafes, bakeries, restaurants, fish stores, flower shops, and more. Fans of fine art might recognize the name from Claude Monet’s famous painting Rue Montorgueil, Paris, Festival of June 30, 1878.

Over a century later, the street remains a hotspot for shoppers and walkers alike.

Cour Saint-Emilion/Bercy Village

PARIS, FRANCE – JUNE 12: An installation created by Portuguese artist Patricia Cunha composed of multicolored balloons floating above the Cour St Emilion is displayed on June 12, 2019 in Paris, France. (Photo by Chesnot/Getty Images)

Above the metro station, you’ll find a gorgeous courtyard that marks the entrance to Bercy Village. Formerly an area used for storing wine, it’s now used as a popular dining area for those headed onward to Musée des Arts Forains.

Just make sure you come hungry and have plenty of time to spend—you’ll be following your nose from one delicious treat to the next when exploring Paris on foot.

Rue Daguerre

This lively street market is known as being one of Paris’s most colorful shopping areas—but there’s a lot more than what meets the eye.

Rue Daguerre is a melting pot where immigrants from around the country and beyond meet tete-a-tete to eat, shop, and listen to music. Artists have been drawn to the area for years, along with well-to-do businesspeople, backpackers, and more come to eat well and be merry.

Rue de la Huchette

Nestled in the Latin Quarter, Rue de la Huchette is one of the oldest streets in Paris—which you might be able to intuit based on its location.

Rue de la Huchette sits between Boulevard Saint-Michel and Notre-Dame. You can find late-night eats, souvenir shops, eateries, wineries, and more here. Just bring a little bit of hand sanitizer with you—Rue de la Huchette has been dubbed ‘bacteria alley’.

Avenue de Champs-Elysees: first Sunday of the month

Paris- July 6,2017: People walking on the famous French boulevard Champs Elysees closed for car traffic. Each first Sunday of the month The Boulevard is closed for car traffic. (Getty)

If you’ve spent time in Paris before, you might already be familiar with the popular streets listed above—but don’t forget that the city is also seeking to pedestrianize its grandest avenues.

The Avenue de Champs-Elysees is a car-free haven every first Sunday of the month and has been for nearly a decade. It’s one of the best places to experience Paris on foot.

If you’re a true Paris-file, I highly recommend scheduling your next trip around the first Sunday. There’s nothing quite like joining hundreds of Parisians and visitors for a relaxing afternoon jaunt along one of the world’s most famous streets.

Want a Whimsical, Small-Town Escape? Go to Baraboo, Wisconsin

Wisconsin is known for cold winters and colder beers.

It’s home to hardcore NFL fans (known lovingly as Cheeseheads), delicious dairy products, and major breweries from Pabst to Miller.

Wisconsin is also home to some of the Midwest’s most sneakily gorgeous landscapes, from the Wisconsin Dells and Door Country.

Quaint escapes dot the state’s quietest byways—and Baraboo might be one of the most charming small towns in reach of a big city (Madison).

Though it’s mostly known for its affiliation with the Ringling Brothers, aka the Greatest Show on Earth, the circus acts are far from the only reason to show up and stay a few days.

Ready to uncover another hidden gem in Wisconsin? Go to Baraboo, less than 50 miles from Madison. Here’s what to do when you get there.

5 things to do in Baraboo

Enjoy Devil’s Lake State Park

Afternoon sunshine reflected on Devil’s Lake including blue sky, green trees and autumn foliage (Getty)

Only a short drive from Baraboo is Devil’s Lake State Park. The sweeping views take you straight into nature (with a few amenities available, like public restrooms).

Park your car, then head out on one of the clearly marked hiking trails. The most popular choice is a loop hike that takes you around the lake. Just wear comfortable hiking shoes—some inclines can be a little rocky, especially as you head up the bluffs.

Some visitors recommend arriving early to grab parking, but I’m guessing that depends on when you’re visiting and during what season. Devil’s Lake State Park is most popular during the warm months and on the weekends.

