Big events in the Big Easy bring street closures and detours as city officials try to contain the traffic. The diversions make navigating Downtown New Orleans’ web of one-way streets even more daunting for visiting drivers.
With Super Bowl XLVII occurring during Mardi Gras 2013, the strategic blocks may make parking and walking the best strategy. And the Mercedes Benz Superdome at 1500 Poydras Street where the big game will be played is a great starting point for sensibility.
The dome, as locals call it, anchors one end of the downtown stretch of Poydras Street with the Riverwalk Marketplace by way of Harrah’s Casino at the other end. Between the city staples there is much to see, do, eat, drink, and experience.
A five-minute walk from the dome will bring you to Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar. This lively, sports-themed eatery has indoor and outdoor seating with a budget friendly menu and signature cocktails daily. Known for catering to events, Walk-On’s is hosting a Big Bowl Bash on Super Bowl Sunday. Ticket options for the outdoor party with food, drinks, and live music include VIP Tailgate and Viewing Party passes.
For a more laid back yet equally affordable dining experience, proceed to the 900 block of Poydras Street. Here you will find seafood, steak, and escargot at Sainte Marie. Lunch, brunch, and dinner are served with fine wine and fine-tuned cocktails at this French-inspired brasserie seven days a week.
Should you make way to the dome’s co-anchor, the Riverwalk Marketplace, be prepared to shop. The massive must-see houses three levels of stores, boutiques, restaurants, and The Brad Thompson Fine Art Gallery. Thompson is a New Orleans native whose creations include outdoor scenes and original takes on well-known landmarks.
Once night falls, a different array of choices becomes available along Poydras Street. Masquerade Night Club inside Harrah’s Casino offers bottle service beneath a 42-foot media tower. Single drinks are served from a 32-foot ice bar at the club operators call a destination for the daring and the sexy.
Nearby, the W Hotel’s Whiskey Blue bar provides an upscale bar scene. Music plays and visitors mingle as the creative bar staff keeps glasses filled.
An entirely different scene awaits at the Hyatt Regency Hotel just off Poydras Street on Loyola Avenue. New Orleans native Anais St. John sings jazz live in the newly remodeled hotel each Friday and Saturday night. The songstress aims to create a mirror image of the golden age of jazz and cabaret as hotel chefs create a chocolate dessert buffet.
Many surprises exist among these points along Poydras Street. And visits to New Orleans are not complete without curious excursions. Consider parking, walking, and determining your own detours.
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