Don’t forget about Parfrey’s Glen, either

Glens are narrow valleys—similar to gorges, but smaller and less extreme. Parfrey’s Glen is a gorgeous hike that takes you through a waterway.

You traverse water and rocks as you weave below the forest in a canyon-like geological formation. The hike only takes around an hour, but make sure to wear shoes you don’t mind getting wet.

If you’re into more difficult hikes, you might find Parfrey’s Glen a bit underwhelming. However, if you enjoy unique and casual hikes that take you off traditional dirt trails, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the experience.

Learn about local circus royalty in Baraboo

Circus World Museum (Courtesy of TripAdvisor)

If you’ve heard of Baraboo before, it’s likely in relation to the town’s Ringling Brothers legacy. Baraboo was once the headquarters of the Ringling Brothers Circus. The town has worked hard to preserve and showcase its circus-related history, including the Al. Ringling Theatre and his former home.

You can also explore the Circus World Museum, which is easily one of the state’s coolest specialty museums. There, you’ll learn about Baraboo’s role as the winter home of the world-famous Ringling Brothers.

Soak up all the charm on Main Street

Because Baraboo has worked for decades to preserve its Ringling Brothers history, its main street is a well-developed who’s-who of homely mom-and-pop shops.

Even its hotel game is effortlessly charming, with spots like the WilloWood Inn ready to welcome you with open arms before you head down to the Little Village Café or the Log Cabin Family Restaurant for a bite to eat.

You can spend close to three hours milling around Baraboo’s quaint downtown shops, enjoying wine and paint classes, shopping for antiques, and more. When you’ve had enough city-slicking, head back out of town for a visit to Ski Hi Fruit Farm where you can pick apples or nosh into baked apple pie.

How to booze your way around Baraboo

Barrels in the distillery at Driftless Glen (Courtesy of TripAdvisor)

You’ve got two great options when it comes to boozing in Baraboo: Baraboo Bluff Winery for fans of tastings and picnics and Driftless Glen to sample house-distilled whiskey.

The winery offers great views overlooking the area. You can bring your own food for a picnic, and then enjoy the wine tasting, which is highly affordable. On the other hand, Driftless Glen is a popular American restaurant where you can sample an elevated cocktail menu that features home-distilled spirits.

Freedom, Fun, & Savings: 10 Reason to Go Camping This Year

If your pockets are empty, that doesn’t mean travel is off the table—it just means you need to get a little creative.

While many Millennials and Gen Zers prefer long-term, exotic travels, camping has always remained a heavy-hitter domestically in the US. In fact, there are signs that camping trends are picking up steam amongst these types of travelers.

One report from the Kampgrounds of America (aka the KOA) found that 11 million more households camped in 2024 compared to 2019—and a whopping 61% of new campers today are either Millennials or Gen Z.

Still, it’s easy to feel intimidated when you just start camping.

Before you hit the open road with your tent in tow, you need to research your destination, potential threats (like bears, ticks, and property lines), weather, and nearby attractions and activities.

Most importantly, you need to feed yourself without a standard kitchen.

Although camping is affordable and accessible for Americans, it’s not quite as easy to organize as a one-click trip to a Mexican resort.

So, if you’re on the fence about becoming a camper, I get it—but let me tip you over into Paul Bunyon territory. These are the key reasons to go camping, from self-discovery to summer camp-style escapes.

10 reasons to go camping if you haven’t before

Portrait tourist man eating fast food in the mountains, instant noodles for the traveler, delicious lunch in nature while relaxing. (Getty)

Reason #1: It’s as cheap as you want it to be

The United States is home to an abundance of campgrounds—and it’s not hard to find free spots where you can pitch a tent without spending a dime.

In fact, the Bureau of Land Management’s official take on camping is this: campsites are first-come, first-serve, and you need to pay the fee within thirty minutes of showing up.

But you can also enjoy free camping, aka dispersed camping. Dispersed camping is when you camp wild on any public lands—so long as you’re a safe distance from facilities, are respectful to wildlife and resources, and aren’t camped in a spot that says ‘closed to camping’, you can stay for up to two weeks. No fees.

Reason #2: The nostalgia factor is strong

Camping is part of the American identity, stored in our collective memory as a fond callback to the past. Even if you’ve never been camping, you’ve probably been on a summer camp trip or heard about them.

The first time you set up your tent and manage to get your fire going, you’ll feel that sense of nostalgia in its full force—and you’ll have joined the ranks as an American Who Camps.

Reason #3: Campsites run a huge gamut—and include glamping options

If the allure of nostalgia and freedom don’t woo you, let me sweeten the deal with one of the best reasons to go camping: it can be really high-class.

Kampgrounds of America, for example, offers a huge range of campsites to choose from. If you’re tent-averse, you can choose a glamorous yurt, an above-ground canvas tent, and many other options. If you want to go fully into luxury territory, that’s also an option.

Best of all, many of these glamping sites come with modern amenities, from hot showers to heated pools.

Reason #4: You can drive, too

Technically, if you drive your RV into a campground, you’re RVing instead of camping. But I won’t judge if you have access to an RV or a camper van—they’re the easiest way for a first-timer to see what the camping hype is all about.

Many campsites include both RV hookups and tent plots, meaning you can get a lay of the land without leaving behind all familiar signs of civilization.

Reason #5: Water adventures are easy to bundle in

According to another study from the Kampgrounds of America, 57% of campers actively seek out water adventures and grounds that are close to the water.

Whether you want a scenic lakeside retreat or a beachy summer escape, you won’t be looking for a campsite for long. The US is home to dozens upon dozens of campsites that overlook the water or are located a short distance from major bodies.

Reason #6: So are wellness experiences

The rise of glamping locations highlights budding interest in getting outdoors—and many younger travelers aren’t just seeking out the restorative qualities of nature (more on this below). One of the best reasons to go camping is to refocus on wellness.

Many campers head out on the hunt for casual wellness-based activities, whether putting down their phones for an impromptu digital detox or signing up for camping experiences that come with yoga classes.

Don’t just think rustic when you think camping—think wellness, too.

Family enjoying eating when trekking with tent in mountains (Getty)

Reason #7: The whole gang is invited—from multi-gen crews to large groups

Many campgrounds fill up during summer—but if you’re willing to schedule your trip during the shoulder season, you’re likely to find half-empty sites.

In that case, you can easily bring along a large group, whether just hanging out with friends or kicking back with multiple generations on a family trip. Size isn’t a prohibitive factor when putting together camping trips.

Let’s imagine you do head to a popular campsite during high season. You’re likely to be surrounded by like-minded campers, and if the campground has amenities like a pool and/or restaurant, you’re going to make a few friends during your stay.

In fact, some campgrounds host events like dance parties and ‘mixers’ for young guests, transforming the grounds into a summer camp-like setup. It’s pure, nostalgic fun.

Reason #9: Nature is good for you—and science agrees

Spending time in nature regulates the human nervous system, and that yields benefits for both our minds and bodies. In fact, some studies show that spending time in nature can sharpen our cognitive skills and restore mental health.

So, if you’ve been feeling bogged down and uninspired, your camping trip might be just as impactful as a trip to the doctor’s office.

Reason #10: You’ll get to know yourself

Even if you head to the bougiest glampsite in the United States, you’re going to be spending more time with your thoughts than on a standard vacation.

This is one of the best reasons to go camping, in my opinion: it’s a travel experience you haven’t had before. Being outdoors is a great chance to take a breather and get back in touch with your personal goals and overall life’s vision.

And if you’re heading to a basic campground where you need to cook and fend for yourself, you’ll have even more time to reflect. In the case of the latter, you’ll also need to dig deep to overcome challenges that we don’t face in our daily lives, whether washing up in freezing cold river water or trying to cook a meal over a campfire.

6 Reasons to Visit Petra in 2025

Petra is one of the most iconic destinations in the world.

Even those who don’t know anything about the country of Jordan have probably seen pictures of Petra’s grand facades carved into a cliff face.

Sometimes called Rose City, this ancient wonder is a hugely important tourist attraction in Jordan—one that usually brings close to one million visitors to the site each year. For local Bedouin people, those tourism dollars are an important part of their livelihood.

Unfortunately, military actions in the region have seen visitor numbers drop drastically over the last year. Even though Jordan has steered clear of major conflicts, and is a country known for its balance of ancient traditions and modern habits, many have decided it’s too risky to visit.

In short, tourist numbers in Petra are dropping drastically.

That makes it a sneakily fantastic time to visit. (Again, let me re-iterate: Jordan is safe and removed from conflicts happening in other countries.)

If you’ve been wanting to visit Petra but feel hesitant, let me sell you on the idea.

Why now is the time to visit Petra

Female tourist at Petra famous archaeological site in Jordan’s southwestern desert. (Getty)

Reason #1: You’ll have the place (mostly) to yourself

The high season in Petra runs from spring to autumn. Many guests who want a sense of solitude plan their trip over the winter period, which is also cooler.

But with dropping visitor numbers, you’ll have the place largely to yourself. That makes exploring the main drags of this 102-square-mile site (yes, Petra is huge) more relaxing and awe-inspiring.

Reason #2: Fewer guests = better hospitality

The Middle East is already renowned for its hospitality, but you’re in store for a more meaningful experience with fewer guests. (Although you might also be the target of more hawkers.)

This is particularly important in the town of Petra rather than just inside the historical site, as you can find better deals on tours and activities, along with locals who are more interested in engaging with visitors.

If cross-cultural exchanges are high on your priority list, stick to winter visits. You’ll find more chances to interact meaningfully with fewer tourists around you.

The Temple of Dushares is one of the most intact free-standing structures in Petra due to the layers of wood used in its construction which made it more resilient to earthquakes. (Getty)

Reason #3: You’ll see tombs, temples, and canyons when you visit Petra

Like I just mentioned, Petra is way larger than most people think. To reach the most famous buildings in Rose City, you first need to hike through canyons and up a hill with steep cliffs. Along the way, you can explore a massive amphitheater, multiple tombs, sacrificial areas, and the former city center.

Reason #4: It’s a multi-day adventure, not a day trip

That brings me to my next point: Petra is best experienced over the course of many days. Not only does that put less pressure on the site from a traffic standpoint (day trips degrade destinations quickly), but it also lets you take your time as you explore one site to the next.

The Royal Tombs aren’t quite as well-known as the famous facades from Petra’s ancient city center, for example. And to reach another hotspot, The Monastery, you need to scale close to 1,000 ancient steps.

(Pro tip: don’t ride on any animals unless you feel strongly that they’re well taken care of. Animal welfare at Petra is a hot topic at the moment.)

View of Little Petra (Siq al-Barid) (Getty)

Reason #5: When you visit Petra, you visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World

Petra is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, which was established back in 2001. Petra is joined by Chichen Itza, Machu Pichu, Christ the Redeemer, the Taj Mahal, the Great Wall of China, and the Roman Coliseum.

If crossing those destinations off your bucket list is a priority, then don’t leave Petra as a day trip or an afterthought. Make your experience in Jordan one of a lifetime—which is a much easier task when there are fewer tourists to contend with.

Reason #6: You’ll get to learn about the Middle East as it really is—not what you read in the news

If your sole focus is on seeing the famous facades of Petra, you might not care too much about experiencing Jordan and its capital, Amman.

However, your trip to Petra is an opportunity to take a closer look at life in the capital. You can explore Roman ruins and citadel, along with modern activities like the Museum of Popular Traditions—a great intro to life and culture in Jordan.

The downtown area is bright and lively, full of food stalls and restaurants that serve up local favorites like lamb and rice. Come for the ancient stone city, stay for the vibes.

Sun Valley in Summer: Best Things to Do Without the Snow

Sun Valley, Idaho is one of the US’s premier winter sports destinations.

And it’s one of quiet luxury. While you might associate places like Aspen, Colorado, and Jackson Hole, Wyoming as the most upscale skiing and snowboarding destinations in the US, let’s not forget the most important tenet of true opulence: you won’t actually hear about it.

That ethos reminds me of Sun Valley—a place that celebrities have been slipping away to for close to a century but that hasn’t ended up on the list of top-notch wintering spots.

In fact, I only know about it because I went to university with someone from Sun Valley.

Home to less than 2,000 residents, Sun Valley is a world-class resort town that comes alive when its alpine ski areas fill up each winter. (It’s adjacent to Ketchum, in case you’ve heard the name before.)

When the trails on Dollar Mountain and Bald Mountain (aka Baldy) calm down for spring, the city empties out. And that might just be the perfect time to visit, in my estimation. (I don’t ski, and it’s too late to convince me to learn.)

Not only will you get slashed prices on those fancy hotels and likely have plenty of space to yourself, but you’ll have one of the most unspoiled landscapes to explore.

As someone who just spent the weekend loafing around Font Romeu, one of the most popular ski spots in southern France, after its ski season ended, I can promise you: ghost towns are my new thing.

Don’t sleep on Sun Valley in the summer. Here’s what to do.

What to do in Sun Valley in summer

Get around with Mountain Rides

The vast majority of visitors drive into Sun Valley, meaning you’ll have a car at your disposal. But this remote town has one of the most surprising public transport systems I’ve seen in the US: Mountain Rides.

Mountain Rides is a state-run transportation project that includes a small fleet of emission-free buses that zip between Sun Valley and neighboring towns.

They’re available to ferry you around town and into nature—and have bike racks situated so that you can actually take the bus to hit the trails. Best of all, they offer a fixed route that’s totally free.

Hit the trails however you like

When the snow on Bald Mountain and Dollar Mountain melts, miles and miles of hiking trails are revealed. In Sun Valley, you don’t just have the option of hiking those trails.

You can mountain bike down them, ride horses across them, and much more. There are also plenty of paved tracks for skateboarding and/or rollerblading adventures.

The most popular trails in White Cloud Trails, Wood River Trail, the massive Bald Mountain Trail, Proctor Mountain Trail, and many more. Learn more from Visit Sun Valley and AllTrails.

But be warned: this is wild territory where bears, pumas, and wolves wander. Always ask for advice on when and how to explore nature around Sun Valley.

Spy on the stars

Sun Valley is located in the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve. That means that you’ll be able to spy on the stars like a professional gazer in Sun Valley in summer.

You can set up shop at Atkinson’s Park, Penny Hill, Sun Valley Pavilion, and Sun Valley Lake for the best views. For added wonder, book your stay over a new moon to avoid light pollution from the moon.

Go to the symphony—yes, the local symphony

As a popular choice for luxurious winter adventures, Sun Valley is no stranger to hosting upscale soirees. Since 1937, the Sun Valley Opera House has delighted guests with professional performances.

You can catch symphonic performances during select times over the summer—so look ahead before you book your trip.

Additionally, the Sun Valley Opera House runs screenings of “Sun Valley Serenade”, a famous film from 1941 that’s set in the area, every day at 5 pm—free of charge.

Visit Hemingway’s Grave

I’ve written about Ernest Hemingway when covering places in Florida and Barcelona—so I was a bit surprised to learn that Hemingway died and was buried in Ketchum, next to Sun Valley.

You can visit the home where he spent the final months of his life, along with his grave. There’s also a memorial to him on Trail Creek in Sun Valley.